Buying vs. Renting a Shipping Container: Things to Consider

While shipping container sales in Houston, TX are on the rise, not everyone is aware of the many benefits of owning or renting one. Businesses are purchasing shipping containers to transform into extra on-site workspace, as well as utilizing them for daily and long-term storage needs. More and more homeowners, meanwhile, are investing in storage containers to convert to backyard home offices, workshops and sheds. However, while the idea of having personal access to a storage container may sound great, you might not be sure whether it’s better to rent or buy one.

There are many factors to consider when presented with the decision to rent or buy a storage container. On the one hand, it makes sense to rent a container if all you need is storage space for a couple months or less. But if you are expecting to need storage for a year or more, then the decision becomes tougher. In this case, you may want to purchase, since the cost of rental fees over time is likely to surpass the cost of ownership.

The following information can help you make a decision. Here’s a list of things to consider before committing to either renting or purchasing a storage container.

Cost

A top concern of most businesses and individuals when choosing whether to rent or buy a storage unit is the cost. If you only need storage for a couple weeks or months, renting is likely to be the most economical solution (keeping in mind that renting has both delivery and pickup charges associated with it). If your storage needs will be longer than a year, and you have space to keep the container, then purchasing may be the cheaper option.

Flexibility

You might be unsure about the length of time you’ll need the storage container. Renting takes away the stress of commitment, because you aren’t tied down to it. Buying a storage container means it’s up to you to sell it when you no longer need it. With a rented container, when it’s time to get rid of it, all you need to do is call the company to come pick it up.

Condition

Storage container rental companies ensure their products are always in good shape, presentable and free of problems. They want their paying customers to be happy, and for their belongings to be stored safely and securely. When you buy a shipping container, make it clear whether you want one that’s brand new, used or refurbished. Purchase prices will vary depending on the business and the condition of the container for sale.

Available space for the container

When you rent a shipping container to use for storing business or personal belongings, you may have the option of having the container dropped off so you can load it up, then picked up for storage at their facility. You don’t get this option when you own the container. That said, if you’ll need to move the container a lot, it may be better to rent.

A Mobile Box has the best shipping containers for sale in Houston, TX. Call us today to learn more about your options!

Categorised in: Shipping Containers

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