How to Rent a Storage Container: Prices, Sizes, and Delivery

By the time shelves at home or work are bowing dangerously under heavy loads, most people start thinking about alternative storage options. This is especially true if the basement or attic is already packed to the brim from past projects. Portable storage containers, which can easily be placed on-site in your yard or driveway at home, or on the lot of your business, offer at least a temporary way to store excess, bulky household goods, business inventory, or building materials. In the United States, storage containers made of steel or zinc can be rented in all possible sizes and price ranges. Typically, these are delivered directly to your site using trucks and cranes, but before you start looking for a suitable container, you should be thoroughly prepared.

Why You Should Rent a Storage Container

The biggest advantage of having a storage container on-site compared to off-site self-storage is the immediate access it provides right on your own property. Furthermore, many container rental companies offer a good selection of sizes, allowing you to choose the dimensions of the new structure in your yard or driveway and customize it to your specific space constraints. Container providers are also flexible when it comes to rental agreements and durations. Containers can be rented for both short and long terms, though they generally are not ideal for permanent, long-term storage. Storage containers are usually made of galvanized steel and provide adequate protection against theft and severe weather, but over extended periods, they cannot entirely prevent moisture intrusion and frost damage. The construction industry recognized the benefits of containers long ago, using them to safely secure tools and building materials on job sites overnight. Today, new designs and modifications, such as storage pods, give other commercial businesses and private households the opportunity to securely store their items and merchandise.

Renovations, Moving, or Other Projects: When is Renting the Perfect Solution?

During home or commercial renovations, storage containers provide a fast and secure holding area for anything that is either in the way of the remodeling work or at risk of being damaged. The same applies to moving, where you only need a temporary place to stash furniture, household goods, and other everyday items. Your personal household or commercial inventory can be carried out of the building and placed in a secure spot within just a few hours. This saves you a lot of time and the hassle of hauling your belongings in multiple trips to an off-site storage facility. However, you should make sure to keep furniture and boxes from sitting directly on the floor. Get some pallets or shelving so you can elevate your belongings safely above ground moisture and cold. At the same time, if necessary, you should protect fragile or sensitive items with soft padding and plenty of packing materials like bubble wrap, moving blankets, and styrofoam.

What is the Difference Between Storage and Shipping Containers?

While storage containers and shipping containers might look identical at first glance, they have different characteristics and intended uses. Storage containers are specifically designed for stationary, on-site placement. These oversized storage boxes come in various sizes and layouts so they can be adapted to different needs. For example, storage containers can be delivered with side doors that allow for more flexible access. Shipping or sea containers are manufactured for the transportation of goods, and they also come in various sizes. However, these must always conform to international maritime standards and multimodal transport requirements for trains and trucks over land to ensure universal handling. Sea containers are exclusively opened from the front and/or rear with double doors, never from the side. Because they require higher durability, shipping containers are often heavier than storage containers and feature a much more robust floor. Nevertheless, both storage and shipping containers are generally equipped with crane lifting pockets and/or fittings for unloading hooks to ensure safe handling.

How Big is a Storage Container?

Due to the requirement for international compatibility, the sizes of sea and shipping containers are subject to ISO standards, which are primarily specified in feet and inches. These standards dictate the following dimensions:

• 4-Foot Container:
  • Inside: 3.98 ft x 3.84 ft x 3.64 ft
  • Outside: 4 ft x 4 ft x 4 ft
  • Door: 3.87 ft x 3.61 ft
  • Floor area: 15.3 sq ft
  • Volume: 55.8 cu ft
• 5-Foot Container:
  • Inside: 4.81 ft x 3.67 ft x 6.84 ft
  • Outside: 4.81 ft x 3.67 ft x 6.84 ft
  • Door: 4.00 ft x 6.72 ft
  • Floor area: 17.6 sq ft
  • Volume: 143.0 cu ft
• 6-Foot Container:
  • Inside: 5.84 ft x 6.37 ft x 6.22 ft
  • Outside: 6.25 ft x 6.50 ft x 6.70 ft
  • Door: 6.23 ft x 6.15 ft
  • Floor area: 37.2 sq ft
  • Volume: 227.4 cu ft
• 8-Foot Container:
  • Inside: 7.47 ft x 6.93 ft x 6.76 ft
  • Outside: 8.00 ft x 7.22 ft x 7.41 ft
  • Door: 6.89 ft x 6.39 ft
  • Floor area: 51.8 sq ft
  • Volume: 350.3 cu ft
• 10-Foot Container:
  • Inside: 9.29 ft x 7.72 ft x 7.84 ft
  • Outside: 9.81 ft x 8.00 ft x 8.50 ft
  • Door: 7.67 ft x 7.48 ft
  • Floor area: 71.7 sq ft
  • Volume: 561.5 cu ft
• 12-Foot Container:
  • Inside: 19.35 ft x 7.72 ft x 7.84 ft
  • Outside: 19.88 ft x 8.00 ft x 8.50 ft
  • Door: 7.67 ft x 7.48 ft
  • Floor area: 149.4 sq ft
  • Volume: 1168.9 cu ft
• 20-Foot Container:
  • Inside: 19.35 ft x 7.72 ft x 7.84 ft
  • Outside: 19.88 ft x 8.00 ft x 8.50 ft
  • Door: 7.67 ft x 7.48 ft
  • Floor area: 149.4 sq ft
  • Volume: 1168.9 cu ft
• 40-Foot Container:
  • Inside: 39.47 ft x 7.72 ft x 7.86 ft
  • Outside: 40.00 ft x 8.00 ft x 8.50 ft
  • Door: 7.68 ft x 7.48 ft
  • Floor area: 305.4 sq ft
  • Volume: 2390.8 cu ft
• 40-Foot High-Cube:
  • Inside: 39.47 ft x 7.72 ft x 8.85 ft
  • Outside: 40.00 ft x 8.00 ft x 9.50 ft
  • Door: 7.68 ft x 8.48 ft
  • Floor area: 305.4 sq ft
  • Volume: 2698.0 cu ft
• 45-Foot High-Cube:
  • Inside: 44.48 ft x 7.69 ft x 8.84 ft
  • Outside: 45.00 ft x 8.00 ft x 9.50 ft
  • Door: 7.68 ft x 8.52 ft
  • Floor area: 342.2 sq ft
  • Volume: 3037.1 cu ft

Storage containers sold or rented in the US that are not used for maritime shipping do not have to strictly follow these ISO standards and may deviate slightly in their dimensions.

Mini Storage Containers (10 ft) — The Ideal Solution for Small Spaces, Front Yards, and Driveways

For individuals and households looking for a temporary solution to store boxes, paperwork, tools, and/or small furniture during a home renovation, the smallest variety of storage container is likely sufficient. A 10-foot storage container typically measures about 10 ft (L) x 7.2 ft (W) x 7.2 ft (H) and weighs roughly 990 lbs. Mini storage containers are an excellent fit for driveways, front yards, and private parking spots right outside your house. They are easier to transport and can usually be delivered even in narrow alleys. Use cones or other markers before the delivery to designate the best spot for your container. Also, ensure that access to the container doors will remain unobstructed once it is set down. The rent for a mini container is approximately $40 per month. However, there are additional one-time costs for the delivery, placement, and retrieval of the container starting at a minimum of $300, depending on your location in the US.

Medium Storage Containers (20 ft) — Popular for Large Household Goods, Furniture, and Job Sites

For moves or major remodeling jobs on a two-to-three-bedroom home, home additions, and other construction sites, a mini container usually won't cut it. In this case, a medium container of 20 feet or more is more appropriate. A 20-foot container measures approximately 20 ft (L) x 7.2 ft (W) x 7.2 ft (H) and weighs around 1,720 lbs. Twenty-foot containers are generally available with both single and double doors, making them ideal for storing furniture, household belongings, and garden equipment, as well as construction tools and materials. The monthly rent for a medium container depends on your zip code, but typically starts at $70 per month, plus the delivery and placement fees via truck and crane. In addition to the on-site delivery and monthly rent, container customers can also rent extra storage aids like pallets, shelving, ramps, and specialized anti-theft security systems. Twenty-foot containers require more placement space than mini containers. However, access can often be arranged more flexibly, for example, through side doors. Still, a medium-sized container solution can often prove more cost-effective overall in many situations, because the delivery and placement fee is frequently only slightly more expensive—if at all—than the fees for a mini container. Again, you must measure your available space and plan the delivery carefully in advance. Keep in mind that a larger container will also require more space on your street during the unloading process. You must also be careful that the container ultimately doesn't block access for the actual construction work taking place.

Giant Containers (40 ft) and High-Cube Containers — For Major Projects and Industrial Use

Anyone opting for a massive 40-foot container or a so-called High-Cube container is likely planning a project on an industrial scale, needing space for large machinery and equipment, and/or even a covered workspace with the corresponding tools. High-Cube containers share the same footprint as conventional storage and sea containers but are considerably taller on average. This makes them especially suitable for long items that can be stood upright, as well as for stacked pallet storage. Renting a large 40-foot container requires a significant amount of available space, particularly for the delivery, as the crane needs a larger operational radius for placement. If the container will be used as a workspace, you must ensure a power supply, adequate lighting, and sturdy fixtures like workbenches and saw tables. High-Cube containers typically come in dimensions of 40 ft (L) x 8.2 ft (W) x 9.5 ft (H) and weigh about 8,800 lbs. Depending on the location, the monthly rental rate for a High-Cube or large container is at least $140 and up.

Insulated and Refrigerated Containers — Protection from Condensation and Mold

Insulated and refrigerated containers are required for specific situations, such as storing sensitive goods, archiving, and food storage. Insulated containers are particularly well-suited for storing electronics, documents, and books. This storage option is designed to prevent moisture and other unfavorable weather conditions from penetrating the unit. In many cases, these types of containers can be supplied with climate control systems that balance temperature fluctuations and protect stored items from extreme heat, cold, and high humidity. Refrigerated containers keep the interior largely at the same consistently low temperature. This option is frequently utilized in the food industry to transport perishable goods like fruits and vegetables. Both insulated and refrigerated containers require a secure power supply with adequate wattage, along with proper insulation. To prevent condensation—which leads to mold, rust, and general deterioration—additional measures can be employed alongside insulation panels, such as strategically placed ventilation slots, dehumidifiers, and silica gel.

Specialty Models: Workshops, Offices/Canteens, Environmental and Hazmat Containers

Beyond traditional containers used to store household items, tools, or other goods, there is a whole range of storage units built for highly specific tasks. Anyone who has ever been on a construction site will have noticed the distinct sheet metal containers provided to workers for shelter during bad weather or lunch breaks. From site offices and mobile workshops to break rooms, everything can be set up quickly and virtually anywhere. These specialty units come fully equipped with windows, electrical hookups, lighting, and side doors. Today, it isn't just construction sites utilizing these specialty models; they can be found in any industry requiring a temporary expansion of workspace, workshops, or office accommodations. There are also specialty containers for hazardous, often highly flammable materials that must be stored out of public reach. Hazmat and environmental containers are generally outfitted with grated floors and spill containment trays so that if chemicals, oils, paints, or lubricants leak, the environment isn't compromised. Due to the value or risks they contain, specialty containers are frequently secured with specialized locking systems to prevent theft and satisfy insurance requirements.

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Storage Container?

The cost of renting a storage container depends not only on the size of the unit but also on your specific location. Furthermore, container rental companies will factor in the length of your rental term when calculating the price. Beyond the monthly, weekly, or sometimes even daily rental rates, additional costs apply for the delivery, proper placement, and pickup of your container. Typically, at least three employees from the rental company are required to correctly place the storage container. The delivery and pickup of the container usually start at $300 and can run over a thousand dollars depending on special requirements and the surrounding environment. The more specialized equipment needed—including cranes and specialty vehicles—or professional personnel required for the drop-off and retrieval, the higher the delivery costs will be. For private individuals renting the container for short-term use during a remodel or move, applicable local sales tax represents an additional expense.

Transport & Placement: Cranes, Shipping, and Extra Fees

When calculating the shipping and placement costs, companies generally use a flat rate for a standard delivery within a radius of about 250 miles from the container supplier's location. Additional fees may arise depending on the environment where the container will be placed. You must consider the operational radius a crane truck needs for the container you've requested. As a rule, containers are delivered via a crane truck, meaning the truck already has a crane integrated onto the flatbed. Depending on the model, these have a reach of roughly 65 feet, provided there is enough space for the truck to park in the first place. Besides integrated flatbed cranes, there are separate crane vehicles that offer a longer reach, though these usually incur an extra charge. Small to medium-sized containers up to 20 feet can sometimes be moved from the truck to the placement spot using forklifts. However, the forklift must already be on-site, as it is not provided with the delivery. Because of this, plan your container delivery meticulously. Pay special attention to overhead obstacles that could cause height issues, such as power lines and trees. In addition, the ground where the container will be set must be suitable for it.

Extras & Accessories: Shelving, Locks, Ventilation

Beyond the actual storage container, many suppliers offer a variety of supplementary equipment. With these accessories, you can customize the container to your liking. Extras that can typically be added to the base rental price include shelving, workbenches, electrical outlets, lighting with associated generators, ramps, and last but not least, heavy-duty locks for the secure storage of your property. If you plan to store paperwork or books in your container, additional costs might apply for air conditioning or dehumidifiers. Other items, like tools or electronics, might require insulation to ensure they are stored properly.

Lease Agreements: Minimum Terms, Cancellations, and Payment Options

Storage container rental companies are generally flexible regarding the rental duration. In some instances, containers can even be delivered on a daily rental basis. However, the aforementioned delivery and placement costs will still apply. Private residential customers who only need the container for a shorter period must usually pay their rent upfront. For longer-term arrangements, weekly or monthly payment schedules can be negotiated. Early cancellation of an agreed-upon rental period is typically not allowed, whereas extending the rental term is often possible depending on the circumstances. As for payment methods, container rental agencies usually offer upfront payment via bank transfer or credit card, either directly or through services like PayPal. Commercial clients are frequently offered installment payment options, subject to certain conditions. Residential customers should note that prices are usually quoted before tax. Because of this, your local sales tax will be added to the final invoice. When signing the contract, check whether the landlord provides insurance for the container against theft or damage, or if securing insurance is your responsibility.

Delivery & Placement at Home or Elsewhere

Before you begin looking for a container rental company, you should thoroughly prepare and plan ahead for the delivery and placement. Pay special attention to the following:

• Do you have enough room for the container? Factor in the delivery crane’s radius, as well as adequate safety clearances from buildings and fences—both your own and your neighbors'.
• Make sure the container won't become an obstruction to others.
• Is the ground where the container will sit capable of supporting its size and weight?
• Do you need an official city or HOA permit to park the container at your home or business?

Delivery times for containers vary and depend on your location as well as the current inventory of your chosen supplier. If you are unsure about the container's size relative to the chosen placement spot, you should provide the rental company not only with exact dimensions but also with photos and possibly a site plan. When the container arrives, you should take photos of it and compare them to its condition at pickup to avoid any disputes with the rental company.

Site Requirements: Ground/Surface, Clearance & Crane Reach

When you rent a storage container, the rental company will generally ask for several details, including:

• What surface will the container be placed on? Is it a solid surface like asphalt or concrete, or a soft surface like gravel or crushed stone?
• Is there adequate drainage for rain or snow to prevent corrosion or flooding of the container?
• How much weight can the ground support?
• Is the ground where the container will sit level? Check this with a bubble level to ensure your container won't slide or tilt.
• Can a crane truck safely drop off the container? Calculate a minimum radius of 33 feet for the crane and verify that no trees or overhead power lines are in the way during unloading.
• Where should the container doors be located? At the front or on the side?

Only once these questions are resolved can you move forward with the contract negotiations.

Truck Access: Streets, Parking, and Work Zones

Storage containers are generally delivered via truck, which requires certain preconditions to safely unload the unit. When planning the drop-off, account for the crane truck needing a width of about 8.2 feet and a minimum length of 36 feet. Therefore, ensure that trucks can actually navigate to your container site. Additionally, you should factor in the necessary turning radius or a clear path for the truck to continue driving forward. If you suspect the crane truck or semi might run into problematic routing on the way, notify the rental company before they depart. You should also block off the parking area for the truck with traffic cones or other barriers prior to arrival. Naturally, it goes without saying that you must provide the correct address. Upon arrival, keep onlookers and random pedestrians away from the work zone to prevent accidents and errors. To preemptively address any neighbor complaints, have any required official permits readily available.

Quality, Security & Climate Control

Alongside the rental price, the manufacturing quality of the offered containers should play a role in your decision. The rented storage container will be exposed to the elements 24/7. Even a single night of heavy rain could cause massive damage to your property inside a rusty container. Make sure you order a container made of galvanized steel, preferably with a weather-resistant and scratch-proof coating. Ensure the floor your inventory will rest on meets the requirements for the items being stored. Verify that the doors, walls, and ceiling are guaranteed watertight and, if needed, adequately insulated. If renting for an extended period, you should conduct regular inspections to check the condition of both your stored goods and the container itself. Commercial clients in particular should prioritize container security if expensive construction machinery and tools are stored inside. Keep your machinery locked up tight and place the container in a well-lit area if possible.

Permits and Local Regulations

Before ordering your container, you should check local municipal regulations regarding containers. This is especially true if the container will be placed entirely or partially on public property, such as a street parking spot or sidewalk. Contact your local authorities—such as the Department of Transportation (DOT), code enforcement, the building department, and potentially the local police—to find out your rights and responsibilities and whether permits are required for your location. This also applies to any potential traffic control needed during delivery and pickup.

When Do You Need a Permit?

If you are placing containers in public spaces, you will always need a permit from local city authorities. Procuring this permit is your responsibility, though reputable container rental companies will often assist you with the paperwork. Even if you place the container on your own property, you might still be legally obligated to pull a permit. This is especially true for massive containers that could upset the neighborhood and be viewed by the building department as an unpermitted structure. The processing time for a container placement permit depends on your municipality but usually takes 1-2 weeks. Permit costs also vary by city and typically range from $50 to $100.

Private Property vs. Public Spaces: Inspections and Postings

Containers placed in public spaces must be properly registered with the local Department of Transportation by both private households and businesses. When the permit is issued, certain traffic safety conditions will be mandated, including warning signs and specific clearance distances. Furthermore, the street placement permit for the container is only valid for an explicitly pre-approved timeframe. In some cases, daily parking/standing fees may apply, varying by location, container size, and duration. Containers in public spaces are typically inspected by city officials after delivery to ensure the placement complies with regulations. There are fewer restrictions on private property, but the safety of the surrounding area must still be maintained. Additionally, in most cities and towns, storing containers on private property is capped at a maximum of three months.

Environmental and Safety Guidelines on Construction Sites

Containers on construction sites serve multiple functions and are accessed by far more people than, for instance, a container used for a home remodel. For this reason, additional safety measures are required when using containers on job sites. Consequently, no one is allowed to move around a construction site without personal protective equipment (PPE). Containers in construction must also be securely anchored if placed on soft, muddy soil. Containers storing potentially environmentally hazardous materials—like oil, lubricants, paints, and varnishes—must be thoroughly secured with spill containment trays to prevent any leaks. Moreover, in many cases, construction containers must be clearly marked with safety warnings to prevent accidents and environmental damage.

Alternatives to Storage Containers

To many, storage containers seem like a convenient and sometimes even cost-effective solution for their storage needs. However, in most instances, this option is only suitable for a very short period. Private households are already limited by local ordinances to three months, and businesses can also face strict regulatory limits. Then there is the time and labor required to handle paperwork, permits, site measurements, and safety precautions for delivery, storage, and pickup. By comparison, self-storage solutions—especially those offering full-service options—can represent a less labor-intensive and longer-term alternative. Furthermore, issues like climate control to protect documents and paper goods, adequate theft prevention, and far greater flexibility regarding contracts are minimal or non-existent problems with self-storage facilities.

Self-Storage Options

Self-storage provides off-site storage solutions for individuals and businesses. Especially for households and companies running out of space in major cities, this option offers units in various sizes that can easily be adjusted to match business or family changes. In the short term, self-storage facilities can help hold items temporarily during moves, renovations, or for college students during summer breaks. Commercial enterprises use self-storage solutions to stow away infrequently used tools, machinery, or bulk-purchased materials.

Short-Term Moving and Storage Solutions

Self-storage facilities provide secure, dry, and well-ventilated spaces at cost-effective rates. Just like with container rentals, short-term agreements can be made. Unlike renting a container, however, there are no massive setup costs like delivery fees, crane rentals, or personnel costs for placement. When it comes to monthly rent, self-storage facilities and container rentals are roughly comparable. Yet, self-storage providers offer far more flexibility and adaptability regarding the size of the storage units. Self-storage is available starting as small as 10 sq ft and can be upgraded or downsized as needed. Consumers can also choose between different bins and storage lockers. The protection and surveillance of stored goods are fully handled by the self-storage providers. Options like full-service storage even offer a delivery service, picking up your belongings directly from your home on short notice and bringing them back to you, partially or entirely, whenever you need them.