When planning a move, one of the most common questions is whether a portable storage unit or renting a moving truck is the best option. Most people will say that one is always going to be better than the other, regardless of the situation. The truth is that there are a lot of variables to consider, which means that both options will prove ideal for different situations. Here’s a closer look at some of the most important factors to keep in mind when deciding whether or not there is a clear winner.
What Is Your Timetable?
The first thing the need to consider is what your timetable is. If you are going to try to move in a short amount of time, such as over the weekend then renting a truck will normally be your best option. This is because portable storage units tend to include monthly fees, regardless of whether or not you actually need them for an entire month. On the other hand, moving over the span of the weekend could be made easier by using portable storage units because you can start packing weeks in advance. This will ensure that the actual move takes very little time. Along the same lines, you also need to consider what your schedule is for moving day. If you are renting a truck then you are free to come and go as you please, however with a portable storage unit your day will be dictated on the availability of their drivers.
How Much Help Will You Have on Moving Day?
Another important variable is how much help you will have on moving day. If you are trying to move the entire house by yourself, then a portable storage unit is realistically your best option because it will take so long to load and unload. On the other hand, if you have a bunch of friends that are going to help or you plan on hiring a moving service, then a rental truck may be all that you need. Just keep in mind that the more you have to do on your own, the longer it will take and the more expensive renting a truck will become.
How Far Are You Moving?
The distance of your move is another important factor because it will largely dictate your total expenses. Portable storage units can be extremely convenient, however if you are moving large distances then they can quickly become expensive. This is because they will handle the driving. For example, if you are moving across the country, then renting a truck may be less expensive. At the same time, once you add in the price of gasoline, any overnight stays during the drive, and related expenses the prices could balance out in the end. Along the same lines, you also need to consider whether or not you are comfortable driving a moving truck on your own. This is specially true if you are planning on using a long 26 footer and towing your vehicle behind it.
Which One is Easier and More Cost Effective?
At the end of the day and there is no clear winner when comparing a portable storage unit to renting a moving truck. In general, the longer the move will take, the more cost effective as a portable storage unit becomes. Additionally, the farther you have to travel, the more affordable a rental truck becomes. While there may be no clear-cut answer, by taking a close look at these types of variables the best option will present itself.
Save 5% off a portable storage unit by using a Pack Rat promo code when you reserve your unit.