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.

Home remodeling and renovation projects can be exciting, but they can also be challenging and costly. When working on a project, whether large or small, you’ll face a couple primary challenges: Where should you put your things while you’re renovating? And where do you store the equipment you need for the renovations?

Renovations can take days, weeks, or even months, and it’s important you have a plan to help keep items protected, secure, and out of the way. Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen, finishing your basement, laying new floors, or another project, make it easier by buying or leasing a residential storage container.

Why Use a Storage Container for Home Renovations?

Renovating a home comes with a variety of variables, from deadlines to costs. Planning ahead for storage can help make the renovation more stress-free while also providing peace of mind that your belongings will be safe. A few benefits to using a storage container during your renovation include:

1. Store A Variety of Items

You can use a storage container to keep items you need for renovations, such as tools, saws, ladders, drop cloths, etc. You can also keep the new items like paint, new flooring and cabinets, etc. until you need it in the home.

Or, you can store your own items that you need to get out of the way during the renovations, such as furniture, appliances, toys, clothes, items in your kitchen or bathroom cabinets, and more.

2. Easy Access to Your Things

If you’re storing the container in your driveway or on your property, you’re just steps away from what you need and your items are accessible 24/7. You don’t have to worry about renting a moving truck or hauling your items somewhere else for storage, plus you can load and unload at your own pace.

3. Protect Your Belongings

All-steel, weatherproof storage containers are resistant against rain, wind, snow, ice, and other weather, and they are sealed tight which keeps out pests and vermin. In addition to being made of high-grade steel that’s virtually impenetrable to someone looking to make trouble, you can install additional security features like:

• Padlocks
• Alarm systems
• Video surveillance
• Exterior lighting/motion detection

4. Keep the Mess to a Minimum

Whether you’re keeping your own items or items needed for the renovation in the container, having them out of your house and organized elsewhere can help you avoid feeling overwhelmed and stressed.

5. Modifications Fit Your Needs

Add shelving systems designed to utilize unique features of a shipping container and help keep your belongings even more organized. Ramps can be added for use with hand trucks and dollies, ensuring a secure connection and easy loading and unloading. Or, illuminate the container with magnetic fluorescent light fixtures, with flexibility to position them where you need extra light.

6. Cost Effective

Renting a storage container for your home renovation needs may be cheaper than renting a space in a storage facility. There’s also increased flexibility with month-to-month rentals. Plus, container can be dropped off at your location and picked up when you’re done so you don’t have to pay for truck rentals or other moving equipment or fees.

What Size Storage Container Do I Need During a Home Renovation?

There are a variety of storage container sizes to choose from depending on the size of your project:

• If packed efficiently, 20-foot containers can hold 1-4 typical rooms of furniture or a single garage stall.
• For smaller driveways or urban applications, 10-foot containers can hold a single typical room of furniture.

Multiple containers may be utilized for as long as your project requires. If one container is emptied before the other, it can be sent back as soon as you are ready.

Ultimately, the size you need depends on how much you need to store – talk to a storage container professional for help determining which size is best for you.

How To Rent a Storage Container for a Home Renovation

Page Street Leasing has the answer to fit your home project needs and budget. With one of the largest New England storage container rental fleets and the ability to deliver clean containers quickly, rely on our onsite storage professionals to help you reserve a high quality, secure container:

1. Determine which size(s) fit your needs and location.
2. Request a quote online or call 603-622-1673.
3. Fill out a rental application.
4. Your storage container will be delivered to you when it’s convenient for you.
5. Keep the container for as long as you need. Rentals are month-to-month, so when you’re done, we will schedule a pick-up.

Contact Page Street Leasing for New Hampshire Storage Containers

For the best storage containers for home renovations and much more, contact Page Street Leasing. We have decades of experience helping people across New England find the best storage containers and trailers for their needs.

Storage containers are great for storing a variety of items – they are durable, weather- and pest-resistant, which will keep anything inside protected against damage. They are secure, keeping thieves and vandals away from your things. They are also cost-effective with both rental and purchase options and low maintenance costs.

Plus, there are different sizes depending on your needs and you can install modifications such as shelving, lighting, climate control, and more.

When using your storage container for storage, packing your items the right way can ensure you make the most of the space and your items are kept safe while also giving easy access to the things you need when you need them:

What Can You Store in a Storage Container?

You can store a variety of items in a storage container, including (but not limited to):

• Clothing
• Holiday décor
• Lawn and garden equipment
• Sports equipment
• Event supplies
• Furniture and household appliances

Things You Can’t Store in a Storage Container

On the other hand, there are some things you cannot keep in a storage container, such as:

• Plants
• Animals
• Perishable food
• Gasoline or lighter fluid
• Cleaning solvents, including bleach
• Batteries
• Firearms or ammunition
• Fertilizer or pesticides
• Paint
• Fireworks

How To Prepare Your Storage Container

Whether you’re renting or have purchased a storage container, there are a few things you should do to prepare it:

• Make sure it’s on a secure and proper foundation. Otherwise, your container may get damaged and anything inside could be ruined. An uneven, shifting ground can lead to cracks, rust, and other damage.
  
  
• Clean it thoroughly. Remove dust and dirt, check walls, corners, and ceilings for cracks and/or leaks (and repair anything you find), and make sure the roof is clear of water and debris.
• Install shelving or other customizations. Take advantage of your unit’s space by adding items that will make storing your things easier and more efficient.
  
  
• Invest in quality storage items. Plastic bins and sturdy and clean cardboard boxes will help ensure whatever you store stays clean, dry, and protected.

Dos For Storing Items in a Storage Container

When storing items in a storage container, DO:

• Take inventory of your items and decide what will go in the container. This will help keep you organized and determine which container sizes and customizations you may need.
  
  
• Keep larger items or things you don’t need often at the back of the container, and items you need more frequently at the front.
  
  
• Make a map or outline of what items are where.
  
  
• Leave paths down your container to access things easily.
  
  
• Storage boxes and containers should be sturdy. Put heavy items on the bottom, don’t overfill the containers, and wrap fragile items.
  
  
• Ensure all boxes and containers are properly labeled.
  
  
• Clean items thoroughly to avoid buildup of moss, mold, fungus.
  
  
• Break down larger items or furniture to maximize storage space.
  
  
• Install shelving.
  
  
• Be sure it’s always locked; consider additional security features like lock boxes, cameras, or alarms.
  
  
• Invest in climate control if storing items like paperwork, electronics, or upholstered furniture.
  
  
• Use furniture dead space, such as inside drawers and cabinets, to take full advantage of all of the allotted space.
  
  
• Cover furniture with old sheets, plastic covers, blankets, or similar items to keep them from being damaged.
  
  
• Inspect your container and conduct maintenance when necessary.
  
  
• Consider leaving baking soda, silica packets, or oxygen absorbers to prevent mold growth and absorb odors.
  
  
• Make sure all items are dry before storing to prevent condensation/mold.

Don’ts For Storing Items in a Storage Container

There are also things you should avoid, including:

• Wrapping items (like furniture) in plastic, which can retain moisture and damage your items.
  
  
• Randomly stacking boxes, which can damage items or fall, causing injury.
  
  
• Keeping flammable or other prohibited items in your container.
  
  
• Loading all of the heavy items on one side, which could cause one corner of the container to sink and make the doors difficult or impossible to open/close.

Get Help from The New England Storage Container Professionals

Whether you need to store items for a few months or create extra space for a few years, contact the experts at Page Street Leasing. We can help you choose the right container for your needs, determine and install any modifications, and provide expertise to ensure the process is easy, transparent, and informative. Call us today at 603-622-1673.

 

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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