Storage units are great options when you’re moving or have simply run out of space in your home. Although you can put away a lot in them, there are some items that simply shouldn’t be placed in storage units. Birmingham, AL residents looking to move some items out of the way should keep reading for some dos and don’ts.
Explosives/Ammunition/Firearms
Many people have large collections of firearms, including antiques that have been passed down throughout their family that they would like to put in a safe place while they move. Unfortunately, storage units are not the right place to put these items. Even if you’ve taken all safety precautions possible, a firearm can still accidentally go off, which could damage the storage facility or your other items. They’re a liability. You should look into storing these items with a local gun shop or shooting range during your move. Along the same lines, you can’t store fireworks in your unit. This sounds crazy, but there have been instances of fireworks going off accidentally in units and causing damage.
Unregistered Vehicles
This includes vehicles that are registered, but not in your name. In other words, you cannot store a car, boat, trailer, RV, or motorcycle for a family member or friend. Any vehicle kept in your storage facility must be in your name, in good working condition, and have current registration. For insurance reasons, you need to be able to prove that the vehicle is being stored legally.
Scented or Wet Items
You’d be surprised how many items can get accidentally stored during the hustle and bustle of a move. It’s not illegal to keep scented or wet items in your unit; it’s just a bad idea. Scented items will attract pests just like food will, which can ultimately damage all of the items in your unit. Wet items, like dish clothes or towels thrown in accidentally during the move, can also be damaging. They’ll cause mildew, mold, and bacteria to build up and will be a nasty surprise when you come to unpack your items after your move. Do thorough checks before you send boxes off to storage.
