Especially when you’re moving, a storage unit can be extremely convenient. Having somewhere to put things while you’re organizing or packing is a great help, but do you know the things you shouldn’t put into storage? Storage facilities have their own regulations, but there are some things should never go into a storage unit.

• Plants, Pets, and People: This should be obvious, but living things don’t belong in a storage unit. Keeping animals, even insects or bugs, in storage, is illegal. Plants can’t survive without fresh air, light, and water.

• Dangerous items: Nothing that could endanger your storage unit, nearby units, or people accessing the units should be stored there. Regulations on firearms vary; some facilities will allow certain types of firearms, while others prohibit firearms entirely. Ammunition, on the other hand, is never allowed in a storage unit because it’s combustible and is considered hazardous.

• Anything scented or wet: It may seem reasonable to keep fragrant items in your storage unit, but in fact they can attract rodents and bugs.

• High-value items: You may be impressed by your storage facility’s security, but that doesn’t mean you should store your expensive or irreplaceable items.

• Medical supplies: Storage facilities typically have rules about medical supplies, because some medical equipment can’t legally be stored. Additionally, if you need a medical item, you don’t want to have to look for it in the storage unit.

• Flammable or combustible items: Again, nothing dangerous should be kept in storage. Keeping things that could start a fire out of your storage unit seems like common sense, but it’s worth noting anyway. If a fire were to start in your storage unit, it would not just endanger your belongings, but also the belongings in the other storage units in the facility.

• Anything that will attract pests: Your storage unit is not an off-site pantry. If you keep food, including canned goods or dry goods, in your storage unit, you’re inviting pests into the unit.

• Hazardous materials: Storage facilities don’t have the ventilation and temperature controls necessary to maintain chemicals that can be volatile. Propane, gasoline, bio-medical waste, fireworks, and other hazardous materials should never be put into storage.

• Items prone to mold or mildew: If you store anything damp, you’re risking mold and mildew. It doesn’t have to be furniture, clothing, or other things made of cloth- camping items put away when they’re not clean and dry can provide an inviting environment for mold and mildew.

At Condor Moving Systems, we’re experts in moving anyone anywhere. Since our Dallas/Fort Worth based full service moving company opened its doors in 2003, we’ve set the highest standards in the moving and storage industry. Our knowledgeable moving consultants and highly trained moving crews specialize in both residential moving services and commercial relocation. Whether you’re moving locally or long-distance, we’ll make your move a positive experience and do everything possible to guarantee your satisfaction. Call 877.460.6683 or contact us for a free moving service quote.