Moving can be a daunting and overwhelming experience, with endless tasks and tight timelines often adding to the stress. However, portable storage containers have emerged as a game-changing solution to make moving much easier and more efficient. These versatile containers provide flexibility and convenience, offering a seamless way to pack, store, and transport your belongings at your own pace. Whether you’re moving across town or the country, storage containers can help simplify the process and reduce the challenges associated with traditional moving methods.
This blog will take a closer look at what storage containers are, how they work, and the scenarios where they can be most beneficial during your move. By the time you’re finished reading, you’ll have a clear understanding of why portable storage containers are becoming an increasingly popular choice for a smoother, more convenient move.
What Is a Storage Container for Moving?
Moving can be stressful, especially when it comes to figuring out how to transport and store your belongings. Storage containers for moving offer a convenient, flexible solution for individuals and families looking to simplify the process. These portable units are designed to securely hold your items while providing the option to move them to your new location, store them temporarily, or both.
What It Is
A storage container is a secure, weatherproof, and lockable portable unit that makes moving and storage much easier. These containers are typically made from durable materials like steel or heavy-duty composites, ensuring your belongings are protected from harsh weather, pests, and damage during transit. Whether you’re downsizing, relocating to a new city, or planning a renovation, storage containers provide a reliable way to keep your items safe and organized.
20-Foot Storage Container: Size and Capacity
A 20-foot storage container is the ideal solution for larger storage needs. It can hold the contents of a 3-bedroom home, including:
- Couches and beds
- Appliances (like refrigerators and washers)
- Dining tables and chairs
- Dozens of boxes and other belongings
Perfect for moving or long-term storage, this size offers ample space while keeping your items secure. Containers can be delivered to your home, allowing you to load at your own pace before being transported or stored at a secure facility. The 20-foot option provides a flexible and efficient way to handle big moves or major storage needs.
Shipping Container Features
Our Western Moving shipping and storage containers are designed to provide durability, security, and versatility for a variety of storage and transportation needs. Here’s a closer look at the features that make them stand out:
- Corten Steel Construction
Built with high-quality Corten steel, these containers are highly durable and resistant to corrosion, ensuring long-lasting performance in any environment.
- Weatherproof Design
Engineered to withstand extreme weather conditions, these containers keep your belongings safe, dry, and secure, no matter the climate.
- Watertight Construction
The containers are completely watertight, protecting your items from rain, moisture, and other elements that could cause damage.
- Ground-Level Entry
Easy access through ground-level doors allows for convenient loading and unloading, removing the need for additional equipment.
- Load-Rated Wood Flooring
Each container features sturdy, load-rated wooden floors, offering both strength and stability for heavy items and equipment.
- Side Vents for Airflow
Designed with side vents, these containers promote proper airflow to reduce condensation and maintain a stable interior environment for stored goods.
- Securely Closing Cargo Doors
Heavy-duty cargo doors close securely, providing peace of mind that your items are safely locked away.
- Delivery Available via Tilt-Bed or Flatbed Trailer
We offer flexible delivery options, whether you prefer a tilt-bed or flatbed trailer for easy unloading.
- Delivery Requires 60 Feet of Space
To ensure safe and efficient delivery, a minimum of 60 feet of space is required for proper placement of the container at your site.
How Do Storage Containers Work When You Move?
Storage containers offer a flexible and convenient solution for moving, whether you’re relocating across town or to a different province. They combine the convenience of packing at your own pace with the professional help of transportation and storage services. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how the process works and why it could be the perfect option for your move.
Step-by-Step Overview
- Delivery: The storage container is delivered directly to your home, placed in a convenient spot for easy access. No need to rush—it’s there when you’re ready.
- Loading: Pack your belongings at your own pace. You can organize and load items in a way that works best for you, without the stress of a tight moving schedule.
- Pickup and Transport: Once you’re ready, the moving company picks up the container and transports it to your new location. If you’re not ready for delivery just yet, they can store it securely at a facility until you’re ready to unpack.
- Unloading: When you’re ready to settle into your new home, the container is delivered to your new location. You can unpack at your own pace, ensuring a smooth and stress-free transition.
Local and Long-Distance Options
Storage containers are a great option for all types of moves, whether you’re staying within Alberta or relocating to another province. They’re ideal for local moves, providing an easy way to transport your belongings across short distances. For long-distance moves, they save you from the hassle of driving a moving truck and offer added flexibility with storage options if needed.
Benefits of Using a Storage Container During a Move
Moving can be stressful, but storage containers offer a flexible and convenient solution to make the process smoother. Whether you’re transitioning to a new home, downsizing, or renovating, here’s how using a storage container can simplify your move:
- Move at your own pace: Forget the rush of moving everything in one day. Storage containers let you pack and unpack on your schedule, reducing the pressure and allowing for a more organized approach.
- Declutter while selling or staging your home: Preparing your home for sale? Use a storage container to temporarily remove excess items, creating a clean and open space that appeals to potential buyers.
- Fewer steps: Traditional moving requires loading and unloading multiple times. With portable storage, you pack everything once into the container and unload it directly at your new home, saving time and effort.
- Bridge possession date gaps: If there’s a gap between leaving your old home and moving into the new one, storage containers offer a safe place to keep your belongings until your move-in date.
- Secure temporary storage: Is your new home not quite ready yet? Storage containers provide a secure, weatherproof option to keep your items protected until the space is ready.
- Perfect for downsizing or renovations: If you’re downsizing, a storage container gives you the time to sort through belongings at your own pace. For renovations, it keeps your furniture and valuables safe from dust and damage.
When Is Renting a Storage Container a Good Idea?
Sometimes, life requires a little extra space. Renting a storage container can be a practical, flexible solution for a variety of situations. Whether you’re moving, renovating, or simply decluttering, a storage container helps keep your belongings safe and accessible while you figure out your next steps. Below are some common scenarios where renting a storage container makes perfect sense, along with their benefits.
- Selling your home and need to stage it
Decluttering is key to making your home more appealing to buyers. A storage container allows you to safely store excess furniture and personal items, creating a clean, welcoming space for showings.
- Delayed possession dates
If you’re between homes due to delayed possession dates, a storage container gives you a safe place to keep your belongings until you’re ready to move into your new home.
- Downsizing or moving into a smaller space
Moving to a smaller home might mean parting with some items, but it doesn’t have to happen all at once. A storage container gives you time to sort through your belongings without feeling rushed.
- Long-distance or cross-province moves
Moving far away can be stressful, but a storage container simplifies the process. Your items can be securely packed and transported at your pace, giving you peace of mind during the transition.
- Renovating your current or new home
Renovations can create a lot of chaos, but a storage container keeps your furniture and belongings safe from dust, debris, and potential damage. It also frees up space, making it easier to complete your project efficiently.
How to Pack a Storage Container Properly
Packing a storage container can seem daunting, but doing it the right way ensures your belongings stay safe and organized. Whether you’re preparing for a move or storing items long-term, effective packing helps maximize space, protect your belongings, and make unloading easier. Follow these tips to load your storage container safely and efficiently.
Tips for Safe and Efficient Loading
- Use Small, Uniform Boxes
Opt for smaller, similarly sized boxes to make stacking easier and maximize the use of available space. Uniform boxes reduce the chances of shifting during transit and help create a sturdy base.
- Load Heavy Items on the Bottom
Always place heavy items, such as appliances or large furniture, at the base of the container to maintain balance. Lighter items should go on top to prevent damage and make stacking more stable.
- Wrap Furniture for Protection
Protect your furniture by wrapping it with blankets or stretch wrap. This helps prevent scratches, dings, and dirt while your items are in storage or transit.
- Create Accessible Aisles
If you’ll need access to items during storage, leave small aisles so you can reach specific boxes without unpacking the entire container. Plan and keep frequently needed items near the entrance.
- Label Boxes Clearly by Room
Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. This will make unpacking more efficient and help you stay organized at your destination.
What Not to Put in a Storage Container
When using a storage container, it’s important to know what items should be left out to ensure safety, security, and the preservation of your belongings. While storage containers are a great solution for decluttering or temporary storage, not everything is suitable to keep inside. Here’s a list of items you should avoid storing:
- Perishable Items: Food, beverages, or anything with an expiration date can spoil, attract pests, and create unpleasant odours. Always avoid storing anything that could decompose.
- Valuables: Items like legal documents, cash, jewelry, or irreplaceable heirlooms are better kept in a safe deposit box or a secure environment at home. These are high-risk items that should not be left unattended in storage.
- Hazardous Materials: Flammable liquids, propane tanks, batteries, or any materials classified as hazardous pose safety risks. These items can leak, explode, or ignite, endangering your belongings and the storage environment.
- Plants and Living Things: Plants require sunlight, fresh air, and consistent watering, which storage containers cannot provide. Any living organisms, including pets or insects, should never be placed in storage.
- Temperature- or Humidity-Sensitive Items: Electronics, artwork, photographs, and musical instruments can be damaged if the container isn’t climate-controlled. Extreme temperatures or moisture can cause warping, mould, or irreparable damage.
Always evaluate what you’re storing to ensure it’s suitable for a storage container and protected against potential risks.
Conclusion
When it comes to moving, convenience and flexibility can make all the difference. Storage containers are becoming an increasingly popular option for reducing the stress of a move while allowing full control over your schedule. With so much versatility, they offer the convenience of packing at your own pace without the hassle of renting and returning a moving truck. Whether you’re moving across town or the country, storage containers provide the flexibility to load and unload on your timeline, reducing the stress of tight deadlines and making the process smoother and more manageable.
Storage containers are ideal for various moving situations. For those dealing with complex move timelines, such as waiting for a new home to be ready or needing temporary storage during a transition, storage containers offer a practical and flexible solution. If space is limited, they can act as portable storage units, keeping your belongings secure until you’re ready. They’re also perfect for self-paced movers who prefer to avoid the schedules of professional movers, giving you the freedom to pack and unpack at your convenience.
By combining practicality and peace of mind, storage containers provide a reliable way to take control of your moving process and adapt it to your unique circumstances. Whether you need flexibility, convenience, or simply less stress, storage containers could be the perfect choice for your next move.
Looking for a storage container for your next move? Western Moving is a trusted provider of storage container rental services in Alberta. We offer delivery, pickup, and secure temporary storage options to meet your needs. Visit our Storage Container Rental page and fill out the form at the bottom of the page to get started on a quote. Get in touch today for any inquiries you may have or to learn how our portable storage solutions can simplify your next move!
