What to Know About Portable Self Storage
Portable self-storage will solve a heap of problems when you move from house to house. You may decide on a portable storage container or PODS. If you are planning on traveling lightly until your next house is ready, fill your POD, the storage company will remove it and store it for you!
Some folks also like to use a moving container in order to declutter their home before selling. It is a great way to make your home far more presentable to buyers, which in the long run can help sell your property for more money.
Real Estate agents are constantly preaching about the need for a home to be staged in order to get top dollar. You should listen to them as it is solid advice!
What could be simpler, just arrange your insurance with the company, pack the POD, and get it stored at a reasonable daily rate. You can also keep a portable moving container right in your yard if you choose to. Doing so will avoid additional storage costs.
If you decide renting a Pod is the route you want to take, it will be advisable to speak to one of the best moving and storage container companies. Years ago, the PODS company was the only game in town, but now there are many more choices when moving.
In the end, after researching which moving container company to choose, you may end up renting from PODS. Without a doubt, you will have made a solid choice.
Let's take a deeper look into some of the things you should know about storage containers.
What is a POD?
Have you ever seen a shipping container in someone's yard? I had seen them used when a massive renovation was taking place. PODS are a better option and are a cross between a shipping container and a storage unit and come in several sizes.
A small moving container of 7 feet will store two rooms, 12-foot stores three rooms, and 16-foot up to four rooms.
It sits on the ground and is easily loaded when taking it to the storage center. If you want to keep it in your house, have it delivered and keep it as long as you need it or until the move is over.
The PODS are better than a shipping container because they are much less expensive to remove. If you ask to move a laden shipping container to the storage, the company says no, unload it and store your belongings in a proper storage unit.
They only allow a container if it is not being moved to storage. However, some people are now buying shipping containers to leave on rural properties as a shed alternative. But for easily removable storage, you need a POD.
Portable storage has become a viable alternative for those who forgo a professional moving company and instead choose a do-it-yourself move.
How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Portable Moving Container?
Knowing exactly how much it will cost to rent a storage container will depend on quite a few factors, including your location, the time of the year, who you rent from, and how large the container is going to be.
Most of the moving container companies are fairly competitive with one another. You can get an idea of what it costs to rent from PODS. The other storage container businesses will be in the same general ballpark.
You can expect to pay around $1000 for a small local move and as much as $6000 for a long-distance move.
Frequently Asked Questions About Portable Storage
Can You Keep Your Portable Storage in Your Driveway?
In most local areas, you can, without any issue at all. It is worth checking with the local zoning department if you have never seen a portable moving container in your location. If they require a planning application, have your stuff sent to a storage center. Doing so is easier than arguing with the town officials.
The company will collect it from you for the safe storage of your possessions in your POD. If you plan on renting a moving truck, you can also just take your things and load them onto the truck when you're ready.
There are quite a few excellent moving truck companies to choose from. Like any other company, be sure to do your due diligence. U-Haul is a top company to rent from, and you can also kill two birds with one stone as they have portable storage options as well.
Is The Pod Container Weatherproof?
No, they may not hold up to extreme weather, and if there were a flood, they certainly wouldn't, so don't leave them outside for too long. It would be better to think of them as weather resistant.
Can The Portable Storage Unit Be Locked?
Yes, supply your own lock and lock it to keep your belongings secure. Some portable storage container companies will already have a locking mechanism as part of the moving container.
Can I Use My a Pod at My Rural Retreat?
Yes, you can keep it onsite at your property for as long as required, a good and not expensive option. It is great for storing excess furniture and other household stuff, and if you are renovating, it allows you a lot more room to move. As previously mentioned, having a POD is an exceptional way to get your home looking fantastic before it is listed for sale.
How Long Can I Keep a Moving Container?
You can keep the pod for as long as you like. Many companies like to be paid by the month, which is a low-cost way of doing it without too much hassle. Delivery, pickups, and freight costs, of course, all cost extra.
The best way to do it is to get a full quote upfront, and then you know where you stand. To me, this is a much less stressful way to move stuff around.
What if I am Moving to Another State?
Portable moving containers can be taken as freight across state borders. Get a quote from the company, and decide from there. If you are moving away, it will allow you to pack at your own pace. More and more people are choosing to move with a portable storage container company.
Do I Need to Take Out An Insurance Policy?
Yes, it is advisable to take out insurance against loss and damage. When your precious things are being stored, and transported insurance is essential.
Talk to the company about your insurance options. Never skimp on insurance. With most containers and PODS, you probably won't have any damage from the weather, but it is always better to be safe than sorry.
Feedback on Using a Pod For Your Move
Pods are now very popular and have become a great portable moving container solution. One of the good things about them is that you can slow down your move to fit your time frame by having a pod for a month or two. When you are settled in your new home, the POD can be delivered on request for you to unpack.
If you are planning on hiring movers, don't forget to ask them some questions as well. Having the answers you want to hear will increase the odds for a much more pleasant moving experience.
Hopefully, you have found this information on renting a portable storage container to be useful. Best of luck with your move!
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