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The two most common methods do it yourself movers turn to are portable storage units and rental trucks.  Portable storage units are provided by a self service moving company.  They are delivered to your door and picked up by the company when you are finished loading your belongings into them.  You are responsible for loading and unloading your portable storage units.  The other common do it yourself method, renting a moving truck, likewise requires that you are responsible for loading and unloading your belongings.  But the similarities end there. 

Portable storage units versus rental trucks:

1.  When you choose portable storage units for your move, no driving is required.  Unlike with a rental truck, you do not have to transport your belongings.  You get to leave the driving to someone else.

2.  You have more time to load and unload your belongings when you rent portable storage units.  You do not have to hurry to get everything done in a weekend or within the short truck rental contract periods.  Your units will be delivered and picked up on dates you schedule. 

3.  You have storage flexibility with portable storage units.  If you need to temporarily store some or all of your belongings between your move out and move in dates, your units will be taken to a storage facility and stored exactly as you packed them.  You do not have to unload everything only to have to load it all up again when you are ready to move in.  And you do not have to rent a truck twice. 

4.  Loading and unloading portable storage units is extremely easy.  They are square and low to the ground.  You do not have to walk up and down a long ramp and do not have to pack around wheel wells and cabin space. 

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Moving the traditional way produces a lot of waste.  Many people do not recycle the materials they use and pay no mind to the impact they leave on the planet when choosing how they pack.  Although there are many professional moving companies that specialize in environmentally friendly methods of moving, people in some parts of the country do not have as many choices when choosing moving companies.  When you choose to rent PODS® or portable storage containers from a self service mover when you move, however, the way you pack is completely in your control.  Moving with PODS® or portable storage containers means you can be as green as you want to be with your move.

The boxes and packing material and what you do with them when you are done make a huge difference.  If you live in an area where reusable packing containers can be rented, your result will be zero box waste.  The containers come in uniform sizes, which makes packing your portable storage containers or PODS® very easy.  If you do not have reusable containers available, try to find used boxes and packing material.  Many people advertise them on Craigslist or other classifieds after they have moved.  When you are done with your boxes, you can do the same.  Getting free boxes from retailers in your area is also an earth friendly move.  Do not purchase new packing materials.  Instead of packing paper, use old newspapers and magazines.  Linens, blankets and pillows also make great filler and padding.  Instead of wrapping furniture and mattresses in plastic, utilize reusable moving blankets.  Make sure your PODS® or storage containers are clean before you start loading them and you can feel comfortable loading some furniture and bulky items without being wrapped. 

Moving with portable storage containers or PODS®  puts you at the helm of how you pack.  You can make a difference and lessen the impact your move has on the world around you by planning ahead and thinking green before, during and after you move with your PODS® or portable storage containers.

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Portable storage units for moving and storage have increased in availability and popularity in recent years.  Portable storage units are a top choice for do it yourself movers, homeowners undergoing remodeling and those who need to utilize temporary storage.  The convenience and flexibility that portable storage units offer over traditional methods of storage and moving make them an obvious choice.  But choosing between all the different types of units can be confusing.  There are so many different companies that offer portable storage units, that it is hard to know where to begin. 

1.  What size do you need?  Think through what you plan to move or store and provide a good estimate of those belongings when you talk to companies that provide portable storage units. 
2.  What type of construction do you prefer?  Portable storage units are made of various materials, from metal to particle board wrapped in vinyl.  Go with the construction you feel is most secure and weather proof so you will be confident that your belonging will be safe and undamaged.
3.  What things do you prefer for loading?  Will you be in and out of your portable storage units a lot, so need a garage style door that easily opens and closes?  Do you need tie downs to secure furniture and built in clothing racks? 
4.  How will the company handle your portable storage units?  Many companies provide a mechanism on their trucks to keep the units as level as possible when being picked up, transported and delivered.  Also make note of whether your units will be directly on the ground or if there will be some sort of feet or pallets to keep moisture from seeping in.
5.  Do you need to utilize temporary storage?  Most companies bundle temporary storage with their rental agreements.  Ask for the specifics on what is being offered, as they differ from company to company.  Ask how you will access your portable storage units, while they are in storage.  And make sure they will be stored in a climate controlled and security monitored facility. 

Once you have considered the items on your list and have a couple companies you like, it is smart to try to see the portable storage units in person.  You can often do this by checking out some that are being rented in your neighborhood or by setting up an appointment with the company to see a unit at their facility.  If you plan to utilize temporary storage, also be sure to visit the storage facility to make sure you are comfortable with the way your belongings will be protected while in storage. 

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