Storage containers introduction
If you find there’s no room left to squeeze out of your warehouse or storage areas, portable storage
containers can provide immediate additional space to store anything from company records to excess inventory.
Durable and waterproof, storage containers can be used year-round in any type of weather without fear of
rust or leaks. What’s more, they are far less expensive than new construction, and can be delivered in a
matter of days.
Use this BuyerZone.com Storage Containers Buyer’s Guide to learn the essentials, including:
- What storage container options are available
- What to look for in a vendor
- How to decide between buying, leasing, and renting
- How much you can expect to pay
Once you determine what your needs are, we can provide you with free custom quotes from multiple portable
storage container suppliers in your area.
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Storage container basics
Storage containers come in a variety of sizes. Most are usually 8' wide and 8'6" high, and commonly
feature lengths of 20 and 40 feet (1,170 cubic feet and 3,340 cubic feet.)
Most businesses choose 20’ containers since they provide easier access to items in the back.
40’ models provide almost three times as much storage space, but may require additional doors
on the back or side to take advantage of the larger space.
Some vendors may offer containers in other lengths, such as lengths as small as 6’ or as
large as 54’, but these odd sizes can be hard to find. For additional clearance, “high cubes”
feature internal heights of 9’6”.
Storage containers are easily stackable which can be a space saver. Forklifts can easily hoist
two 20’ units off delivery trucks and on top of each other.
Different businesses have various needs for storage containers. Here is just a sample of how
certain industries use them:
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| Industry |
Portable Storage Container Uses |
| Department stores, pharmacies, supermarkets, hospitality, food service |
Excess inventory, paper records storage, seasonal and holiday needs |
| Construction, landscapers, home improvement |
Equipment, machinery, supplies, temporary office space |
| Residents, property owners |
Tool shed, household goods storage, home furnishings, non-perishable food supplies |
| Truckers, utility companies, financial institutions, insurance companies, film production |
Document storage, raw materials |
| Medical facilities, military, government agencies, Native American reservations, academic institutions |
Disaster preparation supplies, temporary bunks/shelters, security offices, athletic equipment storage |
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Container design
Storage containers are constructed with 12- or 14-gauge corrugated steel sides, doors, and roofs.
The floors are made from marine-grade plywood that is just over one inch thick and can withstand
16,000 pounds of pressure per 100 square feet. Manufacturers weld the containers together using
elastic sealing compound to ensure they are air and water tight. This heavy-duty construction meets
ISO construction standards and most models are both weather resistant and fireproof.
To protect contents from theft or vandalism, swing-out doors at either end of the container feature
galvanized interior locking bars, similar to bank vaults. In addition, cam rods and padlock hasps secure
the unit to protect the contents after hours.
While most commercial storage containers feature steel construction, another type of portable storage
known as PODs (Portable on Demand) are made from wood and fiberglass. While suitable for personal use,
they may not be sturdy or reliable enough for regular business use.
Installation & zoning
Average containers weigh 2,500 to 5,000 pounds and are
delivered by flat tilt-bed trucks or trailers. While they can rest on any surface from rough gravel
roads to smooth concrete, it’s preferred that you reserve a 75 foot by 100 foot area of land that is
both level and firm. The level ground prevents the container from tilting or tipping and the large
area provides you with plenty of clearance to move in and out of the unit.
Be careful if you plan to use storage containers for long periods of time. Certain cities view storage
containers as “dumpsters” and may require a special permit or official approval for long-term use. If you
plan to keep storage containers on your premises for several months or longer, check with your local
government to avoid violating any zoning laws.
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Storage container optional add-ons
Some vendors may offer some of the following options to increase your container’s functionality:
- Paint: Storage containers are typically available in neutral factory colors
like beige or gray. If the container is going to be in a highly visible location, you may want
to have it painted in custom colors or even with your corporate logos.
- Lockbox: Fireproof steel strongboxes provide increased protection for the
container’s contents.
- Alarm system: For additional security, a
monitored alarm system can alert
authorities to a potential break-in.
- Shelving: Adjustable shelves help you organize your contents.
- Man doors (side doors): These additional doors are built on the side of the
container to allow people to enter at the middle of the unit, instead of just the end. They can
also provide access between two adjacent containers.
- Ramps: Angled foldable walkways allow you to easily wheel hand carts into the unit.
- Ventilation: Wind turbine and louver vents allow air flow into the container
to reduce humidity.
- Partitions: Separate the storage container into sections to create compartments
for different uses (example: storage in one part, office space in the other.)
- Additional insulation: Protects your belongings in harsh weather conditions and
contains heat and cool air year-round.
- HVAC: Provides heating, ventilation and/or cooling to regulate temperature.
- Refrigeration: Electronically refrigerated containers (known as "reefers") can
store perishable items.
Although some businesses use storage containers as office space, complete with electricity, plumbing,
and Internet access, they're not the best choice for long-term use. Unless you only need the office
space for a few weeks, you’re probably better off with an
office trailer.
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Choosing a storage container vendor
The portable storage container industry consists of both large and small companies that resell
units from wholesalers, leasing companies, and industry associations. The vendors may deal exclusively
in storage containers or offer them alongside other purchases such as office trailers or prefabricated
construction.
While it doesn’t matter what size vendor you work with, there are certain attributes to look for before
making a purchase.
The most important point to consider is proximity. Delivery charges are based on distance, and it’s the
most competitive aspect of the industry. Therefore, it’s beneficial to find vendors close to your location.
If possible, select one within 25 to 75 miles of your location as pricing can become prohibitive beyond that.
Working with a local vendor also offers a great opportunity to check out the vendor’s inventory in person.
By taking a tour of the facilities, you get a better feel for how they work than you would by ordering through
a catalog or over the phone.
Of course, proximity shouldn’t be your only concern. Your vendor should be very knowledgeable about the
industry. Also, if they've been in business for a long time, it’s usually a sign that they know how to
keep customers happy.
If you need help selecting from several vendors, you can narrow the decision process by asking each
vendor for a list of references. Try to request references in businesses similar to yours to find out how
the vendors addressed their storage needs. Be sure to ask such questions as:
- Did you have budget concerns that the vendor helped you with?
- Did you require any add-ons such as ramps, shelves, or a lockbox?
- What was the condition of the container(s) you received?
- How much additional cleaning/prep did you need to do to make it ready?
- Did you receive any unexpected charges during the billing process?
- How long did it take to get your container?
- If you had any problems, was the vendor quick to address them?
- Would you work with this vendor again?
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Storage container pricing
When you’re ready to get a portable storage container, you have three options:
- Purchase: If you will use the container for years and can afford it,
buying is usually the best option. Plus, if you no longer need them, storage containers
depreciate slowly so you can resell them without losing much value.
- Rent: This is the most affordable option for a few days or weeks at a
time. Renting allows you to deduct the fees from your taxes, but can get expensive if you
keep the unit longer than expected.
- Lease to own: A good choice when you'll need the container long-term
but don't have the cash up front. It allows you to spread costs over a period of time and
then purchase the container with a final nominal payment. However, you’ll have paid considerably
more than the purchase price because of the interest.
Before you purchase containers, consider how quickly you need them. Some vendors may offer
same-day delivery on containers they have in stock. More often, they'll deliver your container
in one to three days. Keep in mind that adding features will take longer – and cost more.
Transport fees
Shipping costs will depend on distance and total weight and can add considerably to your total expenses.
Expect to pay between $80 and $500 for delivery, depending on the distance. Vendors may require a minimum
shipping fee regardless of distance, and may have a maximum of 250 miles.
New containers
You can find a basic 20’ storage container for $1,000 to $4,000 or more. If you need to buy two or more
containers, many vendors will knock a few dollars off the price and lower your transport costs. Vendors
charge an hourly rate of $50 to $150 for customizing your container, plus the cost of materials. You
could pay hundreds of dollars for basic add-ons like shelving or ramps, up to thousands of dollars to
convert containers into office space.
Despite having almost three times as much storage space, 40’ storage containers and 40’ high cubes
aren’t much more expensive than 20’ models. You can find 40’ containers for about $1,400 to $5,400;
high cubes are priced from $1,400 to $5,800.
Used containers
While new storage containers can cost several thousand dollars, the pricing is more palatable for
refurbished containers. Vendors buy pre-owned units, fix them up, replace any broken parts, ensure
they’re water tight, and apply a fresh coat of paint. The containers look as good as new, and you
pay about 30% to 50% less than you would for a new one.
Expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $3,500 for a used container. Lower end units might include
"as is" containers with few add-ons and no guarantees against water or fire damage. At the high end,
the containers are fully reconditioned and feature all the functionality of a brand new model. The
higher price may include the vendor’s cost of acquisition, trucking expenses, and repair and sealant costs.
Leasing and rentals
The average lease runs for 18-24 months. Monthly payments range from $75 to $150 depending on the
condition and age of the container. When leasing, many vendors offer lower monthly rates for longer
lease periods. Short-term rentals cost $3 to $8 per day, and you’re not tied down to a specific length
term. However, if you plan to rent for several months, it is usually cheaper to work out a lease.
Whether leasing or renting, you're also responsible for delivery and pickup charges.
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Storage container additional tips
- You get what you pay for. Although storage containers can get expensive,
don’t skimp on quality just to save a few dollars. You may be able to buy an “as is” model
for a few hundred dollars, but the container may have rust, sealant cracks, and other problems
that can damage your contents. The additional money you pay for a quality container is a small
price to pay to avoid problems later on.
- Born on dates. Much like a vehicle, each container is furnished with a
unique vehicle identification number (VIN) plate that indicates how old the unit is. This
allows buyers of used containers to learn the precise age of the container.
- Space considerations. For a 20’ storage container, you need at least 75
feet of clearance for delivery, installation, and to maneuver in and out of the container.
You need at least 100 feet of clearance for 40’ units.
- Safety first. Drivers typically won’t deliver to areas where they have
concerns for their own safety, or if they feel they may inadvertently cause property damage
they would be responsible for.
- Learn more about containers. For additional information about the storage
container industry and to research best practices, check out industry association web sites like
the National Portable Storage Association.
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