STORAGE CHECKLIST
Use this before and after you load your unit to keep your belongings safe and organized.
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BEFORE YOU PACK
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☐ Choose the right unit size — when in doubt, go one size up
☐ Confirm whether climate control is needed for your items
→ Wood, leather, electronics, artwork, and documents all benefit from climate control.
→ Harrisburg's hot, humid summers and cold winters can damage sensitive items even in storage.
☐ Purchase a quality disc lock for your unit
☐ Check whether your renters or homeowners insurance covers items in storage
☐ Create a written inventory of everything going into the unit
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PACKING SMART
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☐ Use uniform-sized sturdy boxes — they stack more safely than mixed sizes
☐ Label all four sides of every box, not just the top
☐ Fill boxes completely — half-full boxes collapse under the weight of boxes stacked on top
☐ Wrap breakables individually in packing paper or bubble wrap
→ Avoid newspaper — ink transfers onto items over time.
☐ Drain all fuel from lawn equipment and power tools before storing
☐ Disassemble furniture to maximize space and reduce stress on joints
☐ Store mattresses in mattress bags to prevent dust and moisture
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LOADING THE UNIT
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☐ Load heaviest items first, along the back wall and sides of the unit
☐ Place items you'll need to access first near the front
☐ Leave a center aisle so you can reach items at the back without unpacking everything
☐ Stack boxes vertically — use the full ceiling height to maximize space
☐ Stand sofas and mattresses on their side to save floor space
☐ Never store food, perishables, plants, or live animals
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ONGOING
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☐ Keep a copy of your inventory at home and backed up in the cloud
☐ Set up autopay so you never miss a payment and risk losing access to your unit
☐ Visit your unit periodically to check for moisture, pests, or shifting loads
☐ Update your inventory whenever you add or remove items
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Questions? We're here to help.
Call Harrisburg Self Storage at (717) 238-2411 or stop by during office hours.
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