What Can and Can’t You Store in a Self Storage Unit?
If you're considering self storage for the first time, one of the first questions you might have is: what can I actually put in a storage unit?
The answer is that most everyday household and business belongings can be stored, from furniture and boxes to stock and equipment. However, there are certain items that aren't suitable for self storage because they could create a safety, security or environmental risk.
Whether you're moving house, decluttering, renovating or looking for extra business space, here's what you need to know before filling your storage unit.
What Can You Store in a Self Storage Unit?
Self storage can be used for a surprisingly wide range of belongings.
Furniture and Household Items
Storage units are ideal for keeping furniture and household belongings that you don't currently have room for.
This could include:
Sofas and armchairs
Beds and mattresses
Tables and chairs
Wardrobes and cabinets
Bookshelves
Household appliances
Boxes of personal belongings
It's particularly useful when moving house, downsizing or renovating, giving you somewhere secure to keep your belongings while you make changes at home.
Seasonal Items
Why let seasonal belongings take over your garage, loft or spare room for most of the year?
Self storage can be useful for items such as:
Christmas decorations
Garden furniture
Barbecues
Camping equipment
Sports equipment
Seasonal clothing
Outdoor toys
You can keep them safely stored until they're needed again, freeing up valuable space at home.
Business Stock and Equipment
Self storage isn't just for household belongings. Many businesses need additional space for stock, equipment and supplies.
Depending on your requirements, you could store:
Retail stock
Packaging materials
Office furniture
Tools and equipment
Exhibition equipment
Archived paperwork
Business supplies
For growing businesses, storage can provide extra room without immediately committing to larger commercial premises.
What Can't You Store?
There are some items that should not be kept in a self storage unit.
While exact restrictions can vary between storage providers, prohibited items commonly include:
Flammable or Combustible Materials
Items that could cause a fire or increase the risk of one are generally not permitted.
This can include:
Petrol and diesel
Gas cylinders
Fireworks
Certain fuels
Explosives
Other highly flammable substances
Hazardous or Toxic Materials
Chemicals, poisons and other dangerous substances should not be stored in a standard self storage unit.
If you're unsure whether a particular chemical or substance is permitted, always check with your storage provider before bringing it onto the premises.
Perishable or Living Items
Self storage isn't designed for anything that needs regular feeding, watering or temperature-controlled care.
This means you shouldn't store:
Food that can spoil
Plants
Animals
Other living organisms
Illegal or Stolen Goods
It goes without saying, but storage units must only be used for lawful purposes. Illegal goods, stolen property and other prohibited items should never be stored.
Items That Could Cause Damage
Anything that could leak, spill, contaminate the unit or cause damage to other customers' belongings may be prohibited.
If you're unsure about an item, it's always better to ask before bringing it into your unit.
What About Valuable or Sentimental Items?
You can generally store valuable belongings, but it's important to consider how they're packed and protected.
For items such as photographs, documents, antiques or family keepsakes, use suitable protective packaging and avoid placing items directly on the floor.
If you're storing particularly valuable possessions, check your storage provider's insurance requirements and terms before moving them into your unit.
How Should You Prepare Items for Storage?
Knowing what you can store is only part of the process. Packing your belongings properly will help keep them in good condition.
Clean Everything First
Furniture, appliances and other belongings should be clean and completely dry before being stored. This helps prevent dirt, damp and unpleasant smells developing over time.
Use Suitable Packaging
Strong boxes, protective covers and suitable wrapping can help protect your belongings from dust and accidental knocks.
Don't Overfill Boxes
Heavy or overloaded boxes can become difficult to move and may be more likely to collapse. Keep boxes manageable and label them clearly.
Leave Access Space
Try not to pack your unit completely from floor to ceiling. Leaving a clear walkway makes it much easier to reach items at the back without having to unload everything first.
Can You Store a Car or Vehicle?
Vehicle storage varies between facilities, so it's important to check with your chosen provider before making arrangements.
Some storage facilities may accommodate certain vehicles, while others are designed specifically for household and business belongings.
Always check the provider's terms before bringing a vehicle or large piece of equipment onto the site.
Always Check Before You Store
If you're unsure whether something can be stored, don't guess.
Storage providers have rules in place to protect customers, their belongings and the facility itself. A quick conversation with the team before you move an item in can save you a lot of hassle later.
What Can You Store at MoorSpace?
At MoorSpace Storage, we provide secure storage solutions for homeowners, students and businesses across Huddersfield.
From furniture and household belongings to business stock and equipment, our storage options can give you the extra space you need without having to give up the things you want to keep.
If you're unsure whether a particular item is suitable for storage, our team can advise you on the best option.
Need Somewhere to Store Your Belongings?
Whether you're moving house, renovating, decluttering or simply running out of room, self storage can make life a lot easier.
If you're looking for secure self storage in Huddersfield, get in touch with MoorSpace Storage to discuss your requirements and find the right space for you.
