Handy Hints

Choose the right size storage unit. If in doubt – ask us for help. We’re happy to advise you on which size unit will suit your needs the best.

Make sure all your belongings are clean and dry before you store them. Microscopic amounts of dirt, damp, or any tiny bugs you accidentally bring into storage can damage your belongings over time.

Take the time to pack fragile items properly. Bubble wrap, newspaper, sturdy boxes and proper packing tape are all your friends! Pack smaller fragile items among soft things like clothes for extra protection against cracks, chips and breaks.

Take an inventory of what you are storing (keep a list or a spreadsheet) and label any boxes with the contents to help keep track of what you have in storage, and where.

Disassemble items that can be taken apart. This will help you optimise the storage space, and also prevent damage to your items.

Plan your storage space carefully. Put items you may need access to nearer to the entrance and plan out walkways if necessary.

Store books laid flat in archive boxes or packing cartons. This protects their spines. To protect the covers, place layers of paper or cloth between each book.

Keep personal documents (e.g. birth certificate, marriage certificate) clearly labelled together and store in an easily accessible place in the storage unit.

Be aware when you are filling boxes not to overfill them and make them too heavy to lift.

Ensure all items are clean and dry before storing. The ideal way to store clothes is to fold and place in boxes.  Use acid-free boxes to store clothing and fabric items to avoid items becoming damaged or discoloured.

Pack each item separately using tissue, newspaper or packing paper to wrap it. Place in boxes and fill additional space with packing material (e.g. packing peanuts, balled up newspaper, clothes) to prevent items from moving.

Crockery items (such as plates, saucers, bowls, cups) should be wrapped individually with packing material (e.g. foam, bubble wrap) between each item.

Wrap pictures and mirrors using corrugated cardboard and packing paper. Store upright.

Label all fragile items as FRAGILE and keep them away from heavy items.

Store electronic equipment in its original packaging if you can. Otherwise, pack into a sturdy box and fill any gaps with packing material to prevent movement. Seal with packing tape.

Remove batteries from appliances. Batteries can corrode and leak over time, causing damage to delicate electronics.

If storing a computer, make sure you back up all data (onto the cloud and an external drive) before putting it into storage. Store accessories (e.g. keyboard, mouse, speakers) together alongside the computer and monitor.

Fridges/Freezers: defrost first, then clean and dry to avoid mildew and damage from moisture residue. Store with doors left open. Pro-tip: keep an open jar of baking soda inside to absorb any residual odours.

Wipe down metal items with oil before placing in storage – this will prevent rusting. Be sure to keep metal items clear of other items that could be damaged by rust.

While it is very rare, unexpected incidents can occur while your belongings are in storage, so you do need to think about insuring the things that are precious to you. If it’s worth storing, it’s worth insuring! Purchasing insurance will give you peace of mind that your possessions will be covered against accidents, bad weather, and other unforeseen occurrences.

StorageNZ will soon be offering a comprehensive insurance programme for renters that will make it easy for you to keep your belongings “out of sight and out of mind” with no catastrophes.