Key Highlights of Choosing the Best Portable Container Mover
- The convenience and flexibility of portable moving containers is unparalleled.
- Learn about key factors to consider when selecting the right moving container company for your needs.
- Explore expert packing tips to maximize space and ensure the safety of your belongings during transit.
- Understand the additional services offered by moving container companies to simplify your move.
- Get practical advice on how to make your move seamless and stress-free from start to finish.
Moving to a new home is a fun time in life. However, it can also be challenging when you need to transport your things, including half of your household items, and face the prospect of renting a traditional moving truck to get your stuff to your new home. There is a better solution, though: portable moving and storage containers.
Picking the right moving container company that provides portable storage units and container services is very important, as only some containers and companies have the same quality. Utilizing portable containers for your move far outweighs the benefits of any other moving solution.
Portable storage containers are a good choice instead of regular moving trucks as they let you pack and move at your own pace, accommodating your specific schedule and timeline. This guide will give you the vital info you need to help you choose the best portable moving container company when comparing different service providers for a smooth move to your new home.
Understanding Portable Moving Containers
Portable moving containers are the revolutionary way to make a move and store their stuff. They offer a flexible and convenient option compared to traditional moving methods. These containers, often made from durable materials like steel or aluminum, are designed to withstand the rigors of moving and ensure your items stay safe throughout the process.
Container companies, including our portable storage company, deliver the portable moving container or shipping container to move a house directly to you. This allows you to load your belongings at your own pace without the pressure of tight truck rental schedules. Once you're finished, if you are using 1-800-PACK-RAT, we will retrieve the container and transport it to your new home or in one of our 70+ nationwide facilities to store it for as long as you need it. This method provides both ease and peace of mind, making your move more manageable.
Benefits of Using a Portable Moving Container
Moving can be hard, but using a portable moving container can simplify the process. Here are some benefits that can make things easier:
- Flexibility and Convenience: You can move at your own pace with portable moving containers. Once your container is delivered, you can take as much time as you need to pack it. All of the driving and transportation is left to us - no driving a large and unfamiliar moving truck rental all over town in one day!
- Enhanced Security: These containers are made for safety. They are all steel and weatherproof, meaning you don’t have to worry about the elements damaging your stuff. Our containers also feature barn-style doors, which are harder to break into than roll-up doors and won’t jam if contents shift.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Portable moving containers can save you money compared to traditional moving companies. You don’t have to pay for fuel in a large moving truck driving all over town. You also save valuable time not having to do all of this driving back and forth, and you can pack your stuff on your schedule.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Moving Container Company
Choosing the right moving container company can mean the difference between a smooth move and one full of unnecessary challenges. Before you decide, think about these key factors:
Start by looking at the company's reputation and how long they have been in the business. Read customer reviews. Good feedback shows that they can be trusted and provide excellent service. Don’t automatically discount negative reviews either - check to see if the company responded to them to help the customer find a solution. Also, check their service area to ensure they serve where you live now and where you want to go.
Company Reputation and Customer Reviews
A company's reputation shows how reliable it is and how good its services are. When picking a moving container company, customer satisfaction is essential. Here are some things to think about:
- Online Reviews and Testimonials: Check websites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other trusted moving industry sites for fair customer reviews. Focus on what people say about customer service, delivery times, and how happy former clients were.
- Direct Customer Inquiries: Don’t be afraid to contact the moving container company. Ask about their services, share your worries, and see how they handle customer service.
- Word of Mouth: Ask friends, family, or any neighbors who might have moved recently and find out if they did the portable container route. If they did, inquire about their experience to get first-hand knowledge of the company and their service.
Pricing and Payment Options
Understanding the way costs are calculated when it comes to portable moving and storage companies will help you make the smart choice for your needs and budget. Ask for detailed quotes from various companies. Make sure these quotes include all costs, like delivery, pickup, rental periods, and any storage fees, if they apply.
Look at the quotes closely. Check the options for container sizes and the rental periods available. Some companies let you rent a container for a longer time if needed. Also, ask about discounts you might get. These could be for early bookings, AAA memberships, or military service.
Good companies share clear pricing details and provide flexible payment options. This can help make your moving experience more manageable and less stressful. You can give 1-800-PACK-RAT a call to learn more about costs or check online to see how we calculate the costs for your move. Getting a quote is the first step in understanding how much your move might cost.
Container Sizes and Options
Moving container companies provide different sizes of containers for various needs. Check how much stuff you need to transport and pick the right container size. 1-800-PACK-RAT, for example, has three container sizes you can choose from for your moving and storage needs: 8-, 12-, and 16-foot containers. Other companies might have similar sizes but poorer construction quality, while others that advertise lower prices have only one container size, meaning you have to order multiple containers that can clutter your driveway or street.
The best part about portable containers is that they can be used for both moving and storage, and you only have to pack and unpack once. 1-800-PACK-RAT’s containers are the perfect storage solution, as our all-steel and secure containers can be left on-site at your home for as long as you need storage. If you would like to have your container out of sight but securely stored, we have over 70 nationwide locations where we can store it for as long as you need it.
Our containers are also ground-level loading, meaning you don’t need to climb an unsteady ramp or hoist your stuff over a large threshold to pack it. Pack your container at your pace at your home and leave all of the driving to us. 1-800-PACK-RAT has the most secure containers and the best service available to you - read on to learn more about portable moving and storage containers.
Insurance and Liability Coverage
Protecting your things when you move is very important. Know what insurance your moving container company offers. Many companies provide basic coverage, but this may only cover some of your valuable items.
You should consider buying extra content protection plans if needed. These plans can give you higher coverage and better protection against things like damage, theft, or natural disasters.
Before you move, make a list of your belongings and highlight any valuable items. It’s good to take photos or videos of their condition before they go into the container. This proof will help you if you need to file an insurance claim later.
1-800-PACK-RAT has a variety of content protection plans to choose from. Get as much or as little coverage as you like for your stuff while it is in our care!
Preparing for Your Move with a Portable Container
Once you choose a moving container company and select your container size(s), you need to get ready for your move.
Now is the time to begin gathering your moving and packing supplies. You will need strong boxes in different sizes, packing tape, bubble wrap, furniture pads, and markers to label your boxes. These items will make packing more accessible and help keep your things safe during the move. In addition to our containers, we have also partnered with Lowe’s® Home Improvement to help provide customers with all of the moving supplies they could need
How to Pack a Moving Container Efficiently
Efficient packing is very important when you are packing your moving container. First, take apart big furniture pieces to help save space. Use furniture pads or blankets to wrap delicate items and furniture parts. This will stop scratches and damage. Make sure to label all boxes clearly with what is inside and which room they go in at your new home.
When you begin to pack your container, place any mattresses against the back wall of the container, as this is a good place for them to lay flush and out of the way. Be sure to also distribute the weight evenly in the container. This reduces the likelihood of container sway during pickup and drop off the container. Put heavier boxes at the bottom and lighter ones on top to avoid damage. Fill empty spaces in boxes with soft items like towels or linens to use all your space and reduce the chance of contents shifting.
Following these packing tips will help you use space well. It will also stop items from moving and getting damaged during the move. When you finish loading, make sure to close the container door tightly to keep your belongings safe on their trip.
Maximizing Space in Your Moving Container
To make the most of the storage space in your moving container, you need to plan carefully and stay organized. Using some simple strategies can help you fit more items and keep them safe.
- Use Vertical Space: Instead of laying boxes flat, stack them. This helps you use the full height of the container and store more things.
- Fill Furniture Drawers: Don’t ignore the space in your furniture. Use drawers for soft items like clothes, linens, or towels. Be mindful not to overload your furniture and make it much heavier - use it to move only lighter items.
- Keep Valuable Items Safe: Important documents, jewelry, and other small valuable items should stay with you during the move. Use a personal bag or box for these instead of putting them in the container, but do not pack these items in your container.
- Have a “Go-Bag” Packed Away: This bag or box should contain essentials you will need for your first night in your new home. A change of clothes, pajamas, toiletries, etc., should all be packed for everyone in your family. Be sure to pack this item last so that it is the first item you unpack at your new home.
Items Not Allowed in Moving Containers
For safety, some items cannot be transported in moving containers. It is important to know the guidelines from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These rules explain what items are not allowed.
Items that are often banned include:
- Hazardous materials (like flammable liquids, explosives, and corrosives)
- Perishable goods (such as food and plants)
- Illegal substances
- Firearms
These rules help protect your things, the moving crew, and public safety.
Always check with your moving container company. They will have their own list of prohibited items. They can help you figure out how to store or transport these items safely.
Additional Services Offered by Moving Container Companies
Many moving container companies try hard to make your move easier, including 1-800-PACK-RAT. We have partnered with trusted third-party providers and have our own additional services that we can offer to make your move as simple as possible. These services are meant to fit your needs and give you more comfort and choice.
You can often find helpful options like long-term storage solutions, packing help, and even moving your vehicles. Talk to different companies about what you need. This way, you can find the one that fits your situation best.
Long- and Short-Term Storage Solutions
Circumstances may arise when you need to store your things following your move due to unforeseen circumstances. Now, if you are using a more traditional method to move, such as a moving truck, you would need to find and rent a storage area, unpack everything, and then, when ready, rent the truck again, pack everything again, and then unload at your home. Good moving container companies can offer flexible storage options that fit your needs. That is a lot of extra work and money you have to account for.
1-800-PACK-RAT’s portable containers are used as both a moving and storage solution. The best part is that we handle all of the transportation, and you only need to pack and unpack the container once. No more repeating the same process over and over again. Keep your container on-site at your home or store it in one of our local warehouses for as long as needed. We make moving and storage simple for everyone.
Moving Supplies and Assistance
1-800-PACK-RAT has also partnered with Lowe’s Home Improvement to provide moving supplies like boxes, packing tape, furniture covers, and much more for movers. You can visit your local Lowe’s location and purchase the supplies or have them shipped to you if you are too busy. It saves time and effort compared to looking for these items in a variety of big box stores.
Be sure to get plenty of boxes, especially dual-layered, heavy-duty boxes to carry heavier items such as books or kitchen appliances. You can also search around for free supplies if you are in a budget crunch, but know that whatever you need to round out your moving supplies, Lowe’s has you covered!
Professional Labor Assistance
If you have a large home or cannot make your entire move happen on your own, consider getting help from professional movers if you need it. Many companies work with reliable labor providers who can help you pack, load, and unload your things into and out of your container. This service is helpful, especially for heavy items or if you have trouble doing it yourself.
1-800-PACK-RAT has partnered with a third-party professional labor provider that you can book alongside your container delivery so that everything is done seamlessly and on your schedule. Be sure to have everything packed and staged for your moving crew to move into your container the day they arrive.
Having professionals handle your belongings means they will be taken care of and packed safely in the container. Before you book any extra services, make sure to check the prices. This way, you can avoid any surprises with costs.
Auto Transportation Providers
If you are moving long distance, having a plan to move your vehicle to your new home is vital. If you don’t want to put extra wear and tear on your vehicle, 1-800-PACK-RAT is happy to suggest a trusted third-party auto transport provider that you can use to move your vehicle to your new home. These providers will ship your car to your new destination, relieving the stress and anxiety of driving your vehicle a long distance to your home.
Tips for a Smooth Moving Experience
Make your move easier by taking some important steps. Start by making a clear moving checklist. Break down your tasks into smaller actions. This will help you stay organized and make sure you don't miss anything.
Planning well is very important for a stress-free move. By using these tips, you can feel good about your move. This way, you can reduce problems and make everything go smoothly.
Creating a Moving Checklist
A moving checklist acts like a guide to help you with each step of moving. It makes sure you don’t miss any important tasks. You should add things like contacting utility companies, changing your address, and moving your medical records.
When you make your moving checklist, focus on tasks that need to be done soon. For example, you should plan when to turn off and turn on utilities and arrange for movers ahead of time.
Also, remember to create a spot for sorting important documents like passports, driver's licenses, and financial statements. Keeping these close will make moving to your new home easier.
Download 1-800-PACK-RAT’s moving checklist today to stay on top of your move's little details!
Scheduling Your Move Well in Advance
Scheduling your move ahead of time is very important. This is especially true during the busy season of late April - early July when many people decide to make their move happen. Contact moving container companies early, get your quote, and book your service and delivery date as soon as possible. This way, you can secure the dates you want and move on your schedule.
Booking early has many benefits. It gives you enough time to plan and prepare for your move. It also helps you get your preferred moving dates and allows some flexibility in case unexpected things happen.
By booking in advance, you can avoid scheduling problems and ensure your moving container is ready when needed. This step will help you have a smoother and less stressful moving experience.
Decluttering Before Packing
Decluttering before you pack can help make your move easier and cheaper. It's a chance to look at your things and decide what you really need to take to your new home.
Start by checking each room carefully. Sort items into four groups: keep, donate, sell, or throw away. Think about how useful each item is, its sentimental value, and if you really need it.
By decluttering, you will have fewer household goods to pack and carry. This makes the move less of a hassle. You will also save money on packing supplies and might even need a smaller moving container as a result of the downsizing.
1-800-PACK-RAT is the Best Choice for Your Portable Moving and Storage Needs
Choosing the best portable moving container company takes thought. You should look at important things like their reputation, prices, container choices, and insurance and choose the best fits your needs.
1-800-PACK-RAT is the best choice because we bring a level of service and container quality that other portable moving and storage companies cannot match. While those companies may have containers with a wood-based construction that can absorb water or come in only one size, forcing you to rent a large number of containers to meet your needs, 1-800-PACK-RAT has the high-quality containers and service you expect.
No more doing everything in one day with a traditional moving truck or using substandard containers that may not fully protect your stuff. 1-800-PACK-RAT has the containers you need and the additional services necessary to make your move as simple as you would like it. Give us a call or go online for a free quote and see just how simple we make moving and storage for everyone!
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book a moving container?
To get the dates you want and avoid conflicts, it's a good idea to book your moving container at least four weeks ahead, especially if you are moving during the peak late Spring and early Summer months. Container companies often have more demand during these busy times, and no matter what mover you decide to book with, they might not be able to guarantee your preferred moving date if you book on short notice. Booking early helps make sure you have a container and gives you enough time for rental periods.
Can I move a portable moving container across state lines?
Yes, many container companies provide interstate moving services in the United States. It is important to check if they offer services for your route. If you are moving internationally, check with your provider before booking anything to see if they can accommodate that request.
What is the average cost of renting a moving container?
The average price for renting a moving container depends on different things. These include the distance you are moving, the container size you need, and how long you want to rent it for storage purposes if necessary.
For local moves, the cost can be lower, as you aren’t moving your stuff over a great distance. In contrast, long-distance moves can cost upwards of several thousand dollars depending on how far you are moving. It’s a good idea to get quotes from different companies. This way, you can compare prices and plan your budget better.
Learn more about 1-800-PACK-RAT’s costs today!
How secure are moving containers against theft or damage?
1-800-PACK-RAT prides itself on having secure containers. Our containers are all-steel and have barn-style locking doors that are harder to break into. They can be fitted with your lock of choice, so only you have the key.
For added peace of mind, you can also purchase a contents protection plan for extra security. These plans help you financially if something unexpected happens.
Can I access my belongings while they are in the moving container?
Access to your things depends on where you store them. If you keep your items on-site at your property, you can access your stuff 24/7. If you decide to store your stuff at a 1-800-PACK-RAT facility, you can either call us with 48-hours notice, and we can stage your container at our facility for you to access or we can have it redelivered to your home - whatever is easiest for you!