Some people accumulate possessions, others don’t.But even if you’re not the type to collect and hoard masses of stuff, you’re probably still likely to need storage somewhere along the way. 
Moving office, moving home, freeing up some space at home, uncluttering your life or putting away stuff for your children one day… using a self-storage unit is both a practical and secure way to go. 
A little forward planning will take the hassle out of packing and storing. Here are a few tips to ease the process, and to help you locate something if you need it in a hurry !
A FEW GENERAL TIPS
• Use unprinted newspaper or butcher’s paper to wrap as newsprint can soil items
* Take photos of your valuable possessions for insurance
* Arrange copies of passports, visas, birth certificates etc and keep in a separate place
* When moving house, it’s advisable to pack by room and to keep all the contents of that room as close as possible
• Have a designated ‘necessities’ box which can be unpacked first and which contains vital items such as adapter plugs, screwdriver, remote controls for TVs etc, a set of linen for each bed that will need to be made up on the first night, torch, candle

BOXES
* Boxes should be the same size and should not be too big, as they get too heavy and impossible to move
* Clearly label all boxes.  For security reasons, some people prefer not to reveal the contents of the box on the label, but rather number the boxes and keep a detailed list elsewhere.Another suggestion from EzyStorage, a Perth self storage unit company, is to pack each room into boxes with a specific coloured label eg. green labels for MD’s office, blue for receptionist etc.
* To protect your possessions from pests, put a few napthalene balls into the boxes
* Seal boxes securely with packing tape
* Stack your boxes with the labels facing out (sounds simple, but worth remembering) !
* Boxes and furniture should be placed on pallets rather than directly onto the concrete floor to prevent moisture absorption
OTHER ITEMS
* Always pack books flat to protect the spines of the book
* Avoid storing mirrors, paintings etc flat – they should be on their side to protect the glass
* Take batteries out of any battery operated item
• Silver should be wrapped in non-acidic tissue paper to prevent tarnishing
* All metal, cast iron or chrome items (eg bikes, lawnmowers etc) should be wiped down with a rag and a few drops of machine oil to prevent rust
* Gas bottles should be emptied and petrol and other flammable liquids drained from machinery, cars
* Fridges and freezers should be cleaned out and completely dry before storing.In storage, secure the doors slightly ajar
• Clothing and curtains should be hung on hangers if possible

FURNITURE
* Sofas and mattresses shouldn’t be stored flat, but on their end
• Remove table legs if possible – otherwise stack tables upside down.
* Tape keys to cupboard doors, draws etc. to the inside of the item

PACKING THE STORAGE AREA
* Always keep a central aisle open
* Always store items that you may require access to at the front of the unit
• Store valuables at the rear
* Shelving can also be a good idea to create more space
• Cover possessions with a light plastic sheet or cotton dust cover
Follow these tips and you’ll be well on the way.Self storage is a very convenient, flexible and easy-to-use way to keep your possessions safe and secure.And it appears that more and more people are moving towards self storage as the storage method of choice, according to a Perth storage unit company, Ezystorage.