The 7 Most Common Self Storage Mistakes Australians Make (And How to Avoid Them)

Self storage is one of the most practical solutions available when life gets complicated. But like anything, there is a right way and a wrong way to do it. A few simple mistakes can mean damaged belongings, wasted money, or a unit so disorganised you dread visiting it.

Here are the 7 most common self storage mistakes Australians make, and how to avoid every single one of them.

The 7 Most Common Self Storage Mistakes

1. Choosing the wrong size unit. Going too small means a cramped, inaccessible unit. Going too large means paying for space you do not need. Use a space calculator and get advice from your facility team before you commit to a size.
2. Not packing boxes properly. Underfilled boxes collapse under weight. Overfilled boxes break. Every box should be filled firmly, with heavier items at the bottom and fragile items wrapped and cushioned. Label every box clearly on the side, not the top.
3. Not leaving a walkway. Avoid packing your unit wall to wall. Leaving a clear path down the centre makes it much easier to access items throughout your storage period.
4. Forgetting to take an inventory. Memories are unreliable. Before you seal the unit, write down what is in there and roughly where it is located. A simple photo of each section on your phone is even better.
5. Storing prohibited or hazardous items. Flammable liquids, food, plants, and illegal items are not permitted in storage units for good reason. Check what is and is not allowed before you pack, to avoid issues down the line.
6. Not having insurance. Your home and contents insurance may not automatically cover items in storage. Check your policy before you move anything in, and speak to your facility about additional cover options if needed.
7. Choosing a facility based on price alone. The cheapest unit is not always the best value. Security, cleanliness, access hours, and the quality of the facility matter, especially for long-term storage. A slightly higher price for a well-run, secure facility is almost always worth it.

Get It Right With Loxon Storage

At Loxon Storage, our friendly team is here to help you avoid these mistakes from day one. We will help you choose the right size unit, give you practical packing advice, and make sure your belongings are stored safely and accessibly. With 20+ locations across Queensland, clean and secure facilities, and flexible month-to-month terms, we make self storage simple. Check out our space calculator or visit your nearest facility to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

What items are not allowed in a self storage unit?
Prohibited items typically include flammable or hazardous materials, perishable food, live plants, illegal items, and weapons. Contact your nearest Loxon facility if you are unsure about a specific item.

Does my home insurance cover items in storage?
Policies vary. Check with your insurer before moving items into storage and ask our team about additional cover options available at your facility.

How do I know what size unit I need?
Our free space calculator is a great starting point, and our team is always happy to help you work out the right fit in person.

Ready to store smarter? Get a free quote from your nearest Loxon Storage facility today.