Do's and Don'ts of Shipping Container Storage
At XCaliber Container, we pride ourselves on delivering excellent customer service and providing durable, safe, and secure portable shipping container storage solutions. Extra storage space is always helpful, but mindlessly storing items can cause damage and defeat the purpose of storage for your business. Here are some essential do's and don'ts to help you make the most of your shipping container storage.
Do’s for Portable Storage
Organize Strategically: Keep items you don’t need immediately at the back of the container. Place items you need to access most frequently in the front.
Label Everything: Clearly label all boxes and items. This saves you time and energy, preventing you from opening each box to see what's inside.
Protect Fragile Items: Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap or newspaper to prevent breakage.
Clean Before Storing: Clean items thoroughly before storing them to avoid buildup of moss, mold, or fungus.
Maximize Space: Dismantle large pieces of equipment or furniture to make the most of your storage space.
Prevent Rust: Oil equipment parts that are prone to rust.
Use Shelving: Install shelves to utilize vertical space efficiently.
Choose the Right Container Size: 40 ft. containers are ideal for bulky items with less weight (like electronics), while 20 ft. containers are better for heavy, low-volume goods like cement sacks.
Lock It Up: Always lock your unit and ensure children can’t access it.
Climate Control: Invest in HVAC for climate-sensitive items like paperwork, electronics, and upholstered furniture.
Regular Checks: Have someone check on the items in storage occasionally, especially if you are going to be away.
Enhance Security: Increase security for high-value items with units that feature heavy-duty locks.
Don’ts for Portable Storage
Avoid Plastic Wrap: Don’t wrap items, especially furniture, in plastic. Plastic retains moisture and can damage your valuables.
Don’t Stack Randomly: Randomly stacking boxes can cause damage. Stack heavier boxes at the bottom and lighter ones on top.
Prevent Pests: Don’t forget to take steps to keep pests away. Consider using mothballs, but keep them away from upholstery to avoid residue or stains.
No Flammable Items: Don’t store flammable items like oil, gasoline, chemicals, or aerosol cans. If unsure whether something is flammable or toxic, consult a professional.
While many of these guidelines may seem like common sense, investing time in planning and preparing for storage is crucial. Selecting a container that suits your budget and needs is equally important.
For short-term or one-time storage needs, renting a container is a great option. XCaliber Container offers flexible rental options with a one-month minimum. Contact us today to receive a quote and explore our range of ready-to-ship containers for rent and sale.
📞 (940) 242-3178
✉ info@xcalibercontainer.com