Shipping containers have become more popular for various uses: storing items, creating business premises and even building houses! For storage, containers are ideal if you need storage that's close to your property. One of the first decisions you'll make is whether to buy or rent a container, and this depends on how long you want to use it for. If you decide to rent, this article offers some preparation tips to ensure you get the best container for your purposes.
Permits and restrictions
A container is a large structure that impacts the landscape around it, and so in certain areas, you'll need a special permit before one can be delivered to your property. Since you're renting, what you need is a temporary use permit, but this may not even be necessary depending on where you live or do business. Usually, there are more restrictions around residential areas than rural or commercial areas. Additionally, you may be required to place the entire container inside your property line (not by the road outside your house, for instance). If you're unsure about permissions, you can ask a local supplier or visit your local council offices.
Delivery fees
Most dealers charge a separate delivery fee on containers depending on the distance to property, lead time (how soon it should be delivered) and container size. An extra fee may be charged if there are special circumstances, e.g. your property is difficult to navigate by trailer/truck, you want them to prepare the site for you etc. Ensure that you know the delivery cost before signing a rental agreement. The standard is to charge a flat delivery fee for a radius around the supplier's premises, with a per-km extra charge for distance outside the radius.
Rental duration
You'll get better rates if you sign a long-term contract right from the beginning. It's best to figure out how long you need the container to get the best terms. If you aren't sure, you can estimate a duration after which you can renew your contract monthly. Some suppliers offer rent-to-buy deals for users who started out with short-term rental, but they end up needing it permanently. Find out how much notice you need to serve before terminating a contract as well as to renew a contract. Depending on the terms, the rental price may be adjusted according to rises or dips in market value.
Site preparation
Suppliers can generally deliver containers onto gravel, earth, concrete, grass or asphalt surfaces, provided they are relatively even. However, your supplier will tell you what you need to do before the container is delivered. For instance, on soft or unstable surfaces you may have to pour a bed of gravel, lay tiles or provide concrete or asphalt footing. This ensures container weight is evenly distributed to prevent movement.
Note that site preparation for long-term and short-term hire will be different. You may also need to lay special drainage infrastructure if your home is flood-prone. Finally, check that you have sufficient clearance for the size of the container you want for easy delivery and pickup.
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