What You Need To Know Before You Get Container Rentals

August 28th, 2011

Getting container rentals can be a great decision that can help you with a number of different projects ranging from moves to storage needs.  Many people have started to use these products to help make their lives easier in a number of different ways.  In fact, the interest in these containers has sky rocketed.  Here, we have put together a list of information you should know about them before you get yours.

One of the first things you should recognize is that different companies will offer different service plans.  Some companies focus their business model on providing it for brief periods to help with moving tasks and others focus their attention on providing longer term usage plans to customers for use as storage purposes.  Therefore, it is important you pick a company that fits your underlying needs whether it be for storage or moving purposes.

A second thing you should know is with regard to the sizes.  Most of the containers have the same height and width which is 8 feet by 8 feet.  However, there can be a wide variance when it comes to the length.  You usually will find either companies that sell only one standard size with a length of around 8 feet and will simply sell you several of them if you need more space or you will find companies that offer 3 different sizes that increase in the length like 12 ft, 18 ft, and 24 ft.  Of course, the actual length will vary depending on the company.  The smaller sizes will be able to fit in a parking space but the larger sizes will be more suited to a drive way or other areas.

A third thing you should keep in mind is that although these containers are durable against a lot of weather issues, they are not resistant to all weather conditions.  In extreme temperatures, these containers can suffer and so one should make sure they are in an area where these can be avoided or take additional steps to safeguard items stored inside.  With any portable setup, there is only so much a company can really offer in terms of protection against extreme weather.  One option that companies do offer is the ability to store these containers at a climate controlled facility which may be useful at the times when weather becomes extreme.  With this said, most find these containers to work effectively in the vast majority of areas.

By keeping all these different things in mind, you should be more aware of some of the issues regarding container rentals.  This should help ensure that have your eyes wide open when getting your rental.

Why Choose Moving Containers Over Moving Trucks?

August 25th, 2011

Many people each day must decide whether to use moving containers or rent moving trucks.  This can be a tough question as many people are not familiar with using moving containers and are unsure about something new.  Here, we take a closer look at some of the advantages of choosing containers over moving trucks.

One of the best advantages of using moving containers is that you have more control over the loading and unloading process.  These containers allow you to do these tasks according to your schedule rather than having to rush to complete these tasks in several hours so you can get the truck back on time.  This convenience of being able to load for a couple of hours and then load additional items over the course of a few days or weeks can be helpful to many with busy schedules.  It is also a benefit to those with limited mobility or some type of physical limitation.  Plus, it can be a nice benefit to those who know they may have to drop everything to address a pending situation at work or within their family.

A second benefit to using the moving containers over trucks is that they are easier to load and unload.  This is because the design of the containers is made for easier loading.  The entrance is level to the ground compared to having to use an inclined ramp on a moving truck.  This means you can just walk right in and out.  You also do not have to work around anything like wheel hubs in a moving truck as the space inside the containers is uniform in a square like or rectangular like shape and the ceilings to the containers are all at least 7 or 8 feet tall.  All this combines to make it very easy to complete the process in comparison.

A third benefit to using these containers is you will not have to take immediate possession and unload.  Instead, you can leave the items in the container in the driveway of your new home, parking space, or backyard.  Or you could even take them to a climate controlled offsite facility.  These conveniences all allow you more latitude in your travel plans and ensure your items remain protected at your new home.  Then, you will get the benefit of being able to unload at a leisurely pace as well as it suits your schedule.

Of course, there are many other benefits to using moving containers over moving trucks.  However, this should give you some idea why many people are choosing them over other options.

Tips On Getting The Most Out Of Moving Containers

August 22nd, 2011

Moving containers can be a wonderful thing that will make your next move much easier.  Many people before you have used them to help make what can be a challenging time of transition much more manageable.  The fact is they have become extremely popular over the last few years and this demand should only grow in the future.  Of course, there are some things that you can do to get more value out of your service.  Here, we have provided a list of tips you can use to do just that:

1.       Load up to about 85% capacity.

It is important not to overload your container.  By leaving about 15% room, you can help yourself out considerably.  One reason for this is that it leaves room in the event that you realize you need to add in a few more boxes at the end.  The other thing it does is make it easier for you to take out a box or item if you realize you packed something that should not have been packed.  It is also helpful to leave a small walkway in the middle of the container until the end b/c this will make it much easier to access any boxes prior to having the container shipped.

2.       Do not put boxes in the way of the doorway.

It is also important to not overload and put boxes by the doorway as this can create a bar to opening and closing the door.  Therefore, to avoid this issue, you should make sure you leave some room around the door.  This will help reduce the risk of this issue and better ensure you have a properly working door.

3.       Make an inventory sheet of what is in all the boxes.

It is also helpful if you create a simple inventory sheet of what is in each box and mark the boxes.  This will make it easier to unload as you will know where everything is at a glance.  However, it can also let you know immediately where an object is in the event that you loaded up something you did not mean to or want to add an item and put it with similar items.  A simple system of marking the boxes with letters and then listing items under each box letter will suffice.

By keeping these different things in mind, you should have a good idea of how to get more out of your moving containers.

What Is Cool About Moving Containers

August 19th, 2011

It may be hard to believe that something like moving containers could become cool.  But this event has happened as they are starting to turn up in neighborhoods and streets everywhere as the word has gotten out about their value.  This is marked charge from even a few years ago where they were an unknown quantity.  Regardless, their demand has skyrocketed to the point that moving companies have been forced to adjust their inventories to account for this demand from customers.  Here, we take a look at several reasons why business is booming for these products.

One reason these items have become popular is they are very convenient.  Now, customers can load and unload their items according to their schedule and do not have to do everything in one day.  They don’t have to worry about rushing to make sure the moving truck is returned back on time and don’t have to worry about climbing over ramps and wheel hubs.  Instead, they can load when they have the time to do so and can do this over several days or weeks.  This makes the moving process much more manageable.

A second reason people like these containers is that they allow the moving companies to do the driving rather than having to rent a moving truck to drive.  Most people who have driven a rental truck know how frustrating an experience this can be.  They are more than happy to turn over the keys to professionals as these containers can easily be fitted on the back of trailers for transport.

A third reason these containers are popular is that they can fit in a backyard, driveway, or even a parking space.  This makes it easy for people to accommodate whether they live in a home, condo, apartment.  Plus, since they can fit in a parking space, they can work well in the busy city too.  This versatility makes them easy to use too as all that is needed to move them is a lift system or forklift which the moving companies will do for you.

A fourth reason these containers have become popular is the tough economic times have created an opportunity for more need than usual.  Many people find themselves in a state of transition whether it be moving to find new jobs, going through a divorce, having to move into a smaller home.  All these situations create a scenario where the containers can help.  Since they are so handy because of their features, they provide a great choice over other alternatives.

By keeping these different reasons in mind, you should be able to see why the demand is sky high for moving containers.

Popular Features Of Moving Containers

August 17th, 2011

Moving containers have become all the rage.  You can now find them in just about every neighborhood as they have a number of benefits to them that customers really like.  In fact, they quickly gaining market share over other traditional options like renting moving trucks and moving vans.  Here, we take a look at several different features that allow these products to stand apart.

1.       Durable design to keep elements out.

These containers are made to take a pounding.  They can stand up well to a wide range of weather conditions ranging from snow, sleet, rain, strong winds and more.  They can actually hold up to over 100 hour winds and are effective in most climates.  The only challenges are when you get into extreme temperatures.  Many are also designed to withstand mildew effects too.

2.       Uniform design for easy loading and unloading.

The structure of these containers is normally a square like or rectangular like design where the width and height of the container is suited for one to easily get in and out.  The entrance is level to the ground allowing you to walk right in with ease and the ceiling is at least 7 or 8 feet tall allowing you to avoid having to duck your head.  The inside space is also uniform making it perfect for storing boxes and it does not have the obstacles that moving trucks have in this regard with rickety ramps and wheel hubs.

3.       Flexible structure for easy portability.

The containers are also designed to be easy to move.  All that is needed to move them is to contact the moving company who will use a forklift or lift system to put them on a moving trailer for transport.  Then, when you are done unloading, they will come by to pick it up and take it away.  It really is that simple of a process.

4.       Versatility for many different purposes.

You are aware of their value as a moving device but these containers can also be used for a number of different storage purposes.  They are uniquely suited to help you in any occasion where portable storage would be helpful.  This provides for a great deal of versatility and value as you can reap these same benefits for many different projects.

By keeping these different points in mind, you should be better able to see the value in the different features of moving containers.

What Makes Moving Containers So Special

August 15th, 2011

Moving containers do not have a long history.  However, this has not kept them from turning up in many neighborhoods across the country.  Their popularity has arisen to the point where they are a strong contender with other traditional moving options like moving vans and moving trucks.  Here, we take a look at several reasons why these containers have become so popular.

One reason why people like these containers is because they are easy to use.  Since the moving company will deliver the containers where you want them and pick them up to move when you want, it allows you the freedom to load and unload your items at your leisure.  This is a great convenience for those who have a busy schedule or can’t allocate enough time in one day to make a move.  This helps many who may have to drop everything to address some event or are dealing with a physical limitation that limits how much they can do at any one time.

A second way these containers can be helpful is that they are designed for easy loading and unloading.  They have an entrance that is level to the ground that makes it easy to walk in and out of.  Also, the doors swing open to allow easy access.  Plus, the ceiling of the moving containers are 7 or 8 feet tall making it tall enough for even the tallest of loaders.  This means you don’t have to worry about banging your head on the ceiling.  In addition, it has a uniform shape that makes it easy to put items in and out.  This makes for faster loading and reduces the risk that you will trip as you do not have to climb over any wheel hubs or other obstacles that are common on moving trucks.

A third way the moving containers are useful is that they do not require you to take possession immediately.  You can have the company drop them off and they can remain for a couple days or weeks as they are locked up.  This means you will not be forced to be there when they arrive like full service movers.  In addition, you can even have the containers stored in climate controlled facilities if you desire.

By keeping all these different things in mind, you should be able to see why moving containers have become so popular.  If you are like others, you will find there is a great deal of value to these containers.

Different Ways You Can Use Moving Containers

August 13th, 2011

Moving Containers have become a popular choice for helping people.  This clever invention has only been in existence for about 15 years but it already has created significant changes in the moving industry where it has gained ground over other options.  However, there are other ways these containers can be used beyond moving.  Here, we take a look at a few other ways these containers can help you.

One way these containers help you is with home remodeling or home improvement projects.  These projects are popular option for many people who are looking to keep their costs low by doing the work themselves.  This often leads to them needing to make room in the area of the home where the work is to be done or needing to find a place to the tools and supplies they will need.  A great solution to both of these problems is to use these containers as on-site storage.  This can help one more easily attack these projects as space can be made to do the work and the items still be protected.  Also, by keeping this storage on-site, it is easier for people to reach items when they need them.

A second way these containers can be used is to help small and medium sized business.  They can help in a number of different ways ranging from storing extra documents and office equipment to helping provide portable storage space.  Many people have used them to help them sell items as vendors at sporting events, flea markets, concerts, parades, and other outdoor events.  This method is particularly effective because these containers can be placed just about anywhere and can even fit in a parking space.  Therefore, they are very versatile in what they can be used for and the different events.

A third way these containers can be used is for those who are helping their kids teams and groups.  These containers can be used to help setup or run sporting events like baseball and soccer tournaments.  In addition, the containers can be used to help with other events like camping trips where supplies can easily be stored in the container for the big campout or they could help girl scouts sell their cookies by storing supplies at the shopping centers where they sell them.

There are also plenty more other ways these moving containers can be used.  However, this should give you an idea of some of the different ways these containers can be used.

How To Best Use Moving Containers

July 24th, 2011

Moving containers can be a great asset to your next move.  They are portable, durable and can easily fit in a driveway, parking space, or backyard.  This makes it very convenient for you to load them and unload them at your convenience.  However, there are some things you can do to get more out of your container.  Here, we provide a list of tips that you can use to make a great product even better.

One of the first things that you should keep in mind is that you do not want to fill your container to maximum occupancy.  Instead, you want to fill it to about 85 to 80%.  The reason you want to leave open some additional space is if you have any last minute items that you will need to add and also so that the boxes will not weigh against the door making it harder to open because of getting in the way of the door mechanism.

A second thing you will want to do is make an inventory list of your boxes where you know what is in each box.  A simple letter system like box A with items 1. Pens, 2. Plates, 3. Lamp, etc. can work fine.  This system will help make it easier for you to unload items when you complete your move.  However, it will also make it easier for you to find a last minute item if you mistakenly pack something that you find you later need.

A third thing you will want to do is initially create a walkway the size of a standard box in the middle of the container.  This can make it easier to reach boxes already stored in the container and then when you are ready to have this moving container moved to your new home, you can fill in this walkway with boxes.  This will allow you to better utilize the space.

A fourth thing you may want to do is use a few smaller rectangular boxes to brace the walls created by the container at the top of the moving container.  This will help keep these walls in place and less likely to move around in the event of an accident or an abrupt stop when it is transported to your new home.  Of course, you will want to make sure there is nothing of value in these rectangular boxes so to make sure those items aren’t damaged.

By applying these different tips, you should be able to get more out of moving containers.

Why Moving Containers Beat Moving Trucks

July 22nd, 2011

When people are planning a move, they will find that they have two options if they do it themselves: moving containers or moving trucks.  The latter has been the traditional option that has been used by many people for users.  It is a productive solution that can get the job done; however, it is by no means the best option.  Here, we take a look at several reasons why it fells to stack up against the newest option (moving containers) to the moving industry.

Moving containers are a very popular option because they do not have the hidden cost that moving trucks have.  One does not have to worry about gasoline costs, mileage costs, risk of damage to the truck, etc.  Instead, customers know exactly what they are paying and more often than not will pay less.  The no surprises is very appealing to customers who have been hit with hidden fees from moving companies.

A second benefit to these containers is that they provide the customer with a great deal more flexibility.  There is not a big rush to get the moving done so the truck can be taken back to avoid additional costs.  Instead, you are given days or weeks to load the container at your leisure.  This is perfect for those who have a busy schedule or who may have to be able to drop everything to address a potential event.  The result is a lot less stressful loading process.

A third benefit is that the loading and unloading is much easier with moving containers.  With a uniform storage space, high ceilings, and level to the ground entrance, customers can easily walk in and out with their boxes.  This makes it easier and faster to load and unload.  In contrast, one has to navigate sometimes questionable ramps and climb over wheel hubs and more to load moving trucks.  The result is a greater risk of injury and potentially damaging some items by dropping them in this setting.

A fourth benefit is that you do not have to do any driving with these containers.  This should grant a big sigh of relief from all those who have had to drive a bulky moving truck.  Nobody enjoys driving these things as they are hard to navigate, harder to turn, slower to stop and more.  Basically, the whole driving process takes more time and there is a greater risk of an accident.  Instead, this can all be avoided with moving containers which have the moving company move the container for you.  This results in your items more likely to arrive at your location in the way that they left.

Of course, there are plenty of other benefits to using moving containers over moving trucks.  However, the above should give you some ideas as to why people are starting to opt for them over the more traditional options.  Perhaps it is time you joined the list.

Different Ways You Can Use Moving Containers Besides Moving

July 20th, 2011

Most people are aware that moving containers can help with moves.  After all, the word moving is in the name.  However, what they may be less aware of is that it can be used for a whole lot more than moving.  In fact, there is a whole range of possible storage projects it could be used for.  Here, we have put together a list of some other ways these containers can be used.

One way these containers can be used is to help clear out space in your home.  Some people have found that their home has some excess junk in it that needs to be cleared out.  This could be because it is starting to overwhelm the house or it could be because they are trying to make room for a relative that is moving in.

A second way these containers can be used is to help with difficult life changes.  If you are having to close down a business or move it to your home, you will often find the need to store additional items and on-site storage can be very helpful in storing these items.  Also, these storage containers can be used to store home office items like financial records from past years or file backups.

A third way these containers can be used is to help with sporting events for your kids.  This can allow you to help them sell girl scout cookies at the local supermarket as the supplies can be stored in the container or you could help your son’s baseball team by hosting a baseball tournament where the supplies are stored inside it.  Another variation here could be to help with camping supplies or many other activities as well.

A fourth way these could be used is to help with home stagings.  If you are planning on selling your home, it can sometimes be helpful to clear out some extra items so that prospective clients can see what the potential of the home is.  These storage containers make it easy to keep these items on-site but out of the way.  This can help allow you to bring in some higher bids.

By keeping all these different things in mind, you should recognize that there are a wide variety of different ways these moving containers can be used that go far beyond just moving.  We suspect that you will be like many who have found these things to be very helpful to them in a number of different ways.