On your worksite, you've got a job to do and sometimes that job requires a lot of stuff.
So what happens when the amount of materials, supplies, and equipment you need completely dwarfs the space you've got available? Whether you're managing inventory for a growing company, coordinating a big move, or just need somewhere to stash belongings during a renovation, the storage question eventually hits everyone.
If you're like most people, you probably Googled something like "storage solutions near me" and got buried under an avalanche of results. Self storage facilities, portable containers, PODS, moving services... everything under the sun popped up. Now you're stuck trying to figure out what the difference actually is and which option makes sense for your situation.
That's where we come in.
At SiteBox Storage, we've been providing businesses and customers with the space they need since 1998. We understand the stress of trying to make the right call when you've got a team counting on you, a schedule to keep, or just a driveway full of stuff that needs to go somewhere secure. Let's break down your options so you can move forward with confidence.
Understanding Storage Containers vs. Storage Units
Before we get into comparing features and pricing, let's clear up what we're actually talking about here.
Storage units are what you find at those big self storage facilities around town. These are typically indoor spaces within a large building or outdoor complexes with hundreds of individual units. Think of them like apartment buildings, but for your belongings instead of people. You drive to the location, unlock your unit, and haul your items in and out as needed.
Portable storage containers are those heavy-duty steel boxes you've probably seen on construction sites or in someone's driveway. These are basically shipping containers—built with durable metal construction, lockable cargo doors, and designed to handle serious weather. The big difference? They get delivered directly to your location. A driver brings the container on a truck, drops it where you want it, and picks it up when you're done.
The global storage container market hit around $8.6 billion in 2025, and portable container demand has jumped about 17% annually over the past five years. Meanwhile, roughly 9.2% of U.S. households currently rent a storage unit. Both options clearly have their place—it just depends on what you're trying to accomplish.
Types of Storage Containers and Their Uses
Storage containers aren't one-size-fits-all. Understanding the different types helps you pick the right solution for your storage needs.
Standard shipping containers come in 8' x 10', 8' x 20', and 8' x 40' sizes. These are workhorses: solid steel construction, weatherproof, and tough enough to survive an ocean crossing. Perfect for construction materials, tools, inventory, or basically anything that needs to stay dry and secure on a jobsite.
High cube containers give you an extra foot of height, which makes a surprising difference when you're stacking bins or storing taller equipment. Great for warehousing extra inventory or creating temporary workshop spaces.
Modified containers can be customized with shelves, climate control, electrical hookups, or even converted into mobile offices. We've seen everything from guard shacks to on-site command centers. One of our customers in Utah turned a 40-footer into a fully functional field office for a remote construction project. It saved their team hours of driving back and forth to town every day.
Refrigerated containers maintain temperature control for sensitive materials. Not common for typical storage needs, but if you're dealing with specialized inventory or supplies that can't handle heat, they're worth knowing about.
The beauty of containers is their versatility and capacity. You're not limited to whatever sizes the storage facility happens to offer—you pick what actually fits your situation.
Choosing the Right Size for Your Storage Needs
Size matters, and getting it wrong costs you either money or space. Here's how to figure out what you actually need.
For storage units at self storage facilities, typical sizes range from 5' x 5' (think: closet-sized) up to 10' x 30' (small garage). A 10' x 15' unit (the most common size) runs about $133 monthly on average according to 2020 industry data. That's enough for a one-bedroom apartment's worth of furniture and belongings.
Storage containers start at 8' x 10' and go up to 8' x 40'. An 8' x 20' container holds roughly the same volume as a 10' x 15' storage unit but with ground-level access and the flexibility to place it wherever works for your team.
Here's a practical way to think about sizing: make a quick list of your largest items (furniture, equipment, materials, whatever you're storing). Add up the approximate square footage they'll occupy. Then add 20-30% for walking space and organization. That gives you a realistic target.
One thing people don't always consider: vertical space. Containers and units with higher ceilings let you stack plastic bins, use metal shelving, and maximize capacity without needing a bigger footprint. A couple of sturdy shelving units can basically double your usable storage area.
Benefits of Using Storage Units
Self storage facilities work great for certain situations. Let's be honest about what they do well.
Immediate availability tops the list. Most facilities have units ready to rent right now, with no waiting for delivery, no scheduling a truck and driver. You sign the paperwork, get your access code, and start moving belongings in that same day.
Security and peace of mind come standard at reputable facilities. Over 35,000 self storage locations operate across North America, and the good ones invest heavily in cameras, gated access, on-site management, and sometimes even security professionals. You're not personally responsible for watching over everything.
Climate control is available at many facilities. If you're storing documents, wood furniture, electronics, or anything sensitive to temperature swings, a climate-controlled unit keeps everything stable. That matters in places like New York where winters are brutal, or anywhere humidity becomes an issue.
No space requirements on your property. If your driveway, yard, or jobsite is already packed, a storage unit doesn't take up any of your real estate. You're basically renting space somewhere else entirely.
Month-to-month flexibility works for people who don't know exactly how long they'll need storage. No long-term commitment means you can bail whenever your situation changes.
The trade-off, of course, is convenience. You're driving back and forth anytime you need something, which adds up fast if you're accessing your items regularly.
Benefits of Portable Storage Containers
Now let's talk about why portable containers have seen that 17% annual growth. There are some serious advantages for certain customers and situations.
On-site access changes everything. Your container sits right in your driveway, parking area, or jobsite. Need tools at 6 AM? They're fifty feet away, not across town. No driving, no traffic, no wasting part of your morning just to grab supplies.
Ground-level accessibility beats climbing stairs or navigating tight hallways. Loading heavy materials or furniture is dramatically easier when you're not wrestling stuff through a building. Some companies also offer dock-height trailers if you need that kind of access for inventory moves.
Customization and accessories let you set up the interior exactly how it works for your process. Add shelving for organization, install pipe racks for long materials, mount bike racks, use wall dividers... whatever makes sense. We've helped customers create everything from mobile workshops to organized parts warehouses.
Security you control means you decide who has access. The all-steel construction is genuinely tough (these things are built to survive ocean transport). With a good lockbox preventing bolt cutters, you've got a weather-resistant, pest-proof fortress for your belongings.
Relocation capability is huge for businesses with multiple locations or projects that move around. When you're done at one site, the container gets picked up and delivered to your next job. Your tools, materials, and setup travel with you. Customers tell us this saves incredible amounts of time compared to packing everything into vehicles and driving it yourself.
Long-term value improves if you're looking at extended use. After a certain point, the monthly cost of renting a storage unit adds up to where buying a container outright starts making financial sense. Plus you own the asset.
Packing and Organizing Your Storage Space
Whether you choose a unit or container, how you organize the space inside makes a massive difference in functionality.
Start with sturdy shelving (metal or wood, doesn't matter as long as it's durable). Stackable bins work great for smaller items and parts. Clear plastic bins let you see contents without opening everything. Label everything clearly. Sounds basic, but when you're looking for one specific thing among hundreds, good organization saves you serious frustration.
Create zones based on how often you access different items. Stuff you need regularly goes near the entrance. Seasonal belongings or long-term storage gets pushed toward the back. This is especially important if you've got a team sharing access to supplies. Make it easy for everyone to find what they need without tearing the whole space apart.
Protect sensitive items properly. Electronics, documents, wood furniture—anything affected by moisture or temperature should be wrapped or covered. Even in climate-controlled spaces, a little extra protection helps. Furniture covers, plastic sheeting, and sealed bins all work.
Maximize vertical space like we mentioned earlier. Most people under-utilize the height in their storage area. Floor-to-ceiling shelves, stacked bins, hanging systems... think upward, not just outward.
Keep a running inventory list. Doesn't have to be fancy—even a simple document on your phone helps. When someone on your team asks if you've got extra materials or specific equipment, you can answer without physically checking.
Security Features Worth Considering
Security varies wildly depending on which storage solution you pick and which company you go with. Here's what actually matters.
For self storage facilities, look for gated access with individual entry codes, 24/7 video surveillance covering both the property perimeter and hallways, on-site management during business hours, and good lighting throughout. Some facilities in bigger cities like New York or Chicago have security professionals on-site. Read reviews—other customers will tell you if theft or break-ins are issues.
With portable containers, security is your responsibility but you've got serious advantages. The steel construction is legitimately difficult to breach without making a ton of noise and taking significant time. Add a quality lockbox that prevents bolt cutters, and you've created a pretty formidable barrier. Being on your property also means you or your team can keep an eye on things.
One thing about containers: placement matters for security. Don't put them somewhere completely hidden where someone could work on breaking in undisturbed. Visible from your office, cameras, or regular foot traffic is better.
Insurance is worth mentioning. About 15% of Americans have used storage services at some point, and a lot of them don't realize their homeowner's or business insurance might not fully cover belongings in storage. Check your policy details. Many storage facilities offer insurance options, and it's usually pretty affordable for the peace of mind.
Costs and Budgeting for Storage Solutions
Let's talk money. Storage costs vary based on a bunch of factors—location, size, features, duration—but here are realistic numbers to work with.
Storage unit pricing generally runs from around $50 monthly for tiny 5x5 units up to $300+ for large 10x30 spaces. Climate control adds $20-50 monthly. The national average for a standard 10x15 unit hits about $133 per month. In expensive areas or cities with high demand, expect significantly more. Always ask about move-in specials... first month free or discounted rates are common for new customers.
Storage container costs typically range from $100 to $500 monthly for rentals, depending on size and amenities. Delivery and pickup fees usually apply, anywhere from $100 to $300 each way depending on your location and the service area. Some companies offer discounts for longer commitments.
Purchase prices for containers vary based on condition and location but generally run from a few thousand dollars for used 8x10 units up to $8,000 or more for new 8x40 high cubes. If you're looking at a year or more of storage needs, buying sometimes makes more financial sense than renting long-term.
Hidden costs to watch for: insurance, locks (facilities usually require you to buy their locks), late fees, and for units, fuel and vehicle costs if you're driving back and forth regularly. For containers, make sure your site prep is adequate. You might need gravel or leveling, and that's on you.
Get a detailed quote with everything included. Companies with good customer service will walk you through all the pricing information upfront without surprises later. If someone's dodging questions about fees or giving you a runaround, that's your signal to call a different company.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Storage Planning
How long you need storage completely changes which option makes sense.
Short-term storage (a few weeks to a couple months) usually favors traditional storage units. No delivery fees, month-to-month flexibility, and you're not committed to anything long-term. This works great for moves, renovations, or temporary situations where you just need space while something else gets sorted out.
Long-term storage (six months or longer) is where containers start looking more attractive. The monthly cost comparison shifts in their favor, especially if you're accessing your items regularly and would otherwise be driving to a facility constantly. Plus the convenience factor increases the longer you're using it.
For businesses, containers often win out regardless of timeline because of the on-site access and ability to relocate. If you've got a team that needs daily access to tools, materials, or inventory, the productivity gains from having everything right there typically justify the cost even for shorter projects.
Think about your schedule and how your needs might change. If there's any chance you'll need to extend your storage, lean toward solutions with flexibility built in. Getting stuck in a rigid contract or scrambling to find new storage mid-project creates unnecessary stress.
Climate Control and Special Requirements
Some items absolutely need temperature and humidity control. Others are fine in standard conditions. Knowing the difference saves you money.
Climate-controlled units maintain steady temperature and humidity year-round. This matters for wood furniture (which can warp or crack with moisture changes), electronics, photographs, documents, musical instruments, artwork, certain fabrics, and anything else sensitive to environmental conditions. If you're in a humid climate or somewhere with extreme temperature swings, climate control becomes even more important.
Standard storage works fine for most stuff: tools, equipment, metal items, plastic bins, machinery, construction materials. Basically anything that can handle sitting in a garage or basement without issues can handle a standard container or unit.
The cost difference between climate-controlled and standard storage typically runs $20-50 extra monthly. Worth it for the right contents, completely unnecessary for others.
For containers, climate control is available but requires specific equipment and setup. Talk to your provider about options if you need it. Sometimes the answer is using a climate-controlled storage unit for sensitive items while keeping everything else in a more affordable container.
Pest control is another consideration people forget about. Steel containers are naturally pest-proof... nothing's chewing through that. Traditional storage units vary. Ask about their pest management process, especially if you're storing anything that could attract rodents or insects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between storage containers and storage units?
Storage units are indoor or covered spaces at self storage facilities that you drive to and access. Storage containers are portable steel boxes delivered directly to your location. The main differences come down to convenience (containers are on-site), accessibility (you control container access 24/7), and use case (units work better for personal belongings, containers excel for business and job sites).
How much do storage containers cost?
Rental costs typically range from $100 to $500 monthly depending on size and features. An 8x20 standard container usually runs $150-250 per month. Delivery and pickup fees add $100-300 each. Purchase prices for containers range from around $3,000 for smaller used units up to $8,000+ for large new high cube containers. Get a detailed quote from your provider that includes all fees.
What sizes do storage units come in?
Self storage units typically range from 5x5 feet (25 square feet) up to 10x30 feet (300 square feet). The most common sizes are 5x10 (50 sq ft, holds about a bedroom's worth), 10x10 (100 sq ft, holds 1-2 rooms of furniture), 10x15 (150 sq ft, holds 2-3 rooms), and 10x20 (200 sq ft, holds 3-4 rooms or a vehicle). Some facilities offer larger commercial units. Always measure your largest items before choosing a size.
Are storage containers weatherproof?
Yes, quality storage containers are designed to be weatherproof. They're built with heavy-gauge steel construction, weather-sealed doors, and are designed to withstand ocean transport conditions. This makes them wind-resistant, water-resistant, and capable of protecting contents from rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. However, like any outdoor structure, proper placement (avoiding standing water) and maintenance (checking door seals) helps ensure long-term weatherproofing.
How can I rent a storage unit?
Renting a storage unit is straightforward. Search for facilities in your area, compare pricing and features, then contact the facility to check availability. Most require a driver's license or ID, proof of address, and sometimes a phone number for your account. You'll sign a rental agreement, pay the first month (sometimes with a deposit), and receive your access code and lock. Many facilities now let you reserve and pay online before ever visiting the location.
Do I need insurance for a storage unit?
While not legally required, insurance is highly recommended. Your homeowner's or renter's insurance might provide limited coverage for items in storage, but often with restrictions. Many storage facilities offer insurance options specifically for stored belongings, typically costing $10-30 monthly depending on coverage amount. Check your existing insurance policy details first, then decide if additional coverage makes sense for your situation and the value of what you're storing.
Can I access my storage unit anytime?
Access depends on the facility. Many modern self storage facilities offer 24/7 access with coded gates, allowing you to visit whenever needed. However, some facilities have limited access hours—typically 6 AM to 9 PM or similar. Always confirm access hours before renting. With portable storage containers on your property, you have unlimited access anytime since you control the container and location.
How long can I keep items in a storage container?
There's no set time limit for how long you can store items in a container. Rental agreements are typically month-to-month, so you can keep the container as long as you're paying the rental fee. For purchased containers, you own them outright and can use them indefinitely. The condition of your stored items depends more on how well they're protected and whether they're suitable for the storage environment than on duration.
What are the benefits of using a storage unit?
Storage units offer immediate availability without waiting for delivery, professional security with cameras and gated access, climate control options for sensitive items, no space requirements on your property, month-to-month flexibility with no long-term commitment, and you're not responsible for the security. They work great for personal belongings during moves, downsizing, or life transitions when you need temporary space without the logistics of managing a container.
Are there restrictions on what I can store in a container?
Yes, most providers prohibit hazardous materials, flammable liquids, explosives, perishable food items, live animals, stolen goods, and illegal substances. Some facilities also restrict vehicles, certain chemicals, or items with strong odors. Always check your rental agreement for the complete list of prohibited items. For business storage, confirm that your specific materials, tools, or inventory are acceptable before signing. Violating storage restrictions can result in contract termination and loss of your deposit.
