Shipping containers are incredibly versatile and can be used for extra storage space, shipping, house moving, setting up as additional office space, and so much more. Shipping containers are huge units, and you may only need them for a short time. Buying them outright doesn’t make sense in that case, so you can always reap the benefits of renting a container! Here’s our guide on how to rent a shipping container for your needs.
Why do you need a container?
When entering the world of shipping containers, the first thing to think about is what you’ll use them for. Containers come in various sizes and can be tailored to meet your specific requirements, but if you don’t know what you want, how will you choose the best container? Do you require storage or temporary office space? Do you need a shipping container for moving purposes? Your circumstances will determine the best container for your demands, so knowing precisely what you want will make finding your ideal match more straightforward.
How long will you need to rent the container?
You should have a rough idea of how long you need to have the container for. This could range from a few weeks to months or even years, depending on your needs. Consider the travel time you’ll need if you’re sending stuff overseas. Remember that overseas freight shipping may take months; this should be considered while determining your rent length. Consider how long you’ll need to store it and how much space you’ll have after you’ve finished using it. When you are planning your rental container hire, betta storage is here to help answer any questions and concerns you may have.
Think about your budget
Once you’ve decided on the sort of container you need, the size you’ll go for, and how long it will last, you can calculate your budget and make sure you have enough money. If you just want to use it for local storage, there’s less risk and uncertainty. If your shipment is being carried by a container, you’ll have to pay for the container as well as the transportation expenses. It’s a good idea to try and stay on budget when renting so that you have some money left over in case of an emergency.
Explore the range of shipping containers available
You’re probably aware of the traditional, metal, rectangular shipping container, but numerous alternatives are available on the market. There are three different sizes of shipping containers: 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft. Here’s a brief summary of the most popular types that are available to hire in Sydney:
- The all-purpose shipping container is the most commonly used container for transporting cargo and for general storage.
- The refrigerated shipping container is what you’ll want to get if you’re moving or keeping perishable goods (like food or medicine) that need to be held at a set temperature.
- Open top shipping containers are a type of all-purpose container that lacks a roof. These enable you to load items that would otherwise be unable to pass through the doors, such as large objects. The top can be covered with a heavy-duty tarp to keep the weather out after the cargo has been loaded.
- Side opening shipping containers are general shipping containers with doors that open from the side of the container instead of the end. This allows you to load and unload cargo quickly.
Don’t hesitate to contact Betta Storage if you need to rent a shipping container for storage, delivery, temporary office space, or anything else. We are here to assist you with any concerns you may have, including rental costs and hiring for moving.
1. Site Selection
If you are not mounting the container for the long term, choose a spot where the ground is even and the soil firm and compacted so that it will support the frame of the container. If your site is rough or slanted you can add a layer of gravel or small stones to keep the container stable and secure.
2. Surroundings
If your container is going to remain in place for a length of time, it can be valuable to pave the surrounding area prior to installation. This will provide a solid firm base for your structure and will enable you to utilise the outer area of the container more easily.
3. Vehicle Access
If your site is in a position behind other buildings then you may have trouble getting your container to your site. There are options to have your container dropped in situ’ by a crane but this is expensive. If your site is accessible by vehicle you will keep delivery costs down. Setting up storage containers in Sydney, where the topography varies, it is a great idea to prepare a level area prior to delivery.
4. Weather conditions
It is ideal to have your container delivered on a day free of rain, after a dry spell. Installing your container directly onto sodden earth may lead to sinkage and misalignment of your final structure. If you are in a particularly rough area you may need to secure your shipping container to the ground, but in most circumstances, the natural weight of the container will hold it firmly in place.
5. Ventilation
If you are concerned about water or drainage around the site of your container then it may be worthwhile setting the container down on concrete blocks. This will keep it raised from ground level, free of moisture and well ventilated.
Betta Storage are your local Sydney specialists in movable new and used storage containers. Contact us to discuss your requirements and let us help you choose the right container for your needs.