If you are planning to store sensitive items, such as wood furniture, it will not be enough to wipe it down and coat it in an appropriate wax to increase its protection.
GENERAL PRINCIPLES
Rent the smallest amount of space you will need and pack the unit full.
Gather as many boxes that you think you will need, tape, markers, and packing material, like foam shipping noodles, Bubble Wrap, clean packing paper, or towels.
If possible, try to use uniformly sized boxes for easy storage and stable stacking inside your unit.
Make up an inventory of your items and keep it in a safe place at home or in a safe deposit box away from your unit. Consider photographing or video recording the contents of your unit, too.
Prepare your space by placing a protective cover or pallet on the floor of your rental unit and under your goods to guard against dampness.
Plan your storage space. Place items you need to access often in the front of your unit and items you know you will not need in the back.
CAUTION! Do not store anything combustible, including paint thinner, gasoline, solvents, or paint.
For convenient access inside your unit, leave an aisle down the center and a small space between the walls and your storage boxes or items – this provides good air circulation.
Stack heavier boxes toward the bottom and lighter boxes on top.
Be sure your boxes are strong enough to hold 25 to 30 pounds, and err on the side of less for packing your boxes.
List the contents of your box on all four sides, and number your boxes for inventory. Then, seal each with tape.
ITEM SPECIFICS
Dishes and glasses should be wrapped in paper and packed in sturdy boxes or in a specialized dish-pack system. Store these boxes on top to avoid damage due to heavier weight crushing the contents.
Pictures and mirrors should be wrapped in cardboard or packed in picture/mirror boxes and marked “FRAGILE.” Stack them on end and not flat.
Furniture with drawers can be utilized as storage places for pictures, knick-knacks, china, silverware, and small items. Before placing items in drawers, wrap them in tablecloths, towels, or blankets to protect them and prevent breakage.
Larger appliances such as refrigerators and stoves should be thoroughly cleaned and the door(s) left slightly ajar.
Place TVs and other electronics in the rear of your unit.
Shovels, hoes, rakes, and hoses can be stored together in empty trash cans. Stack extra cans inside one another.
Tables that have removable legs should be broken down to save space.
Sofas and loveseats with flat sides can be stored on end to save floor space. Wrap cushions in plastic and place on top of sofas.
Avoid placing sharp or heavy objects on top of upholstered furniture.
Cover stuffed furniture with blankets or use plastic furniture covers to protect against dust.
If you stand mattresses on their side, prop them up so they stand straight.
Wipe any items made of metal like bikes, metal tables, and tools with machine oil to prevent rusting.