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Whether you’re storing furniture during a renovation, getting ready for a move, or dealing with flood repairs, renting a portable storage unit can be very affordable.

A.B. Richards Storage Container Rentals has been providing service since 1982 and was founded to put the client first. As a private company, not a chain or franchise, they are personable and committed to outstanding customer service. They offer multiple storage solutions, such as residential, commercial and industrial storage, at the best prices available.

With a specially trained staff of storage professionals, a trained technical team to handle aspects of storage container rentals, and an efficient delivery team to provide timely deliveries, A.B. Richards fulfills their commitment to excellent service.

Hiring a professional moving company can cost more money than anyone would like to spend. Renting a portable storage unit is not only more convenient, but it is more affordable. So how much do portable storage units cost?

How Much Do Portable Storage Units Cost?

The cost of a portable storage container can vary depending on certain factors like size and is usually paid monthly with a few extra fees. Some portable storage units can be pricey, which is why there are people who believe typical prices for moving containers are between $175 and $230 per month plus fees, such as delivery and pick up. This is the case for many places you could possibly rent from.

A.B. Richards charges flat rates for delivery and pick of the storage container while other on-site storage companies charge you “service” fees and additional charges that rack up to be a large cost. A.B. Richards charges $99 for the delivery and $99 for the pick up. Their monthly fees range between $89-$129 depending on the size of the storage unit.

A.B. Richards have 20ft storage containers that cost $89/month, 40ft storage containers that cost $109/month and 40ft jumbo storage containers that cost $124/month.

Other services that offer storage units will rack up the price of their products for monetary gain. This is why many believe that the typical prices are so high because they usually are. A.B. Richards will work to get you what you need for storage and at an affordable price.

The Process of Renting a Storage Container

Now that you know renting a storage container doesn’t have to break the bank, you can reap the benefits of renting them.

Storage container rentals have gained a lot of popularity in industries and markets for renovation purposes. Cleaning up floor space to undergo large projects is where storage containers come into play, whether you are a homeowner or business owner. Having a place for that heavy equipment and machinery can be made easier by renting out a storage unit for businesses looking to renovate.

Portable storage unit rentals can be used for multiple types of storage including construction storage, industrial storage, commercial storage and residential storage.

All storage containers are different and choosing the right one for your next big project is an important task. A.B. Richards offers a storage space calculator that helps you make the smartest decision when looking at storage containers. This provided tool allows you to choose the storage container that is best for your needs instead of something that is too much, space and price-wise.

Although homeowners can only rent 20ft containers due to restrictions of multiple townships and municipalities and general space restrictions, they can rent multiple 20ft containers. Business owners have a few more options. They can rent 20-foot, 40-foot, and 40-foot jumbo storage containers.

The type of portable storage container you should choose depends on how much volume you need. 20-foot storage containers are for volumes less than 1,110 ft^3, 40-foot storage containers are for volumes less than 2,385 ft^3, and 40-foot jumbo storage containers are for volumes less than 2,690 ft^3. 40-foot jumbo containers are higher than the regular 40-foot storage containers, offering more space for the customer with taller furniture.

With A.B. Richards, the process to rent a storage container is easy and takes only five steps.

1. Select the storage container that perfectly works for you depending on your size needs.

2. Order the storage container! This can be done online or by calling (800) 597-5971 to talk to one of the storage experts.

3. Get it delivered. A.B. Richards will deliver the storage container of your choosing to your location.

4. Use it, of course. You can keep the high-quality rental storage container for the time span of your choosing, whether it is only a month or for a year.

5. Call A.B. Richards when you’re finished with the storage container to have it picked up at your convenience.

That’s it. Pretty simple, right?

Benefits of Renting a Storage Container

Needing storage is bound to happen to a person eventually whether it is multiple times in a lifetime or a one-time purchase.

The reason for the popularity of renting a portable storage unit is that it has so many benefits. These benefits include:

• Affordability
• Storage containers are sturdy and don’t need a foundation to be set on
• The all-steel look makes them a secure option for storage
• No building of the storage container is required
• Storage containers are convenient, extra convenient when they get delivered to you and picked up from you

Request a Rental Portable Storage Unit Today!

So how much do portable storage units cost to rent? Not much, at least if you’re renting from A.B. Richards. Those in the Northeast can gain all of the benefits that come with renting a portable storage unit, including affordability, from A.B. Richards.

A.B. Richards currently serves the New York Metro Area, Long Island, New Jersey, Connecticut, Eastern Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and portions of Delaware and Massachusetts.

A.B Richards is there to make sure everything goes smoothly. They are the right choice for your portable rental unit needs because they succeed with outstanding customer service and high-quality storage containers all at low prices.

A.B Richards is there for your storage needs, no matter the occasion. Ready to start your affordable portable storage container renting? Request a free real-time quote today!

Renting a shipping container comes with many benefits.

People often use containers to store their things whenever they’re working on something or moving. They provide enough space to store plenty of objects and they come with a variety of features.

If you have an upcoming event in which you think a storage container would be useful, you should know about several tips for renting them. Renting storage containers isn’t a difficult process, but knowing a few things will help you choose one that’s suitable for you.

Here are 4 smart tips for renting storage containers!

1. Figure Out How Large You Need It to Be

One of the first things you’ll want to do when renting a container is to decide how large need it to be. Many people will get containers that are too small for their projects, forcing them to spend more money to get another one.

Storage containers come in many sizes, so it’s easy to choose a container that fits your needs. The best thing you can do is to measure the largest things you’ll be storing in the container. From there, you can look into the dimensions of various containers to see which ones would be compatible.

You’ll need to take into account of all the objects that you plan on storing in the container because you may not have enough space if you only go off one. Smaller objects will fit inside or on the larger ones, so focus on measuring things like furniture.

You can always move things in and out of the containers when need be, so you may not need one that’s big enough for everything. If you’re moving and are seeking temporary storage, you could try storing a few things in the container while bringing the rest to your new place.

2. Decide What Features You Want

Some people want movable storage containers whereas others just want a secure facility in which they can store their belongings. All storage containers are built to securely hold whatever you put within them. However, they come in many different styles and features, making some better options depending on what you want.

Premium Locks

All storage facilities place locks on their containers, but premium locks are more secure as they require more than a key to open. Instead of using a traditional lock, some storage containers will use keypad locks that require you to input a code to open it.

Those that do require keys often have complex lock systems similar to the vaults that banks use. The keys for these locks can’t be replicated like the ones that most of the cheap locking mechanisms use.

Doors

Doors don’t offer much of a difference other than convenience. If you’re looking to get in and out of the container as quickly as possible, a traditional door would be more accessible than the garage-like doors that most containers use.

A container that has a door on both sides would also benefit those that are looking to move things often. With a door on either side, you won’t have to build a pathway within the container to get to something in the back.

Storage and Office

Some storage containers will have storage/office combos that provide office space for anyone looking to get work done while at the container. These are commonly used by construction companies because they’re durable and won’t put the office equipment at risk.

3. Read Through the Company’s Policy

Before you start renting a storage container, you should review the company’s policy to see how long you can rent it. Some companies will go as far as restricting what kind of objects you put in their containers.

Doing this will also allow you to see what kind of features the containers have and how much they cost. After you’ve figured out what kind of container you want and for how long, you can ask the company about your options.

4. Make the Moving Process Simple

Although renting containers isn’t a difficult process, many people make it hard on themselves when they don’t plan. Before you start the rental process, you’ll need to ensure that you have everything packed and prepared to store.

This will save you both time and money because you’ll be able to make the most out of your rental period. You also won’t have to worry about forgetting something when you start storing things.

The best way to pack your things is to store as much as possible within boxes. Even, square boxes will allow you to fit more in a storage container. Try to make them organized so that you can quickly find certain things later.

While you can get away with last-minute changes if you have a container with two doors, it will be much more difficult to move things around in most containers.

Understanding the terms and conditions of the rental agreement will also make the process simpler because you’ll know what to expect before you start moving things.

Consider Renting Storage Containers Today

While storage is something that many people struggle to deal with while moving or renovating, renting storage containers would remove a lot of stress during your project. In most cases, you won’t have to rent more than one.

If you want to rent a container, be sure to start thinking about what you’ll be using it for. From there, you can decide what size you’d like.

Contact us if you’re interested in renting a storage container. We have various options to suit your needs!

Renting a shipping container comes with many benefits.

People often use containers to store their things whenever they’re working on something or moving. They provide enough space to store plenty of objects and they come with a variety of features.

If you have an upcoming event in which you think a storage container would be useful, you should know about several tips for renting them. Renting storage containers isn’t a difficult process, but knowing a few things will help you choose one that’s suitable for you.

Here are 4 smart tips for renting storage containers!

1. Figure Out How Large You Need It to Be

One of the first things you’ll want to do when renting a container is to decide how large you need it to be. Many people will get containers that are too small for their projects, forcing them to spend more money to get another one.

Storage containers come in many sizes, so it’s easy to choose a container that fits your needs. The best thing you can do is to measure the largest things you’ll be storing in the container. From there, you can look into the dimensions of various containers to see which ones would be compatible.

You’ll need to take into account of all the objects that you plan on storing in the container because you may not have enough space if you only go off one. Smaller objects will fit inside or on the larger ones, so focus on measuring things like furniture.

You can always move things in and out of the containers when need be, so you may not need one that’s big enough for everything. If you’re moving and are seeking temporary storage, you could try storing a few things in the container while bringing the rest to your new place.

2. Decide What Features You Want

Some people want movable storage containers whereas others just want a secure facility in which they can store their belongings. All storage containers are built to securely hold whatever you put within them. However, they come in many different styles and features, making some better options depending on what you want.

Premium Locks

All storage facilities place locks on their containers, but premium locks are more secure as they require more than a key to open. Instead of using a traditional lock, some storage containers will use keypad locks that require you to input a code to open it.

Those that do require keys often have complex lock systems similar to the vaults that banks use. The keys for these locks can’t be replicated like the ones that most of the cheap locking mechanisms use.

Doors

Doors don’t offer much of a difference other than convenience. If you’re looking to get in and out of the container as quickly as possible, a traditional door would be more accessible than the garage-like doors that most containers use.

A container that has a door on both sides would also benefit those that are looking to move things often. With a door on either side, you won’t have to build a pathway within the container to get to something in the back.

Storage and Office

Some storage containers will have storage/office combos that provide office space for anyone looking to get work done while at the container. These are commonly used by construction companies because they’re durable and won’t put the office equipment at risk.

3. Read Through the Company’s Policy

Before you start renting a storage container, you should review the company’s policy to see how long you can rent it. Some companies will go as far as restricting what kind of objects you put in their containers.

Doing this will also allow you to see what kind of features the containers have and how much they cost. After you’ve figured out what kind of container you want and for how long, you can ask the company about your options.

4. Make the Moving Process Simple

Although renting containers isn’t a difficult process, many people make it hard on themselves when they don’t plan. Before you start the rental process, you’ll need to ensure that you have everything packed and prepared to store.

This will save you both time and money because you’ll be able to make the most out of your rental period. You also won’t have to worry about forgetting something when you start storing things.

The best way to pack your things is to store as much as possible within boxes. Even, square boxes will allow you to fit more in a storage container. Try to make them organized so that you can quickly find certain things later.

While you can get away with last-minute changes if you have a container with two doors, it will be much more difficult to move things around in most containers.

Understanding the terms and conditions of the rental agreement will also make the process simpler because you’ll know what to expect before you start moving things.

Consider Renting Storage Containers Today

While storage is something that many people struggle to deal with while moving or renovating, renting storage containers would remove a lot of stress during your project. In most cases, you won’t have to rent more than one.

If you want to rent a container, be sure to start thinking about what you’ll be using it for. From there, you can decide what size you’d like.

Contact us if you’re interested in renting a storage container. We have various options to suit your needs!

Containers aren’t just for freight. Many business owners rent containers for storage purposes. Containers also make great office spaces and are excellent for housing vending machines.

However, it’s worth noting that buying shipping containers isn’t so cheap. Luckily, you don’t have to buy a whole container if you need one. Most business owners rent containers at a lesser cost.

If you’re thinking about renting a container, there are things you need to have on lock. In this piece, we’ll highlight five crucial things you need to know before renting a shipping container. Hopefully, you’ll get the best value for your money.

But first, why use shipping containers for your business?

Why You Should Use Shipping Container for Your Business

Shipping containers are especially ideal for business startups. That said, you don’t have to be a startup to rent containers for your business.

Containers are also great for expanding businesses. You can use containers to penetrate new frontiers without spending too much money renting buildings.

Here are a few reasons why you should consider hiring shipping containers:-

Cost-effective– Leasing office or storage space for a new business can be too expensive. With shipping containers, you can have a beautiful office space at a lesser price. What’s more, it’s straightforward to get an excellent deal for rented containers.

Versatile – Shipping containers are pretty versatile. As such, they can be used for a variety of businesses. Be it a pop-up shop, a café or restaurant, or a professional business set up; containers still get the job done.

Readily available– You don’t have to start looking for a contractor for a new business establishment. All you have to do is talk with the right supplier of containers, and you’re good to go. You don’t need any construction to move into your new office space.

Use them when moving– When you’re relocating your business, you can bundle up everything in a container. It will make moving your stuff way less of a hassle.

What Should You Know Before Renting a Shipping Container?

There’s so much more to shipping containers than just selecting a container. There are factors you should consider to make sure you get the right container for your business.

You should be especially careful when buying a container instead of renting. Whether new or used, here are five things you should know before buying a container.

1. There are Various Container Sizes to Accommodate Your Business Needs

Different businesses have different space requirements. Containers come in many sizes, so you don’t have to worry about your business being too small or too big.

The first thing you should understand before renting a container is the container size you need. Standard containers are 10, 20, 40, or 45 feet high.

High cube containers are special containers with one or more feet extra height over usual containers. The size you settle on depends on what your business needs. Most businesses go for the 40 feet containers because they are common and give good value for money.

2. Some Containers May Not Be suitable for Certain Modes of Transport

Some containers may not be designed for transporting goods overseas. These containers may only be limited to land transport.

So before you settle on a container, first check whether its design fits the required transport mode. You may be getting your container from overseas, yet the container cannot handle water or air travel.

Always liaise with the container company before you settle on a container to rent. Also, always do your homework because some container companies may not be honest.

You may end up with a damaged container or no container at all. So make sure that the container you chose can handle the required transportation mode.

3. Container Deals Are Easy to Find

It’s not hard to find a good deal when you need to rent a container. All you have to do is find the right companies, and then you’ll get one for a reasonable price.

What’s more, most shipping companies have containers at different price points. However, it is worth noting that it’s not advisable to skimp on your container. Sometimes you do get what you pay for.

That said, always negotiate with the right container company to land yourself a good deal. Most shipping companies are open to negotiations. You may even strike a long term deal to make the renting price even lesser.

4. Prefabricated Containers May Be a Bad Idea

Most business owners are tempted to rent prefabricated containers. These containers seem to be the all-inclusive package of containers. However, there are some disadvantages with these types of containers

First, prefabricated containers may cost you more than your usual container. Next, these containers may not be suited for your business needs. They mostly come in packages for standard businesses and aren’t versatile.

You may end up spending a lot of money on adjustments and repairs. Ultimately it may cost you more than just doing the fittings yourself.

You may not want a prefabricated container, especially if you’re very particular with your stuff.

5. Inspect the Container

It’s always a good idea to thoroughly inspect the container before entering any renting agreement. It may take up your time but it’s worth every single second.

An inspection should be mandatory especially for used containers. During your inspection, look out for defects such as body damage, rust, and dents.

You should, however, expect a few dents on some used containers. Don’t settle for anything with overly large dents. These dents may even hold water, which will cause the container to rust.

You’re Set to Get a Shipping Container

Hopefully, you’re well-acquainted with what you need to know before renting a container. Remember to always do your homework before renting a shipping container for your business.

Next time you’re having space problems, remember the perfect container for your business is just a call away.

Contact us today and rent the right container for your business and put your business on the map.

Containers aren’t just for freight. Many business owners rent containers for storage purposes. Containers also make great office spaces and are excellent for housing vending machines.

However, it’s worth noting that buying shipping containers isn’t so cheap. Luckily, you don’t have to buy a whole container if you need one. Most business owners rent containers at a lesser cost.

If you’re thinking about renting a container, there are things you need to have on lock. In this piece, we’ll highlight five crucial things you need to know before renting a shipping container. Hopefully, you’ll get the best value for your money.

But first, why use shipping containers for your business?

Why You Should Use Shipping Container for Your Business

Shipping containers are especially ideal for business startups. That said, you don’t have to be a startup to rent containers for your business.

Containers are also great for expanding businesses. You can use containers to penetrate new frontiers without spending too much money renting buildings.

Here are a few reasons why you should consider hiring shipping containers:-

Cost-effective– Leasing office or storage space for a new business can be too expensive. With shipping containers, you can have a beautiful office space at a lesser price. What’s more, it’s straightforward to get an excellent deal for rented containers.

Versatile – Shipping containers are pretty versatile. As such, they can be used for a variety of businesses. Be it a pop-up shop, a café or restaurant, or a professional business set up; containers still get the job done.

Readily available– You don’t have to start looking for a contractor for a new business establishment. All you have to do is talk with the right supplier of containers, and you’re good to go. You don’t need any construction to move into your new office space.

Use them when moving– When you’re relocating your business, you can bundle up everything in a container. It will make moving your stuff way less of a hassle.

What Should You Know Before Renting a Shipping Container?

There’s so much more to shipping containers than just selecting a container. There are factors you should consider to make sure you get the right container for your business.

You should be especially careful when buying a container instead of renting. Whether new or used, here are five things you should know before buying a container.

1. There are Various Container Sizes to Accommodate Your Business Needs

Different businesses have different space requirements. Containers come in many sizes, so you don’t have to worry about your business being too small or too big.

The first thing you should understand before renting a container is the container size you need. Standard containers are 10, 20, 40, or 45 feet high.

High cube containers are special containers with one or more feet extra height over usual containers. The size you settle on depends on what your business needs. Most businesses go for the 40 feet containers because they are common and give good value for money.

2. Some Containers May Not Be suitable for Certain Modes of Transport

Some containers may not be designed for transporting goods overseas. These containers may only be limited to land transport.

So before you settle on a container, first check whether its design fits the required transport mode. You may be getting your container from overseas, yet the container cannot handle water or air travel.

Always liaise with the container company before you settle on a container to rent. Also, always do your homework because some container companies may not be honest.

You may end up with a damaged container or no container at all. So make sure that the container you chose can handle the required transportation mode.

3. Container Deals Are Easy to Find

It’s not hard to find a good deal when you need to rent a container. All you have to do is find the right companies, and then you’ll get one for a reasonable price.

What’s more, most shipping companies have containers at different price points. However, it is worth noting that it’s not advisable to skimp on your container. Sometimes you do get what you pay for.

That said, always negotiate with the right container company to land yourself a good deal. Most shipping companies are open to negotiations. You may even strike a long term deal to make the renting price even lesser.

4. Prefabricated Containers May Be a Bad Idea

Most business owners are tempted to rent prefabricated containers. These containers seem to be the all-inclusive package of containers. However, there are some disadvantages with these types of containers

First, prefabricated containers may cost you more than your usual container. Next, these containers may not be suited for your business needs. They mostly come in packages for standard businesses and aren’t versatile.

You may end up spending a lot of money on adjustments and repairs. Ultimately it may cost you more than just doing the fittings yourself.

You may not want a prefabricated container, especially if you’re very particular with your stuff.

5. Inspect the Container

It’s always a good idea to thoroughly inspect the container before entering any renting agreement. It may take up your time but it’s worth every single second.

An inspection should be mandatory especially for used containers. During your inspection, look out for defects such as body damage, rust, and dents.

You should, however, expect a few dents on some used containers. Don’t settle for anything with overly large dents. These dents may even hold water, which will cause the container to rust.

You’re Set to Get a Shipping Container

Hopefully, you’re well-acquainted with what you need to know before renting a container. Remember to always do your homework before renting a shipping container for your business.

Next time you’re having space problems, remember the perfect container for your business is just a call away.

Contact us today and rent the right container for your business and put your business on the map.

Did you know that on average over $16 million is spent every year by companies who relocate within the USA?

Whether a family move or a business move, moving can be a stressful time. Leaving old premises. Preparing new locations. There is truly a lot to do even before you open the doors of your new location.

However, one of the most difficult parts is packing and tracking your personal items during the transition. How can you successfully make a moving inventory to track your possessions?

Check out our in-depth guide below to see how you can make this possible.

1. Pick Your Inventory Method

Before you can start moving you have to plan how you will go about it. There are basically two methods of inventorying your items: Electronically or Physical Notes.

Electronically

This has real advantages. You can use a spreadsheet program such as Microsoft Excel or Google sheets to document all your items in an organized fashion. It may be possible for more than one person to work on the same spreadsheet at the same time. You can manipulate, move and format the information to your heart’s delight.

This is especially beneficial for office relocation projects when you may have a team of workers listing potentially expensive equipment.

There are even mobile applications made specifically for this purpose on the Android and Apple platforms.

Physical Notes

If electronic notation is not really your thing, the next best thing is physical notes. A carefully organized notebook with columns to record box numbers and contents should do the trick.

In the end, the deciding factor should be your preference. Which method are you most comfortable with? Which method will help you to recall and find the items after the move?

2. Use a Room-by-Room Method

You will later thank yourself if you list your inventory items by category. Categories could include Kitchen, Bathroom and so on. Listing items room by room will save you time later.

Before packing up a room, list every item in the room and keep those numbers together on your inventory. You may wish to leave extra space on your list in case you add items to this category later.

If you have a very clear idea of how you will set up your new location this can help you. You can list not only items currently in your kitchen, but also all the items that will be in your kitchen. This means that the movers will be able to deposit the items in the right location and you will be able to unpack and get comfortable in your home very quickly.

3. Note Important Information

When you enter a room to inventory its contents, it is generally best to start with the largest items and move to the smallest. During this stage, you will need to note important information.

Your goal is not only to note how many items you possess, but it is also to note the condition of items. If something should break during the move and you need to complete a house moving insurance claim, this information will be invaluable.

it is often good to separate your notes into at least 5 columns:

Item

A basic description of what the items are. For some more expensive items, it may be good to list the make, age, and serial number.

Condition

Look realistically at the item and note any flaws it may have. Describe any damage.

Value

Do you have the original packaging for an item? Even the receipt? Using this information you will be able to calculate the current value of the item. It is good to note any items that need special care.

Destination

Mark clearly the room the items will live in. If the room is large, you can even specify where in the room. At this point, note any other information that you think maybe practically helpful.

4. Use Tools to Make Your Life Easier

What is the number one tool that you can use to make your packing experience easier? A simple digital camera. Whether it is a part of your smartphone or a stand-alone cheap digital camera, it is invaluable.

If a picture paints a thousand words, a photo can save you from writing many notes regarding the location or condition fo the goods you are inventorying.

Take more photos than you think you will need and then keep them in a location that you can easily access.

A simple and time-saving method for visual inventorying is to take a video. Using your camera, take a clear video with good lighting and speak over the video. Express important details clearly. This can be done with both the destination rooms and your current dwelling.

A video like this can add important details to your inventory item list.

5. Keep All Your Possessions in One Safe Location

After you have listed all your items you will want to have them moved and stored safely. Storage containers of a suitable size can be your friend.

They can help you to keep all of your items in one place until you are ready to unpack them in your house.

Create Your Moving Inventory

If you are interested in creating a moving inventory then you value efficiency and organization. These are two qualities that can make the difference between a successful and unsuccessful moving experience.

Whether you are storing items permanently or temporarily, you will want a method of storage that carefully protects your items. We are here to help.

We leverage our years of storage and shipping experience to provide containers that can care for your storage needs. Simply contact us or follow our blog to see how we can help you.

There comes a time when our homes become overrun with dusty belongings that it’s impossible to pinpoint what you’re looking for.

Match that with downsizing to a smaller abode and you’ve got a ton of work to do. If you’re anxious about downsizing the family home, don’t fret. Here are tips to help you.

1. Give Yourself Time

Start the process early instead of squeezing your downsizing into two days. Dedicate three weeks to a month to survey your belongings and figure out which load has got to go.

Go through each item and spend a second or two deciding whether it’s worth keeping. Doing this will improve your decision-making system so it’s easier to choose which belongings are important to you.

2. Only Create Yes or No Piles

When you’re downsizing your possessions, there’s no room for a ‘Maybe‘ pile. Otherwise, you’ll end up with a heap of sentimental belongings that will send you tumbling down memory lane.

The easiest way to decide ‘yes’ or ‘no’ is seeing if you’ve regularly used the item. If it’s sat on a shelf for a year, then there’s no point in bringing it to your new home.

3. Sell Anything Unwanted

As you’re moving to a smaller home, sell old belongings on Craigslist or eBay. You could also consider yard sales as they are a quicker option but you may not sell your items for as much.

4. Use Downsizing as a Chance to Bond

Get your kids to help and you can tell them the stories behind your favorite trinkets. They can help you pack, ask questions, and spend time with you. Also, your kids can help post items online to sell.

It’s also your last chance to create magical memories together in the family home. Reminisce about your kid’s kindergarten drawings, trophies, and beloved stuff animals before emptying the room.

5. Give With No Strings Attached

When you’re downsizing from house to apartment, be generous and give away your items. For example, let your daughter have your favorite cushions but don’t go over asking for them back.

You should send an e-mail out to your kids with a list of items you’re planning to give away. This way, your children can decide what they want to hold on to and it stops you from throwing everything out.

6. Get Rid of Any Duplicates

One of the major downsizing tips for seniors is to chuck out any clutter. You’ll find plenty of duplicates in the kitchen from spatulas to stockpots.

Also, unless you’re inviting guests regularly, you won’t need multiple sets of drinking glasses. If you don’t want to give away any of your old roasting pans, then give it to your kids or grandchildren to take to college.

Next, browse through your pantry and toss out any food or ingredients that have expired. It’s surprising how much you’ll get rid of.

7. Eliminate Rooms You Won’t Have In Your New House

If you’re moving to a condo or an apartment, you may not have room for a garage or office space. Go to these rooms first so you can ensure everything gets sold, donated or thrown out.

Also, attack the more cluttered areas of your home first. Garages, attics, and basements accumulate boxes filled with holiday decorations, old sports equipment, and other items.

8. Now’s the Time to Hand Out Heirlooms

Are you planning to leave your antique coffee table with your daughter? Or does your son still have his eyes on your grandfather’s clock?

If there are certain gifts you’re planning to leave in your will, consider giving those gifts now. Not only will you relieve yourself from these items but you get to experience the delight of handing out gifts.

9. Stop Buying More

Even though you’re downsizing, it’s tempting to buy items for your new home. If there are things you need to buy, then make sure you get rid of an old item to balance everything out.

10. Label Your Photographs

We all have so many family photographs to cherish but it’s essential to organize them first. Start by collecting all your photographs and make notes on the back so you know who’s in them. If you don’t know the people in the photo, then toss them.

For the ones, you want to keep, take high-resolution photos of them and compile them into a photo book. You can even keep it on the coffee table so guests can enjoy them without drowning in clutter. There is even nifty software like Footbridge which converts photo negatives into digital files.

Also, your drawers may overflow with documents such as old bank statements and appliance warranties. Be selective about the files you keep but shred any that display personal information for extra safety.

Now to Start Downsizing the Family Homes

Let’s be honest, downsizing the family home is a difficult and emotional process. Whether it’s clearing out vacation souvenirs to old photographs, deciding what stays and goes takes time and discipline.

To make the process less daunting, invite the family over to help. You’ll get to reminisce over good times and they can take home any of your old belongings to make the job easier. Good luck!

If you need somewhere to store your belongings as you move, we’re here to lend a hand. Contact us here for any inquiries.

Did you know that nearly 10% of all households in the United States rent a storage unit to deposit various goods? This is possible because there are more than 2 billion square feet of rentable space in the US alone.

But are storage units a good investment? Is it better to rent a storage unit or to buy one altogether? There are pros and cons for each situation, especially if you have a business and need extra space for your products. Keep reading this article to find out if renting a storage container is a good idea!

Are Storage Units a Good Investment? 5 Things To Consider

Whether you’re relocating to a new place or you just need some space to deposit your old collection of vinyls, you’re stuck with a dilemma – to rent or to buy? Here are 4 things to consider before making this decision.

1. For How Long You Need the Container?

Families that relocate to a new place might need a storage unit for just a couple of weeks or months. In such cases, a storage unit is ideal to deposit goods such as kitchen appliances, electronics, furniture items, old clothes, etc. These items are stored in a special container until you have enough time to move them to your new place.

If the storage period is around 4-6 months at most, it’s probably a good idea to just rent a storage unit. You pay a monthly fee for this space and when you’re done, you just give back the keys to the storage unit. There are no hidden charges, the fee you pay is determined by the size of the unit you rent, and you’re not stuck with a container at the end of the renting period.

2. Consider the Nature of Your Business

If you’re interested in more storage space to serve the needs of your business then you need to carefully consider your decision. For example, people in the retail business need extra space to store surpluses of goods and products for a few months each year. In this case, renting a large storage unit is probably a more cost-efficient solution.

On the other hand, if you’re in the construction business and you work with heavy machinery or building materials on a regular basis, buying a storage container might be a better option. That’s because the construction industry always needs to store extra materials or goods, regardless of the time of the year.

3. Consider Your Initial Budget

Most startups don’t have a lot of money to play with in the beginning. The initial budget of a company is usually limited and it needs to be channeled into multiple departments or projects. If you’re in this situation as well then renting a storage unit might be a better idea at the moment.

It depends on various factors, but most storage units in the US can be rented for around $100 or less per month. This is a small cost to pay and you get to store almost any type of goods in your container. On the other hand, buying a container might leave a substantial hole in your initial budget, so consider this option only if you really have to.

Although renting might be more accessible for new businesses, keep in mind that you need to avoid payment delays at all costs. Storage facilities will not wait for you to pay back several months’ worth of fees and they will simply sell your stuff or throw it away to reuse the container. It’s paramount for you to keep up with the monthly payments to reap the full benefits of a storage container.

4. Take Into Account the Types of Goods You Store

As mentioned earlier, storage units can accommodate a plethora of goods and you are allowed to store almost anything, except flammable and perishable items. However, certain products require special storage conditions. For example, if you want to deposit an old and valuable car in a safe space, you might need a tougher and more durable container. There are storage units specially designed for valuable items, so you might want to use those if necessary.

Similarly, what if you want to store items made from wood such as pianos? Wood is a material that expands or contracts, so you might need a climate-controlled storage unit. These containers are slightly more expensive and depending on the total storage period, renting might be a better solution instead of buying.

5. Consider the Transportation Options for Your Storage Unit

In most cases, you deliver your goods to a certain storage facility that has multiple storage units. However, it’s also possible to have the storage container delivered to you! This is very useful if you need to store valuable products on-site and always have an eye on them for security purposes.

If you work with a reliable provider and rent a storage unit, you will have the container delivered to your door. You use it for a certain period of time and when you’re done with it, you call the specialists to carry it back. You don’t need to worry about having a truck transport your container to your place.

On the other hand, if you buy a storage unit then you’ll eventually have to find a way to get it delivered to your place. If you don’t need it for a short period, it will occupy space in your property because you own it and you can’t send it back. Buying a container is more feasible if your storage needs extend for years.

Ready to Order Your First Storage Unit?

Hopefully, this article provided sufficient answers to your original question – are storage units a good investment? Keep in mind that renting a storage container is an important decision. We hope that the aforementioned aspects inspired you to make the right choice.

If you’re ready to rent, feel free to give us a call today! We have a plethora of containers in different sizes and they can be rented for an affordable monthly fee.

We all seek a more stress-free way of living. As living in a cluttered environment can contribute to mental health issues. It creates unhealthy habits and interferes with being able to focus on tasks.

Moving toward a minimalist lifestyle can prevent this. It offers you better organization tactics and more functional living space. Minimalism focuses on the single goal of simplifying your life.

Renting a storage container is one of the easiest and most efficient ways to do this. It allows you to reduce clutter and move things that create an unneeded distraction. This way you can embrace and showcase items that hold value and purpose in your life.

So, ready to live a more clutter-free lifestyle? Read on to learn how to become a storage container minimalist.

Go Room by Room

Before renting a storage container for minimalist living, you need a plan of action. Purging your entire home is a daunting task. It’s best to take it as a room by room process.

Start by clearing out one selected room of all its contents. This includes the inside of drawers, closets, and cabinets.

From this perspective, you can examine each of your living spaces. Determine which items have a priority in your home. Set aside items that don’t have a place in the home.

As you complete one room, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment. This will motivate you to continue the process.

Knowing you’ll have a storage container to keep items safe makes the process easier. This is one of the many benefits of rentable storage containers.

Here are a few room considerations for having a minimalist home with a storage container:

Bedrooms

The main source of bedroom clutter is the closet. This space tends to hold tons of clothing that you no longer wear. Most women only wear about 20% of the clothes in their closet.

One way to simplify is to switch your wardrobe with the seasons. Store summer clothes away during winter months and vise versa. Box up and store maternity and baby clothes for later use.

This helps to keep all your clothes well organized and easy to find when needed. Use organizational shelving and containers for shoes and handbags. Having a well-organized bedroom will even improve your sleeping patterns.

Kitchens

To keep the kitchen clutter-free, box up Tupperware and appliances that don’t get much use. Check cabinets for old or worn pots and pans and cookbooks. Put extra kitchen gadgets, plates, and silverware in storage.

Living Rooms

Do your best to keep shelving minimal with subtle decor. Throw away old magazines that never get read.

You can box up your DVD collection in exchange for movie streaming services. Many people also use their digital downloads for watching movies.

Home Office

You can keep previous files and records in storage. This is especially helpful for business owners with tons of paper records. You can also create a digital filing system for backup.

Garages and Sheds

Consider storing the lawnmower in the winter and the snowblower in the summer. You can also store gardening tools and outdoor toys during colder months.

Separate It All out

In going through the purge process, you’ll want to start categorizing the items in your home. The idea is to create a system that values quality over quantity.

Make a list of items you want to keep, but don’t have room for. You can use a rentable storage container for these items.

This can include picture albums, childhood artwork and crafts, and family heirlooms. Collector’s items and baby toys are also ideal to move to storage. You can even pack up extra furniture you don’t have room for.

A storage container for rent is perfect for things that still hold value but you have no immediate use for. This process also helps you to determine what size storage container is best for your needs.

You’ll also need to make a list of items to get rid of. Donate these to charity or throw them away. Some items can even get sold online for extra cash.

It can be hard to categorize your possessions when moving toward a storage container minimalist home. To help, think about how each item makes you feel.

If you have a big emotional connection to it then keep it. Otherwise, you won’t likely miss it after it’s gone.

Create a System for Your Storage Container

An organization system is key when moving your belongings into storage. This will teach you how to organize a storage container to easily find items.

It helps to create a master list and keep everything well labeled. Start by organizing by item type. Create categories for clothing, holiday decor, memorabilia, etc.

Using clear bins is helpful as you can see the contents of what’s inside. Here are more tips on the best way to organize a storage unit.

Keep a backup list of all your items in storage. A digital version on Google Docs allows you to easily make edits.

Live by the Process

Having a minimalist home with a storage container is a process to live by. So make minimalism your new life philosophy from here on out.

You can make the home purging process an annual event. It’s also a great idea to do this before you move into a new home or before a new baby arrives. It helps you to get ready for these big life events.

This process makes it simple to keep your home clean and well-maintained. You’ll find it easier to get rid of stuff you don’t use. A storage container keeps items that you don’t need access to all the time well-organized.

You’ll also be more budget-conscious when buying new items. You’ll focus on spending money on items that you will keep for the rest of your life. Your home and lifestyle will have more space for items that spark joy.

Becoming a Storage Container Minimalist

A storage container minimalist often has a happier and healthier home and lifestyle.  Their home is better organized with more functional living spaces.

This allows them to feel less stressed and more focused. They also have a greater appreciation for the items in their home.

Learn more about how renting a storage container can help you declutter your home and simplify your lifestyle.

Moving is tough enough, but relocating an entire business can be a real headache.

If you’re prepping to move your business location and need some extra storage during the transition, a storage container can be a huge help.

Check out these 10 ways choosing a storage container can benefit your business while you deal with the moving process.

1. Stash Your Overstock

If you’re relocating a retail store, you likely have plenty of extra inventory to worry about. A storage container gives you a place to keep all of your overstock items until you’re ready for items to hit the shelves.

Using the container will free up extra space in your store, and you can easily access anything you want to display or sell later. This is especially helpful if you don’t have a warehouse.

Use the storage container to hold holiday and seasonal items, liquidated inventory, or anything you’ve bought in bulk.

2. Create a Staging Area for Your Business Location

If you’re moving but you simply don’t know where to put tables, desks, and chairs, a storage container can hold your furniture. Once you’re ready to arrange everything and put it in its place, you can easily remove pieces as you go.

This tactic will take off the pressure when you relocate since you won’t feel like you have to put everything in the new location all at once. Keep items neatly stored and simply remove them slowly until you’ve got items organized the way you want them.

3. Storage Containers Are Budget-Friendly

When you move a business location, there are plenty of overhead costs. Everything from changing your information in print and online to buying new items for the office can really add up over time.

A storage container is a lot more budget-friendly than many alternatives. Shop around and find a company who offers an assortment of sizes that will fit your unique needs and your allotted budget for moving.

4. You Can Always Upgrade

If you’re concerned that you won’t have enough space, you’ll have plenty of flexibility with a storage container. There are a few options you can choose including renting an additional unit or simply upsizing the one you currently have.

Thanks to this flexibility, you don’t need to stress about lack of space. Whether you need to size up or down, there are plenty of choices available that can easily accommodate your business relocation needs.

5. Keep Your Stuff On-Site

Many storage container companies will deliver right to your door. If you have this option, it makes moving in a whole lot easier.

You can simply keep items like inventory, furniture, and office electronics stored in your parking lot or another location and then retrieve them whenever you need them. By having this option available, it’s much easier than having to go back and forth between two locations.

Find out if you can have a storage container delivered to you. If so, the move-in process will definitely be less stressful and go much more smoothly.

6. Security

A heavy-duty storage container made of steel is almost completely burglar-proof. As long as your container includes a durable lock, your business items should be well-protected.

An industrial-grade lock will give you peace of mind and you can keep your assets safe and secure while you move everything into the new location. Storage containers are almost completely impenetrable from the outside. And since they’re extremely heavy, it’s highly unlikely anyone is going to run away with your stuff.

7. Weather-Resistant Storage

From wooden desks to computer servers, your business items need to be protected from the weather. A storage container is weather-resistant, which means it’s impervious to things like rain, humidity, and other elements.

Storing your items in one of these units will keep them protected from more than potential criminals. Thanks to the weather-resistant design, storage containers will maintain the integrity of your goods so you can focus on the business at hand.

8. Safer Moving

Since storage containers are placed flat on the ground, you won’t need to worry about using hand trucks, ramps, and lifting straps. All you have to do is open the front door and directly move your items into the office or retail space.

Using a moving truck requires ramps and you’ll need to be able to go up and down continuously as you take things out. With a storage container, everything is ground-level which makes transporting items back and forth much easier and safer, too.

9. A Temporary Office Space

Aside from moving your items to the new business location, storage containers can also double as a short-term office space. Due to their large size and high ceilings, you can temporarily assign someone to use the container as their workspace.

While it’s not common nor is it a permanent solution, this is a great way to keep workers working while you start moving things into the office.

10. Easy Removal

Perhaps one of the best things about using a storage container for your business move is the easy, streamlined removal of the unit. After you’ve completed your move, simply call the rental company for a pick-up.

Be sure to check the container and make sure that you haven’t left anything behind. A quick phone call later, and your storage container is now gone and off your property.

Business Storage Made Easy

If you’re stressed about moving your business location, ease the worry with a durable storage container. These flexible storage options make it a breeze to keep your goods protected until you’re ready for the final move-in.

Contact us today to request a free quote, and be sure to visit our blog for helpful storage tips and a whole lot more.