Storage Container Rental: A More Affordable Approach to Storage
How can I get additional storage space that's actually affordable?
In a day and age where stuff is at a maximum and space is at a minimum, how do we find a balance without Marie Kondo-ing everything we own? The minimalist life is in style, but honestly it's just not practical for most people to truly get rid of things that might be needed in the future.
I'm not talking about keeping all the extra screws from your last project that you might need some nebulous day in the future or the broken dusty dresser from your grandmother that could technically maybe sort of be considered an antique? Maybe? But you're too scared to use it and it doesn't match any of your stuff and you'd feel bad remodeling it...
Do yourself a favor and get rid of those. For real.
I'm talking about things like baby clothes from your first child when you're planning to have more (because gosh no one can practically afford to buy new clothes EVERY TIME) or a folding table that you maybe only use a couple times a year but it's REALLY convenient to have around. We all know you have tons of stuff like that. We're not judging you, we do too.
You know what's probably a lot cheaper than an entirely new wardrobe for your beansprout of a child who will probably only fit into each outfit maybe 4 times? A storage container.
These days storage units are a commonplace necessity. They really came into vogue in the 60s, the embodiment of a generation that had been through truly sparse times and knew the importance of reasonable storage.
Whether you're needing to store overflow on a more permanent basis or temporarily store your stuff for a project or renovation, a storage unit can come in clutch. However, units in storage facilities can be quite costly. When used properly, portable storage containers can be an excellent frugal storage alternative for the forward-thinking.
Need Extra Space? Try Portable Storage
While units in secured storage facilities have been the norm for those in need of extra room for years, did you know that you can straight up rent (or even purchase) a shipping container for your own storage purposes?
Why should I get my own portable storage container instead of renting from a facility?
A portable storage container is a much more affordable option with much greater flexibility. It's your space now, not someone else's that you're just awkwardly accessing on their terms.
Rental programs - Lower costs for portable storage containers
On-site storage units and portable storage containers typically both have rental programs. However, what you're paying for is vastly different for each option.
Storage Facility Costs
A storage facility is not only renting you a space in their building, they are also charging for climate control, security, and building upkeep. So not only are you paying for the things you're storing, you're paying all the overhead of their business. These costs can add up to quite a bit, even split into monthly chunks.
Self-storage facilities often require a term contract or lease, so you better be committed to using that space for X amount of time. There are also many places that will offer low sign-up rates and the first couple months at a discount without being transparent about future costs. When they know their space is at a premium it becomes a game of "how many hidden fees can we throw in before someone notices?" We've seen it with apartment buildings, internet providers, any niche market - it's a terrible game and you don't have to play it.
Portable Container Costs
For a portable storage container, you are paying just for the rental of the container. There is no overhead as you are in charge of your security and monitoring. This allows for more flexibility and creativity. You're already mad enough the grocery store charges you for the peels on your bananas and the stems on your grapes, so you're not about to pay for some storage company's electricity bills. Just pay for what you actually need (novel idea, right?)
Since the container stays on your own property or in the place of your choice, you can rent for as long or as little as you need. You are paying on a month-to-month basis while enjoying the convenience of location and 24/7 access. You're not paying additional for staffing and other unnecessary services. No one needs Janet to glare at them from behind a desk and check off what times you come and go, your nosy neighbors can do that for free.
Additional Benefits of Storage Shipping Containers
As alternative storage solutions are becoming more popular, here are some of the benefits of renting portable storage containers in addition to the delicious cost savings.
Control your location
You choose where the container stays. You can have it delivered to your yard or business, or ship it wherever needed. You don't have to load your home or business into a van and transport it to a self-storage unit to unload, then reload it all when you're ready to move it back in or to a new location. With a portable container you can move the items where they're needed the first time and cut out the extra work.
You don't have the time to travel back and forth to a facility to access your belongings. Nobody really does, it's exhausting.
Control your timetable
Shipping containers can be delivered quickly and are readily available, so there is no waiting time until a unit becomes available. We're used to our beautiful, beautiful 2-day delivery, waiting longer than that honestly feels like a travesty these days.
There is also no wait time to get into your unit. You have 24/7 access without having to work around travel time, business hours, or security. Added bonus: you don't have to bump into random strangers secreting away their mystery belongings.
"Gimme gimme gimme my stuff after midnight" - ABBA (probably, you don't know)
Control your security
You get to be in charge of your own security, which allows you to keep as close of an eye on your belongings as you want. You can also monitor your belongings more frequently to ensure they are not exposed to anything or gotten into by bugs and mice or creepy neighbors.
Want to set it up like a bunker with all your Ring equipment and cameras? Go for it. Want to put it in the backyard with your German Shepherd Rupert and let him handle things? Do it.
Choose your environment
A shipping container is made of steel and able to lock up tight, which means it offers fairly good traveling and storage conditions. A storage facility is more susceptible to humidity and outside contaminants as people are coming and going with all kinds of questionable belongings. You have no control over what other customers have in their units or how clean those units are, whereas with a portable storage container you know exactly what environment your belongings are in.
Not just for storage
Not only are shipping containers awesome for the obvious reasons - lots of storage space - they also are a really unique and up-and-coming option for temporary structures like workshops, she-sheds, even modular office spaces.
With the recent popularity of shipping container homes, there are a variety of sizes that allow you to customize your construction to your needs. Maybe you're on the hunt for a space to do your woodworking that will keep the sawdust semi-contained and protect your equipment. A shipping container is made of steel, waterproof, fireproof, and locks up tight.
And as the containers are by their very nature portable, you can have one delivered to your spot of choice and then move it wherever you want (within legal boundaries and reason, of course). Moving to a different city? Pack up your stuff, take advantage of the space, and haul it all with you in a convenient package.
Get Your Own Portable Storage Containers
Here are a few of the options for shipping storage containers available:
10' Container
This storage container is best for smaller projects, with internal dimensions of L: 9'4", W: 7'8", H: 7'9.87".
This size of container is a great choice for small storage needs. It is also a popular choice for a backyard office or workshop, or if you're looking for smaller she-shed options.
Moving into a dorm room and can't fit all the stuff that used to fit in your walk-in closet? (you're going to miss that thing so much) This size of container can fit approximately one small bedroom worth of furniture including a bed, or smaller furniture and décor from a couple rooms in your house. Ideal for your retro 6' long leopard print cuddlesac, because goodness knows you're not ever getting rid of that thing, but there's no way you're fitting it into your shared dorm room.
10'x10' is the typical size for storage units in facilities that can charge high monthly fees, making this a comparable option for size and utility at a lower cost. Hey Mom, can I keep my container in your massive backyard? I know you're about to turn my room into a scrapbook station nightmare, this'll give you more space. Win-win.
20' Container
This storage container is good for mid-sized projects, with internal dimensions of L: 19'5.5", W: 7'8", H: 7'9.87".
This can hold to contents of an average 2-3 bedroom house including all furniture and multiple beds. This works well as temporary storage for home renovations or moves.
The housing market is crazy right now, and who the heck knows how long it'll take to go through the buying and selling process. You need to stage your home, or get a decent chunk of your things out of the way for an undetermined amount of time? Get a storage container that you can move wherever you need your stuff at the time.
20' Double Door
This storage container is good for mid-sized projects that may need more access, with internal dimensions of L: 19'5.5", W: 7'8", H: 7'9.87".
If you're using this size of shipping container for home storage, this can hold the contents of most 2-3 bedroom homes. The double doors are ideal for long-term storage needs while still allowing for greater accessibility of your items. Plus your friends can now help you unload all your junk twice as fast. Get that "thanks for helping me move" pizza while it's still fresh.
This works well for home renovations such as repairing flood damage, where you need to clear out your house quickly and don't have time to worry about optimal packing to still have use of your needed belongings.
The double door is also really nice for genuinely awkward furniture where you really need access to both sides to maneuver it without throwing your back out.
20' Side Door
This storage container is good for mid-sized projects that need more access, with internal dimensions of L: 19'5.5", W: 7'8", H: 7'9.87".
The side door makes a really versatile addition, giving the container a roomier and more open feel. This makes this portable storage container a good option for modular office and workspaces.
Do you regularly attend vendor events to sell clothes or other merchandise? Instead of assembling a booth or tent and setting everything up and then taking it back down EVERY SINGLE TIME, get it all set up in a shipping container and then just haul the whole thing over as-is. Whip open that side door and SHABLAM, instant convenient shop with your items ready to show off to their greatest advantage.
40' Container
This storage container is good for large scale projects and businesses, with internal dimensions of L: 39'5.5", W: 7'8", H: 7'9.87".
Loading up a full family home with more than 3 bedrooms will require a lot of space, which makes this option ideal.
You'll be surprised at how non-zero the number can be for times you'll have to clear out someone else's house quickly for sale. Handling the estate of a relative but don't have months to sort through your borderline-hoarder Grandma's gazillion boxes? Get the stuff into a storage container, get that house sold, and then go through all the antique stamps and dressers full of vintage photos at your own pace.
And the best part is, if like me you just never actually get around to it, you can rent for as long as you like. Just let the grass grow up and around it until it's a beautiful new hill in the backyard.
40' Hi Cube
This storage container is good for large scale projects and businesses, with internal dimensions of L: 39'5.5", W: 7'8", H: 8'9.87".
The hi cube gives greater accessibility if the unit is used for home purposes where furniture is bulky or extra large. The height also gives more flexibility for layout and décor if used for a workspace. Throw a fun high wall shelf on it and line it with your favorite funko pops.
Need a space to stream on Youtube that's free of kids but don't want to feel like you're crouching in a cave? Hi cube it, give yourself the extra space.
40' Double Door
This storage container is good for large scale projects that may need more access, with internal dimensions of L: 39'5.5", W: 7'8", H: 7'9.87".
In addition to being able to hold quite a bit, the double door makes it easier to get at your stored items. You can actually use your garage for your car again after moving all your tools to this longer container. Quick-access items on one side and a tool bench on the other or however you want to play it. This is a great long-term storage option.
40' Hi Cube Double Door
This storage container is good for large scale projects that may need more access, with internal dimensions of L: 39'5.5", W: 7'8", H: 8'9.87".
This is the largest of the portable storage units and makes a great option for those in need of the most flexibility. You can store the entire contents of your home or business as needed, and be able to reach things from both ends of the unit. This is also a larger and more comfortable option if used as a walk-through shop or office area.
Advantages of Portable Storage Containers
Anyone can benefit from taking advantage of the convenient and cost-effective options provided by using portable shipping containers for all their storage needs. Keep your stuff organized and convenient without breaking the bank.
Have More Questions?
Are storage containers weatherproof and secure?
Yes! They are made of durable Corten steel which will keep your belongings safe from the elements. They each also come with a high-security lockbox for your use.
Can I customize the interior of a rented storage container?
As long as you are not making permanent changes to the structure of a rented container, feel free to make it your own. There are a lot of really nifty options like shelving and separators you can find to use on the inside of your container. If you want to do more like knock out a space for a window or add in electricity you can fully purchase a container as well.
How long can I rent a storage container for?
As long or as little as you need. There is no waiting list of other customers to get your container like there could be at a storage facility, so you can relax and rent yours as long as you want. You also aren't locked into a long-term rental, billing is month-to-month.
Are there any restrictions on what I can store in a rented container?
Hazardous materials should not be stored in a rented (or purchased) container. Also avoid things like plants or perishables that need regular air circulation.
What are the delivery and pickup options for rented storage containers?
You will get your storage containers delivered to you within 48 hours after an order is placed. You can also easily schedule a pick-up with dispatch when you're finished.
Do I need any permits or approvals to place a storage container on my property?
It depends on where you live. Since this varies, you'll want to check your local regulations, and make sure to discuss the practicality of the location when you schedule a drop-off.
Are there any additional fees or charges associated with storage container rental?
There are no hidden charges, everything will be laid out clearly depending on your storage needs, so call in for a free quote. Rent is charged monthly on the date your containers were dropped off.
Can I relocate a rented storage container to a different location if needed?
As long as the contents weigh less than 3,000 lbs, you sure can! Flexibility is key, so if you're needing to move it or even need a place to temporarily store it during the process, just call dispatch to coordinate.