Maybe you’re transitioning between homes, undergoing a renovation, or simply wanting to declutter. Whatever the reason, the challenge of securely storing your belongings is a common one. Portable storage containers offer a solution, serving as a reliable guardian for your cherished memories and essentials during those transitional phases.
These containers are exactly what you are thinking of- big wooden vaults or metal boxes that can easily store goods worth a bedroom or even more.
But where to order these containers? Or how do you decide the right size to pack everything nicely? In this article, we will discuss where to find storage containers and some tips to help you choose the right container.
We will also discuss moving these containers to another location and where to store them temporarily.
Also read: Choosing The Safest Storage Unit
When Do You Need Portable Storage Containers?
Does renting a portable storage container make more sense than dropping everything off at your neighbor’s house for a few days? Well, it depends, and in most cases, renting a storage container is a better idea, especially when you are unsure about the duration you will need to store your belongings.
Here are some real-life scenarios demonstrating why you should go for storage containers.
Scenario 1: Flexibility in Moving
You have sold a home and are transitioning to a new one. However, there is a gap between your move-out and move-in dates. Where will you keep your possessions during this limbo?
Having a portable storage container parked on your driveway offers you the extra space you need to keep everything packed. You can fill the container at your leisure and then transport it to the new location with the help of a local moving company.
It also minimizes the hassle of frequently packing and unpacking the items, saving you time and money.
Scenario 2: Home Renovations
You are giving your home a much-needed makeover, and the construction crews will be moving in and out around your house. There is a risk of your furniture and other precious items getting damaged during the remodel.
Having a portable storage unit will make it easier to shift all the fragile and valuable things to a secure place. You can place the container in your driveway or yard, all while keeping the items protected from the chaos inside the house
Scenario 3: Event Storage
You are organizing a large outdoor event, festival, or market and have equipment that needs to be on-site but securely stored when not in use. Storage containers offer a sturdy and lockable space, making them perfect for events.
You can get the container delivered at the event’s location, acting as temporary storage for all necessary items to protect them from weather, theft, and other elements.
Scenario 4: Seasonal Storage
Every season has its gear. Winter brings with it snowboards, skis, and bulky clothing; summer comes with pool equipment, patio furniture, and more. Storing them seasonally can reclaim living spaces and reduce clutter.
While it can be daunting to move the gear to a storage facility, having a container eases the hassle. You can conveniently pack away off-season items and ship the container to your nearest storage facility. It keeps your expensive gear protected and makes your home more spacious.
Scenario 5: Emergency Storage
Unexpected events such as sudden relocations can upend lives, creating the need to safeguard belongings. Even in such challenging times, portable containers provide secure storage space for your items. These vaults can act as temporary or long-term storage, so the safety of your possessions is the last thing to worry about.
Also read: 10 Helpful Storage Tips: How to Prep Your Belongings
Where to Find Sturdy Portable Storage Containers?
You won’t find these containers in your nearby Walmart or Costco, but they are not hard to find either. Here are some places you can find these portable vaults at affordable prices.
Local Moving and Storage Companies
Movers are the frontline providers of portable storage. Due to the rising demand, many established moving companies have expanded their services to include portable storage solutions.
Working with a local moving and storage company can offer personalized service, faster delivery and pickup, and perhaps even the chance to inspect containers before renting.
At Dose Moving & Storage, we have a portable container for every storage need. Whether you are moving out or need a temporary place to shift your items, you can contact us to rent durable containers and vaults.
Secure Storage Facilities
These are facilities solely dedicated to storage, and they often have an array of options, including portable containers. Such facilities might offer additional services like climate-controlled units or enhanced security features.
The biggest benefit of relying on storage facilities to rent containers is convenience. Get the unit delivered to your doorstep and ship it to the storage facility with the help of your local mover.
General Online Marketplace
Websites such as Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or even eBay sometimes feature listings for portable storage containers, either for rent or purchase. Although the chances are scarce, you might stumble upon a deal or find someone local looking to sell out their container.
However, when purchasing a container from these platforms, you will have to bear the transportation cost and other associated charges.
Recommendations and Word-of-Mouth
Sometimes, the best insights come from people we trust. Friends, family, or colleagues who have undergone moves, renovations, or storage needs might have firsthand experience with certain providers.
Rent or Buy: What’s Ideal When Looking for a Storage Container?
When considering portable storage units such as wood storage vaults, one question often arises: Is it better to rent or buy? Both options come with their own sets of advantages, but for many home and business owners, renting emerges as a favorable choice.
Below, we have mentioned the pros and cons of renting and buying to help you make an informed choice.
The Pros and Cons of Renting a Container
Pros
- Flexibility: Renting allows you to use the container for precisely the duration you need, be it for a few weeks, months, or even longer. You are not committed to the container once your requirement ends.
- Cost-Effective: With no hefty upfront costs, renting allows you to allocate funds to other immediate necessities. This is especially helpful for short-term needs where purchasing might not provide a return on investment.
- Maintenance and Upkeep: Moving and storage services typically handle the maintenance, ensuring you always get a container in good condition without worrying about wear and tear.
- Variety of Choices: Renting gives you the freedom to choose different sizes or types of containers based on varying needs over time. One year, you might need a small container, and the next, a larger one.
- No Long-Term Commitment: Life and business needs can change. By renting, you are not tied down to a container that might become redundant or insufficient in the future.
Cons
- Long-Term Costs: If you are using the container for an extended period, the cumulative rental fees might be more than you expect. However, you can work out with the unit provider and negotiate a fair price for long-term storage.
The Pros and Cons of Buying
Pros
- Ownership: You have full control over the container, allowing for custom modifications or installations as you see fit.
- Long-Term Use: For those certain about their long-term need for storage, buying might eventually be more economical. But it depends if you are able to find a cheap and sturdy container.
Cons
- Upfront Costs: Purchasing requires a significant initial investment compared to the monthly fees of renting.
- Maintenance: Ownership means taking on the responsibility (and costs) for maintenance and repairs.
- Storage Concerns: When not in use, the container will need a space, often a sizable one, which might become a challenge.
- Depreciation: Just like vehicles, storage containers can depreciate over time, especially if not maintained adequately.
In terms of cost and flexibility, renting a storage unit is a sensible option. There is no need to waste your time searching for a durable container on marketplaces when you can have one delivered to the location you prefer.
At Dose Moving & Storage, we offer affordable rental plans for storage containers. Whether you want to pack your household goods or business for a month or even longer, you can count on us. All our containers are well-maintained, sturdy, and can withstand the weather to keep your stuff safe.
When you want to relocate, these containers can be loaded onto our trucks and shipped to the destination.
Also read: How Can I Store My Car: Dose Storage
Things to Consider When Renting a Storage Container
Knowing what container to rent makes things even more streamlined while saving you from unnecessary expenses. Here are some factors to consider to choosing the right unit for your moving and storage needs:
The Size and Quantity
A single storage unit will be sufficient for college students with only one room worth of items. On the other hand, a large household will require multiple containers to store items neatly.
Choose the size of the container depending on the size of your house and whether it is lightly or heavily furnished. You can also order multiple containers of different sizes if you want to store your expensive furniture separately.
Parking Space
Some storage containers can be as big as your car, and to keep them securely, you will need some free space. If you are renovating your home, keeping the container on your property is a better option, as you will need these items after a few months.
However, if you are moving, you must ship these containers with the help of a local residential mover in Arizona. Consider what your end goal is, and then it will be easier to rent a storage container.
Do You Know How to Pack a Container?
When packing a container, you must utilize every inch of available storage space. If you do not have a knack for packing, you can hire professionals to do it on your behalf.
Dose Moving & Storage has a team of expert packers. When renting a pods container with us, you can also hire us for packing and moving. Contact us for more details about our services and schedule an appointment.
Consider Weather-protection
Regardless of the container’s sturdiness, harsh weather can wreak havoc on the stored items, especially furniture. Moreover, pest infestation could also take place because these containers do not have climate-controlling features.
If you want to store your belongings for an entire season, choose weather-resistant storage options. You can hire a relocation expert to move the packed container from your home/office and transport it to their secure facilities.
Also read: Best Packaging and Storage Tips
Store Whatever You Want, Whenever You Want with Dose Moving & Storage
Whether you want to rent a storage container or want an entire climate-controlled vault to securely store your belongings, Dose Moving & Storage has you covered. We are a proud moving company that caters to both residential and business customers with a promise to deliver personalized services.
Besides storage, we are packing/unpacking specialists, so you can rely on us for everything. Our affordable payment plans for storage containers are easy on your pocket, and the monthly recurring fee system adds more convenience.
Call us at (602) 806-9335 (Arizona) for inquiries regarding storage containers and vaults. We will happily tailor a complete package comprising moving, packing/unpacking, and storage services depending on your needs.