1. Start with the floor. A large plastic tarp will do for small units, or you can invest in a large roll of heavy plastic sheeting to cover the floor of a larger space. This forms a moisture/vapor barrier to keep your items dry.
   
   
2. Pack your stuff correctly. Cardboard boxes are fine for some items, but heavy duty Rubbermaid is better. Put clothes in bags first, then in boxes. Don’t store perfume, potpourri, soap, or any other scented items as this will attract bugs.
   
   
3. Keeps boxes off of the floor. The plastic sheeting or tarp should protect from moisture, but it doesn’t hurt to add wooden pallets before stacking your boxes. Throw some mothballs in to keep bugs away.
   
   
4. Use your space wisely. If you like, you can add shelving to increase your storage space and keep the stacks of boxes from getting too high and crushing the ones beneath. If you do stack, stack sensibly, with heavier, more rigid, tighter packed boxes on the bottom and any lighter, smaller boxes or bags on top.
   
   
5. Leave a pathway. So many people start lugging stuff into their space and work from the back wall to the front. Instead, stack methodically around the three walls and put an ‘island’ in the center. This will leave a ‘U’ shaped path you can walk through to access all your stuff easily.
   
   
6. Back your vehicle in. If you are storing a car, you might have to jump it to get it out - so make sure the battery is accessible for a quick and easy start. Use heavy plastic sheeting on the floor and cover your vehicle with a car cover to keep dust off and prevent corrosion.

Following these packing tips will ensure that your belongings stay safe from moisture, dirt and insects during the storage period.