Storage units are a convenient and flexible way to manage your personal or business belongings. Whether you’re downsizing, decluttering, or needing extra room for your stuff, rental storage facilities provide a solution for nearly every situation. However, before you start packing, it’s essential to know what you can and cannot store to avoid any surprises or complications.
This guide breaks down the rules of most storage facilities and offers practical tips to get the most out of your rental storage experience.
What You Can Store in Rental Storage
Broadly speaking, storage units are designed to accommodate various types of belongings. Here are the common items that are usually allowed in storage units:
1. Household Items
- Furniture such as sofas, beds, dressers, and dining sets are perfectly fine to store.
- Electronics like TVs, computers, and gaming consoles are typically allowed, as long as they are properly packed.
- Appliances, including refrigerators, microwaves, and washing machines, can also be stored if they’re clean and free of moisture.
2. Personal Belongings
- Clothing and linens can be stored in sealed bins or vacuum-sealed bags to protect them from dust and moisture.
- Family heirlooms, decor, and seasonal items (like Christmas trees or holiday decorations) fit perfectly into storage units.
3. Business Supplies
Rental storage isn’t just for personal use. Many businesses use storage units as an extension of their workspace to keep inventory, office supplies, or documents secure.
4. Recreational Equipment
Storage units are ideal for bikes, camping gear, musical instruments, or sports equipment that you don’t use year-round.
What You Can’t Store in Rental Storage
Storage facilities do have restrictions for your safety (and theirs). Here’s what should be left out of your rental storage unit:
1. Perishables
Food or other perishables are not allowed since they can attract pests or create odors. The only exceptions are canned or sealed dry goods in some cases, but always check with your facility first.
2. Hazardous Materials
Items like gasoline, propane, fireworks, chemicals, or anything flammable are strictly prohibited. Toxic or corrosive substances should also never be stored.
3. Living Things
Plants, pets, or any other living organisms are absolutely forbidden. Storage units lack proper ventilation and light to sustain life, making them an unsuitable environment for anything living.
4. Cash or Extremely Valuable Assets
While many storage units are secure, you should avoid using them for cash, rare coins, jewelry, or irreplaceable collectibles, as most facilities won’t insure these items.
5. Illegal Items
This one is a no-brainer—but just to reinforce, storing firearms, stolen goods, or other illegal items is against the law and a violation of any storage facility’s terms and conditions.
Pro Tips to Maximize Your Storage Experience
- Read the Fine Print
Each rental storage facility has unique rules and policies. Always review the agreement before signing to understand any additional restrictions.
- Organize Your Unit
Use shelving, clear bins, and labels to keep your items accessible and easy to find.
- Climate Control Matters
For sensitive items such as electronics, wooden furniture, or important documents, consider renting a climate-controlled unit to protect against humidity and temperature fluctuations.
- Insurance Is Key
Most facilities recommend (or require) that you insure your belongings in case of unforeseen events. Verify whether your homeowners or renters insurance policy extends to your storage unit.
Make the Most of Your Rental Storage
Understanding what you can and can’t store helps ensure a smooth experience while keeping your belongings safe and secure. Storage units are a practical solution, but following the rules is critical to avoiding issues down the line.