Door To Door Storage Pods

4 Reasons Storage Pods Work

2009-07-15T16:30:00.000-07:00

If you find yourself in need of storage space but don't have a garage, storage shed or something similar, storage pods may be just what you are looking for.

Unless you live under a rock, you've probably seen these in & around your neighborhood. Most of us assume they're just for moving across town or across the country, while others know they can be used as self storage but think they have to be stored in some type of storage warehouse far away. These assumptions aren't wrong necessarily, but very few realize that you can actually keep a storage pod at your home.

This is great you say, but maybe you don't have a lot of space or live in an apartment. No worries...well, let's rephrase that. Depending on the pods company you use, this isn't usually a problem, because some pods will easily fit into a parking space. (Whereas other pods are much too big for such spaces and are quickly becoming eyesores.) So if you do live in an apartment, you can safely, and legally, keep a storage pod outside. If you do have a home, but with only limited space, these smaller storage pods can literally be placed just about anywhere.

The benefits of having a pod nearby are obvious.

No need to run back and forth to a self storage unit
they're very secure
they are dry, so none of your belongs are going to get wet or snowed on.
Best of all, renting a pod really isn't that expensive and compared to many of mini self storage units, they can often save you quite a bit of money over the long run

The next time you think you'll need self storage, consider renting a storage pod. They're very convenient and cost-effective...and your wife will be a lot happier.

What Is The Best form of Self Storage?

2009-07-13T15:45:00.000-07:00

Let's cut to the chase: below are some options for self storage. Self storage units vs. storage pods. Which one is best, and what will work for you?

Storage Pods

In recent years moving and storage pods have gained in popularity. Why?

You contact a storage pods company and tell them approximately how much space you need based on the amount of personal belongings you have
They will recommend a said number of storage pods. IMPORTANT: these pods can and most likely will, vary from company to company. Some are much larger than others
The company drops off the pods at your desired location
You pack the pods on your own schedule, typically within a week, sometimes up to a month
Once done, the pods company picks them up and brings them back to their storage warehouse OR you can actually leave the pod at your location

Self Storage Units

It comes in many forms and has many names: storage units, public storage, mini storage, etc and it typically works like this:

You pay a monthly or yearly fee to rent a said amount of space.
You need to do all the moving yourself, using something like a u haul moving truck rental or some other vehicle to move in (and out) all your belongings
Certain self storage units can be quite cost-effective, while others, such as those in cities, tend to be quite expensive
Finding companies that offer such services close by can be quite challenging, especially if you are in more rural areas

Now we know the main differences between the two options. Which one is right for you? More often than not folks will jump on renting a self storage unit and perform the move themselves (with the help of friends and lots of beer), typically because it's all they know and believe it's the cheapest option. The fact of the matter is though, this may not be the best, nor cheapest, idea, for numerous reasons.

Why are storage pods better?

Storage pods are often cheaper month-to-month than similar sized self storage units. Yes you have to pay pick-up and drop-off fees, but when you consider the costs of renting a truck, gas, YOUR TIME, you really aren't saving much and more often than not the costs over the long run are still going to be cheaper
You only pay for what you use. Basically there is no more wasted space self storage, a huge problem and inefficiency with renting a unit. You can have the pods company drop off three pods but if you only end up needing two, they won't charge you for the extra one
You don't have to worry about renting a truck. Finding a compatible storage unit is hard enough, but having to dig up a truck nearby, pick it up, drop it off can be a real pain. In this case, the portable storage containers will be dropped off right at your front door, literally, EVEN IF YOU LIVE IN THE CITY
Loading and unloading these pods is pretty much a piece of cake. They're set at ground level
You can still access your belongings whenever you want. Contact the warehouse and let them know 24 hours in advance if you want access to your pod

What's The Best Low Cost Self Storage?

2009-07-02T09:48:00.000-07:00

Comparing Self Storage Options: Storage Pods vs. Self Storage -

Are Self Storage and Storage Pods The Same?

2009-06-29T16:04:00.000-07:00

Self storage and storage pods. Storage pods or self storage? What are they, how are they different, which one should I choose?

Self storage, otherwise known as storage units, public storage, mini storage, etc. is in some way, shape or form, a building containing storage units for rent. You pay a monthly or yearly fee to rent a said amount of storage space. You need to do all the moving yourself, using a uhaul moving truck rental or some other vehicle to move in (and out) all your belongings. Certain self storage units can be quite cost-effective, while others, such as those in cities, tend to be quite expensive.

How do these units differ from storage pods? There are a couple major differences. One, the storage pod company brings the actual storage to you. That is, they will drop off one, two, or three storage pods at your location. That's right, the pod can actually be dropped off right in front of your house. No more renting a uhaul truck or convincing your friends to unpack for you. All you need to do is pack it within a said amount of time. Once that is done, the company will pick it back up and take it to their storage warehouse.

What happens if you want or need to access your belongings? There's a misperception that you can't access your stuff in storage pods once they're gone. Untrue. Just call them up at least 24 hrs ahead of time and you can swing by and grab whatever you need.

Storage pods are often cheaper month-to-month than self storage as well. Yes you have to pay pick-up and drop-off fees, but when you consider the costs of renting a truck, gas, time, frustration it's all very worth it.

Summer Storage Tips for College Students

2009-06-12T15:18:00.000-07:00

This post is a bit of a follow up to a recent post we made regarding summer storage for college students.

Semester abroad? Summer job on the other side of the country? Wondering what to do with all the stuff in your apartment or dorm? The challenge is simple: You want to store your stuff safely so it'll be there when you need it in September. And you don't want to spend a lot to do it. These 10 tips will save you money and prevent stress.

Pick a secure location. The basement of the house where your friend is renting a room may be cheap, but it's not secure against burglars, dampness, bugs, or other tenants who could "borrow" a lamp or take a liking to your skis. Plan to put your valuables somewhere with restricted access, like a storage facility. Summer storage specials for college students make this an affordable option.
Save money by sharing storage costs with a friend. Once you've decided to spring for secure storage, save on costs by sharing the space with a friend with similar storage needs and a similar schedule. You might want to coordinate with next year's roommate.
Allow yourself plenty of time to pack. Clean bedding and winter clothing, and defrost, clean, and dry your refrigerator. If you're storing a computer, back up files onto a portable hard drive you can take with you over the summer.
Consider a full-service storage company. Pickup and delivery of your stuff to and from your dorm or apartment is easier, and can be less expensive, than renting a truck, dealing with parking hassles, or making several trips in a small car.
Choose a storage option that gives you flexibility. If you aren't sure what your plans are for next fall, you may enjoy the flexibility of a portable storage container. Fill it, have it stored, and when you decide where you are going to be next fall (across town, or across the country) you can always ask to have your container delivered there.
Call early to book moving and storage services. You'll be able to take advantage of student summer storage specials and you'll get the best choice of scheduling.
Use the correct storage boxes. Books can be surprisingly heavy, so put them in small boxes. Much of the rest of your stuff can go into medium-sized boxes. The items you want to protect with special packaging include: framed artwork (art box), mattresses (protective plastic bags), rugs (paper pads), furniture (paper pads), and rolled-up posters (cardboard tube). If you have a lot of clothing on hangers, use a wardrobe box with a metal bar. When packing electronics, such as computer monitors or flat-screen televisions, wrap them in bubble wrap or pad them with a quilt.
Pack things the way you want to find them in the fall. Make sure bedding and clothing is clean and dry before you pack it. If you are storing a refrigerator, it will have to be defrosted, cleaned and dry before it goes into storage. Tape a pad of some sort in place to wedge the door open so air can circulate and prevent mold from growing inside.
Label your boxes. Grab a big marking pen and write a description of contents on the top and on at least one side of each box. You'll be glad you did when it comes time to unpack. If you are sharing storage with another student, make sure you each label your boxes so you can quickly tell whose is whose.
Relax and enjoy your move! Finals are over, and you're off to enjoy a great summer. All you need to do is place your boxes of belongings in the container that's brought to your door. When you've finished packing, the storage company will take the filled container to a safe, security storage facility. When you're ready, just call and let them know where and when you'd like your container delivered.

Find out more about affordable, convenient Door To Door storage and summer specials for college students: http://www.doortodoor.com/

What Options Exist Besides U haul Truck Renting?

2009-04-08T16:32:00.000-07:00

So you're moving, maybe from one address to another in the same city, or possibly from one state to another. You start browsing the web reviewing various moving companies or options for renting a moving truck; but you tire of it and before you know it, you're on the phone with Uhaul or Budget, maybe Penske. But are these your only options? There has to be something other than u haul truck renting, right? There is...we'll report on these later, but in the meantime, do a search for moving pods...

Using Moving Pods For Summer College Campus Storage

2009-03-24T16:25:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe another winter has gone by and summer is right around the corner. For college students this means a much needed break from studying. Before they can take off and leave the school work behind for a couple months though, they need to find somewhere to store all their belongings for the summer.

Some might think about renting a uhaul rental truck, but most college students don't have the money, so they're look for other options. Moving and storage pods may be just what they are looking for. No need for a car or renting a moving truck. The moving pods company will drop off a storage pod, allowing the student to pack it at their leisure. It will then be picked up and stored for the summer! Once back in school the storage pod will be dropped off. Far less stressful, saving tons of time and money!

Follow this link for a college campus storage deal!

Say Goodbye To That Diesel U Haul Rental Truck

2009-03-16T10:40:00.000-07:00

Diesel stinks. Everyone has experienced that moment, idling in their car behind a big truck, which proceeds to accelerate and spew a thick cloud of black, stinky smoke that seeps through the air vents in your car. Yum.

Fortunately diesel technology is improving...at least in small cars. Passenger trucks are improving too, but commercial vehicles continue to belch unhealthy amounts of soot into the air. But regardless of what fuel your car is running on, there is no doubt that driving is bad for the planet. Furthermore, even though gas prices are down a bit, the overall cost of driving is not cheap. When you consider gas, insurance, car maintenance, wear and tear on the roads that continue to deteriorate (which we then have to pay for...taxes anyone?)

What does this have to do with moving and storage? Ever been stuck behind a U Haul rental truck? Or better yet, emptying your wallet at the gas station as you fill up one of these gas-guzzling moving trucks...after only driving 50 miles?

Welcome to the world of storage pods. Not only will they save you time and money, but you can feel good that the entire moving and storage pods system is more planet-friendly.

Why The Size Of Your Storage Pod Matters

2009-03-09T15:32:00.000-07:00

Maybe it's time you reconsidered which storage pods company to use next time you need storage. A local Dallas news station has reported that some neighborhoods are considering ordinances on the PODS units, limiting the amount of time these massive containers can sit on the street. Read the full article HERE.

The Door to Door storage pods, although smaller, are much more convenient for placing in smaller spaces, including driveways and even in yards. These portable storage containers still hold an average room to a room-and-a-half of furniture, or 40-50 medium-sized boxes!

Self Storage - U Haul Rental Truck or Storage Pods?

2009-03-04T09:29:00.000-08:00

What would you prefer: Scenario 1: rent a U Haul rental truck, one you have to drive to pick up, drive back home, pack it, drive back to the self-storage unit, unpack again, return the truck, pick up your car and drive back home. Sounds like fun eh? Scenario 2: contact a moving storage company that utilizes storage pods. They come to your home and drop off how ever many storage pods as you would like. Pack them on your own schedule. Once your finished the storage pods company will swing by, pick your pods up and take them to a secured storage warehouse. Sounds, um, a whole easier doesn't it?

What are you waiting for? Get a free storage quote now

Storage Warehouses Are So Old Fashion

2009-01-28T16:44:00.000-08:00

Ok, so maybe they aren't old fashion per se, but storage warehouses, or in other words - self-storage / public storage - however you want to call it, aren't what they used to be. The question is, why would you spend the time running to and from a self-storage unit if the unit could be delivered right to your front door?

So you're getting ready to move or maybe, begin a massive remodel. Maybe work has you relocating temporarily to a new town or city. Regardless, you need storage space and the first thing that comes to mind is calling up one of those public storage warehouses. Thankfully, times are a changing.

Welcome to world of storage pods. Storage pods will eventually end up in a warehouse; the difference being, you don't have to worry about (and the spend the money to) driving to one that is anything but close by. A pods storage company will bring the storage container to you.

Storage pods companies aren't necessarily new, as some of the bigger companies have been in business for over ten years. But it's taken the public a relatively long time to understand the benefits of using them versus renting a storage unit. So what's the big deal with storage pods you ask?

No Moving Trucks Required - most of us don't own a pickup truck or cargo van, which means getting to and from storage with our stuff requires renting a moving truck. If you need some reasons why rental moving trucks are so yesterday, read this article. Renting a moving truck costs even more money, not to mention the time required to pack (and unpack) the truck. And when was the last time you heard someone praising their rental truck company because everything worked out? Better yet, what kind of shape was that truck in? Was it even going to make it to the storage unit! Have back problems? Not sure you want to lift that 40” plasma five feet in the air in order to get it into the truck? Sure that ramp helps...a little. What if it's pouring rain, or snowing? Good luck! Storage pods are placed on the ground (actually, a couple inches off the ground) which means the only lifting involved is that of home to pod.
Less Hassle - the only thing worse than packing a storage unit, is having to drive to and from one. Unless you live in a major city, it's unlikely you can find a public storage facility within easy driving distance of your residence. And what typically happens when you get there? Unless you're willing to pay big bucks every month, you're unit is not going to be easy to access. Matter of fact, there is a very good chance you'll need to take an elevator, or worse yet, stairs to get to and from your unit. So not only do you have to pack (and unpack) your automobile, but you may have to move the items two or three more times before they're actually in the unit! On the other hand, storage pods are delivered to your door and dropped off, literally, at your front door. (They can be dropped off anywhere on your property, even some city streets.)
Only Pay For the Storage You Actually Need - these days we're always looking for ways to save money, for services that provide good value. Unlike public storage, where you pay for a set amount of space that you may or may not use, pod storage companies offer a very unique benefit: you only pay for what you use. Reserved two pods but only needed one? You only have to pay for that one. The other one simply goes to someone else and you are credited the cost of that unit.

Just like any storage or moving need, make sure you research all the available moving companies in your area. Check out websites such as movingscam.com or city-data.com for real-life reviews. Lastly, get some quotes for moving from various movers.

10 Tips For Packing Storage Indoor

2009-01-26T13:49:00.000-08:00

When it comes time to pack storage indoor, it's very common to think nothing of it and simply start piling up those boxes. Unfortunately, as more and more is packed, we begin to realize, had we taken the time to think about how the packing should have been done, we probably could have fit more into storage. So whether we're packing a one way moving rental truck, your own car, or a storage pod it's generally wise to consider how it's all going to be accomplished.

Below are some storage tips that can be applied to any form of storage, although some of them are more applicable to storage pods than anything else. Most importantly, be patient. Items should generally be packed as tightly as possible without open spaces in order to prevent items from shifting during transportation. A good approach is to pack one-quarter at a time.

Create a list to keep track of your inventory
Moving boxes should be filled completely and lids closed.
Heavy items should be packed in small boxes for easier lifting.
Stack heavy items on the bottom, lightweight items on top.Distribute weight evenly
Protect your items with paper pads, bubble pack, or moving blankets.
Prop the door open while you are loading to keep it from closing unexpectedly
Secure the storage container when it is unattended with a strong commercial-grade padlock.
For extra security, park your car in front of the door of the container (if you are using storage pods at home.)
Store fragile items in dresser drawers.
The most important storage tip of all is: take your time.

If you pack incorrectly or too quickly, this could very easily lead to some expensive broken items. None of us like that. Also, give yourself a lot of lead time. A friend of mine have some great advice: try packing one or two boxes a week. By the time you need to move things into storage, everything will ready to go. Lastly, packing the big items is easy, it's getting down to all the small things that don't really fit in any boxes that will cause the most trouble.

Door To Door Storage Pods

2009-01-16T11:13:00.000-08:00

Door To Door Moving and Storage provides more than just moving pod services. We have storage facilities in 18 states across the entire USA (click on the map below.) Our storage pods, or portable storage containers, were designed with the customer in mind. Why are they better?

You only pay for what you use. Reserved 3 containers, but only filled up 2? You only pay for those you used.
Door to Door portable storage containers are conveniently sized, so it's easier to place them just about anywhere you want for loading and unloading, and easier for you to organize your belongings. Furthermore, it's far easier to access your belongings while they are in storage compared to the massive containers other pods companies use.
Due to their smaller size, our portable storage containers are specifically sized to fit within a standard parking space so that -- unlike PODS -- they can be placed virtually anywhere you can park your car.
Our smaller storage containers provide more structure around your belongings, effectively securing them while in transit.
Our portable storage containers are designed to keep out the elements while allowing adequate ventilation to prevent condensation and mold.

Visit us at http://www.doortodoor.com for more info or click on the map below to find our storage locations