Which is better for moving: rental trucks or portable storage

Making a decision to relocate might seem like the hardest part of the moving process, but it isn’t. Because after that, you need to pack, find a moving company, transfer all the utilities, unpack, etc.  With so much to do, you are probably looking for the easiest possible moving solution. Moving on a budget can also be a difficult task, especially if you are considering renting a truck or hiring professional movers. Luckily, these are not your only options. You can also rent a portable storage unit.  Moreover, if you want to avoid the hassle of loading a rental truck or dealing with a moving company, portable storage units might be the way to go. If you are wondering what is better, rental trucks or portable storage, we are about to figure that out.

Portable storage pros

• First of all – there’s no need to drive a large vehicle. And that’s great. You won’t have to maneuver a moving truck in heavy traffic. That is great news, especially if you have never done it before.   
• You skip the refueling hassle. Rental truck companies charge for the gas you use, and you need to refuel before turning them in. At least if you want to avoid extra costs.
• You won’t have to deal with steep loading ramps. Typically, rental trucks have ramps that require you to move your belongings uphill. On the other hand, you load portable storage containers at ground level. Still wondering which is better -rental trucks or portable storage?

Portable storage cons

• Generally, they are more expensive. Although every relocation is different, an in-town move using a portable storage container generally costs a bit more than truck rental.
• You will probably need a parking permit. If you are planning to place and keep portable storage on the street near your home, I recommend contacting local governments and homeowner associations to make sure there are no restrictions regarding street parking.
• You might need to pay attention to some additional restrictions. Certain homeowner associations have strict rules about where portable storage can park on properties. Hence, driveways and lawns may be off-limits.

Rental truck pros

• Rental trucks or portable storage, what to choose? Rental trucks are usually cheaper than portable containers. One of the few benefits of planning a DIY move is that it is usually less expensive. But if something gets damaged, that won’t be the case.
• You don’t need a permit to park it. When using a rental truck, you can avoid all the hassle of applying for a parking permit, needed for a storage container, which is great.
• You only pay only for the time you use it. Since you generally rent trucks by the day, you can avoid the minimum one-month storage fee that some portable container companies request for.

Rental truck cons

• You need to drive a moving truck, and that is not that easy. If you are not used to driving a large vehicle, you may find a rental truck difficult to navigate and control.
• Responsibility for damage is all yours. So, if something occurs to the rental vehicle while you are moving, you need to pay for it.
• You may need to purchase some extra insurance. Depending on what your auto and homeowner policies cover, you may need to buy supplemental insurance for your move as well.

What about the costs?

While renting portable storage might cost a little more than renting a moving truck, it is certainly cheaper than hiring a professional moving company.  Therefore, it allows you to budget more accurately for your relocation.  Unlike movers who can only provide you with a moving estimate, a portable storage unit company can provide you with exact rates. So, you won’t end up guessing how much your move will cost.  Additionally, you don’t have to worry about mileage charges, fuel charges, and gratuity. Good news, right?

Accessibility matters as well

Your things will stay in a metal container which you cannot get to until it you unload it,l at your new home. You shouldn’t expect to have access to any of your items in the portable container. Even if there is an extended period of time between leaving your old home and arriving at the new one.

On the other hand, when you rent a moving truck, you can put all your belongings in a storage facility where you can get to them if you need them.

Rental trucks or portable storage?

In the end, it is all about convenience, flexibility, and affordability. And luckily, portable storage units offer all three.  Relocation can be an expensive, stressful, and time-consuming endeavor and portable storage units provide a smart solution that will make your move a bit easier. Rental trucks or portable storage, what suits you better? We hope we have helped you choose the option that suits best your needs. It’s your call!