What Can Be Stored in a Storage Unit?
Storage units are assumed to be temporary storage centers to stock items that you don’t require regular access to. However, many people add up things there that pile up making the unit more like a junkyard.
Agreed, you regularly pay the storage unit price and are more like an owner for the time being. But there are specific rules and regulations related to the items that can be stored in a storage unit.
Here, we discuss what can be stored and what you cannot store inside a storage unit. Before we move further, let us make it clear that each self-storage company may have a specific set of rules related to storage but what we state here is the normal code that is applicable irrespective of the company.
Seasonal items
Seasonal items and self-storage go hand-in-hand just like peanut butter and jelly. They are more like made for each other. From Christmas decor to camping gear, there will always be things that we only need access to at certain times of the year. And, a storage unit is a great place to stock them for the rest of the year.
However, when you store electronic holiday decorations, ensure they’re all still in working order. When something is not working, the best time to replace it or repair it is the time between two celebrations.
Household goods
Most of us prefer storage units to stock household stuff like furniture, toys, kitchen and bathroom items, books, clothes, and more. Antiques and collectibles are also safe inside a storage unit. Now, if there is the stuff that requires a specific temperature, it would be fair to hire a climate-controlled unit, even if the storage unit cost is high.
Business items
You always keep the important files and documents along with you. But there are many files and folders that you don’t regularly require. It is safe to keep them inside a storage unit. Examples of such documents include warranties for items you bought recently (you need to keep them safe until their respective warranty periods expire), receipts, certain medical records, financial documents, employment records, school records, etc.).
Electronic items
At home, we may have an extra electronic item, such as a TV or a computer. Keep them safe in a storage facility. Stereo systems, speakers, printers, or mixer grinders are also permitted inside a storage unit. If you have multiple camera accessories and don’t require them regularly, keep them safe inside the storage facility. We advise you to consider storing these items in a climate-controlled storage unit for ultimate protection.
It is okay to store electronic gadgets in a storage unit but remember to detach wires for safety purposes. Bundle the wires together and label each bundle with a specific color sticker that coincides with its equipment. Keep electronic components together in a plastic bag attached to the electronic item.
Appliances
Appliances are permitted inside after you pay the storage unit cost but they need to be cleaned and dried prior to storage. Also, you cannot leave them plugged in while being stored. Smaller appliances like toasters, coffee makers, and vacuums are also fine, as long as they are wiped clean of crumbs and dried-on drips beforehand.
So what are the items that you cannot store inside?
When you hire a storage unit, every storage facility provider will issue a list of items that you cannot store inside. This is because such items are hazardous to the unit and may destroy it and can even damage other units just nearby.
A few among them include:
- Flammable or explosive items.
- Perishable items such as food.
- Pets or animals
- Illegal items such as stolen goods, substances, firearms.
- Human or animal body parts.
While maintaining a self-storage facility, it is always better to create a detailed inventory of the items being deposited. Also, you need to avoid storing important documents such as passports and driving licenses inside.