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Cost-Effective Portable Storage Containers for All Your Storage Needs

Last Updated: January 17, 2023

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Summary: Storage Container Pricing #

Renting a portable storage container will cost $200 to $300 per month. Buying a new storage container will cost $3,000 to $5,000 on average while buying a used container will lower that cost to $1,000 to $4,000. All pricing is dependant on size and condition of the container.

Looking for some storage space? Need a convenient way to move items from one location to another? Portable storage containers offer way of doing one or both of these things.

Portable storage containers, also called mobile storage containers, completely changed the storage industry. There's no longer a need to cart truckloads of items back and forth to a self-storage facility or an off-site warehouse: Portable storage containers are delivered right to you.

Portable storage containers are available for personal or commercial use. They can be stored at your home or business, or they can be stored in a secure, off-site location. They can be shipped across the country or right down the street. And they're available for short-term or long-term storage in a variety of sizes.

About Portable Storage Containers #

Consumers might need portable storage containers for moving or storing extra household items. Some people use portable storage containers to store furniture or other items while their home is for sale or being renovated. Businesses use mobile storage containers for moving, renovations, extra storage or even temporary office space.

Mobile storage containers can be purchased or rented. Most consumers should opt for rentals, but businesses that have long-term storage needs might find it more economical to purchase a storage container. Many vendors offer both sales and rentals and can walk you through the pros and cons of each option.

Unlike moving trucks, portable storage containers are flat to the ground for easy loading and unloading. They're secure, weather-proof, and climate controlled. A variety of sizes are available, but the most popular for consumers are 12' to 16' tall. For businesses, the most common sizes are 20' to 40' tall.

Portable Storage Containers Average Costs #

A 20', mobile storage container costs an average of $1,000 to $4,000. A 40' container averages only a little more at $3,000 to $7,000. Volume discounts are available if you purchase multiple storage containers.

Budget extra money if your business storage unit needs to be customized. Some companies need refrigerated storage containers, while others need shelving installed. Customization usually costs $50 to $100 per hour, not including the cost of materials.

Businesses also have the option to lease portable storage containers for anywhere from $200 to $600 per month, depending on the type of storage container and the length of the lease. Consumers can usually rent them for about $200 to $300 per month.

Storage containers don't need to be fancy. They're purely functional, providing extra space when you need it. That's why there's little lost in choosing a used portable storage container over a new one.

Many vendors that sell new storage containers also offer used ones. They buy old containers that are no longer in use and completely refurbish them. They do so by repairing or replacing broken parts, resealing the container, and repainting. In some cases, used storage containers look brand new.

You also have the option of purchasing an "as is" container that hasn't been refurbished. The price will be considerably lower but there won't be any guarantees about security, durability or weatherproofing. It's up to you whether to make that gamble.

No matter which option you choose, delivery will cost an extra $100 to $500. Delivery charges are usually based on proximity. Therefore, it benefits to choose a vendor that is in close proximity. Some vendors have maximum travel distances. Be sure to ask right out how far they're willing to travel and what their service area is.

Buying a Used Storage Container #

Just like new storage containers, used storage containers can be dry, refrigerated, insulated, or non-insulated. Most containers are weather-proof and almost all have secure locking systems to keep your items safe.

The downside to buying used is that you won't get to custom build or design your storage container. If it was modified to suit the needs of another business, you'll have to live with those modifications. However, they're fairly standard.

Prior to delivery of your storage container, you need to identify a spot on your property that is large enough for the container. When in doubt, measure. You'll also need a surface that is completely flat. Identifying the right location for your storage container will make your life a lot easier on delivery day.

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