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8 Important Things to Check for When Renting a Shipping Container
23
May 2022

8 Important Things to Check for When Renting a Shipping Container

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When renting a shipping container for the first time, there can be a lot of questions that pop up in your mind (some that you may have never thought of before). You may be wondering what size to get, what features you should ask for and what questions you really should be asking before committing. These are all valid and understandable concerns.

In this article, we will discuss the 8 most important things to check for when renting a shipping container. This way, you won’t go into the process uninformed or without doing your due diligence. Read on to learn more.

1. Security features

You will want to make sure the units are secure and come with a proper padlock to protect them from any break-ins. Take a look at the container from the inside and watch for any cracks that could compromise the safety and integrity of the unit. Many businesses use shipping containers to hold expensive and valuable inventory. The last thing anyone wants is a container that is susceptible to theft.

Make sure the container you choose is structurally sound with steel framing and high-quality materials. This also ensures that the container will be safe and sound when it comes to harsh weather.

One tip is to go inside the container and shut the door. If you do this and are still able to see light coming in, it means the container is not watertight. You want to make sure it is wind and water-tight so that inclement weather conditions will not be a problem. You will also want a secure unit so that no bugs or rodents can enter and ruin or damage your stored items.

2. Portable and convenient design

Portability is a great advantage to modern-day shipping containers. This means that you can move your items easily from one location to another, and keeps your items/inventory mobile and allows you greater flexibility and agility.

This is especially useful for construction companies, who can move shipping containers from one project site to the next without much fuss. Ideally, you want to make sure your shipping container is portable and with a convenient design for the purpose you intend. Taking a look at the various shipping containers before making a leasing commitment is a good idea to be sure the design works for you and your business.

3. A flexible lease

When renting a shipping container, you will want to take a good look at the lease and ask any questions before you sign. Generally speaking, a month-to-month lease offers businesses more flexibility in case circumstances change (which is very possible in this day and age). Make sure you are getting value out of your lease and choosing an economical option for your business needs.

4. The right size

Since shipping containers come in a variety of different sizes, it’s important to choose the size that best works for you. This usually means taking measurements and organizing storage ahead of time.

If you are unsure of what size you might need, you can also consult with a professional at the facility who will guide you in terms of storage unit sizes and roughly how much each size can hold. Keep in mind that smaller shipping containers are easier to fit into tight spaces (if space is an issue). Larger shipping containers have less flexibility in that department.

5. Signs of wear and tear

You should always take a look around your shipping container for any signs of wear and tear that didn’t come from you or your items. This means paint deterioration, warping and any cracks or holes.

While some wear and tear is definitely normal, you don’t want to (and shouldn’t) see major damages or things that would compromise the structural integrity of the container. If your container is temperature-controlled, you should also make sure this system is working properly and set to the appropriate adjustment for your items.

6. No foul odours

Foul odours can be a sign that something is amiss in your shipping container. Watch out for any odours that seem off. It could mean mould, corrosives or signs of a rodent or insect infestation.

7. Pick-up and drop-off services

Most shipping container companies will offer additional services such as pick-up and drop-off of your container included with the rental. This means less hassle for you and a smooth, easy transition process. Moving the container should be simple this way and your shipping container company should make it easy, from start to finish.

8. A reputable container company

Last but certainly not least, you want to make sure the shipping container company that you are renting from is reputable. This means that they do good business and offer high-quality shipping containers.

Read reviews and ask questions in your search for the best shipping container. Don’t let anyone pressure you into lengthy commitments or overpriced containers. Do your research and you will be better off for it.

Renting a shipping container for your business or to store excess belongings from your home doesn’t have to be hard. It can be a simple, convenient and worthwhile process that saves you money, time and energy in the long run. Don’t do it alone. Consult with the professionals and rent the best shipping container for your needs and budget.

For more information on container rentals in Ontario and the GTA, please contact Sigma Container at 1-877-225-7762 or contact us here. We are industry leaders and can help answer any questions you may have. Contact us today for more information on our premier storage units available for rent.

Tom Bray is a freelance writer with over five years experience writing for online publications and over ten years in business and sales. He studied journalism and media and has written for various online outlets on multiple topics. His specialty subjects are shipping containers and transport logistics.

Tom’s passion for writing and transport logistics motivates him to provide frequent direct marketing content that can show you how a shipping container can be effectively utilized and modified to each person’s needs.

You can connect with Tom via email at info@sigmacontainer.ca.