Tips for relocating a mobile storage unit

Moving has many forms. You can hire professional movers or complete the move yourself. Then, you can use a moving truck or a mobile storage unit. The latter, in the industry also known as “pods”, offer you a lot of flexibility. They also offer ease of access. So as you can see, they have many advantages. With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of tips for relocating a mobile storage unit, to help you along. So, read on, you’ll find out everything you need to know about “pods”.

What is a mobile storage unit anyway?

Most people outside the moving industry have probably never heard of mobile storage units. Even if they have, they might now too much about them. After all, they do sound like a phrase the military would use. However, when you get into it, you realize just how simple and useful they are. So what is a mobile storage unit? It’s simple, a mobile storage unit is basically a container on wheels. If you need to store some things for a certain period of time, that isn’t as short as a one day move, yet isn’t long enough to require a full on a storage unit, you pick a mobile storage unit.

They are one of the cheap storage solutions that can provide a middle point between storing your belongings in a truck for relocation that day and renting out a traditional storage unit somewhere. Exactly that is their major advantage. They come in handy in those situations when you need to have your belongings waiting packed for a few days or weeks. Say you’re moving house, but your new home isn’t ready yet. Or you are renovating your home and need somewhere to store all your stuff. Situations such as these require a short-term solution and that’s where the mobile storage unit comes in.

Proper packing is key for relocating a mobile storage unit

Now that we have established what they are, we need to look into relocating a mobile storage unit. As you can imagine, such a container on wheels isn’t very light. Add to that the fact that it will contain a lot of your belongings and it becomes clear why a truck is needed to tow it. However, when in transport the items inside might shuffle, unless properly packed. Therefore, packing becomes a key step to relocating a mobile storage unit, even though it takes place before the relocation itself. Here are some things to keep in mind:

The packing order

Similar to loading a moving truck, there is an order to packing a mobile storage unit. Different from the moving truck, however, is the fact that while a moving truck will be used for a direct move. This means that you won’t need to access the items inside until the move is done. Or at least you should plan what you’re taking with you in a way that you don’t. On the other hand, you might have to access the mobile storage unit several times before it’s relocated and emptied. Therefore, there are some differences between the two, but some of the principles stay the same. Pack heavy items such as your fridge or washing machine in the front of the unit.

It’s the least likely you will be needing these items until your move is complete. Also packing them in the front will make securing them easier. Thus they will be less likely to cause damage to other items. To the sides, you should pack furniture. In the middle place desks and sturdier boxes. Finally, fill the back with softer boxes containing items you might need access to. This way you will be able to reach anything you might need on the fly, while still maintaining the secure form that will reduce the danger of damages.

Disassemble some of your items

Just as with loading a moving truck when packing and relocating a mobile storage unit, disassembling your furniture will make it easier to stack and secure it. You can use pillows and mattresses for cushioning too. This will add an extra layer of protection to your items inside. Do not disassemble any plastic or soft metal items like electronics, as you might expose them to more dangers that way.

Secure the items inside

One of the most important, if not the most important thing to do when relocating a mobile storage unit, is to first secure all the items inside against moving. When the day for relocating a mobile storage unit comes, if the items are not secured well, they might shuffle and damage each other. Therefore it’s smart to use moving straps to securely tie down all items in the pod. It is best to tie them down in groups, as you pack them. After that, check if any of the things inside have leeway to move. While this may not be important for things like bags containing clothes, a washing machine shuffling inside while relocating a mobile storage unit can cause serious damage.

Final tips

There are a few more things to consider here. First of all, make sure your mobile storage unit is parked in a secure location that you can keep an eye on. Also, do not store any items that might leak, combustibles or perishables inside. Storing these can cause to a mess inside and even affect your other belongings. Finally, check that the mobile unit itself is locked. This applies to every visit. Also before relocating a mobile storage unit, you need to make sure that the door is properly closed and locked, so it doesn’t open mid-transport.

The relocation itself

Finally, it’s time to talk about the relocation itself. To even rent a mobile storage unit you will need to go through a moving company. They will also be the ones conducting the move itself. Therefore, before you even rent a mobile storage unit it is wise to compare moving quotes. However, it’s not all about finding the cheapest moving company. Instead, you should find one with experience and professional acclaim. After all, you will be entrusting them with your belongings.

Relocating a mobile storage unit stress-free

After reading through these tips you should be prepared for relocating a mobile storage unit. Even though a major advantage of these kinds of relocations is that they are done in most part by professional moving services, they are not stress-free. So, take your time to make a plan on how you will pack and relocate the storage unit. Look into insurance options. Finally, do a final check before the relocation itself. Then, you can rest easy, knowing that your items will be relocated safely.