Common Things you Can’t Store as Self Storage

Storage is great for holding items in a safe and secure place. You can store any household or business items such as furniture, electrical appliances, your business documents and family heirlooms in your unit. However, there are certain things that you should never store in containerised storage facilities…

Perishables

Many people make the mistake of storing perishable items such as food. However, this is not a good idea. Rodents such as rats and mice have a very good sense of smell and are sure to find their way to your storage unit sooner or later. They will not only eat whatever attracted them in the first place, but are very likely to chew on other items as well, or even nest in them. You might be successful at keeping off rodents but may not be so lucky with smaller insects which can do just as much damage in a very short time, not to mention the health risk they will pose to your family.

Toxic and Hazardous Materials

This is another common mistake that many people do when it comes to storage. Hazardous materials refer to anything that can cause serious damage if they are opened or spilled. Some examples include: corrosive chemicals, noxious gases, flammable chemicals, fertilisers, paints, motor oils, gasoline, filled propane tanks, compressed gases, cleaners or anything that contains asbestos. All these materials have a high potential to catch fire and are also a serious health risk. You can keep your lawn mower, barbeque or bike in a unit but make sure you empty the fuel and oil tanks first.

Pets

Using your storage unit to house your pet or any living creature is pure cruelty and neglect. Just imagine all the darkness and isolation you will be subjecting the poor animal to. Moreover, it is prohibited by the law and you could easily find yourself on its wrong side.

Illegal substances or goods

Any nature of illegal substances are prohibited from being placed in storage. These can include: tobacco, alcohol and medicines to name just a few. Any illegal or unsafe items such as electrical goods, toys etc. should also never be placed in storage.

Weapons and explosives

Anything dangerous such as weapons, firearms, explosives or ammunition are banned from storage units.

Extremely valuable Items

Although self storage is secure, it is advised that you should not store anything that is extremely valuable to you, such as your jewellery, precious metals, historical artefacts and collectables. It’s much better to keep these items safely on your being, or if not, in your home. Also, you should avoid storing cash and tax documents and instead keep them safely in a fire-safe box in the home.

If you are planning to move and need some assistance, or the use of a safe, containerised storage facility, please do not hesitate to contact the professional team at Rylands of Machester, we’ll be more than happy to help.