* Clean upholstered furniture before storing

* Wrap glass and other breakables in bubble wrap

* Encase mattresses in plastic covers

* Make a complete list of all things stored

* Mark all boxes or tubs with content

* If possible use plastic tubs instead of cardboard boxes

* Keep all legal documents, (birth certificates, marriage license, school records, shot records)  easily accessible

* Where possible, place all stored boxes and furniture on wooden pallets or on top of boards on the floor of storage space. This helps minimize potential moisture damage as well. Do not place cardboard between items and the floor.