When it comes to storage many people may not know exactly what a POD (portable or mobile storage) is but if you think about it I am sure you have seen a big box just sitting outside someone’s house or in someone’s driveway. If you have, well that is portable storage and if you still don’t know what it is, below is an official definition. The benefits of POD Storage may seem kind of murky to those unfamiliar with it so today I will give some general information on portable storage and possibly de-bunk some common myths associated with it. 
Mobile storage is, ’A storage container that is delivered right to your home or place of business which you fill at your convenience. Once the container is full, you can either store it at your home or office or call thecompany to come and pick it up. Many mobile storage companies will also move your container to across town or across the country if you need them to.”
Below are the top ten fast facts that everyone needs to know about POD storage that I’ve acquired through my own experience in the storage industry:
Fact #1: POD Storage is secure
Mobile storage containers are often made of a steel frame with specially designed, aluminum skin panels making them very secure. Mobile storage typically resides in a secure warehouse with sophisticated security systems when it is not with you; therefore it has security equal to an indoor self storage unit. In addition, you are the only one with a key to your portable storage container. In both cases it is a good idea to insure the contents of your unit in case something would happen.
Fact #2: POD Storage may be a convenient alternative to traditional self storage
Mobile storage, also called portable storage or POD storage, offers a convenient alternative to traditional self storage. It is often used in times of moving or remodeling. With mobile storage a mobile or portable storage container is delivered right to your home or place of business. You then fill the container at your convenience. Once the container is full, you can either store it at your home or office or call the company to come and pick it up. If you choose to have them pick it up they will store the container at their warehouse. When you are ready to unload the container you simply call the company and they will deliver your container right to your door again. If you are using mobile storage during a move, they will actually deliver your container to your new place of residence whether down the street or across the country.
Fact #3: POD Storage can be used for short term storing
You can store your container for a few weeks or a few years, it all just depends on what you need the extra space for. For instance if you have some remodeling that will only take five days you can rent one, leave it in your
driveway, and just move your furniture into the container. Hassle Free! No matter how short term you’re planning on storing, mobile storage offers the added convenience of not having to rent a truck, load your belongings, take them down to a storage facility, and unload them into the unit. Saving the cost of the truck and the hassle of the move may make mobile storage a viable option for you even if it might be a bit more expensive in the short term
Fact #4: POD Storage can be use for long term storing
Portable storage containers can be stored at your location or they can be stored in a dry and secure Storage Center. Where they’re stored may depend on how long you’ll be storing and how often you’ll need access to your items. In addition, some neighborhoods have regulations as to how long your mobile storage container can sit in your driveway. If you will not need frequent access to your belongings mobile storage may be a great option for you for long term storage. Many times the monthly charge to store your mobile container will be less than the monthly charge to rent a storage unit. (Note: some companies may require an appointment or charge a fee to get access so be sure to ask your mobile storage company)
Fact #5: POD Storage offers climate control
When sitting at your home or place of work mobile storage may not offer climate control; however when stored in their secure, climate controlled warehouse you are safe to put items such as furniture and electronics that may require climate control.
Fact #6: POD Storage is a convenient moving tool
Many people choose mobile storage when they are moving for its convenience. The fact that they can load the container at their current residence and have it dropped off at their new residence without having to rent a truck or pay a moving company appeals to many movers. However, some people shy away from using mobile storage because it may be more expensive or they fear that their belongings may get damaged. Mobile storage companies vary in their fees and will sometimes waive pickup and delivery fees. Also, some mobile storage companies have new lift technology that allows them to lift your unit onto their trucks without tipping the unit. This helps protect your belongings from damage. If you’re considering mobile storage for your move be sure to contact the mobile storage company of your choice to find out all of the details and associated costs.
Fact #7: POD Storage comes in a variety of sizes
Different mobile storage companies have different sized containers. In addition, some mobile storage companies have wooden containers while others have steel containers. It’s best to research which mobile storage companies service your area and then call to find out what container size and material they offer. Many portable storage companies will give you all of that information on their website and even allow you to get an estimated rate quote on a POD in your area.
Fact #8: POD Storage is an established industry
Many people think that portable storage is a fairly new industry and may worry about the safety of using it to store or move their goods; however, while it may be a fairly new industry it is a highly reputable one. Many mobile storage operators are outstanding members of their communities and of industry associations. Be sure to ask your potential mobile storage provider if they are involved in one of these groups.
Fact #9: You may need additional packing items and insurance for mobile storage
If you are planning to have your mobile storage container moved to the warehouse or to your new place of residence then you are going to want to make sure that you secure the items inside. Some portable containers will need to be tipped to get them onto the truck for moving. if this is the case you’ll want to make sure nothing can get moved around or broken during the move. You’ll also want to look into your insurance options because typically the mobile storage provider does not insure your goods inside of their containers.
Fact #10: POD Storage fees explained
When using POD storage most likely you will incur a delivery fee for them to drop off the container. Then you will have storage or moving fee to store it at your residence or at their warehouse. If stored at their warehouse you will have a monthly storage fee. Sometimes mobile storage companies will waive or reduce pick-up and/or delivery fees as a promotion. They also may include a month or so of storage for no additional cost.
Portable storage allows for a number of uses and can be a very convenient solution for moving and/or storing. All you have to do is search online for mobile storage companies in your area. You can compare companies, get free quotes, and print coupons online at www.USstoragesearch.com.
