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Should You Buy or Rent a Storage Container?
11
Nov 2019

Should You Buy or Rent a Storage Container?

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Depending on your budget and the intended purpose of your shipping container, you may be considering whether you should rent or buy a container and what would be the advantages to each option. Outlined below are a few points to consider when making the decision, so that you can optimize your funds and make an informed choice. Keep in mind that our team at Sigma Container Corporation (SCC) is available and ready to handle any inquiries regarding container sales should you wish to contact us.

The advantages of buying a shipping container include:

Shipping Container Modifications

When you purchase a shipping container, you have the option to customize and modify it to your liking. For example, if you are using your container as a tiny home or cottage, it will be imperative that the space is modified for a comfortable and efficient daily life. In this case, you should opt to own your shipping container so that you can adjust the space freely. There are many reasons as to why a container may need to be modified, especially if you are planning to use it for purposes other than shipping and storage.

More Options Available

Typically, when renting a storage container, there are only standard sizes available for rent. This is to suit the needs of the average customer and streamline the options for ease. However, there is usually a wider range of options available to those who are looking to buy containers. If you are looking to purchase, you can find custom container sizes, new and used containers, and many more choices readily available.

Resale Value

If you own a storage container and find that you don’t have use for it anymore, one huge benefit of buying is that you have the option of reselling the container at your discretion. Our shipping containers are great investments as they are tough, built to withstand the elements, and typically last up to 30 years with little maintenance required. In today’s market, shipping containers are an especially hot commodity, as they can be transformed and repurposed for a variety of uses. These selling points make them ideal for owners who don’t want to be tied down with a major commitment but still like the benefits associated with buying.

Costs in the Long Term

When it comes to costs, there are advantages to both buying and renting a container based on what your needs are. Buying outright can be more cost-efficient if you need the container for a longer amount of time, and you plan to use it daily or at least quite frequently. In this case, while you will spend more upfront to make a purchase, you won’t have to deal with recurring payments and may save money in the long run.

The advantages of renting a shipping container include:

Costs in the Short Term

Depending on the length of time that you will be using your shipping container, renting may save you more money. For example, if you plan to use the container during a certain season or for a limited amount of time, then we would recommend renting it. This is because you will only be charged for the months that you are actually using the container. You won’t have to worry about reselling it afterwards or what to do with it when the time is up, as it will be a more hassle-free exchange.

Upgrades

If you are looking for a storage container, but not quite sure which would fit your needs, then renting may be the better option for you. This is because renting would make it easier to exchange or upgrade your container in the future should the need arise. For example, if you find that you need a larger sized container within a few months, the rental company will usually be able to offer upgrades for renters. Buying will be more of a commitment for the customer, as they will need to sell their current container if they want to upgrade. Alternatively, buyers can also choose to modify their current containers if possible.

Transportation Services

If you are renting from a storage container company, transportation charges may be included in your rental fees. This gives you an easy option if ever you need to switch locations or make a permanent move. At SCC, we offer transportation and relocation services at reasonable rates for all containers. We use tilt and load trucks so that our drivers can move the containers to your exact locations without any hassle. Our staff is equipped and ready to help with your move and make sure that your container arrives exactly where you want it in its original condition.

Maintenance

Another favourable aspect of renting your storage container is that you will not need to worry about making repairs or upkeep. You can rest assured that the container will not only come to you in good condition, but you can rely on the owners should any maintenance need to be done during your rental term. If something does go wrong, you can usually exchange the shipping container for another without any issues. This will ensure a good, clean appearance for your container at all times.

Ultimately, when choosing whether to buy or rent your shipping container, there may be multiple factors to consider. It all comes down to your unique situation and personal preference. Please feel free to contact us for quotes on any of our new or used containers. We will be glad to assist you, as we offer many containers to suit a variety of projects and are well connected within the industry to provide you with the best possible experience. For more information on container sales and buying either new or used containers, call Sigma Container Corporation at (855) 340-3342 or contact us here.