5 Things to Know Before Renting a Portable Storage Container

Published: June 27, 2022

Renting a storage unit can be the best way to store your belongings when you’re traveling, relocating, or remodeling your house. Portable storage units are also suitable storage options if you lack enough space in your home or just want to declutter your space without disposing of valued possessions. Whatever your reason for renting a storage unit, here are the most important things to know before renting portable storage containers:

Know What You Need It for and for How Long

Portable storage units can be useful for all kinds of situations. Determine what you need to store and the duration for which you need the storage. You must first choose whether you wish to store, move or do both with your belongings. Some moving and storage companies like UNITS®, let you pack at your convenience and later transport the container to their secure storage facility once you’re ready. 

Portable Storage Units Come in Different Sizes

Size matters when it comes to your storage unit. If you select your container based on cost, you might end up renting a unit that’s too small for your stuff. You need to know what sizes the company has to offer and if the size you pick is large enough to accommodate everything.

If you’re not sure what size to rent, make a list of all the items you want to store and ask your company for an estimate. Container sizes vary by moving company. UNITS® containers are available in two sizes: 8 x 8 x 12 and 8 x 8 x 16.

Decide If You Need a Climate-Controlled Unit

What kind of items do you want to store or transport? If you have valuable items that are sensitive to extreme temperatures, ensuring your UNIT is in a climate controlled facility  is the best option. Ensuring a climate-controlled storage facility is important if you live in a location with extreme temperatures and humidity.

Not all units are climate-controlled, so ask about it in advance. UNITS® provides a climate-controlled storage facility where you can have access to your belongings while they’re in storage.

Choose the Right Location

Before renting a portable storage unit, you need to identify the right location for easier accessibility. Choose a convenient location that is close to your home or business, especially if you will need frequent trips to and from your storage unit. Balance convenience with the price based on how often you need access to your container.

Know About the Cost and Payment Policies

Before renting a portable storage unit, ask your company about their storage, pickup, and delivery costs. Ensure you read the contract carefully so you can understand all potential charges. What you pay for your storage unit will vary depending on the size of the unit, availability, and how long you plan to store your stuff.

Payment methods and policies differ from company to company, so ask your storage place for the specifics well in advance. Take note of the payment deadlines and the late payment policies to avoid putting your unit at risk of being auctioned off.

Ready to rent a portable storage container? Contact UNITS Moving and Portable Storage today. We will deliver a ready-to-pack storage container to your home or business. Even more exciting is that you will have the flexibility to load your belongings at your convenience. Whether you need short or long-term storage, we got you covered. Call us at (443) 842-7400 or fill out our instant quote form, and UNITS® will coordinate the delivery and storage of your belongings.