Storage Information & Tips

Inspect your storage unit and make a list of the packing accessories you will need - wrapping paper, bubble-wrap, tape, rope, drop cloths, plastic sheeting, mattress and furniture covers, pallets, skids, cartons and porta robes. Your Sentinel Self Storage office will have some or all of these items for sale on the premises.

  • Use all the space available, including the height
  • Disassemble items such as bed frames and tables.
  • Place items for frequent access near the front of the space
  • Fill cartons to capacity
  • Fragile items should be cushioned with packaging and placed at the top of the unit
  • Label cartons and take home the list of the labelled cartons for easy reference in locating items

Packaging Materials

Packing accessories such as cartons, porta robes, paper, tape, bubble-wrap and plastic covers will protect your goods.

  • Partially full or bulging cartons may tip or collapse
  • Heavy items like books or tools should be packed in small cartons so they are easy to handle - books should be packed flat, not on their spines
  • Packing and labelling cartons room by room makes unpacking easier, and helps if you need to find something in storage

Appliances

Fridges, freezers and other white goods should be thoroughly DRY and CLEAN before storing.

  • While in storage the door should be secured slightly ajar
  • A deodoriser placed inside fridges or freezers helps maintain freshness
  • Don't store items inside fridges or freezers as the shelves and linings are easily damaged

Furniture

Empty the contents of wardrobes, drawers and cupboards to protect the shelving and structure of these items.

  • Clothing and personal goods should be packed in strong, secure cartons with naphthalene or similar product for added protection
  • Where possible, remove the legs from items of furniture to avoid damage and save space
  • Vacuum all food crumbs from lounges to avoid attracting vermin

Dishes and Glassware

Use "fragile" stickers on cartons containing fragile items and avoid storing heavy items on the top of these cartons.

  • Wrap fragile items individually in packing paper (newsprint is messy and may stain)
  • Nest cups and bowls, stand plates and platters on their edges
  • Fill any gaps with scrunched paper or linen to prevent items from moving in the cartons during transit
  • Place a layer of packing inside the bottom and top of cartons containing breakables

Mirrors, Windows, Screens and Paintings

These items should be protected using packing material such as bubble-wrap or flat-pack cartons and should be stored on their edges - not lying flat.

Metal Items

Wrapping silver in NON ACID tissue paper or plastic bags can help reduce tarnishing. Wipe chrome or cast iron with a little machine oil to help retard rust.

Electrical Items

Electrical equipment is sensitive and should be handled with care.

  • Use original packing where possible
  • Alternatively, wrap items individually in bubble-wrap, pack them in cartons and seal the top for maximum protection
  • Remember to pack out any gaps in the cartons

Battery Operated Appliances and Toys

Remove the batteries to avoid damage from leaking batteries.

Computers

Computers need special care. The original packaging is highly recommended, however bubble-wrap and good quality packing cartons will do the job.

  • Use packing or linen in the bottom and top of cartons to provide extra protection
  • Pack out any gaps
  • Most computers have "self parking heads" - refer to the manufacturer's manual, or consult your retailer, especially if storing for longer than six months

Mowers and Machinery

Drain fuel and oil from all machinery. This reduces risk of leakage, spillage and damage to other goods in your space. Petrol and oil are also a fire hazard.

Planning Your Storage Space

As a general rule place large, heavy items at the rear of the space, then work forwards and upwards with lighter, fragile items.

  • Items you may need to access should be store at the front of the space
  • You may need to allow for walk ways
  • Packing in professional storage cartons will make the storing and unpacking easier and safer, saving you time and worry
  • Professional packing and storage accessories will maintain the condition of your goods for the term of the storage

Moving Checklist

  • Arrange disconnection and reconnection of services such as power, gas, phone and internet
  • Cancel deliveries such as papers and soft drinks
  • Your local Post Office will assist with mail redirection

Important authorities and business houses to notify of your change of address are:

  • Electoral Office
  • Motor vehicle registration and licensing authorities
  • Australian Taxation Office
  • Banks and financial institutions
  • Insurance companies
  • Educational institutions
  • Centrelink - pensions and parenting payments
  • Medicare
  • Club memberships and subscriptions

Storage Agreement

(Self Storage Association of Australasia Standard Storage Agreement)

This important written agreement is designed for the protection of the storer and the facility owner. Be sure to read it thoroughly. If you have questions ask the staff at your Sentinel Self Storage facility.

What Not To Store

Any goods that are illegal, stolen, inflammable, explosive, environmentally harmful, hazardous, perishable, or that are a risk to the property or person.

Chlorine, acid, paint and petrol must not be stored under any circumstances.