Storing your belongings in a storage unit can be a great solution when you need extra space, whether you’re moving, downsizing, renovating, or decluttering. Storage units provide a safe, secure space for your items until you’re ready to use them again.
However, not everything can or should go into storage. Many storage facilities have strict regulations about what you can and cannot store, and certain items can create safety hazards, legal issues, or even attract pests.
At Cross Town Movers of Eugene, Oregon, we want to help you make the best choices when it comes to storage. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to the top five items you should avoid storing in a storage unit—and what to do instead.
? Need help with your move or storage needs? Call Cross Town Movers at (541) 683-5211 today!
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Firearms and Ammunition
While many storage facilities allow the storage of legal firearms, it’s crucial to check their policies before storing any guns, ammunition, or firearm accessories. The primary concern is safety—ammunition is highly combustible, and a storage facility is not the ideal place to keep such sensitive and potentially dangerous items.
Why Firearms and Ammunition Shouldn’t Be Stored:
✔ Ammunition is flammable – If a fire were to occur, ammunition could ignite, creating an explosive hazard.
✔ Security concerns – Even in secure storage facilities, firearms should be stored in a controlled, locked environment.
✔ Legal restrictions – Some states and local regulations prohibit the storage of firearms in non-residential locations.
What to Do Instead:
✔ Store firearms in a gun safe at home – This provides maximum security and easy access.
✔ Use a licensed firearm storage facility – Some gun clubs or firearms dealers offer safe, climate-controlled storage options.
✔ Contact a storage facility before storing firearms – If you’re unsure about the rules, always ask first.
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Flammable or Combustible Items
Anything that can catch fire, explode, or leak toxic fumes should never be placed in storage. This includes:
✔ Gasoline and diesel fuel
✔ Propane tanks
✔ Paint, paint thinner, and varnish
✔ Household cleaning chemicals
✔ Fireworks and explosives
✔ Lighter fluid
✔ Batteries and car batteries
Why Flammable Items Shouldn’t Be Stored:
✔ Extreme temperature fluctuations in storage units can increase the risk of combustion.
✔ Leaking chemicals can create toxic fumes and damage other stored items.
✔ Many storage facilities prohibit these items due to fire safety regulations.
What to Do Instead:
✔ Dispose of hazardous materials properly – Many cities have hazardous waste disposal programs.
✔ Store paints and chemicals in a well-ventilated area at home, away from direct sunlight.
✔ For gas-powered equipment, completely drain the fuel before storage.
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Medical Supplies and Medications
While it might seem convenient to store extra medical supplies or unused prescriptions in a storage unit, this is not recommended. Some medical supplies can contain radioactive materials, and prescription medications should always be stored in a secure, climate-controlled environment.
Why Medical Supplies and Medications Shouldn’t Be Stored:
✔ Some medical equipment contains hazardous materials that require special disposal methods.
✔ Medications can degrade in non-climate-controlled environments.
✔ Restricted access – If you need medications in an emergency, you won’t want them locked away in storage.
What to Do Instead:
✔ Keep essential medications in a secure, climate-controlled location at home.
✔ Donate unused medical supplies to hospitals, shelters, or nonprofit organizations.
✔ Check with a medical waste disposal service for expired or unneeded medications.
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Scented Items Like Candles, Soap, and Lotions
You might not think twice about storing scented candles, soaps, or lotions, but these seemingly harmless items can attract pests, such as mice, rats, or insects. Rodents are drawn to strong-smelling items because they mistake them for food.
Why You Shouldn’t Store Scented Items:
✔ Strong fragrances attract rodents and insects that could damage other belongings.
✔ Candles and soaps can melt or warp in extreme temperatures.
✔ Oils and lotions can separate or spoil if stored improperly.
What to Do Instead:
✔ Store scented items in airtight, sealed containers at home.
✔ Use a climate-controlled space if you must store these items.
✔ Keep scented products in the kitchen or bathroom where they’re safe and easily accessible.
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Unregistered or Non-Operational Vehicles
Many people use storage units for long-term vehicle storage, but most facilities require vehicles to be fully operational, insured, and registered. Unregistered vehicles may be considered abandoned property and storing them could violate local laws.
Why You Shouldn’t Store Unregistered Vehicles:
✔ Most storage facilities require proof of registration and insurance for stored vehicles.
✔ Some states classify unregistered vehicles as abandoned property, which could result in your vehicle being impounded.
✔ Gasoline and other fluids can leak, creating environmental hazards.
What to Do Instead:
✔ Use a specialized vehicle storage facility – Many offer climate-controlled garages for classic cars, motorcycles, and RVs.
✔ Keep your vehicle’s registration and insurance up to date before placing it in storage.
✔ Drain fluids from non-operational vehicles if long-term storage is needed.
FAQs: Storage and Moving with Cross Town Movers
❓ Does Cross Town Movers offer storage services?
Yes! We offer secure, short-term and long-term storage solutions for customers in Eugene, Oregon, and surrounding areas.
❓ Can I store large furniture or appliances?
Absolutely! We provide climate-controlled storage for furniture, appliances, and household goods.
❓ How do I prepare my belongings for storage?
✔ Use sturdy boxes and plastic bins
✔ Label everything clearly
✔ Wrap fragile items properly
✔ Avoid storing prohibited items (like those listed above)
❓ Do you offer moving and storage packages?
Yes! If you need help with packing, moving, and storage, we can customize a package that fits your needs.
? Call us at (541) 683-5211 to learn more!
Trust Cross Town Movers for Safe, Hassle-Free Storage and Moving
Choosing the right items to store—and avoiding the wrong ones—is key to keeping your belongings safe and ensuring you comply with storage facility rules.
If you’re looking for secure, professional storage solutions in Eugene, Oregon, Cross Town Movers is here to help. Whether you need temporary storage during a move or a long-term solution, our team has the experience and expertise to keep your items safe and secure.
? Call Cross Town Movers today at (541) 683-5211 for a free quote on moving and storage services!
? Cross Town Movers – Eugene, Oregon’s Trusted Moving and Storage Experts!