What can you not put in a shipping container?

In order to protect your belongings and the storage facility including the staff and property, certain items are prohibited. You can safely store almost any household goods in your PODS®  container – PODS containers are weather-resistant and secure. However, some items aren’t suitable for any storage pods or moving containers.

Read on to find out the top 5 items that you should never keep inside a self-storage unit or moving container.

1. Hazardous or toxic materials

Although this might seem obvious, there may be some items that you don’t even realise are hazardous. Basically, anything that contains petrol or gas (including empty gas bottles) is not to be placed in storage. Also, any cleaning materials containing alcohol, cleaning solvent, corrosives and paint are prohibited.

If you need to store any containers that have held petrol, it’s vital to drain out any petrol before stowing it away in your container. Oil may be permittable for storage, however, it’s always best to check with the PODS team before doing so.

Other hazardous materials and items include toxic waste, asbestos, kerosene, fertilisers, paint thinner, solvents, medical supplies, acids and any flammable times.

2. Explosives and weaponry

Explosives and weaponry of any kind are not safe inside a self-storage container. Any item that may explode when it makes contact with spark or fire are not allowed in storage pods. Accidents can happen, and safety is the largest priority at PODS. Forbidden items of this nature include fireworks, weapons and ammunition. Basically – ask yourself if it’s flammable and if that answer is yes, it’s a no from us.

3. Radioactive materials

Never store radioactive materials in self-storage units as storage facilities typically do not have the capacity to protect personnel within close proximity of a radioactive item. Radioactive materials are particularly dangerous as you may not even know when you’ve already been exposed to them.

4. Perishable goods

It’s worth noting that you should never place anything perishable inside a self-storage unit that isn’t designed to handle perishable goods. Popping any perishable items inside your storage pod will

5. Living things

While this should go without saying, any living thing should never be kept in a self-storage container or moving container. If a storage unit seems like a more convenient alternative to a pet kennel or a safe option to place your houseplants in, it’s not. While storing a living thing in your container is extremely unsafe for its wellbeing, it can also attract vermin and leave unpleasant odours. Storage units or moving containers are for inanimate objects only – no pets, no plants.

In the mood for a chuckle? Here is a curious tale of what happens when living things get mixed up with your storage container – read the Curious Kitty Storage Stowaway story.

Planning what to store in your PODS container?

If you’re mapping out your big interstate move, future relocation or are simply in need of storage space, there are a few extra points to consider. While preparing your belongings for storage, in addition to the top 5 items above, do not include any goods that are illegal, stolen, potentially explosive, environmentally harmful or that pose a risk to the property and employees. We also recommend avoiding packing items that are irreplaceable, such as currency, jewellery, furs, deeds, paintings and items of strong sentimental value.

While a car may technically fit into a large PODS container, motor vehicles of any kind cannot be stored in your PODS container. As access to the vehicle is restricted, we are not able to safely secure it within a container. If you do require car storage, there are companies that specialise in vehicle storage in each state.

When in doubt, give us a shout

When it comes to what belongings are safe to store, we are here to answer your burning questions. No matter if you’re storing for personal or business purposes, you can give us a call on 1800 467 637 or ask our friendly Customer Service team. We’re here to help you move stress-free.

For your safety and convenience, PODS offers contactless delivery for all services.

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