ü Packing Boxes: Fill moving boxes to capacity, using soft padding where appropriate. Partially full or bulging boxes may collapse or tip over.

ü Weight of Boxes: Pack heavier items like files and books in smaller boxes so they aren’t too heavy. When packing boxes fill them without making them too heavy to lift. Always put the heavier boxes on the bottom and the lighter ones on top of the heavier ones. This will prevent boxes from being crushed. Keep boxes off the floor.

ü Identification: Label or number boxes for easy reference and keep an inventory of what you have stored. Label the boxes on all six sides and keep a list for easy reference. This will save you time if you have to look for something in particular.

ü Do Not Store: Remove all perishable and inflammable items like food, aerosols, batteries and oil/petrol. 

ü Furniture: Dismantle furniture where possible and detach legs from tables and beds to save space. Place them in a box clearly marked "Furniture Legs etc." Disassemble the furniture items such as tables, bed frames, etc. This will save space. Wrap and label all pieces for an easier time when you have to reassemble them. Put all hardware in bags and mark the bags accordingly.

ü Store mattresses and box springs on long edges. Wrap for protection and elevate off the floor. Use two to three 2 x 4's cut to 1 foot long. 

ü Fragile Items: Protect fragile items with bubble wrap and avoid putting heavy items on top.

 
ü Use pallet trucks, cages or trolleys if necessary, place heavy bulky items in the unit first to create a sturdy base; then place the lighter items on top.•   Plan your storage in terms of easy access. Put items you may need at the front of your storage space. Keep out of season clothes accessible, you may have your belongings in storage longer than anticipated.

 
ü Position boxes and items of similar size together to minimize wastage of space.

w   Freezers, refrigerators and washing machines: Make sure your goods are dry and clean before you put them into store any moisture inside can turn into mildew and eat away at your appliance.

s   When wrapping collectibles or anything breakable, tape it after you wrap it. This should avoid mistaking them for excess paper to fill the box. Use bubble wrap or unprinted paper to wrap breakables. Group similar items together and mark the boxes accordingly.

s   When you disassemble electronics, such as computers, stereos, things that have numerous cords, place small colored stickers on the cord and the same color sticker where the cord goes. This will save you the hassle of trying to figure out what goes where when it comes time to reassemble your electronics. If possible, use the original boxes to store your electronics and other items.