The Do's and Don'ts of Self-Storage

As a storage, moving and packing company based in St. Catharine’s, Bird’s Moving has been a pro at keeping your stuff safe since 1933. When it comes to self-storage, there are a few Do’s and Don’ts that we thought we’d let you know about. Whether you’re a first-time storage renter or checking to see if you can store something specific, this blog will give you the details on what can and can’t go into storage.

The Don’ts

First of all, it’s important to know what can’t be placed into storage. All storage facilities take precautions to ensure that their units are safe, but there are some things that are strictly off-limits, and others that are strongly recommended against.

• Money

It goes without saying that you’re better off leaving your money with a bank rather than in your storage locker. This is the same for important items like birth certificates, passports, or jewelry.

• Food and Perishables

Perishables need a climate-controlled environment to avoid mold and mildew. Nobody wants to find rotten food and rodents in their storage locker. Even non-perishable foods can attract wildlife, so it’s best to leave these out.

• Hazardous materials

Extra Canada day fireworks, cleaning products, jerry cans of gasoline, propane tanks, and cans of paint are not safe to store. Hazardous materials are a risk for corrosion and explosion – not a good mix when storing important things.

• Unregistered vehicles

Only vehicles licensed and registered are permitted to be stored. Otherwise, you’ll have to find another place to keep the classic Cadillac.

If you aren’t sure where to store or dispose of these items, most moving companies will be able to help you out. A moving and packing company will have experience with this sort of thing and can point you in the right direction.

The Do’s

Every storage company will differ when it comes to specific regulations, but as a general practice, there are some things that are most typically safe and allowed.

• Artwork

That big, framed value village painting might have been the best find of the year, but if it needs a new home until you have more space, don’t worry – artwork is safe to store.

• Furniture and Antiques

If Grandma’s old desk doesn’t fit in your tiny apartment, or you’re trying to clear out some furniture from your home to make way for more space, then a moving company can help you transport those things to your storage unit.

• Wine

While most food-related items are off-limits, most storage companies will allow you to store wine. Your Chianti is safe for another year to age up!

• Clothing

Aren’t ready to donate but don’t want a closet cluttered with clothes? Your out of season winter coats, vintage jackets, and any extra clothes that you’d like tucked away for the time being are safe to store as well.

• Books, instruments, and décor

Things like holiday decorations are typical for storage units. Keeping your ornaments out of the way during off-season is a great way to clear up space. Your collection of literature and textbooks are a good choice too, and the good old guitar is also welcome in storage, although we’d definitely recommend that you pick keep that one close and try learning a few chords again.

Choose Bird’s Moving and Storage

If you need to transport some items to storage once you move, always ask your moving and packing company. Bird’s moving is always happy to help you make sure that your items are safely stored after you get settled into your home. If you’re looking at moving and packing companies in St. Catharine’s and the Niagara Region, connect with us today and we’ll get moving!