Things you can't store in storage units

10 things you can’t store in storage units – What to know

There are so many reasons why you would want to use a storage unit. Whether you’re running out of space at home, working away, or a student enjoying summer vacation, you’ll need a place to store your items. You may be tempted to dump everything into a storage unit and leave it at that. However, there are some things you can’t store in storage units. If you’re planning to store items in a storage unit, here are ten types of items that you mustn’t store:

1 – Living things

A storage unit is dark and not safe for any living thing. It is no place for humans, animals, and plants. Living organisms need sunlight, fresh air, and food to survive, all of which a storage unit lacks.

2 – Perishable items

Perishable items such as foods or anything with a shelf life shouldn’t be placed in storage. Not only will it attract insects and rats, but mould as well. When you open the storage unit after a long time, you wouldn’t want to be greeted by this unpleasant sight.

3 – Strong odours

Any items that have a strong smell can attract pests. If you need to store these items, place them in air-tight containers or outside your storage unit. Make sure the unit is clean and dry to protect your things from infestations.

4 – Cash

Although your storage unit is secure, it is not a good idea to place any valuable items inside, such as cash. Instead, keep your money at the bank or a suitable safe built for security.

5 – Non-operational vehicles

Depending on the type of storage facility, you can store cars, bikes, and other working vehicles in purpose built units as long as they’re insured and registered. If you have a project to fix up a vehicle, you will normally have to store that somewhere else.

6 – Radioactive equipment

Keeping medical supplies and samples in storage units helps to keep offices clean and tidy. When you’re storing anything, make sure it isn’t radioactive, as these items aren’t allowed in storage units.

7 – Dangerous material

Items that are toxic, flammable, corrosive, or explosive, cannot be kept in units, such as car batteries and weed killers. These items need very particular containers and enough ventilation.

8 – Weapons and ammunition

This will depend on the contract you have with your storage unit provider. In most cases, they will not allow you to store ammunition and firearms. It is recommended that you store them with a local gun shop or at a shooting range.

9 – Electronics

Any electronic items such as computers risk becoming damaged if kept in a storage unit for a long period of time. Depending on the season, the weather can either get hot or cold, which can damage any electronic equipment. If you still want to store these types of items, it is best to remove their batteries. Make sure your equipment is safe from humidity as well.

10 – Illegal items

Illegal items are not allowed to be kept anywhere, let alone a storage unit. Don’t store stolen items or contraband items in your unit.

These industry rules and regulations are in place to keep everyone safe, healthy and happy while operating within self storage units. While the list is pretty exhaustive, our advice is – if you’re not sure, ask a member of staff in store.  Our staff are always more than happy to talk you through any queries you may have.
Have you considered using self storage for your items? Contact us to get a quote and to see how we can help.

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10 Things You Can’t Store in Storage Units – What to Know
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10 Things You Can’t Store in Storage Units – What to Know
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Things you can’t store in storage units. Contact Bigfoot Self Storage to get a quote and to see how we can help with your storage requirements.
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Bigfoot Self Storage
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