Storage Containers for Sale & Rental
Here at Pac-Van, we have a really cool job. We offer storage containers for rent or for sale to customers in every market sector and industry because the need for additional space is constant.
When the phone rings, it might be any of the following:
- The apartment complex down the street needing to store shovels and salt for the upcoming winter weather
- The local university looking to store tools and equipment during a big landscaping project
- A general contractor needing an extra container at the construction site of the big hospital expansion project
- A big box retailer needing extra space for holiday layaway items
- The special event coordinator responsible for the big convention next month who needs to store telecommunications equipment
While we offer 20′ storage containers and 40′ storage containers for sale at each of our locations throughout North American, we also offer additional sizes and customizations at some of our locations. And, depending on your need, we can provide you with used shipping containers or temporary storage containers for rent or for sale.
Hopefully when the phone next rings, it’s you, letting us know how we can help you with your storage needs. We look forward to earning your business now and becoming your long-term preferred storage provider.
What’s the Difference Between a Storage Container, a Shipping Container and a Conex (or Connex) Box?
You may hear people talk about storage containers using a variety of terms, like shipping containers, sea containers, conex boxes, and cargo containers. Whatever you want to call them is fine with us.
All of our units are:
- Weather-Proof
- 14-Gauge All-Steel Containers Equipped with Cam Rods and Wood Floors.
If safety and security are important to your organization, for an additional monthly fee, we offer virtually indestructible rod locks to provide additional security.
Not only does Pac-Van solve your permanent or temporary storage container needs, but our team can customize your container to best meet your needs. Our container storage units can be so much more than just a hard-shelled space by simply adding features like:
- Partitions
- Vents
- Windows
- Shelving
- Wind turbines
- Insulation
- Solar or Traditional Lighting
- Extra doors
- Other Custom Options/Colors
As a proud member of the National Portable Storage Association (NPSA), we make sure all of our units are tested for wind and water tightness, are fully cleaned and refurbished inside and out and are ready for delivery as quickly as 24-72 hours (unless custom modifications are being done.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
We’re often asked the following questions about Pac-Van’s storage containers for sale. If you need an answer that we haven’t already provided, please contact us.
How strong are Pac-Van portable storage containers?
Very. 14-gauge corrugated steel sides. 14-gauge steel roof. 14-gauge steel cam-locking double doors. 1-1/8″ thick marine wood floors.
How much space is needed for delivery?
A 20′ storage container needs approx. 75′ of straight clearance. For a 40′ storage container, there is approximately 100′ straight clearance. The width requirement is approximately 12′. A minimum of 20′ overhead clearance is required at the drop off location. Any obstacles like trees and overhead wires must be cleared prior to delivery.
How do you deliver a portable storage container?
Pac-Van, Inc. can deliver your container to you via a tilt-bed truck if you would prefer us to unload it at the desired location. The driver will back the trailer and lower the end of the container until it touches the ground, and then will pull straight out from under the container. (Click here to see a video of a delivery.) Prior to your delivery date, your Pac-Van sales representative will ask you if we should load the container with the doors facing to the cab or to the rear of the truck. You must make that decision based on the desired location of the container door at your site.
In confined areas a lift truck or crane can be used to set the containers.
Is there any site preparation necessary? Where can a container stand?
The only thing to be concerned about is that the surface is fairly level, smooth, and firm. The truck and trailer weigh over 30,000 lbs. A concrete pad, asphalt paving or other sturdy surface is preferred, and most drivers will not drive off of a road or paved surface. If you need an off-road delivery, it is best to discuss the road condition in advance. In considering the resting location for a container, please know that asphalt, gravel, grass, earth, and concrete surfaces are all acceptable. The container is self-supporting at the four corners. Therefore, on soft unstable surfaces we recommend each corner casting to be supported with a concrete footing, railroad ties, asphalt or a bed of gravel to spread the weight. This is also very important for container doors to operate smoothly.
What color are Pac-Van portable storage containers?
Pac-Van storage containers and ground-level offices are painted a standard neutral color to blend in with most surroundings. If you’re purchasing a unit and require a specific color to match your building or company colors, please let us know.
What if I want to move the container later?
We can move the container for you. Pac-Van storage containers and ground-level container offices are forklift-able, stackable, and fully portable; however, certain weight restrictions and damage liability limitations do apply. Always consult with your Pac-Van sales representative before attempting to move the container yourself.
Storage containers and Connex boxes? What’s the difference?
Storage containers, shipping containers, Connex boxes, domestic containers and portable steel containers are all names for the same thing. The name tends to change depending on the region of the country or, sometimes, the industry.
How soon is delivery from time of order?
We turn normal delivery around as quickly as 24-72 hours, unless you’re having modifications done. If you need something sooner, same day delivery may be available.
What kind of modifications does Pac-Van do?
Pac-Van can do many kinds of modifications, including custom paint jobs, adding extra doors, shelving, turbine vents, partitions, insulation, HVAC, and many more storage container modifications.
Can shelving be installed in my storage container?
Yes. We can install interior shelving high or low, wrap-around, or along one side. Just tell us what you need and we’ll get it done for you.
Is my lock protected?
Yes. All Pac-Van storage containers are equipped with four cam rods and two padlock hasps. In addition, supplemental, virtually indestructible rod locks can be provided for a monthly fee.
How far does Pac-Van deliver?
We have offices nationwide and will deliver nearly anywhere in the U.S. Please click here to find a Pac-Van location near you.
How much will a container hold?
A 20′ standard container will hold about 1,150 cubic feet. A 40′ Standard will hold about 2,400 cubic feet, while a 40′ High Cube has almost 2,700 cubic feet.
How big are Pac-Van portable storage containers? What does a container weigh?
Standard lengths are basically 20′ and 40′. There are 8′, 10′ and some 45′ containers available while most other lengths need to be constructed. 20′ containers weigh a little over 2 tons, while 40′ containers weigh between 3.5 and 4.2 tons.
What is the difference between a “standard” and a “high cube”?
A “standard” can be either 20′ or 40′ or 48′ long, but they are all 8′ 6” high. A “High Cube” refers to a container that is 9′ 6” tall.
Do you have 30′ containers or between 20′ and 40′? Do you have containers larger than 40′?
Yes. Most sizes greater than 20′ but less than 40′ need to be constructed. Quite often 40′ containers are shortened to the required length. These containers will not, unless otherwise agreed upon, be CSC plated. We do have some 45′ containers in our inventory and could construct containers of virtually any length.
What flooring is in a container? Do you have containers with steel floors?
Sine the 1990’s almost all standard containers have been manufactured with plywood floors. Some earlier containers were manufactured with plank floors. Reefer containers have aluminum “T” section floors. A small percentage of new containers are manufactured with steel floors. Steel floors can also be installed in containers with wooden flooring.
Can containers be stacked?
Yes. Containers are built to be stacked and, through the 4 corner-posts, most containers can safely support over 300 tons of static weight. The roof panels and side top rails can support only lightweight items without causing permanent distortion or damage.
What if the container I rented needs repair?
Pac-Van, Inc. will maintain the unit throughout the term of the rental period. If you need maintenance, simply give us a call and we will come out promptly. Many maintenance repairs are free of charge for the life of the rental term as indicated in your lease. In the case of sales, the unpainted containers are sold “as is”.
Can containers be modified and still shipped?
All containers shipped via rail or sea should comply with ISO and CSC regulations. In principal any modification that changes the integral design or structural strength of the container should be re-tested prior to shipment. However, most modifications made to a container can be shipped via flatbed truck or trailer. Check with your Pac-Van sales representative regarding your specific needs.
What is the condition of a new/used container?
Most of the new containers are manufactured predominantly in China. Therefore, new containers available in US from Pac-Van Inc. have all been transported from factory sites by rail, road and sea transport. In order to save shipping costs most containers are offered to shipping interests on one-way use basis. By allowing a shipper to use the container for a single load, our cost to position a new container into North America is reduced significantly. These savings are reflected in the price to you. The majority of used containers are typically 10-14 years old when sold by the international shipping interests that originally owned and operated the equipment in international trade. Most are sold, as they are considered to have reached the end of their practical working life. This does not, however, mean that containers are valueless or without new productive applications. Therefore we have our grading system that addresses the important aspects depending upon the intended use:
-
- New (1 trip)
- Premium or IICL-5 (2 to 8 years old): Excellent condition, meets specific repair standards suitable for regular cargo use
- CW- Cargo Worthy (over 8 years old): Structurally sound, suitable for project or single move shipping
- WWT- Wind and watertight (over 8 years old), suitable for storage
- AS IS- Minor damage, should be inspected prior to purchase
- Handyman- Needs work, damage to the container could be expensive to repair
How long will the containers last?
Without any form of preventative maintenance a new container, in a storage environment, should last for more than 20 years. Used containers have a variable lifespan depending upon the condition of the container when purchased. Our containers should be free of problems for many years after purchase but, as steel continues to rust, attention should be paid to areas of rust and preventative maintenance should be performed as required.
What does a container cost?
Because of changes in market, availability and other variables, Pac-Van quotes specific prices daily.
How much does a container weigh?
Shipping containers vary by the material they are made of and their size but average about 2.5 tons per 20-foot container. Typically an empty 20ft shipping container weighs around 4,585 lbs, and an empty 40ft shipping container weighs 8,268 lbs.
