What You Need to Know Before Renting a Portable Storage Container
What is a Portable Storage Container?
Portable storage containers are basically mobile storage units. They come in many different shapes and sizes, depending on where you rent them from. Portable storage containers are large, secure, and can be delivered conveniently to your front door. They’re the perfect option if you are looking for affordable and flexible storage and moving solutions.
- 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 businesses
- Moving immediately
- Downsizing or decluttering
- College storage
- On-site storage
What to Look for in a Portable Storage Container
Hey, not all containers are created equal! Some may fit your needs better than others, but it can be hard to tell which is the best for you. Here are some qualities to watch out for:
Affordability:
The cost of a container can vary. You’ll get different rates on your container depending on how many you order, how long you keep them, or how far you plan to move with them. Depending on the company you rent with, you may be given additional opportunities to save. Like when you rent with U-Box® by U-Haul, you have multiple opportunities to save!
When you receive a quote for your storage container, keep in mind that the total cost can include multiple services. While the foundational cost of a portable storage container can range anywhere from $70-$90, additional costs can send this number into the hundreds. 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.
Availability:
Some portable storage companies can’t offer delivery to all 50 states. So, make sure the company you rent from is able to pick up and deliver in your area.
With U-Box by U-Haul, you won’t have to worry about any of that. We can pick up and deliver to all 50 states and Canada. We can even help with international moves! No matter where you are, or where you want to go, we can help you get there.
Flexibility:
Sometimes, moves don’t go quite as planned. In times like that, you need a company that can adapt to a quick change in plans! For example, if you order too many U-Box containers, you can return the ones you don’t use and get your money back.
Even better, we work on your timeline—not the other way around. You can Keep U-Box containers on your property as long as you need. On top of this, we also offer multiple delivery options at affordable prices!
Size:
If you’re moving out of an apartment, you’ll need less room than a family of five. So, when it comes to storage containers, the size does matter. Make sure that the container size is compatible with your situation. Some companies will offer different sizes of containers, so always double-check and make sure you’re getting the size you want.
At U-Haul, we make it easy. While we only have one size for our U-Box container, we allow you to order more than one container at a time. And like we mentioned before, we never charge for U-Box containers you don’t use. That way, you’re never paying extra for unused space! You can order as many as you think you need and get a refund for the space you don’t end up using.
Security:
Basically, every portable storage container comes with a place to put a lock. But if you were looking for even more security, some companies allow you to store your belongings at their bigger facilities.
At U-Haul, if you store your items with us, that means they’ll be stored at one of our state-of-the-art facilities. Your stuff will be protected by 24/7 security, while also being accessible to you whenever you need.
Protection:
Homeowners insurance and renters insurance can protect your stuff inside the home, but what about when everything is on the move? With U-Haul you can tack on moving insurance for an additional fee. This means that if your belongings or equipment are damaged along the way, you’re covered! It’s that extra layer of security that can really make the difference during a move.
You’ve probably noticed already, but U-Box by U-Haul checks-off every box on this list! We pride ourselves on being affordable, flexible, and the best at what we do. When you compare us to other leading industry professionals like PODS, 1-800-Pack-Rat, or U-Pack, you’ll see that we offer more flexibility, coverage, and equipment than anyone else.
And don’t just take our word for it. Popular websites like Forbes and Bob Vila have given U-Box by U-Haul the official stamp of approval. And just like U-Haul, those are some names that you can trust!
How to Make the Most Out of a Portable Storage Container
By this point, you probably have a good idea if a portable storage container is the right choice for you. If you’re interested in renting a container, here are some ways to set yourself up for success before it even shows up at your door.
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.
If that sounds stressful, that’s because it is! Save yourself from the chaos and get rid of anything you don’t want to bring along with you for your move.
Plan Ahead:
Whether you’re moving long distance or right down the street, moving requires a plan. You’ll need to decide how you’ll move, your budget, when you’ll start packing, and when you want to arrive at your new place.
Ideally, you should allow yourself 3-4 months of preparation before your big move. This allows you to have some extra breathing room, while also giving you enough time to rent high quality equipment or Moving Help®, depending on your situation. You could throw together a move in just a few weeks, but that can make it harder and more expensive to book the services you need. If you can, try to start planning ASAP!
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!
Only Pay for What You Need
We’re all looking for ways to save a dollar or two, especially when moving. So, don’t get stuck paying for services that you won’t use! This means making sure that you aren’t ordering a container that’s too small or too big for your belongings and skipping out on unnecessary pickup and delivery fees.
With U-Box by U-Haul, it’s easy to save! You can order as many U-Box containers as you like—we won’t charge for any that go unused. That means you can overestimate the size of your move without the fear of paying for space you don’t need!
On top of this, we have multiple delivery options. So, if you’re the type that likes to do it yourself, you can save money by selecting self-delivery. Or, if you’re the type that likes a little extra help, we have options for that, too!
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 really only one name you can trust: U-Haul!
So, what are you waiting for? Get a U-Box Quote today!