What You Need to Know Before Renting a Portable Storage Container
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Portable storage containers have revolutionized the moving and self-storage industry by providing people with a more convenient, flexible solution to their needs. There are a lot of options to rent from, like U-Box® by U-Haul®, PODS®, and 1-800-PACK-RAT®, and researching which one is right for you can be overwhelming, especially for your first time using a portable container. This guide will help you understand which questions to ask and what to look for when researching the right choice for you.
What is a Portable Storage Container?
Think of a mobile storage unit that can be delivered conveniently right to your door. Portable storage containers come in many different shapes and sizes, depending on where you rent them from. They’re the perfect option if you’re looking for affordable and flexible moving and storage solutions without needing to drive a large moving truck.
What Should I Look for When Researching Portable Storage Container Options?
Some of the most important things to consider when researching storage containers are flexibility, availability, affordability, container size and quality, and security. But it can get a little more nuanced than that—let’s break it down in better detail.
Is a Portable Container the Right Choice?
Whether you’re moving, storing your items or both, a portable container provides you with more convenience and flexibility than traditional solutions. If any of these situations sound familiar to you, a portable storage container might be worth considering:
- Moving locally, out of state, or internationally
- Temporary or long-term storage
- Shipping items long distances
- Staging your home to sell
- Renovating your home
- Storage for business
- Moving immediately
- Downsizing or decluttering
- College storage
- On-site storage
Another good thing to consider is with most containers getting delivered directly to your door, that takes away the need to drive a big moving truck or trailer to haul your belongings.
Are The Containers Available in Your Area?
Not all portable storage containers are available nationwide, so it is important to confirm container availability in your area.
Currently, U-Box by U-Haul has the widest availability, offering containers at over 1,500 locations in all 50 states and Canada. With the U-Haul International Moves program, you can even ship your U-Box containers internationally to just about any country in the world.
- U-Box by U-Haul – 1,500 locations - 50 states, all Canadian provinces, and international
- PODS – 240 locations - 46 states, 6 Canadian provinces, United Kingdom, Australia
- U-Pack® – 240 locations - 50 states, 5 Canadian provinces, Puerto Rico
- Zippy Shell® – 81 locations - 37 states
- 1-800-PACK-RAT – 83 locations - 39 states
How Will Your Portable Continer Get Delivered to You?
Before reserving a container, make sure your location is delivery-ready. Confirm any necessary clearance heights and widths, surface types, or if any city or HOA permits are necessary.
Some companies, like U-Haul, can deliver multiple containers at once, while others, like PODS, 1-800 PACK-RAT, and Zippy Shell, can only deliver one at a time.
U-Box containers have multiple delivery options and can be placed on any flat surface and are sized to fit in any legal parking space providing you with more flexibility for delivery locations.
What Size or Quantity Options are Available?
When it comes to storage containers, size does matter. Moving out of a two-bedroom apartment needs less space than a five-bedroom home. Some companies offer different container sizes, but it’s important to pay attention to availability—some sizes are not always available in your location.
Look for container size calculators and estimators, they will give you a good indication of what fits your situation. With most companies, you will need to be careful in your calculations, you don’t want to get too small or big of a container and be stuck paying for space you don’t use.
With U-Haul, you don’t need to worry about that. You can order as many U-Box containers as you want and easily return any extra containers you don’t use for a full refund.
What is the Container Quality and Security Like?
Portable storage containers are typically made from a durable plywood or some type of metal, like aluminum or steel. Metal containers and wooden containers are equally weather-resistant, keeping your belongings safe from the environment.
Pro Tip: Pay attention to how the container doors open, this can impact where you can have it placed. Some are roll-up, swing, or are barn doors.
Almost every portable storage container comes with some kind of locking mechanism where a lock you provide can be applied, but make sure you keep your key with you to keep your items secure during transit and storage.
U-Box containers are constructed from high-quality, pest-resistant plywood, designed exclusively for U-Haul. The wood creates a breathable, chemical-free environment that allows for airflow, reducing the risk of mold and mildew. Each container is also delivered with a durable, weather-resistant cover to keep your belongings safe from the elements.
What Will the Storage Container Rental Cost?
The cost of container rentals vary based on services, number of containers, how long you need them and even the distance of a move. Understanding all pricing and terms upfront helps prevent surprises and keeps expenses manageable.
Depending on the company you rent with, you may be given additional opportunities to save. Some costs to look for include:
- Shipping and delivery fees
- Monthly container rental fees
- Insurance
- Optional services such as loading help or packing supplies
Check out our full portable storage container cost guide for more details!
When you receive a quote for your storage container, keep in mind that the total cost can include multiple services. If you see a quote that you aren’t sure about, don’t be afraid to ask about what’s included in the total bill.
Are There Insurance Options for the Portable Container Rental?
You have homeowners or renters’ insurance for your stuff inside your home, but that doesn’t cover things when they’re on the move. Check what types of moving and storage insurance options are available, since each moving container company will have different options. Some providers include the cost of insurance in your quote that cannot be declined, others have optional insurance choices. If your belongings are damaged in transit, you’ll be covered! It is an extra layer of security that can add peace of mind during your move.
U-Haul offers two different insurance options. SafeStor® covers your belongings while they're stored at a U-Haul storage facility. SafeHaul® Covers your belongings while they're being transported.
How Flexible Can Your Moving and Loading Timeline Be?
Sometimes, moves don’t always go as planned. You need a company that can adapt to a quick change in plans! For example, if you order too many or not enough containers, can they be picked up or dropped off on short notice? Is container pickup on your timeline, or the company’s timeline?
I Just Booked a Portable Storage Container, Now What?
By this point, you probably have a good idea if a portable storage container is the right choice for you. Your next step is to book it! Most companies allow you to reserve your container either online or over the phone, just have your addresses and moving dates readily available.
Check out our portable container timeline guide to get ready for your next steps!
Declutter
Look, no one wants to declutter their entire home, but it’s necessary! Sorting through your belongings can help save space and time before you start loading up your storage containers. Otherwise, you’ll be stuck trying to sort, pack, and dispose of unwanted items all at the same time.
Save yourself from the chaos and get rid of anything you don’t want to bring along with you for your move.
Make a List
If you’re moving by yourself or with the help of some moving labor, you’ll almost certainly need a list to keep you organized. Try to find a way to keep track of items you’ve already packed or have yet to pack, as well as other tasks you need to get done.
There is a lot to keep track of when you’re trying to move to a new place, so try to find a way to stay organized. Don’t get swept up in the chaos, walk in with a gameplan first!
Why U-Box by U-Haul is the Best Choice for a Portable Storage Container
Portable storage containers are the answer when it comes to quick, easy, and flexible storage. From families, to businesses, to home-improvement aficionados, the benefits of renting a portable storage container are available to anyone. And when it comes to storage, there’s only one name you can trust: U-Haul!
U-Box containers are the most widely available portable container, and you only pay for what you need; no more paying for unused space. With multiple delivery options and as much time with your container as needed, U-Box gives you the most flexibility. Forbes and Bob Vila agree, U-Box is the number one overall portable container.
Get a free online quote today!