General
Tips from 1st Storage Centres
How to make the most of your self storage space
- Inspect your store and make a list of the packing accessories which you will need. Commonly used packing aids include such items as wrapping paper, bubblewrap, tape, rope, polyurethane sheeting, mattress and furniture covers, and boxes. 1st Storage Centres have most these items for sale on the premises.
- Use all the space available, including the height.
- Disassemble items such as bed frames and tables.
- Place frequently used items near the front of the space.
- Fill boxes to capacity
- Secure your room with a good quality padlock, and keep the key in a safe place, you are the only key holder.
What not to store…
Any goods that are illegal, stolen, inflammable, explosive, environmentally harmful, hazardous perishable or that are a risk to the property of person. e.g. Chlorine, acid, paint, petrol.
Read the 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 the centre.
Checklist for moving home
Arrange disconnection and reconnection of services e.g. Power, gas, phone. Cancel any deliveries e.g. papers, milk, soft drinks. Your local Post Office will assist you with mail redirection.
Important Authorities and Business Houses to notify of your change of address are:
- Electoral Office
- Motor Vehicle Registration and Licence Authority
- Taxation Office
- Banks and Financial Institutions
- Insurance Companies
- Educational Institutions
- Department of Security (re Pension payments. Family Payments etc)
- Medicare
- Club Membership and Subscriptions
How to store lawnmowers and other 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 left in are also a fire hazard.
How to store battery operated appliances and toys
We recommend that you remove the batteries to avoid damage from leaking batteries.
How to store electrical items in self-storage
Your electrical equipment is very delicate and sensitive and should be handled with care. The original boxes are ideal to repack in. However wrapping items individually in bubblewrap, packing them in cartons, and sealing the top will offer protection for your electrical items. Remember to pack out any gaps in the cartons. Pack records or similar on their edges to prevent warping.
How to store mirrors, windows, screens and paintings
These items should be protected by packing material e.g. bubblewrap or in a flat-pack carton store them standing on their edges in an upright position (not lying flat).
How to store fridges, freezers and other appliances
Fridges, freezers and other white goods should be thoroughly DRY and CLEAN before storing. Whilst in storage the door should be secured slightly ajar. A deodoriser placed inside fridges or freezers is also a good idea to maintain freshness. Don’t place items inside fridges or freezers as the shelves and linings can be easily marked and damaged.