Planning ahead

• Visit W.O. Sheeran for advice on the space that you’ll need

• Discuss Available Dates

• Make sure that you have enough packing materials.

Packing and boxing

• Disassemble large items and keep any fixings or screws together in a labelled bag.

• Clean out anything that has stored food or other perishable goods, such as fridges, freezers, ovens, cupboards. Ensure they are clean and dry, and tape the doors closed during transit, then leave them slightly ajar whilst in storage.

• Use strong, durable boxes which are easy to stack. Don’t overfill or underfill, and fill any gaps with packing materials. Label boxes on the top and on the side(s). Make sure you can safely lift the boxes without injury. Wrap china, glass and other fragile items individually before boxing.

Lifting

• Familiarise yourself with safe lifting and handling techniques, and never lift anything that you are not comfortable with.

Condensation and ventilation

• To prevent condensation, make sure all items are clean and dry before you store them. Think about where your items have come from, for example have they previously been kept in your garage or shed? Are they outdoor tools, garden furniture, fishing or camping equipment? If so, they may be damp, so double check before you store them – otherwise the damp can spread.

• Try not to put large items up against the container walls or against other large items, leave a gap to allow air to circulate. Cover furniture and mattresses, and store wool and fabric with mothballs.

Temperature

• Storage containers can get very warm during the summer months, and very cold during the winter. Package your goods with the right materials to protect them as much as possible from severe temperature changes, and consider moving items out of the unit temporarily if harsh temperatures are forecast.

Visit regularly!

• Visit your unit to check on your goods, and to open the doors to allow air to circulate. This is one of the most important things you can do to help with ventilation in your unit.

In the van

• For a long distance choose a van big enough for just one trip. For shorter distances plan several trips in a smaller van

• Load biggest items first, and pad spaces between items

• Tie everything so it doesn’t topple or slide about

• Put your handbag, wallet, specs and keys in one bag in the cab of the van.