Portable Storage Unit Prices: Your Complete Guide

Renting portable storage containers have made moving much easier and more convenient. But how much do they really cost? Various factors determine the cost of renting a portable container. This makes it hard to give an exact price. Here are a few common factors that help determine the cost of a portable storage unit.

The Core Benefit: Load and Unload Just Once

Let’s talk about the biggest headache with traditional moving and storage: the double-handling. You spend hours loading a rental truck, carefully arranging everything like a game of Tetris. Then you drive it to a storage facility, unload everything into the unit, and return the truck. When you’re ready to move into your new place, you have to do it all over again in reverse. It’s exhausting, and the physical toll is real. The beauty of portable storage is that it completely eliminates that frustrating, back-breaking middle step. We deliver a container right to your driveway, allowing you to pack at your own pace. You load your belongings once, and when you’re done, we handle the driving. We’ll pick up the container and transport it to your new home or store it securely at our facility. You only have to unload your items once they’ve reached their final destination. This “load once, unload once” method is the single biggest advantage, saving you time, energy, and a whole lot of stress.

How Does Size Affect Your Portable Storage Cost?

It is obvious that the cost of portable storage containers depends on the size and dimensions of a container. Of course, the bigger the container, the higher the cost. Most containers are found in 7-foot, 8-foot, 12-foot and 16-foot measures. The 7-foot container is the most popular, and it measures 7’ by 7’ by 8’. Visually, it resembles a 10’ box truck and works in storing a single room’s furniture. It would cost you about $90 plus pick up fees. Delivery pick up fees vary if you store on your property or in the warehouse.

The second option is the 12-foot container. It has dimensions of 12’ by 8’ by 8’ and is equivalent to a 15’ box truck. This size would comfortably house two to three rooms of belongings. The size is ideal for in-town moves or storage. As we had mentioned, the larger the size of a container the more expensive it will cost. This 12-foot container may cost you up to $97 if you need pick-up services. It may cost you $212 to have your items stored in the portable storage unit on a monthly basis.

The third option comes to the 16-foot containers that have a dimension of 16’ by 8’ by 8’. These are the largest portable containers that epitomize a 20’ box truck. The size would be ideal for three to four rooms of items. Most companies would charge an estimate of $250 as the monthly storage cost and about $120 for pick up fees. These are the most common sizes and their estimated prices for various services.

The Box-n-Go Difference

A viable alternative to the above is using 8′ x 5′ x 7′ tall containers, like the ones from Box-n-Go. these offer you the ability to create a smaller modules. In turn, this will help you to avoid paying for the space you do not use.

Rental Duration and Your Final Cost

The duration you expect to rent a storage unit is a significant determinant of the renting cost. Most companies offer rentals on a month to month basis. These flexible arrangements help customers store items temporarily without making long term commitments. It is essential to understand a company’s terms before you engage it. Some companies insist on full storage services of a minimum of three months while others offer their services on a monthly basis. It may cost you about $170 to $240 on a monthly basis but the cost may vary due to other factors.

What About Delivery and Pickup Fees?

Shipping costs are often translated into delivery costs. Some companies may or may not include the shipping cost in the total rental price. Mostly, it depends on the distance to your new location. Unlike buying a container, renting one requires you to pay for the container’s return journey. It is wise to always agree with the company on container shipping costs in advance to prevent surprise fees when the lease period is over. Shipping costs range anywhere from $150 to $300 excluding the rental cost. Some companies offer free delivery occasionally with an agreement of extended leasing period. The longer the distance from the pick-up point to the new location, the higher the cost that finally reflects on the charge sheet.

In most cases, the company will give you a breakdown of how they charge shipping costs. For instance, they may say anywhere between 100 to 150 miles will cost you 150$. Any extra miles above the set limit will attract some more.

Comparing Delivery and Pickup Fees

Beyond the monthly rental, you’ll also need to account for the cost of getting the container to your doorstep and having it picked up. These delivery and pickup fees are standard in the industry and cover the transportation and logistics of moving the unit. According to U-Haul, you can typically expect these fees to range from $70 to $120 per container. Some companies might bundle these charges into a single fee, while others list them separately. It’s always a good idea to ask for a clear breakdown so you know exactly what you’re paying for before you commit.

Comparing Costs: Portable vs. Traditional Storage

When you start looking at prices, it’s helpful to compare portable storage not just to other portable options, but to traditional self-storage units as well. While portable containers have delivery fees, the overall cost and convenience can often come out ahead. A traditional unit might seem cheaper at first glance, but that sticker price doesn’t include the cost of a moving truck, fuel, or the hours you’ll spend driving back and forth. The real value of portable storage is in the time and effort you save by loading and unloading only once, right in your own driveway.

Typical Monthly Rental Fees

The main cost you’ll encounter is the monthly rental fee for the container itself. This is the price for keeping the unit for a 30-day period, whether it’s on your property or at a storage facility. The cost can vary quite a bit based on the container’s size and the company you choose. For example, PODS notes that their pricing starts at $149 per month. More broadly, U-Haul suggests that monthly fees for portable containers generally fall between $80 and $200. This fee is the foundation of your total cost, with other factors like delivery and distance added on top.

The Cost of Traditional Self-Storage

To give you a clear comparison, let’s look at what you might pay for a traditional self-storage unit. According to data from PODS, a standard 10′ x 10′ unit averages around $107 per month, while a larger 10′ x 15′ unit is about $133 per month. While these numbers might seem competitive, remember they only cover the space itself. You still have to figure out how to get your belongings there, which usually means renting a truck, paying for gas, and dedicating a full day to loading, driving, and unloading. When you factor in these extra expenses and your own time, the all-in-one convenience of a portable container often proves to be the more efficient choice.

How Distance Impacts Your Moving Costs

If you’re using a portable container for a move rather than just for on-site storage, distance becomes one of the most significant factors in your total cost. The price to transport your loaded container from your old home to your new one is calculated based on how many miles it needs to travel. This is where pricing can differ greatly from a simple storage rental, so it’s important to get a quote that specifically reflects your moving plans. The further you go, the higher the transportation fee will be, but it’s often more affordable than you might think.

Local Moves

For moves within the same city or general area, the transportation costs are quite manageable. A local move is typically defined as any relocation under 30 miles. According to U-Haul, the shipping fee for a local move can range from about $90 to $250 or more. When you consider that renting a moving truck for a day can easily cost that much—before you even pay for fuel and insurance—having a container delivered and moved for you is an incredibly efficient alternative. It eliminates the stress of driving a large truck through city streets and lets you focus on packing and unpacking.

Regional and Long-Distance Moves

As the mileage increases, so does the cost, but portable containers remain a competitive option for long-haul relocations. For regional moves, which U-Haul defines as between 375 and 1,000 miles, you can expect to pay from $1,000 to $2,300. For even longer, cross-country moves of 1,800 miles or more, the cost typically runs from $1,200 to $3,000. While these are significant expenses, they are often much lower than hiring full-service movers and provide far more flexibility than a one-way truck rental, allowing you to load and unload on your own schedule.

Key Factors That Influence Your Final Price

Beyond the big three—size, duration, and distance—a few other key factors can affect your final bill. These elements often come down to supply and demand, and being aware of them can help you plan your budget more effectively. From the time of year you decide to move to where you live, these variables can cause prices to fluctuate. Understanding them ensures you won’t be caught off guard by your final quote and can help you find ways to save a little extra money.

Geographic Location and Time of Year

Where and when you rent your container plays a huge role in the price. As PODS points out, your geographic location and the season both affect cost. Renting a container in a dense urban area like Los Angeles or New York will likely be more expensive than in a smaller town due to higher operational costs and demand. Similarly, prices tend to spike during the peak moving season, which typically runs from spring through summer. If you have flexibility, scheduling your move for the off-season (fall or winter) can often lead to significant savings.

On-Site vs. Facility Storage

Finally, you’ll need to decide where your container will live. You can keep it on your property for easy, 24/7 access, which is perfect for a home renovation project. Alternatively, you can have the company pick it up and store it at a secure warehouse. This is a great option if you’re between homes or need to declutter. At Box-n-Go, for instance, we store your containers in our secure facility, and you get free ground-level access whenever you need it. This saves you the hassle of dealing with elevators or long hallways, making your storage experience as simple and efficient as possible.

Self-Service or Full-Service: Which Is Right for You?

There are two types of service. The first one is the self-service storage and the second is the full-service storage. Storage service companies tend to put higher price tags to the full-storage since they handle the entire process.

The self-service storage is considered the cheapest option especially if you are planning to use the services for a short period. If you have the time, expertise and energy to move your goods, you should consider going for self-storage. It would cost from $60 to $100 a month for the self-storage option.

The full-service storage involves giving the storage company all the responsibility to handle your belongings, store and move when the time comes. Because of these additional services, you are likely to pay anywhere from $100.

Optional Services and Extra Costs

Some extra charges may arise if you happen to return the portable container in bad shape. If the container is returned dirty, with additional alterations and other things inside, you may have to dig deeper for damage costs. Also, if the items stored exceed the set weight limits, you may be charged extra shipping costs. To avoid these additional costs, be sure to have the container cleaned out before delivering it back to the owner. Also, you need to ask for permission from the involved company before making alterations such as drilling holes, adding shelves and making visible marks.

Some clients will order for storage bins and packing items from the storage facility. If you decide to purchase these packaging items from the company, the costs will reflect on the overall cost of renting a portable container. Some companies also offer labor assistance services that will be tied to your rental costs.

Professional Loading Help

Let’s be honest, even when you have a convenient portable container delivered to your door, the thought of loading it can be overwhelming. This is where professional movers can be a game-changer. While it’s an added expense, hiring moving labor for a few hours can save you a world of time, physical strain, and potential arguments with your well-meaning (but clumsy) friends. According to research from U-Haul, you can expect to pay between $190 and $400 per hour for professional help. Think of it as an investment in your sanity and your back. For many, outsourcing the heaviest lifting allows them to focus on the more important parts of the move, like organizing their new space.

The beauty of using a portable storage service is that you only have to load and unload your items once. Companies like Box-n-Go handle all the driving, so you’re already skipping the hassle of renting and maneuvering a big truck. When you add professional movers to the mix, you create the ultimate streamlined moving experience. They can efficiently and safely pack your container to maximize space and prevent items from shifting during transit. This combination gives you the control of a DIY move with the ease of a full-service one, letting you sidestep the most physically demanding tasks without breaking the bank.

Is Climate Control Worth the Extra Cost?

You may want a climate-controlled unit. This will come at a higher cost than a standard one. It would fetch about thirty more dollars for the climate control feature. These types of customization are essential if you want to store materials that would be affected by mold. They include material such as files, paperwork, mattresses and clothing. Considering the type of items for which you want a storage facility for, you will need to decide whether you need this feature beforehand.

Your selected company should let you know if they ask for security deposits, refundable fees, and administration fees. Also, inquire if they charge penalties once you miss or delay your monthly charges and what happens with the refundable fees in the case when you choose to cancel the contract before the time ends.

All these add-ons are essential to note since they reflect on the final rental cost of a portable container. Most don’t have standard figures and they vary from company to company and depending on the quality of materials and company policy.

Don’t Forget About Insurance

Most storage facilities will inquire if a client has insurance. Many clients have their storage items under a homeowner or renter’s coverage. Off-premises home insurance plans often cover about 10% of the total personal property. Storage and moving companies will want to know if your property plus their container is fully insured in the case of damage, theft and other vices. Depending on whether you have insurance coverage for your property, there might incur an additional insurance cost of about $100. In case you have no insurance, the company will help you sign up with a storage insurance provider.

Putting all these factors into consideration, you may want to create a budget taking care of your storage needs. Selecting a company to help you with the whole process is another daunting task. When comparing quotes from different companies, be sure to compare apples to apples. While some companies will give you a detailed breakdown of all the expected costs that could be incurred in your moving project, other companies work with estimates, leaving out important additional costs. As earlier mentioned, we cannot pinpoint the exact cost of renting a portable container. However, using the factors highlighted above, you are likely to have a correct price estimate. You can get in touch with us if you need portable storage units.

Smart Ways to Save on Your Portable Storage

Getting the best price on your portable storage unit isn’t just about finding the lowest quote; it’s about being smart with your space and understanding the service. With a few strategic moves, you can significantly reduce your overall cost without sacrificing convenience. Here are some practical ways to keep more money in your pocket during your move.

Declutter to Rent a Smaller Container

One of the most effective ways to lower your storage cost is to simply store less stuff. Before you start packing, take a serious look at what you own and decide what you truly need to keep. This is your chance to donate items you no longer use, sell valuable pieces you can part with, or toss things that are broken or worn out. The less you have to move and store, the smaller the container you’ll need, which directly translates to a lower price. For instance, if you can pare down your belongings, you might find that one or two smaller, modular containers work better than one giant one. This approach, which we use at Box-n-Go, ensures you only pay for the exact amount of space you actually use, preventing you from overspending on a half-empty unit.

Pack Efficiently to Maximize Space

Once you’ve decluttered, the next step is to pack your container like a pro. Think of it as a real-life game of Tetris where the goal is to use every square inch of space. Start by loading your heaviest items first and distributing them evenly to maintain balance. Use same-sized boxes whenever possible, as they are much easier to stack securely. Pack your boxes all the way to the top to prevent them from crushing, and fill any empty spaces with soft items like blankets, pillows, or towels. Remember to build your stacks all the way to the ceiling and from wall to wall. Efficient packing not only saves space and money but also helps protect your belongings from shifting and breaking during transit.

Ask About Available Discounts

Never assume the first price you’re quoted is the final price. Many portable storage companies have special offers and discounts that aren’t always advertised front and center. It’s always worth asking if they have any current promotions, such as discounts for students, military personnel, or first responders. Some companies offer a bundle deal if you commit to storing your container for three months or longer, which might include free delivery or a reduced monthly rate. A quick phone call or email to the customer service team can uncover savings you would have otherwise missed. The worst they can say is no, so don’t be shy about inquiring before you book.

Explore DIY Options to Avoid Fees

Understanding the service you’re paying for can reveal opportunities to save. While some companies might let you avoid delivery fees by picking up a container yourself with a suitable vehicle, this isn’t always practical or possible. A more common DIY approach is handling the packing and loading yourself. This is the standard model for most portable storage services, including Box-n-Go, and it’s a major reason why it’s more affordable than hiring full-service movers. By taking on the labor of loading the container, you eliminate a significant expense. You get the convenience of having a container delivered right to your door without paying for a full moving crew, striking a great balance between cost and effort.

Understanding Service Policies and Perks

Booking, Cancellation, and Payment Policies

Moving plans can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial to find a company with flexible policies. Before you commit, carefully read the terms and conditions for booking and payment. Look for companies that don’t require a large upfront deposit and have a reasonable payment schedule, such as charging your card a week before delivery rather than a month in advance. Pay close attention to the cancellation policy. Life happens, and you’ll want the freedom to change or cancel your reservation without facing a hefty penalty. A company with a customer-friendly cancellation policy shows that they understand the fluid nature of moving and are willing to work with you, which can provide significant peace of mind during a stressful time.

Accessing Your Container at a Facility

If you choose to store your container at the company’s warehouse instead of on your property, you need to know how and when you can access your things. This is a detail where companies differ quite a bit. Some facilities require you to schedule a visit 24 to 72 hours in advance, which can be a major inconvenience if you need something unexpectedly. At Box-n-Go, we wanted to make this process as simple as possible. That’s why we offer free, ground-level access to your container at our secure facility. You don’t have to wait or navigate loading docks; you can just drive up to your unit and get what you need. This flexibility is a huge perk, especially if you anticipate needing regular access to your belongings while they’re in storage.

Extra Perks and Inclusions

The biggest perk of using portable storage is the sheer convenience of the model. The container is delivered directly to you, allowing you to load your belongings at your own pace, right at your doorstep. Once you’re done, the company picks it up. This process eliminates the need to rent, drive, and return a large moving truck. More importantly, you only have to load and unload your items once. With traditional self-storage, you load a truck at your old home, drive it to the facility, unload it into the unit, and then do the whole process in reverse when you move out. Portable storage cuts that work in half, saving you time, energy, and a lot of potential back pain.

What You Can’t Pack: Prohibited Items

For safety and legal reasons, there are certain things you absolutely cannot place inside a portable storage container. This list almost always includes hazardous materials like gasoline, propane tanks, paint, fertilizers, chemicals, and ammunition. These items are flammable, corrosive, or explosive and pose a serious risk during transport and storage. You also can’t store motorized vehicles, illegal items, or perishable goods like food. It’s also highly recommended that you keep irreplaceable and high-value items with you, such as currency, legal documents, family photos, and jewelry. For a detailed list of what’s considered hazardous, you can check resources from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Always confirm the specific prohibited items list with your storage provider before you start packing.

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