STORAGE TIPS FOR BOOKS, MAGAZINES AND MEDIA!

Packing books and media can take planning and foresight.  Special care should be taken when packing these items because they are more susceptible to environmental damage (i.e.humidity, dust and yellowing).  It may be a worthwhile investment to spend the extra time and money to properly pack these items.

 The number one rule when packing items such as books is to make sure that the box is not too large!  Books are heavy.  They need to be packed in smaller boxes that you will be able to handle them without hurting yourself!  Here are some other important tips:

Media and All Printed Materials:

• Consider using file cabinets, fire safes and/or locking storing containers
• Use pallets or plastic to raise the storage containers off of the floor.  One can never be guaranteed that the unit may not leak.
• Label all of the boxes and containers on all sides.  Keep a list of the individual books/media that are packed in that box on the side of the box that will face you in the storage unit.
•  Newspaper print can transfer onto the items that you are packing.  It is recommended that you do not use newspaper for packing!
• Use boxes that are the same size for easy stacking.
• Pack all non essential items first.
• Fill each box to the top in order to prevent shifting during transporting and/or lifting.  This also prevents the box from collapsing when stacking the boxes.
• Pack your items planning on long term storage...just in case.  Plans can always change!

DVD's, CD's, Video Tapes and other Media

•  It is not recommended to store these items at All Seasons Storage due to the extreme temperatures in Needles, CA.  However, if you opt to store them, we suggest the following:
• Always pack media in airtight, heavy duty bags or containers
• When possible, try to store the media in the original cases for additional protection.
• Videotapes are particularly sensitive to moisture and thus make sure to package them individually in airtight bags.

Books and Magazines

•  For books, place a piece of paper inside the front cover and wrap it around to the back cover.  This helps to prevent sticking.  Paper towels work well!
• When placing books or magazines in boxes, alternate placing the spine to the right and left.
• You may want to seal each book or magazine in archival plastic bags.
• Place a piece of strong cardboard, plastic or wood between magazines to prevent warping.