Storage Tips for Portable Storage Containers
Portable storage containers are a great way to store your belongings close by while also keeping the clutter out of your home. But there are some things to consider helping keep your storage container (and therefore your items) in good condition.
Selecting the Right Portable Storage Container
Not all portable storage containers are created equal, here are some factors to consider so you know you’re getting the best bang for your buck.
Affordability: We crunched the numbers, and U-Box containers clock in at almost half the price of our competitors’ storage containers.
Availability: U-Box containers are available in all 50 states! No matter where you are, we can get a container over to you.
Flexibility: With U-Box by U-Haul, you call the shots. You can edit your order any time on the U-Haul app, access your belongings when you want, and even ship your container anywhere in the world. We even refund you for U-Haul containers that you don’t end up using.
How to Pack a Portable Storage Container
The first step of storing your storage container is to fill it up first! Here are some tips on how to properly pack a storage container, created by our in-house moving experts.
- Plan Your Space Efficiently Organize moving boxes and larger items into stacked rows to prevent shifting.
- Build a Solid Base Pack from back to front, with your heavier furniture and boxes at the bottom of the container. Keep your portable storage container stable and balanced during transit by packing your heaviest items in the center.
- Stack Boxes Properly Place heavier boxes at the bottom and lighter boxes on top. Use furniture pads to protect delicate surfaces and avoid leaning items to prevent load shifting.
- Secure Each Row Use tie-downs to secure rows, especially if they include large furniture. Fill gaps with soft items or extra padding to prevent movement. Secure the doors and drawers of your furniture with mover’s wrap to prevent opening during transport.
- Final Items and Organization Rugs should be loaded last so they can be positioned first in your new home. Utilize the My Belongings Organizer in the U-Haul App to track items for easy access.
What Can I Store in a U-Box Container?
Portable storage containers are a fantastic way to store furniture and boxed items. It's a perfect fit for bulkier items like mattresses, dressers, desks, and appliences.
Wondering how much you can fit in a U-Box Container? Check out this short video!
There are a few things you should avoid putting in your U-Box container, like:
Allowed with Precautions:
- Motorized items (motorcycles, ATVs, lawnmowers) must have all fuel and liquids drained before storage.
Not Recommended:
- Jewelry (watches, precious stones)
- Financial records, deeds & documents
- Currency
- Art, antiques, or collectibles
- Furs or garments trimmed with fur
Prohibited Items:
- Living organisms (Believe us, there are much better ways to move with a pet)
- Flammable liquids (gasoline, alcohol, paint thinner)
- Hazardous materials (corrosives, bleach, ammonia)
- Compressed gases (propane tanks, oxygen/acetylene tanks, scuba tanks)
- Perishables (plants, produce, food)
- Explosives (ammunition, fireworks, firearms)
For international shipments, additional restrictions apply based on customs regulations. Motorized items in particular may be prohibited depending on the destination.
How to Store a Portable Storage Container
The best part about a U-Box container is that you can store it where you want. This means you can keep them on your property or at one of our U-Haul storage facilities.
Most portable storage containers (including U-Box containers) don’t come with their own lock. So, whether you’re planning to store with U-Haul or keep your storage container on your property, make sure you’re keeping it secure.
Why Store with U-Haul?
If you’re looking to store your belongings in a U-Box container for a while, we encourage you to store them at your local U-Haul center. Our storage facilities are kept clean and dry, so your belongings remain in good condition. And with our MAX security system in place, you can rest easy knowing that everything is safe and sound.
Unlike our competitors, you can even access your U-Box containers while they’re in storage! All we ask is you call your U-Haul center 24 hours in advance and give them a heads-up on your arrival.
If you decide to ship your U-Box container somewhere else, all you have to do is update your order with us. Then, we’ll work on getting your portable storage container exactly where you need it to go.
When it comes to affordability, flexibility, and reliability, you just can’t beat U-Box by U-Haul. Whether you’re looking to store or move, a U-Box container is the perfect tool to hold and protect your belongings.
Don’t wait, reserve your container today!