Things to Know Before Renting a Portable Storage Container for the First Time

Published: August 15, 2022

We don’t assume that everyone knows what goes into renting a storage container, which is why we try to educate potential and long-standing clients at UNITS Moving and Portable Storage of Central NJ. In this spirit, we’d like to share some self-storage hints that have accumulated throughout the years.

Here are some tips for renting storage containers, from the beginning stages of shopping around to packing everything up and moving out.

Research the best storage container deals before renting

If this is your first time renting a storage container, you may be able to get a great deal on rent. Look for local firms and see who has the best offer.

Figure out which size storage container you need

Overestimating or underestimating the size of a storage container can be costly and stressful. When customers need to store items on short notice, they usually make a mental estimate of how much space they’ll need. If they underestimate the amount required, then, when unpacking their belongings, running out of space becomes an issue later on down the road. On the flip side, if people overestimate, they’re wasting money renting more square footage than necessary.

Weigh the pros and cons of indoor vs. outdoor storage

Believe it or not, there are a few types of storage containers. In general, an outdoor storage unit is going to cost less than an indoor unit of the same size, however, when storing fragile items, you may want to consider renting indoor storage for the extra fee.

Make sure the storage container is insured

The majority of large-scale storage container providers demand that their consumers have sufficient property tenant insurance against loss or damage. This isn’t about making money. Most significantly, having adequate storage container insurance will assist you in the event that your valuables are damaged or stolen.

Organize everything in your storage container for easy access

Oftentimes, when customers use a storage container for the first time, they throw things in haphazardly since they don’t think about where everything will go. However, after their first experience of trying to find an item and not being able to locate it easily (or having to move everything around), most people become more mindful of how they organize their containers.

Understand your rental payment schedule

Always make your rent payments on time. If you have trouble remembering, inquire about an auto-pay option. Before renting, find out what other things to watch for from the manager of the store.

Avoid any and all surprises by reading your contract from start to finish! Most companies will penalize customers with late fees. If you don’t make a payment after a specific amount of time, the company reserves the right to reclaim your storage container.

We hope you found these self-storage ideas useful and that they have explained what is involved with a rental. We’d be delighted to talk with you about renting if you have any other questions! Call us at any time.