Storage containers are an excellent solution for many people, whether packing and moving to a new house or storing some of their belongings for safekeeping. You may have heard about the benefits of using storage containers from friends and coworkers. On the other hand, as more people used this service, rental rates increased. Using a movable storage container is still the less expensive option when compared to building a storage area.
Many businesses encountered supply chain issues during the pandemic. Shipping lines slowed significantly, and orders of all types were backlogged for months. As supply chain operations resume, many businesses are seeing an influx of stock and inventory they need more room for or an immediate need for, such as seasonal items like tyres, bicycles, and furniture. As a result, they will require secure temporary storage, and renting storage containers can be an excellent solution.
Containers are designed to last for decades. Some people buy them to use in their businesses or for other reasons. However, this comes at a cost, which may be a limiting factor. If money is tight or purchasing is more of a luxury than a necessity, renting one becomes a more cost-effective option.
Storage Containers: What You Should Know
However, before you decide to rent one on the spur of the moment, there are a few things you should be aware of. These wise suggestions can assist you in avoiding unrealistic expectations or mistakes.
1. Analyze All Items to Be Stored.
You want to avoid renting a shipping container only to discover insufficient storage space. Determine how much space is required by evaluating the items to be stored. Storage container rental companies should be able to assist you in determining which container type or size best suits your requirements.
2. Examine Permits.
One of the benefits of using shipping containers is their mobility. Consider it a mobile storage solution where the container is delivered to your location. For many businesses, on-site storage is a must. However, you should know any local government agency's regulations or restrictions. In Ontario, for example, shipping containers, like traditional buildings, require a building permit.
If obtaining a permit proves too tricky, your next best option is to rent storage units on the company's property. It could also be used as a temporary storage solution if you have an urgent need while working on the necessary documents.
3. Locate the Best Location.
Of course, keeping your items in secure storage containers from anywhere is cost-effective. However, it would be best if you also thought about moving and retrieving items. In the long run, you save money on fuel and save a lot of time. As a result, one of the factors to consider when selecting a company is proximity.
4. Conduct a background investigation and site visit
After you've identified a few potential companies that are close enough, try to learn as much as you can about their service quality. Cost is an essential factor, but it is not a foolproof indicator of trustworthiness and reliability. Examine the company's history and, if possible, client testimonials. You could even ask each company for the names of their clients, whom you could contact to inquire about their experience.
Every item you put in storage is valuable. As a result, you want to sleep soundly, knowing they are in a secure storage container and yard. You must ensure that the container is adequately maintained and protected. That can only be accomplished by visiting the company and the container yard. While you're at it, ask to see their permits and licences for peace of mind.
5. Select the Correct Size.
The correct container size only sometimes implies the exact or near-exact size required. It would be best if you also thought about the long term. For example, will you need additional storage space in the coming weeks or months?
In general, choose a size that will hold all of your items. If you are forced to rent a much larger container due to a few things, consider reducing some items to rent the smaller one. If money is an issue, you should do this.
6. Inspect the Storage Container Assigned to You Thoroughly.
Although storage containers are built to last for decades, their seaworthiness is limited, which is why they are used for other things. Their condition deteriorates over time. Before signing a rental agreement, you should inspect the unit you will use. If you need to be more knowledgeable, see if you can be accompanied by someone who is.
Examine the container for any signs of damage. Structural deformities are something to keep an eye out for. You also want to avoid seeing holes where water can get in and cause damage.
7. Make use of the best lock you can afford.
A container's security is only as good as its locking mechanism. A typical container yard is a large open area mostly unguarded at night. The site may have security guards, but there are unlikely enough to cover the entire area every hour.
It means someone could sneak into the yard after dark and have more than enough time to unlock or destroy a lock. Installing the best safety you can find will undoubtedly deter any would-be thief.
8. Make a plan for item organization and management.
Make a plan for organizing and arranging things inside the container. Include tools that will assist you in removing and adding items to the container. In terms of organization, keep things you might use soon for easy access.
Final Thoughts
Finding storage that works for your company or home is about managing space, time, and money. Many businesses believe that renting warehouse storage space is their only option; however, renting one or more shipping containers can be a much more cost-effective, flexible, and efficient alternative. Save time loading your items, transporting them to a warehouse, and then unloading them again the next time you need them. Keep your storage unit nearby, so it's easy to load and unload when needed.
