Shipping Container Rental Guide

Looking for temporary cost-effective secure storage at your home or business? The answer may be a steel shipping container rental aka storage container rental.  Renting a storage container is a convenient and affordable option, but before considering this option, it is vital to understand what associated expenses come with it.

With so many factors to consider, it can be a difficult task trying to secure an excellent deal on these portable storage containers. Cost is subject to availability, condition of the item, and your location, making it essential that you cover all these points when researching for a good price.

This article will give you better understanding so that you can make a decision that fits your requirements. Knowing how each factor affects your choice is key when weighing all of the options available.

Components That Affect Shipping Container Rental Rates

To ensure you get the best price when renting a storage container, it’s essential to be aware of all factors that have an effect on cost. These can include:

1. Shipping Container Size

Shipping containers are available in a range of sizes to met your needs: 10 feet: 20 feet: 40 feet: 40 feet high cube: and 45 feet high cube.The first thing is to determine the size that meets your storage requirement.

  • 10ft shipping container: This shipping container is the smallest of all containers and can carry up to 11,600 lbs. of cargo.
  • 20ft shipping container: This container is the most widely used type and can carry up to a whopping 33,000 lbs of cargo with ease.
  • 40ft shipping container: For large-scale shipments, this container is the most logical choice, boasting an impressive total capacity of 45,000 lbs.
  • 40ft High Cube Containers: These storage containers are an ideal size upgrade from 40ft containers, boasting an extra foot in height and providing 800 cubic feet of additional space.
  • 45ft High cube containers: While these containers come in a larger size, they can be hard to locate since they are not as commonly available.

The 20’ and 40’ shipping containers are the most common sizes available for rental. On average, it costs between $99 to $150 per month to rent a 20’ shipping container and $150 to $250 per month for a 40’ container.Keep in mind that availability may vary depending on your location. If you require a 10ft container or a high cube container, availability may also depend on your specific location.

2. Shipping Container Conditions

Making an educated decision when it comes to renting shipping containers is critical, as different grades and condition levels all have unique advantages. From cost-effectiveness to durability, properly understanding the distinctions between container types can help you find long-term storage that fits your needs perfectly.

New One Trip Shipping Containers

New containers: These containers are brand new and have never been used before. They make a single voyage from China and are then offered for sale afterward.They are generally the most expensive option, but also the most reliable. They typically have a longer lifespan than used or refurbished containers.

Used Shipping Containers

Used containers: These containers have been previously used for shipping and may show some wear and tear. The cost of renting a used container is usually less expensive than a new container. Although they may not be as aesthetically pleasing as new containers, they still provide adequate storage for items and still suitable for other projects.

Used shipping containers are further sorted into the following grades:

  • Cargo Worthy shipping containers are surveyed and approved for international transport by air, land, or sea. They may bear minor external damages such as varying colored paint from their original coatings, markings of past voyages, patches of rust, and some dents too visible. To ensure the container meets export standards, it must pass a comprehensive inspection to get its CSC sticker validated.
  • Wind and Water Tight shipping containers are dependable vessels for shipping that will not leak. That being said, you may find the external surfaces of these WWT storage boxes to present with signs of wear including rust, original paintwork, dents, or abrasions from their prior use in rigorous transport services – giving them a less-than-desirable exterior.
  • As Is shipping containers of this grade are usually the oldest, and after a thorough inspection, it is revealed that this particular container has too much damage for repair to ensure wind and water-tightness. The exterior, as well as interior surfaces, have holes in them along with broken flooring which further compounds other issues. Unless you plan on using this type of damaged container for something where structural soundness or outer appearance doesn’t matter, we highly recommend not buying it.
  • IICL containers meet the highest standards set by the Institute of International Container Lessors and are suitable for export. Not only do these containers have a higher book value than other grades, they also look much better on the outside; with minimal abrasions and dents, no rust or outdated paint, you can rest assured your goods will be well-protected during transport.
Refurbished Shipping Containers

Refurbished containers are used containers that have been repaired or modified to improve their appearance and functionality. These containers may have new doors, floors, or paint jobs. They also tend to be more affordable than new containers and may be a good option if you are looking for a container that is in decent condition but don’t want to rent for a brand new one.

In general, the choice between new, used, or refurbished containers will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you require a high level of reliability and don’t mind paying a higher price, a new container may be the best option. If you are on a tighter budget and don’t mind a bit of wear and tear, a used or refurbished container may be a good option.

3. Location and Delivery Cost of The Shipping Container

The cost of shipping containers varies depending on the source and includes delivery charges. If you’re looking for a cost-effective solution, On-Site Storage Solutions offers deliveries that usually range from $300 -$400 based on your destination’s closeness. Additionally, with over sixty depot locations, we can help locate the closest container to keep delivery rates low.

4. What is the Duration of Shipping Container Rental Agreements?

When renting a container, the cost may vary depending on your rental period. You can choose between short-term contracts that last for months or long-term agreements lasting multiple years. Some companies will permit you to extend your rentals by a month after the initial rent expires while others demand extended leases from their customers. Remember that the more time you keep your container, the smaller your monthly rental fee will be.

Searching for value? On-Site Storage is the perfect solution! Our Used 20-foot Standard Shipping Container can be rented at a low monthly rate of just $95. And if you desire additional space, our 40-foot Standard Shipping Containers and 40 Foot High Cube Shipping Containers are available for rent starting at rates of only $105 and $115 respectively an unbeatable offer not to be missed.

5. Should You Rent or Buy a Shipping Container?

With renting, you can pay a small amount each month. The rent fee is ranging from as low as $99 to up to $250. This is usually done over a 24-month period.

Investing in a shipping container may be more costly initially, but it could end up being cheaper than renting over time. One might even transform the container into a home or any other innovative project.

Tips on How To Get The Best Deal When Renting a Shipping Container

Before renting a shipping container, it’s important that you thoroughly research for the best deal available. To ensure this happens, here are some helpful tips:

Compare Shipping Container Suppliers' Prices

Have a look online and compare different companies with their prices. You’d be surprised to find discounts that are beyond what you expected.

Uncover Dependable Reviews of the Shipping Container Company

Before committing to any agreement, always request feedback and references from a variety of sources to guarantee that the supplier is dependable and credible. Additionally, inspect the storage unit site carefully for its security standards.

Exploring the potential of a Rent-to-Own Program

Through this rent-to-own program, you will obtain access to the container afterward. On-site Storage Solutions has this fantastic program available; click the link if you want to learn more!

On-Site Storage Solutions

Looking for storage solutions that are flexible and cost-effective? On-Site Storage Solutions has got you covered. Our containers are available for both sale and rent, and we offer financing programs to make them more accessible to our clients. Whether you need extra space for your home, office, or construction site, we have a wide range of shipping containers to suit your storage needs. Contact us now at (888) 405-8772 to learn more about our rates and how we can help with your storage project.