What Is a Moving Container and How Does It Work?

So what is a moving container? Well, when it comes to moving, this container could just be your new best friend. Whether relocating across the country or within the same town, using a moving container is a low-cost, efficient way to make your move possible. Not only do these portable containers give customers a cost-efficient way to move, but they also make it easy to store belongings before, during and after a move. Here’s a quick run-down on what exactly a moving container is and how it works.

What is a moving container?

Moving containers typically come in a variety of sizes. Most are steel-framed and weather-proof boxes that can be left outdoors for long periods of time during the moving process. Usually, they come with a lock and key for added security as well. A few portable moving container companies offer wood framed containers with weatherproof covering. The smallest size moving container available at most companies typically holds up to a room and a half of furniture – or the equivalent of a small furnished apartment. Larger moving containers can hold around three to four bedrooms worth of furniture. Depending on the sizes offered, you may have to rent more than one moving container to hold all of your belongings. Several companies, such as U-Pack and SMARTBOX, allow customers to rent as many moving containers as they want, but only charge customers for the number of moving containers they actually ended up using. If you’re unsure of how many containers your move will require, then this strategy may be a good solution for you.

How does it work?

While the moving container process varies from company to company, they are all fairly similar. A few days before the move, these storage containers are delivered to your front doorstep by the moving container company. Customers are then given several days to load their moving container with their belongings. Once the moving containers are packed, the company will pick the container up and drive it to its destination. This is essentially a hybrid DIY move. The customer does part of the moving process themselves (packing and unpacking the container), while the moving container company delivers the portable container to its end point. Once you’ve finished unloading your moving container, the company will pick the container up and return it to a service center.

Can I use a moving container for storage?

Yes. One of the main advantages to using a moving container is that they double as storage containers. If you wish, moving container companies will pick up your container and deliver them to a storage facility. Many companies also allow customers to store their moving containers on the customer’s personal property. If storing a moving container in a storage facility, be sure to find out whether the facility is climate controlled and secure. In terms of signing a contract for storage, most companies offer storage services on a month-to-month basis.

What are the main advantages to using a moving container?

The three main advantages to using a moving container over other moving services are: 1) Moving containers tend to be a cost efficient way to move to a new home; 2) Moving containers offer customers flexibility with their move. In fact, when using a moving container, you should be able to move on your own timeline. 3) Moving containers can double as storage, making them ideal for complicated relocations.

Where can I find a moving container?

Fortunately, there are a number of reputable moving container companies to choose from when making a move. The most well-known moving container companies include PODS, U-Pack’s ReloCubes, 1-800-PACK-RAT, SMARTBOX and U-Haul’s U-Boxes. Read The Best Moving Containers and Storage Companies for a look at more container options as well.

Can I pack anything and everything inside of a moving container?

No. Similar to packing rules with full-service movers, not all items are allowed inside a moving container. These non-allowables are not allowed for a reason. For starters, flammable items, such as gasoline, lighter fluid, motor oil, propane tanks, paints and cleaning solvents, are absolutely not allowed to be packed inside of a moving container. Hazardous materials, including loaded guns, scuba tanks, fertilizer, poisons, ammonia and even nail polish, are not permitted inside of moving containers either. If driving a moving container across state lines, you’ll also want to avoid packing plants, as each state has their own rules about which plants can and cannot be imported. Other items to avoid packing inside of a moving container include perishable food (think: refrigerated fare) and valuables. The last thing you want is for your valuables to be broken or stolen during a move. So before loading a moving container, think twice before packing jewelry, money, electronics, sentimental items or important documents inside. For a more comprehensive list of what not to pack inside your moving container, check here.

What if I don’t want to load the moving container by myself?

Good news! If moving yourself sounds unappealing, you have the option to hire labor-only moving professionals to help load and unload the container. These movers typically specialize in loading services and won’t be responsible for driving the container to its destination. To find the best labor-only movers in your area, check out HireAHelper’s online marketplace of moving labor professionals. The service allows customers to find, compare and book moving day help at the touch of a button. Of course, you can always ask friends and family to help with packing and unpacking your moving container as well.

Ready to rent a portable moving container?

For free moving estimates from portable moving container companies, check our Moving Containers Center. All you have to do is submit your moving details to receive free quotes from a number of reputable moving container companies. Simply enter where you’re moving from, the location of your new home, the size of your home in bedrooms, and what date you want to complete your move. We’ll send you the best quote available, and let you compare other moving container companies as well.