What to Store (and What Not to) in a Commercial Storage Unit
So, you’ve just got a new delivery. But now you’re running out of space at work. You’re not alone. The good news is, commercial storage is a simple way for businesses to benefit from efficient storage solutions without forking out for bigger premises. Businesses can use commercial storage for all sorts of things, like extra stock, tools, equipment, and office furniture. It’s cheaper than moving to a bigger location, and it gives you breathing room when you need it most, helping you focus on providing your services.
At Safestore Containers in Auckland, we’ve seen it all. We know what works when it comes to business storage, and what doesn’t. In this article, we cover what to store in a commercial storage unit and what you should probably think twice about storing.
What to Store in a Commercial Storage Unit
Not everything belongs in your office or workshop. Some things are better off packed away safe and sound in a self storage unit with convenient access. Here’s the kind of stuff that makes sense to put into a commercial storage unit:
1. Excess Stock
Stock piling up in the office, garage, or even under your desk? A storage unit gives you easy access when you need it, and keeps your workspace tidy, especially if you’re a small business with limited space. It’s a smart move if you buy in bulk or have a stock range set up for busy seasons.
You’ll have more room to actually work instead of wading through boxes. Storing stock off-site can help you create a cleaner, safer site for your team and clients. No more squeezing sideways through your own office or blocking emergency doors with clutter. You’d be amazed at how something as simple as ‘more free space’ can save time for you and your team.
2. Office Furniture
Got spare desks, chairs, or shelves you don’t need right now? Store your office furniture. It’s perfect if you’re moving, setting up a temporary office, or just clearing space for renovations. Shoving everything into the back room, your mate’s house, or a dark and damp warehouse isn’t going to cut it long term. Good storage units are safe and secure. They protect your gear from dust, dampness, knicks, and scratches. So, when you do need it again, it’ll still look sharp and ready to go.
3. Marketing Materials and Signage
You know those banners, flags, and promo tents you drag out twice a year? They don’t need to take up prime space in the office. Chuck them into long-term storage. They’ll stay dry, out of the way, and ready for the next trade show or market day. Plus, keeping event gear packed away properly stops it from fading, tearing, or getting crushed.
4. Archived Documents
Old records and paperwork you’re legally meant to keep? Yep, chuck them into a safe, dry storage unit. It’s way better than clogging up the office with dusty boxes and forgotten filing cabinets. Documents need to stay secure and accessible if someone audits you or if you need to pull out an old contract. A good commercial storage facility will help keep your records protected from damp, theft, and accidents, without taking up valuable office space you could be using for actual work.
What Not to Store in a Commercial Storage Unit
Not everything’s welcome in a storage unit. In fact, some stuff is just a straight-up bad idea. If you’re thinking of commercial storage, here’s what you need to leave out:
1. Perishable goods or food
Food goes bad fast. It stinks the place out and can bring in rats, ants, and who knows what else. Once pests get into one unit, they can easily spread to others, and nobody wants to be that customer who caused a full-blown infestation. Most self-storage units aren’t made for fresh stuff. It’s not safe, it’s not hygienic, and you’ll probably regret it when it comes to clearing out the container later.
2. Hazardous materials
Things like paint, petrol, gas bottles, and chemicals should not go into a commercial storage unit. They’re dangerous, as a lot of this stuff is flammable and could leak. Keep your supplies safe, and stick to safe, dry goods that aren’t explosive or dangerous. Storing hazardous materials can also breach safety regulations and void your insurance. If there’s ever an accident, you could be held liable… even if you didn’t mean to cause harm.
3. Living things (plants, animals, or people)
You’d think this would go without saying, but no. It’s happened. Commercial storage units aren’t made for anything living. They’re not ventilated, they’re usually not climate-controlled, and they’re definitely not suitable as makeshift greenhouses or kennels.
Keeping office pets, plants, or — yes — even people in a unit isn’t just unsafe. It breaches your rental agreement, puts lives at risk, and could land your business in serious legal trouble.
4. Anything illegal or prohibited by the storage facility
Sounds like common sense, but it still catches people out. From counterfeit goods to dodgy electronics or unlicensed stock, commercial storage units have seen it all. If the facility bans something or the law says it’s illegal, don’t stash it there. You could lose access to your unit, face serious fines, or even risk a police visit. And none of the above is ideal for your business. Always check the storage facility’s rules before moving anything in. If you’re unsure, ask. It’s better than assuming and getting caught out later.
Secure commercial storage units in Auckland
Commercial storage can be a game-changer if you use it properly. Store the right stuff, leave out the dodgy stuff, and you’re all good. At Safestore Containers, we know what businesses need, and the advantage a storage container can provide. We’ve got clean, secure storage units across East Tamaki, Glendene, and Onehunga, all at affordable prices. Beyond business storage, if you need somewhere to stash household gear, furniture, belongings, or anything else that’s taking up space, we’ve got you sorted.
Big units, small units, short-term, long-term, whatever you need, we’re here to make it work. Keen to free up some office space? Get a quote online or contact us today.