Many of us are still clueless when it comes to moving containers, and to what extent they can be used. Portable storage offers a variety of different ways to develop and create new space for storage. When used properly, moving or PODS containers can be a true blessing. The problem is that there is not that much information out there about them.

When it comes to PODS, many people still don’t know they even exist. That’s why we decided to scan through the information available, to condense it, in order to create the most complete guide on Portable Storage.

The main purpose of this guide is to let you know absolutely everything you need to know about PODS containers. This will also include the various and not so obvious ways in which you can use this amazing service, so you can make your storage system way more practical and efficient.

Having an efficient system that solves all of your storage issues for every situation, is one of the most satisfying things that the versatility of a PODS container has to offer. So, without further ado, let’s jump right into it.

What Is a PODS container?

PODS containers were originally invented by Peter Warhurst, the founder of the PODS company, as a system that helped him to expand his already existing family’s storage business.

Little did he know that his system would eventually come to revolutionize the moving and storage industry by laying the foundation of a new way to make this process way more efficient and economical.

A PODS container, also known as a moving container, is basically a box made of wood, steel or aluminum in most cases. These boxes enable moving flexibility, which is crucial when it comes to moving to a very complicated location.

PODS containers are mainly used for moving because they are the most reliable low-cost service for long distance moving. However, this is not the only option these containers have. Apart from the portable attributes, these containers have an amazing storage capacity that gives them a potential for a variety of short and medium-term storage options besides moving.

How Do They Work?

Because most of these containers are weatherproof, they can be left outside without any problem. The container normally comes with a lock and a key, in order to double protect. These containers come in a variety of sizes that can best suit the moving capacity for each client and are normally delivered a few days ahead of moving date by a moving container company.

Though they can be left outside, many of these companies offer a second option of having these containers packed and stored in a warehouse. Moreover, most of these containers are all secured, as well as the majority of stored objects being able to get protected under your own security company policies.

This brings us to the type of objects that can and cannot be stored inside. Unfortunately, not all objects are allowed to be inside because of security reasons. Flammable items are definitely one type of forbidden object, along with loaded guns, fertilizer poisons or any kind of hazardous material.

Hate packing? No problem. Hiring moving labor professionals is definitely an acceptable option to be considered. Not only will they help you pack your items while you can tackle other important stuff, they also will help you load these items into the moving container in the most efficient and practical way possible.

Exploring Versatility

PODS containers are way more versatile than what meets the eye. Not only do they serve as a moving container that can even be used for an overseas shipping, but they can also be used for more specific storage purposes. Here are some unexpected ways in which you can use a moving container.

Summer storage for college students: Summer vacations can be both exciting and stressful for college students. Packing up all of your dorm stuff and moving back with your parents can turn into a real nightmare. That’s where using a PODS container comes in handy as renting it during the summer can save you lots of money as well as lots of headaches because of having all your dorm possessions protected and locked away.

Home decluttering: When your house is in serious need of decluttering, whatever reason there might be, using a PODS container can be the best solution to that problem. This is especially reasonable when you don’t necessarily want to get rid of the items taking up more space than they should.

The items stored inside the moving container will be safe and secure without getting totally exposed to the sneaky neighbors as well as not being crushed by limited time lapses.

Equipment storage: Sometimes there are construction projects that are being made. As we know, construction can take several months or even some years to get finished. So, during that period of time, a moving container can be rented to store the construction equipment without any risk of burglary or limited access.

Mobile office: PODS containers can also be very efficient when it comes to storing office files or office equipment. Sometimes, due to a remodeling process, things can’t stay inside the office space. Using a moving container as a short-term warehouse for all of those papers can be the best alternative solution without spending that much money.

Business storage: Some businesses have an inherent nature that requires both you and your business equipment to move a lot or go with the season’s change. A PODS container can be the best way for all of your business equipment to be safe without having to spend tremendous amounts of money at a steady warehouse.

The best part of this is that this is one of the most effective ways for you to protect your precious tools and equipment during transition periods. So, if you are in a similar situation, don’t miss a chance to give them a go.

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Is There Just One Type of Container?

Absolutely not! There are various types of containers that are made to adapt to each situation like a hand in a glove. Besides the different construction materials these boxes are made of, moving containers come in a variety of sizes to properly accommodate your belongings.

Here are 4 different types of moving containers that are currently available for portable storage.

PODS: These containers are the ones that started it all. The steel-framed and highly resistant structure of these boxes are presented with a ramp-free loading service with tie-downs, steel latches as well as a lock and key.

They also come in 3 different sizes:

7-foot container
12-foot container
16-foot container

ABF U-PACK Relocubes: This metal moving container is also weatherproof. Even though they only have one size of 70” x 82” x 93”, they offer the possibility of reserving multiple ReloCubes and only be charged for the ones that ended up being used.
1-800-PACK-RAT: These moving containers are famous for their durability and security. They also are weatherproof and come outfitted in steel frames, walls, and barn-style doors.

These portable containers also come in 3 sizes:

8-foot container
12-foot container
16-foot container

U-Haul’s U-Box Containers: The great thing about these containers is the wide range of delivery and storage options that the company who makes them has to offer.

Even though they only come in a 96” x 60” x 90” size they have different service options like:

Superior Convenience Option: The company drops the container right at your door and offers the possibility of keeping it until pickup day comes in due time.

DIY Option: The pickup process runs totally for your convenience. Therefore, all is in your hands. However, the company still helps you by providing you with a trailer that you can drive and deliver on your own right at the end of the moving process.

Most Cost Effective Option: This option consists of your belongings being packed in a moving container inside one of the many U-Haul locations. This gives you the opportunity to decide whether to store or ship your containers.

Hiring A PODS Container

To hire a moving container company is a relatively easy process, however, there are some things you need to consider before deciding which company you choose.

First, you need to know what is it that you’re looking for, as many companies don’t offer the same type of containers, neither do they offer the same type of service. Once you identify what is it that you need you can start to do some research on the moving companies that offer those services.

Once you have gathered some information you need to weigh your possibilities, so you can decide on the best option possible. Take your time to think it through though, there are times when a company makes extra charges that you don’t necessarily need to deal with neither does your wallet.

Also, you want to make sure that your insurance policies cover up the majority or at least the most important objects that you’re going to bring to your new location. You might also want to see to what extent the moving company is held responsible for any intricacies that might occur along the road so that you can avoid facing awful surprises afterward.

Choosing carefully the best moving option for you in terms of hiring a moving company and renting the right type of service as well as the right kind of container can make a world of a difference. It might take a lot of time to plan this ahead of time at first, but in the end, it will be totally worth it.

Pros and Cons

Portable storage containers are highly efficient and safe in most of the cases, however, they are still fallible to some extent. Here we disclose the main advantages and disadvantages of a moving container.

Pros

They are more cost-efficient than a truck rental
They are secure
Flexible timeframes and deadlines that can adapt to any schedule
They are versatile and can be used for more storage purposes besides moving
They are easy to load and to transport

Cons

They are still subject to vandalism and burglary
They can take up more space than you expected

Setting the Record Straight

When it comes to costs, portable storage offers the most efficient way to have your moving go smoothly and that also includes costs. Apparently renting a truck sounds way more convenient on the surface level, however, the vast amount and variety of hidden costs can make this a slippery slope that can turn out to be way more expensive than expected.

When you lay down the costs, a truck rental involves paying extra bills for things like:

Insurance
Meals
Accommodation
Auto towing charges
Tolls
Extra moving material and tools

Add up all of these and you’ll end up with a really disappointing bill amount, especially if your location is far away from where you live.

On the contrary, hiring a moving container is easier, because these companies do not hold you responsible for a large number of extra fees.

The main quotes of a service only include:

Transportation
Delivery and pick-up of the container
Professional Movers
Storage in a company’s warehouse

This simple way of integrating costs will give you more control over your budget enabling you to save hundreds of dollars during the process.

Top 5 Portable Storage Companies in Edmonton

Finally, if you live in Edmonton here are the top 5 companies that can best help you with your moving process.

Being in Edmonton, these companies are able to help you with your moving process whether that is inner city or cross country. Don’t hesitate to contact any of them as they are in the best position to help you out with everything you need to make your moving as easy as possible.