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September 2008
Index of all
past
Affiliate Corner columns
Mobile storage an up-and-coming industry standard
By Wendy Burkett
Big Box Storage
Mobile or portable storage companies supply storage containers for use in storing and moving primarily residential goods.
A storage container is delivered to a customer’s residence; the customer loads and packs the container, and it is picked up again and delivered to a central warehouse for long-term storage. Most mobile storage companies also offer moving services: the customer may pack a storage container and the mobile or portable storage operator transports it to a different intrastate or interstate location.
The overall picture of today’s portable storage industry is one of contrasts. Though still in its infancy, the industry has also matured from its inception. More people are aware of mobile storage than ever before, yet many still don’t know what it is.
While many mobile storage operators are independent business owners, several companies have established large-scale national operations. Many have been in operation from the industry’s earliest days, but as competition has increased, numerous startup companies have entered the picture. There are standards within the industry, although prices may vary with each competitor. For the most part, container sizes are a standard 5 feet by 7 feet by 8 feet and will hold one or more rooms of furniture and packing boxes.
What these companies share are the basic mobile self storage product and the need to sell and deliver that product to consumers. Companies also share the goal of operating efficiently and cost-effectively in order to maximize profits, seeking to balance this goal with providing top-notch customer service.
Here are a few things that make mobile storage the up-and-coming standard in the storage industry:
Convenience – Consumers don’t need a truck or to load and unload belongings multiple times. The storage comes to them.
Affordability – Pricing is comparable to or better than traditional storage.
Flexibility – Consumers use one container or multiple containers, so they don’t pay for space they don’t need. Containers can be kept onsite or stored in a storage center.
Security – Mobile storage offers state-of-the-art, super secure warehouses for container storage.
Easy moving services – Mobile storage makes moving a breeze. Just load the container(s) and have them shipped anywhere in the country.
Good for de-cluttering – The containers are great for anyone selling a home that needs to be emptied out before showing.
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