Portable storage containers are a practical solution for storing or transporting your goods.
Mind you, storage space may be an issue for some people. For example, if your living space is small, there’s a probability that you may need extra storage space.
Instead of putting your belongings in the garage, you can use a storage container.
Bear in mind that storage containers come in an extensive range of sizes and shapes.
Plus, service providers have unique offerings and cost structures. As a result, you can expect the cost of renting storage units to vary.
Nonetheless, it would be best to engage with reputable and experienced service providers like Safestore Auckland with high-quality products and excellent customer support.
However, you may need to conduct some research of your own to determine the right service provider for you.
That said, here are some things you need to know before renting a portable self-storage container.
Contents
1. Organizing and Storing Contents Securely
Note that it’s not your service provider’s job to pack the storage container for you. It’s your responsibility to pack the container.
So, you must ensure that your goods are safely packed and stored. You must be careful when storing your items, especially if you’re going to be transporting the container.
You must secure your belongings whether you plan to move the container over short or long distances. Things should not be flying around the container while in transit.
Furthermore, you also don’t want fragile or valuable objects to break or be damaged. Therefore, you have to secure all the goods inside the container.
You could use ropes, bungee cords, blankets, pillows and bubble wrap to secure your goods.
Moreover, you should also arrange your boxes such that the heaviest ones stay at the bottom and the lighter ones on the top.
2. Temperature Control Feature
Not all portable storage containers come with climate control as a standard feature.
Therefore, if you intend to store or transport temperature-sensitive products, you must first confirm with your service provider if the unit is temperature-controlled.
Temperature-controlled containers provide the ideal conditions required to store your items.
Things like expensive paintings and perishables may necessitate temperature-controlled storage.
Besides, the last thing you want to do is hire a container, only to find out that it doesn’t meet your needs.
So, it would be wise to enquire about such things beforehand.
3. Lawn Damage
In spite of their utility, storage containers may not be an asset that’ll smash the record for being aesthetically pleasing.
Also, they take up some yard space. Most people park their containers on their lawns.
If you park your container on the lawn, you can expect that the longer it stays on your lawn, the more your turf will get damaged.
Therefore, if you’re serious about lawn maintenance, you should consider parking your trailer elsewhere.
4. Waterproof Feature
Keep in mind that storage containers are constructed using various building materials. Steel, aluminum, wood and canvas are just a few examples.
Reputable storage container manufacturers frequently use high-quality materials to produce reliable containers.
However, realise that some units may not be waterproof.
Therefore, you must ensure that the unit is wholly sealed and devoid of any holes that could cause water to leak.
This is especially important if you’re not hiring a used container.
So, even if a container seems to be appropriately constructed on the surface, you should check it carefully before using it to look for any openings or conspicuous structural weaknesses.
Remember, much like most other physical assets, containers also suffer from wear and tear. So, openings may appear over time.
5. Container Size
Portable storage containers are available in a range of sizes.
As a result, the container size you choose will or should be determined by what and how much you intend to store.
However, your budget may also be a deciding factor.
Choosing the appropriate container size isn’t always straightforward, especially if you’re using an online container rental service.
However, in most cases, a representative can assist you in selecting the best one for you.
You certainly don’t want to hire a large unit when all you need is a small one.
It might not be necessary to spend more money on the larger unit. Therefore, you should always aim to get the appropriate size if at all possible.
6. Costs
Before you hire any container, it’s best to speak with the service provider regarding the expenses involved.
The reason for this is that there may be hidden costs involved that have not been clearly brought to your attention.
So, before you get charged, ask them what everything will cost.
Additionally, ensure you properly review all the policies and documents, which can also show you some of the possible fees you might pay.
7. Container Damage
You might be responsible for covering any necessary damage or repair charges if your unit is damaged while it’s in your care.
Typically, the company policy will dictate whether or not you’re responsible for these repairs.
In any case, it’s a good idea to consider having insurance coverage for the storage container, especially if you store expensive stuff inside.
Keep in mind that containers might be a target for theft and vandalism, so having storage insurance can help you sleep better at night.
8. Pest Infiltration
The likelihood of pests and insects invading a container is also very high, especially if you keep the container outside.
If you keep it outside for an extended period, the likelihood of this occurring increases.
Although you don’t want them in your storage container, you still might have to deal with them.
If you see insects or bugs creeping inside the container, attempt to get them exterminated as quickly as possible because some insects can damage your items.
9. Community Guidelines and Regulations
Understand that different towns may have distinct policies regarding where and how long containers can be parked.
In some regions, you may even be charged to park your container.
As a result, you must adhere to any regulations, particularly those regarding on-street parking.
However, parking in your private yard, you might not have to worry about the regulations.
Conclusion
Portable storage containers are an extremely convenient way to store your things safely.
However, it’s crucial to understand that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for portable container storage.
There are multiple kinds to choose from. Therefore, to choose the appropriate size container for you, you might need to conduct more research or get help from a trusted representative.
