Storage containers can be used for variety of reasons, from simple storage to an on-site office space. They are durable, weather-resistant, easy to maintain, and cost-effective when compared to other options. Another major benefit is security. Containers are made from maritime-grade steel, which is virtually impenetrable to pests and vermin, as well as thieves.

When using a container for storage, whether on site or at a storage facility, it’s important to have peace of mind regarding the security and safety of your tools, equipment, inventory, or other belongings. While a storage container is generally secure as it comes, taking time to learn about and compare additional security that keeps your container safe can be a great investment.

Here are additional measures you can take for extra security of your belongings:

1. Use Heavy-Duty Padlocks

First, you’ll want to ensure your storage container is locked up tight. There are several different options when it comes to securing your container door:

• Padlocks: These are the most common, but a regular padlock can be more easily cut and broken, which would give a thief access to the inside. Instead, invest in a top-grade, heavy-duty padlock that will decrease the risk of having the lock broken. “Puck” or “block” padlocks are more difficult to breach as well.

You may also want to consider having another lock in addition to a padlock:

• Lock box: A container lockbox is a steel box that provides safe and secure place for your padlock, giving an extra layer of security. The box is fitted over the container doors and protects the padlock hasps from being cut while allowing access for a key underneath.

• Cross bar locks: Also known as cargo door locks, this is another type of interior security lock that can be added across the door bars of your container. These locks prevent the door from turning open by someone on the outside, so even if someone broke the padlock, they couldn’t get the door open.

2. Install Cameras

Not only are cameras themselves a good way to decrease the risk of break-in and theft, a qualify surveillance system can deter thieves in the first place as they are much less likely to attempt a crime when they know they will likely be recorded and caught.

Attach a CCTV pole to your container with a camera at the top, pointed at the targeted areas. This allows your camera to capture a range of footage while also remaining in view for criminals.

3. Install an Alarm System

In addition to cameras, you may want to install an alarm system (depending on the location of your container). Choose an alarm that can be triggered as soon as the container is opened or place a motion detector alarm system on the door of the container. You can also install alarms around windows (if applicable).

You can use a wireless, antenna-based, or battery-powered alarm. Make sure the alarm system you choose will notify you and/or the police right away if there’s a break-in.

Additionally, like a camera, a visible alarm system can help deter a criminal in the first place.

4. Consider Perimeter Fencing

Whether your storage container is at your home, a building site, a storage site, or somewhere else, keeping it within a fenced area can help deter criminal activity. It’s especially effective to have it protected by a barbed wire fence, though you can also add metal or barred fencing around the container itself.

Before doing this, check with local law enforcement to be sure security fencing is permitted on the property.

5. Make Sure Your Container Is Sealed and Maintained

Security measures are moot if your container has easy entry points due to cracks or other openings caused by rust or corrosion. Invest in a corrosion-resistant container or treat your container with special paint or products. These products will keep the metal secure, durable, and more weather-resistant. If you dop notice any rust or cracks, treat them right away.

On a regular basis, inspect the container’s roof for any standing water or rust. Remove dirt and debris and treat any scratches, dents, or peeling paint before they turn to rust or corrosion. Keep any security lights or other lights around your container functioning with new bulbs and batteries.

Purchase Your Storage Container from a Reliable Source

Page Street Leasing has been selling and renting storage containers throughout southern New Hampshire and beyond since 1986. Whether you want to purchase a container for long-term storage or rent one for shorter needs, Page Street can help. We can also help you choose the right accessories and locks for your container to ensure maximum usability and security. Contact us online today or call 603-622-1673.

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Whether downsizing, traveling, moving, or decluttering, you may find you need a long-term storage solution to keep your items safe and organized but out of the way until needed again. A storage container is an affordable and convenient option, whether for a few months or years. You can store a variety of items, loading and unloading is easy, and they last for years when cared for properly.

Here is a list of things you can store in a container, as well as tips for packing for long-term storage, reasons why containers make good long-term storage, and what your ideal solutions can be.

Store A Variety of Items Long-Term in A Storage Container

Storage containers come in a variety of sizes, from 10-foot containers to 40-foot containers, based on how large your home is and how much space you need. A few things you may consider storing long-term in a storage container include:

• Clothing: Many of us swap out winter and summer clothes, and in the off-season, keep those clothes in bins in our basements or attics. Or worse, your closet is always cramped with clothes for year-round weather. Use a portable storage container to store your out-of-season clothes, shoes, and accessories so your closets remain clean.
• Holiday decorations: Keep your decorations neatly stored and organized in one place vs. in the attic, basement, closets, or all of the above. A storage container provides ample space to neatly store your décor during the rest of the year and allows you to use the freed-up space at home for other storage purposes.
• Lawn and garden equipment: A lawn mower, blower, and other lawn tools are needed in the spring and summer months, while shovels and snowblowers aren’t needed until winter. Keeping all of these large items in your shed or garage can quickly take up valuable space; instead, organize your equipment and keep it protected from the elements in a storage container.

Swap Out Your Items Seasonally

You can also store seasonal items like patio furniture. Ensure that the items inside of the container are mostly dry prior to placing them inside of the container in order to prevent interior condensation.

• Sports equipment: Whether for yourself or your kids that play sports, balls, bats, gloves, cleats, helmets, and other gear and equipment can quickly take over your garage. When not in use, keep your equipment in a storage container, which is large enough for the bulky items and equipment.
• Event supplies: Whether you have kids or volunteer for your city or local organizations, you likely know the number of fundraisers, festivals, church or school carnivals, and other events that require organizers and participants to keep a host of supplies, equipment, and materials. It can be tricky to keep all of these items organized, especially if they are only used a few times a year. Keep them in a storage container so they are easily accessible but not taking up space in your home.
• College items: It doesn’t matter if you’re preparing your child to go to college and gathering furniture and belongings now, or if they’ve come home for summer break and brought everything back with them – a storage container can be a convenient and affordable solution for storing and organizing.

Tips For Packing Long-Term Storage

Some of the top tips for packing a storage container and ensuring your items are organized, protected, and secure, include:

• Determine whether you’re renting or buying and where the container will go. Do you plan to leave it on-site? Store it at home? Put it elsewhere? Do you want to rent a container? Do you want to buy one you can use for years to come? Think through these answers and compare costs to determine which is more practical based on how long you need a solution.
• Decide what will go in storage. Start by taking inventory of your things. Get rid of items that are no longer needed or functional or are in poor condition. Knowing what and how much you have will help you determine the size of container you need, as well as customizations you may want such as shelving or climate-control.
• Prepare your items for long-term storage. Clean and wash each item, ensure everything is mostly dry, disassemble oversized furniture, and wrap fragile items.
• Pack your items. Use strong boxes in good condition or plastic totes to keep your items protected, ensure they stack nicely, and are protected from water damage. Don’t use dirty or old boxes or plastic bags.

Pack Thoughtfully

As you pack, keep similar items together. Place heavier items on bottom of box, and fill boxes to capacity without overloading. Provide plenty of cushioning in the box, especially for fragile items. Then, seal boxes completely with packing tape.

Once your items are packed, label all boxes with all relevant information, including what’s inside.

Use Caution

• Do not leave the doors open for long periods. While loading a container, avoid leaving the doors open unattended for a long time, as this is when rodents and insects could enter the otherwise sealed container.
• Load the storage container carefully. Items should be organized in a way that makes sense to you but allows for easy retrieval. Start by making a plan, including what goes first, what goes on the floor vs. shelves, and where fragile items will go vs. what items can be stacked. It can be helpful to make a map or outline to help you find items more easily when you need them.

As you pack the container, distribute weight evenly and pack the container tightly, but be mindful of access. Heavier and larger items should go toward the back. Items you need access to more often should be toward the front.

Use furniture dead space, such as inside drawers and cabinets, to take full advantage of all of the allotted space. Additionally, cover furniture with old sheets, plastic covers, blankets, or similar items to keep them from being damaged.

• Inspect the container when you get it. Ensure it’s free of any cracks, leaks, or condensation.
• Always lock and secure your container.

Additionally, if you’re using container to organize your space for long-term storage:

• When storing furniture and/or fabrics, leave an open box of baking soda to absorb unpleasant smells.
• Avoid storing items like pet food, food items, and plants.
• Never store chemicals or aerosol cans.
• Use a desiccant, like silica gel packs or an open box of cat litter, to absorb moisture.

Why a Storage Container Makes a Good Long-Term Solution

Storage containers are great for long-term storage. The steel material makes the container weather- and pest-resistant. This ensures everything inside is protected from the elements and critters that can ruin your items. They are also secure, making it difficult for thieves to access your belongings and offering you peace of mind.

Additionally, storage containers are easy to maintain. You won’t have to spend a lot of time or money with upkeep. This, as well as other things, like the ability to either rent or buy a container, make them a much more cost-effective storage option.

Finally, containers can be customized to meet your needs, such as adding shelves, electric, ventilation, or more.

Learn More About New England Long-Term Storage Solutions Today

When you need a long-term storage solution, trust your local storage container experts at Page Street Leasing. We can help you find the best storage container solution to organize your space and much more. Contact us today to learn more about the storage container options we have available in New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine & beyond.

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Planning and/or hosting an event can be very exciting. It can also be stressful and challenging, especially if it’s an outdoor event. Depending on the type of event, you may have a variety of items and equipment needed for everything to run smoothly, from tables and chairs to décor, equipment, furniture, and more. As you plan and execute the outdoor event, and even after the event is over, it can be helpful to have a secure, convenient, and cost-effective way to store your items and ensure they are where you need them, when you need them. One way to do this is to rent a storage trailer.

4 Benefits of Renting Storage Container for An Event

1. Convenient

When you rent a storage trailer, it will be delivered right to your location for storage space where and when you need it. Trailers keep items you need to secure out of the way, but in one place, so they are easy to access. You won’t need to worry about transporting items from one place to another since they will already be where you need. Not only are they where you need them, but you can quickly get access to any item you need both before and during the event. Then, clean-up is fast and easy.

2. Secure

Storage trailers are secure in a variety of ways. First, because they are made of aluminum and steel, they are strong and hold up against the elements like wind, rain, and snow. This keeps your items inside dry and damage-free. However, it is important to note that unlike ground-level storage containers, storage trailer roofs are constructed to be light weight and are not designed to carry a heavy snow load. If you are utilizing a trailer during the winter, the roof must be cleared before more than a few inches of snow or ice can accumulate in order to insure the roof integrity and the safety of your items inside.

Additionally, storage trailers have the ability to lock, preventing theft and vandalism of your items.

3. Flexible

Storage trailers can come in a variety of sizes to accommodate your supplies and needs. Page Street Storage stocks sizes from 28’ to 53’ long, so regardless of the outdoor event you’re hosting, you’ll have the space you need. Trailers come with roll or swing-doors to make loading and unloading easier. Additionally, you can store a variety of types of things in a trailer depending on your event and needs.

Keep items organized and easily accessible in the trailer by adding shelving or other organizational tools.

4. Cost Effective

A huge benefit of renting a storage trailer is that you’re only paying for it while you need it, unlike other storage solutions that may require contracts or long-term commitments. Renting a trailer is also typically less expensive than what you may spend with other solutions like a storage locker or garage. Plus, you can save money by not having to transport items to and from your location, from labor costs (loading and unloading) to vehicle rental and actual transport of your items.

Events That Could Benefit from a Storage Trailer

You can benefit from renting a storage trailer for events like:

• Weddings: A storage trailer at a wedding can hold décor, linens, furniture, equipment, catering materials, sound equipment, and more. This is best for a wedding planner or vendor (like a caterer or DJ), but could also be utilized by the bride and groom depending on the size and location of the wedding.
• Parties and gatherings: Store chairs, tables, glassware, plates, decorations, and anything else you’d need. A storage trailer can keep party materials safe and secure, and renting one means you can avoid having to store those items in your home or garage.
• Athletic events: Store goals, balls, uniforms, equipment, other materials in the trailer. Most sporting events, such as competitions, marathons, or tournaments, require variety of equipment that needs to be easily accessible on-site. A trailer is an affordable storage solution that can keep equipment free of damage and protected against theft.

• Festivals, fundraisers, concerts, and other large outdoor events: Throwing a festival, fundraiser, concert, or other large outdoor event requires a significant number of equipment and materials such as tools, audio equipment, costumes, vendor items, tables and chairs, linens, decorations, tents, and more. Typically, these items are expensive and require a clean, secure place to store. It’s also difficult to try to transport things from location to location. A trailer on-site can also be easily accessible to vendors, staff, volunteers, and anyone else who may need it.

• Corporate event: Exhibitions, trade shows, conferences, and similar events all have storage needs. In the trailer, keep marketing collateral, technology, giveaways, tables, chairs, signage, linens, and other items you may need for your employees and guests.

Contact Page Street Leasing

Page Street is your go-to source for the best, most affordable storage containers and trailers. We offer a range of personal and commercial storage solutions in New Hampshire and throughout New England. Call (603) 622-1673 to learn more, or fill out our online contact form, and a representative will be in touch.

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A warehouse is, in essence, a type of storage facility, housing inventory and items until they are needed for shipment or use. Renting or buying a storage trailer for your warehouse may seem unnecessary, but in fact, there are many benefits to doing so.

Whether your warehouse is a distribution center, pick/pack/ship warehouse, cold or on-demand storage area, or another type of facility, having a storage trailer on-site can help ensure maximum use of the warehouse space, allowing you to keep your items on-site without taking up too much space or disrupting your workflow.

Here are the top five reasons your warehouse needs a storage trailer.

1. Trailers Are Versatile

Storage trailers come in a variety of sizes, though the most common sizes are 45’ to 48’. They typically have wider storage space than a storage container, which makes them perfect for materials stored on pallets or larger items. Loading and unloading a trailer is easy since they are the ideal height for dock loading and designed to accommodate use of a pallet jack or forklift truck.

Trailers can be used for on-site storage for a variety of items such as:

• Tools
• Excess inventory or merchandise
• Materials
• Commercial equipment
• High-value items
• Documents, financial records, or important paperwork
• Sensitive equipment or electronics
• Unused or seasonal equipment

Depending on your needs, you can even equip the trailer with organizational tools so you can manage and utilize your unit however you want. Axels and wheels make it easy to move the trailers and store your items where you actually need them, whether next to the warehouse or on the edge of the lot.

Additionally, trailers are available with overhead doors or swing (barn) doors, though overhead doors are usually preferred due to the ability to open and close them without having to move the trailer away from the loading dock.

2. Trailers Are Portable

Trailers are designed to be transportable from location to location. Storage trailers (unregistered) can be moved on-site, making it easy to relocate merchandise or inventory in and out of the warehouse. Registered road trailers can be moved on-site and over public roadways if you need to transport items to another location.

3. Trailers Are Convenient

Having a storage trailer on site makes it easy to access the items you need when you need them. Because trailers are portable and can be used to move inventory in and out of the warehouse, it’s easy to load and unload whatever you’re storing. Plus, loading and unloading is easy with the ability to attach the trailer to loading docks.

Traveling back and forth between warehouses or other storage facilities can take up time, labor, and energy, and usually has a cost, but this can be avoided with storage trailer on site. Their convenience typically outweighs their cost.

4. Trailers Are Affordable

Typically, renting or buying a storage trailer is cheaper than renting an additional warehouse or storage facility. Having one on-site also saves labor and gas costs due to decreased need for traveling.

5. Trailers Are Secure

When storing items outside of your warehouse, it’s important to have peace of mind that they will be protected. Trailers are easy to lock and can be equipped with variety of security features to protect against theft and vandalism. They are also made of steel and aluminum, which can protect against environmental, water, and weather damage.

Contact Page Street for Personal or Commercial Storage Containers or Trailers in New England

Page Street Leasing is your source for the best storage trailers and storage containers in New Hampshire and throughout New England. Our storage professionals can help identify the right solution for your storage needs, no matter how big or how small. Contact us via our online form, or call 603-622-1673 to speak with a representative.

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Now that you have decided to rent or buy a storage container, there are lots of reasons you will want to inspect it thoroughly. Most storage container rental companies will require units to be in a certain condition upon return. If you are buying a container, you will, of course, want to make sure it is in the best condition possible. Check out these tips from Page Street Leasing on what to look for when inspecting a storage container for damage and/or quality parts.

1. Examine the Interior and Exterior

One of the best things you can do while examining a storage container is to simply walk around the entire interior and exterior. Most potential damage will be immediately obvious to you. You will want to look out for rust, rot, cracks, pests, holes, standing water, leaks, or signs of vandalism. Identifying obvious issues is a good place to start. Any strange odors you notice could be a sign of water damage or mold. If there is a glaring issue, you likely either need to have it repaired if you have rented the unit or should keep looking for another unit that is in better condition. You will also want to check out the top of the container as best as you can for standing water or cracks.

2. Check Out the Gasket Seals and Close the Doors

Inspect the rubber gasket seals around the container doors. There is an inner seal, which can be cut-off to make door operation easier, and there is an outer seal. The outer seal should be intact and pliable, as dry-rot of the rubber is typically the first spot where a container can show its age. It’s also a good idea to go inside the unit and close the doors, especially on a bright day. If any light is making its way into the container, there may be some rust or door seal issues. Any areas of light coming through should be inspected.

3. Evaluate the CSC Plate

The CSC plate is an engraved metal label located on the outside of one of the cargo doors. This plate will contain information such as the name of the manufacturer, the storage container company, and the date on which it was made. The container’s age should give you an idea of what kind of condition it should be in. Container age is generally less important than its overall condition, as some older containers have had a much lighter duty cycle than others, for example, a rental container that has been stationary for most of its years versus a cargo container that has been handled around ship decks and ports.

The container age can help indicate how much useful life remains, but the overall condition of the unit in terms of rust, dents, and floor strength are not always correlated with container age. The year of manufacture on the CSC plate could be important if you plan on shipping the container overseas.

4. Look at the Doors and Locks

Operate the doors to their full capacity while inspecting your storage container. Open them as far as  they are supposed to open, and try to close them tightly and completely. Test out any locks or locking accessories or features. One of the most important benefits of a storage container is that it is secure and lockable. If the doors and locks have issues, the container cannot serve its purpose. Leaky, poorly installed doors can even cause damage to the materials stored in your container if they let in air, heat or moisture from the outside.

If you can feel a draft around the edges of a door or window in your container, there might be a problem that your storage container company can address.  If the doors are stiff, lubricating the hinges and locking mechanism should help. However, it is important to ensure that the container is reasonably level, i.e. all four corners are on the ground. If the container isn’t level to the point where it is longitudinally torqued, even to an extent that is difficult to see, the doors can become difficult or impossible to open and close.

5. Examine the Floor

Solid, reliable flooring is one of the most critical elements of a dependable, high-quality storage container. It’s important that your stored materials are kept on strong flooring that will not rot and/or break. If you notice any obvious problems, like soft spots or cracks, you will want to point it out. Rotting sections of container flooring will likely give way, which can compromise integrity and damage your stored materials, so it is important to thoroughly examine this part of your unit. The underside of the container is comprised of I-beams running along the width of the container. The wooden floor sections sit on top of these I-beams. If the container is older, it is advisable to check the underside of the unit with a forklift to ensure that the underside structure is solid.

Contact Page Street Leasing for the Best Storage Containers in New England

If you would like to buy or rent a storage container in New Hampshire and beyond, contact Page Street Leasing. We offer a range of storage container rental and purchase options to serve virtually all needs. Whether you need temporary jobsite storage or a permanent storage solution, we can help. Call (603) 622-1673.

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