Self storage is a flexible, secure solution for household, business and student storage needs. You can store practically everything, ranging from household items, online retail inventory and nearly anything in between. However, some items are inherently unsafe, illegal or unsuitable for a self storage facility.
At Store More, we care about our customers’ belongings, as well as personal safety. For this reason, we have a host of items that are not allowed to be stored on site. If you’re ever unsure about “what can I store in a self storage unit”, give this guide a read.
If you are still unsure about what items are allowed in storage units, just give our friendly team a call before you move in. They will provide you with further guidance on prohibited items and also give you helpful storage advice to make sure you get the most from your time with us at Store More.
What Is Self Storage?
Self storage is the use of a purpose-built storage facility (like one of Store More’s many sites in Wrexham, Mansfield, Glasgow Govan, Clough Road and Willerby in Hull and in Beverley where you can store items from as small as a tea set to as large as a king sized bed, double wardrobe or a pallet of business stock.
Your storage space will be lockable and accessible by you only. At reputable facilities like Store More, you will be able to access your unit seven days a week, so you can store around your own schedule. Additionally, you will never be required to sign a fixed-term contract. Instead, most self storage facilities worth their salt will offer you a month-to-month contract that allows you store on your terms.
Most importantly, self storage is much cheaper than standard commercial storage options.
At Store More, we view self storage as consisting of four pillars:
- Security: Every unit is individually alarmed and monitored by CCTV.
- Affordability: Choose the perfect size and hire length to suit your budget.
- Accessibility: Come and go seven days a week using your unique PIN code.
- Flexibility: Upgrade, downsize or extend your booking at any time.
7 Most Prohibited Items For Self Storage
Store More always puts customers first. For your and our safety, however, there are a few restricted items we do not allow to be stored in our facilities. If you are unsure about the items you wish to store, speak to our expert team before storing. Call us on 01482242488 or pop us an email and check what things you can store safely.
1. Firearms, Weapons, Ammunition Or Explosives
It goes without saying that guns, knives intended as weapons, bullets and fireworks are at the top of the list of what’s not allowed in storage units. UK law strictly forbids storing these dangerous items and accommodating them would put us at legal liability.
2. Animals (Alive Or Dead)
Living creatures, including pets, livestock or plants, cannot be kept in a storage unit. Our units are secure and ventilated, but they are not designed to support life or provide the conditions needed for animal or plant care. Storing deceased animals is also strictly prohibited due to potential health and hygiene risks.
3. Humans
Storage units are not designed for living, sleeping or working in. Staying overnight is illegal and unsafe. You are welcome to use your unit for packing, organising or preparing items for shipment during access hours.
4. Food And Perishable Items
Storing fresh, cooked or perishable goods attracts pests, encourages mould growth and leads to unpleasant smells. Please avoid storing all food products for you and your storage neighbour’s wellbeing.
5. Hazardous, Combustible Or Flammable Substances
Petrol, gas cylinders, solvents, acids, fireworks and other chemicals present a major fire hazard. These materials are strictly banned business storage items from all Store More facilities.
6. Currency, Deeds And Securities
Irreplaceable documents, cash and share certificates belong in a bank’s safe deposit box. They’re too valuable for a self storage unit. We do, however, provide self storage for archival documents, such as old records, files, and paperwork you don’t need regular access to.
7. Illegal Goods And Substances
Drugs, stolen property, counterfeit goods and any contraband items are absolutely forbidden. We must report suspicious activity or materials to the authorities by law.
How To Properly Store Items In Self Storage
Store More are self storage specialists, and our facilities are designed with our customer safety and satisfaction in mind. As one of our valued customers, there are a few best practices you can apply to the items you wish to store to ensure they stay in mint condition while under our care.
- Clean and Dry Items: Wash and fully dry appliances, furnishings and other items before packing and moving them to storage. This prevents stains and odours from setting in and mildew from forming.
- Use the Right Packaging: Strong, clearly labelled boxes help you stay organised, and your items protected when packing for self storage. See our excellent packaging shop for tape, bubble wrap, furniture covers and high-quality boxes in a range of sizes.
- Keep Items off the Floor: Whenever possible, stack boxes on pallets or plastic sheets.
- Allow Airflow: Leave gaps between boxes and walls to ensure adequate ventilation, especially when storing climate-controlled storage items.
- Cover Furniture: Breathable dust sheets protect wood and fabric from scratches, scuffs and dust. Avoid using plastic sheets or covers when storing items long-term as plastic traps moisture.
Why Choose Store More?
Store More is a family-run, SSA-approved self storage provider with over 10 years of industry experience. We pride ourselves on exceeding industry standards, both in how we operate and how we treat our customers. Our commitment to exceptional service was recently recognised with the Feefo Gold Trusted Service Award. This was a proud moment for our team and reflects the care we put into every interaction.
We also provide:
- Individually alarmed storage units and CCTV
- Free van hire at selected sites
- Price match guarantee*
- Well-located sites in Wrexham, Mansfield, Glasgow Govan, Clough Road and Willerby in Hull and Beverley, help is never far away.
We offer personal storage for decluttering a family home or getting support during a move or renovation. We also provide business storage for local entrepreneurs, organisations or online retailers. Student storage is also on offer at affordable rates. Lastly, we lease container storage for private or business clients.
Still wondering “what can I store in a self storage unit?”. If you have any questions, please get in touch. Our team will guide you through every step of the process. No jargon, just plain useful advice and guidance.
We are waiting to guide you to the best value storage solutions. Simply call us on 01482242488. You can also get a free quote from Store More or contact us for any storage queries or advice.
