How to Choose a Location for Your Storage Container

Storage containers can be used for a variety of purposes, including storage, office space, retail space, and even living space as a tiny home. In addition to their versatility, there are several benefits to renting or buying a container. For example, they are often a more cost-effective option than renting and maintaining an office or storage space. They are also secure, low maintenance, and weather and pest-resistant to protect your belongings.

If you’ve decided you need a storage container, it’s critical to choose the right location to ensure long-term protection of your container, but there are several factors to keep in mind such as accessibility, stability, and more. Read on to learn more tips from the experts at Page Street Leasing.

Why It’s Important to Choose the Right Location for Your Storage Container

Choosing a location for your container means thinking about the actual location, where the container is physically located, and the site, or the ground the container sits on. This helps ensure easy delivery of the container and long-term stability and protection of the container. The right location can help prevent damage and keep the container and everything inside it accessible and secure.

What To Consider When Choosing a Storage Container Location

The top factors to consider when choosing a storage container location include space, accessibility, stability, permits and regulations, utilities, and security.

1. Space

Storage containers are typically 20 or 40 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 9 feet tall. The property and site needs to have enough clearance and space for the container and the delivery vehicle to maneuver. You will also need space for loading/unloading/whatever else you’re using the container for.

Ensure the space is clear of any fencing, trees, other buildings, and other blockages.

2. Accessibility

Your storage container needs to be brought in by a truck/trailer. The location must be free of vehicles, trees, buildings, power lines, etc. that can get in the way of delivery.

Make sure the delivery vehicle has a free and clear entrance to the site, space to place the container, and space to leave. For example, a roll-off truck with a 40’ container will need about 110 feet of straight space and 16 feet of clearance height overhead, while a tilt bed truck with a 20’ container will need about 50 feet of straight space.

It’s also important to consider what time of year the container may be picked-up, as seasonal changes, such as mud and snow buildup, may affect the ability of a truck to access the container when needed.

3. Stability

The ground must be stable to ensure long-term use of your container. Choose a flat, level, and compact surface. Containers can be placed on most surfaces, but some, like sand, are not ideal. Concrete is most preferred, but other options can include grass, gravel, and packed dirt.

The ground should be level, though if it must be placed on an incline, concrete is the best option. Soft ground sometimes allows the container to settle unevenly which introduces a torque along the structure, making the doors difficult or impossible to open and close.

You should also inspect your container to ensure there’s adequate drainage, as standing ground water could create issues with moisture seepage, mold, and mildew.

4. Permits and Regulations

Depending on your state/county and the container’s use, you may need to apply for a temporary permit or follow certain regulations. Make sure the container’s plans comply with local laws. You can contact your local government office to learn more about necessary:

• Zoning
• Building codes
• Permits
• Regulations or restrictions

5. Utilities

If your container will be connected to utilities, like water or electricity, it must be placed close enough to the system. Otherwise, you may have large expenses to run lines to connect. Keep this in mind when you choose the location. A storage container expert can help with this.

6. Security

Containers themselves are a secure place to keep items safe, but the location of the container should be secure as well. For example, it should be properly lit, have (or be able to have installed) security cameras, security fence, or other security features. Know that you can also add security features to the container like locks, lights, and cameras if necessary.

Tips For Choosing the Right Location for a Storage Container

1. Know what you need. For example, what are you using the container for? What size do you need? How long will you need it? Should you rent or buy a container? Then, choose a site that accommodates those needs with the space, security, and utilities you may need. Having a clear idea of your needs ahead of time will help you choose the best location. A container being used for storage vs. one being used as an office or living space will require different things.
2. Research (based on your needs). Follow local laws and rules (such as zoning and permits), choose a site that’s accessible for delivery, and make sure the ground is stable. The location should also have preferred security features. Even within one location, you may have multiple sites where you can place the container (like within a construction site). Know ahead of time exactly where you need the container to go.
3. Contact a professional. Working with a professional storage container service can help ensure you choose the right spot for your container. They can help you pick an accessible, secure, stable location with enough space for your needs. They can also provide tips on site preparation, ongoing maintenance, upgrades or modifications, and more.

How To Prepare a Location for Your Storage Container

1. Make sure the surface is level (remove obstructions, make soil more compact).
2. Correct any slopes and ensure proper water drainage.
3. Choose the right foundation, whether concrete blocks, pressure-treated wooden beams, or a concrete slab.
4. Remove any obstructions for delivery.
5. If you need utilities, consider running those lines and having inspections prior to placing container to ensure it will work for your needs.
6. Set up security features such as lighting, security cameras, etc. in the space.

Contact Page Street Leasing, Your Local Storage Container Expert

Homeowners and businesses have trusted Page Street for more than 20 years with all on-site storage solutions and needs throughout southern New Hampshire and beyond.  We have a variety of options that will satisfy your storage container needs (plus you can rent, buy, or get help with modifications).

Our expertise can help ensure you choose and prepare the right location for your container regardless of your needs. Contact us online today or call 603-622-1673.