Here are a few tips that will help you increase the number of items you can get into your unit.

• Take advantage of the height of your unit. Position your heavier furniture / appliances in the unit first, then stack upwards with lighter belongings. But always make sure your foundation is solid and not subject to shifting or leaning.
  
  
• Sofas and love seats can sometimes be stored on end (vertically). This takes up much less room in a unit than storing horizontally. But be sure storing your sofa this way will not damage the stuffing material in the arms.
  
  
• Table legs can often be removed from kitchen tables and the table top stored on end between the mattresses. Dining room chairs can be turned upside down and placed along the top of your mattress / box springs.
  
  
• Remember to put boxes or file cabinets you will need to get in and out of regularly in the front of your unit. Plan for seasonal weather changes as well, when storing clothing.
  
  
• For refrigerator and freezer storage, the manufacturers recommend placing open cans of coffee in the appliance to absorb moisture and prevent mildew. Remember to leave refrigerator doors ajar to prevent mold, and ALWAYS defrost and drain the lines before putting the appliance in your unit. Also empty drainage lines on your washer too.
  
  
• Label boxes clearly and consider using an inventory list. This makes searching for a particular item easier and minimizes fragile items from being stored under heavier items.