Are you wondering how to break into a storage unit? Whether you’re trying to repair a broken lock or gain access to someone else’s belongings, it should be done with caution and care. This guide will provide some tips on breaking into a storage unit safely and securely.
Breaking into a storage unit can be intimidating if you’ve never done it before. After all, a storage unit often contains items that we value and want to keep safe – from old family heirlooms to furniture and clothes. But what if you actually wanted to break into one? Whether for the fun of DIY projects or for making something beautiful out of older objects, breaking into a storage unit has its perks.
In this blog post, we’ll teach you some helpful tips on how to do it so that you can use their content in unique ways!
What Will You Need?
Before attempting to break into a storage unit, ensure you have the right tools. This includes as follows:
- A small hammer
- A flathead screwdriver
- WD-40 or other lubricants
- Strong wire cutters
- Wire cutters
- Cut-resistant gloves
- Flashlight (optional)
Now that you have all of the necessary tools, it’s time to start breaking into the storage unit.
10 Easy Steps on How to Break Into a Storage Unit
Step 1. Locate the Storage Unit
Start by finding the storage unit you want to break into. You may need to look around for a bit until you find the right one. Because storage units are usually kept in remote locations, be sure to bring a flashlight with you.
Step 2: Check the Lock
Once you’ve found the storage unit, take a closer look at the lock. Depending on how old or new the lock is, there could be a few different ways to open it. If it’s an older type of lock, then you may need to use wire cutters to get through the metal.
Step 3: Use Lubricant
Spray some lubricant onto the inside and outside of the lock. This will help loosen any rust that has built up over time and make it easier for your tools to break into it. Additionally, it will reduce the force you need to apply when opening the lock. Don’t forget to wear gloves when handling the lubricant.
Step 4: Insert Flathead Screwdriver
With your flathead screwdriver, start prying open the lock by inserting it between two parts of the mechanism and slowly twisting it. Don’t apply too much pressure; you don’t want to damage the lock. Otherwise, you won’t be able to open the lock, and you’ll have wasted your time.
Step 5: Apply Pressure with Hammer
Once you’ve inserted the flathead screwdriver, use your hammer to apply pressure on the other side of the lock. This will help make it easier to open and break into the storage unit. Moreover, it will also prevent the lock from slipping back into place.
Step 6: Cut Through the Lock with Wire Cutters
When trying to break into a storage unit, the easiest way to do it is by using wire cutters. Start by cutting through the metal near the center of the lock and then slowly make your way around until you’ve successfully broken into it. If you don’t have wire cutters, then you can use a hammer to break the lock.
Step 7: Wear Cut-Resistant Gloves
When using wire cutters, it’s important that you wear protective gloves. This will help protect your hands from any sharp edges or pieces of metal that may be present in the lock. Additionally, some locks contain springs that can cause serious injury if not handled properly.
Step 8: Open Storage Unit Door
Once you’ve successfully broken into the storage unit, carefully open up the door and enter inside. Be sure to take your time and keep an eye out for any potential hazards. It is helpful to bring a flashlight so that you can see what is inside the unit.
Step 9: Remove Contents Carefully
When removing items from the storage unit, it’s important to be cautious as some of them may be fragile or sharp. Take your time when packing up items, and make sure that you have protective materials such as bubble wrap and packing peanuts handy to prevent any damage during the move. Another helpful tip is to label all of the items you remove from the storage unit so that you can easily organize them when you return home.
Step 10: Clean Up After Yourself
Once you’ve finished breaking into the storage unit, don’t forget to clean up after yourself. This includes disposing of all debris left behind from cutting through the lock as well as properly securing the door back closed once you’re done with everything. Ensure that the storage unit is in the same condition as when you found it.
By following these tips, you should have no problem breaking into a storage unit. Just remember to be safe and take your time when attempting to do so. It will be worth it in the end.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Wear gloves and a hooded sweatshirt to keep your identity concealed.
- Bring a flashlight so you can see clearly in the dark.
- Make sure you know how to pick a lock before attempting to break into the storage unit.
- Have the right tools, such as bolt cutters or lock picks, that you can use to gain access to the storage unit.
- Stay quiet and be aware of your surroundings in case someone is nearby and could call law enforcement on you for trespassing. With these tips in mind, breaking into a storage unit doesn’t have to be impossible!
Follow them carefully, and whatever you do, make sure it’s done safely. Good luck!
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Breaking Into a Storage Unit: Never attempt to break into a storage unit. It is illegal and can also be dangerous and result in serious injury or even death.
- Taking Tools With You: Bringing tools with you when breaking into a storage unit may make the process easier, but bringing such tools can also create additional potential consequences should authorities catch you.
- Ignoring Security Measures: Storage units usually have locks in place to secure their contents and security systems like surveillance cameras that monitor activity in and around them. These measures are for your safety and should not be ignored if you plan to break into a storage unit.
- Picking Locks: Trying to pick locks or force entry into a storage unit is another method that should not be attempted as it can cause damage to the unit and its contents.
- Using Professional Services: Do not use professional services such as locksmiths or burglars to break into a storage unit; these services are illegal in most cases. If you decide to use them, remember that you could face criminal charges if caught by authorities.
Breaking into a storage unit is never recommended and should only be done as a last resort when all other options have been exhausted. If you must break into one, always take precautions and follow the steps outlined above to ensure your safety and reduce any potential consequences.
Why Can’t You Sleep in a Storage Unit?
It is not recommended to sleep in a storage unit due to safety and health risks. Storage units are typically located outdoors, making them potentially exposed to extreme weather conditions and animals.
Additionally, there may be little ventilation inside the unit, which can cause air quality issues. Furthermore, sleeping in a storage unit could also mean trespassing on someone else’s property – which could lead to legal trouble for you. It’s best to stay away from sleeping in a storage unit altogether!
Instead, seek out alternate methods of temporary shelter, such as a hotel or hostel.
Conclusion
Breaking into a storage unit is not something that should be taken lightly, and it’s definitely not something you should attempt to do on your own. With the right tools, patience, and knowledge, gaining access to a storage unit may be possible — but there is no guarantee of success.
Not only that, breaking into someone else’s lock might be against the law in some jurisdictions. If you are considering breaking into someone else’s storage unit, know the risks and consequences before proceeding, so you don’t end up in trouble.
Furthermore, always consider the safety of yourself and others during the process. Above all else, though, if you find yourself needing to open a storage unit without access to its combination or key – always turn to professional locksmiths for help. Their training and experience can help make sure all goes smoothly without leaving any potential damage behind.
Hopefully, the article on how to break into a storage unit has been helpful in providing an overview of the process, what to avoid, and the potential risks associated with it. Thanks for reading.