Construction Storage Containers: When to Rent and When to Buy

When a construction project manager asked us, “Should my company rent or buy construction storage containers?” we realized this is an important question many construction companies are asking themselves. While there are advantages and disadvantages to both, the right answer depends on why you need the storage unit and how you plan to use it. Here’s what we told this project manager, and here’s what we want to tell you.

Why Construction Storage Containers?

To start, let’s quickly review the advantages of using modified shipping containers as onsite construction storage – they are also the reasons containers are used as reliable structures across a variety of industries. Using a container as a construction storage structure helps keep your tools, equipment, paperwork, or whatever you plan to store protected from the elements, secure from unwanted intruders, and in an easily accessible, controlled environment.

When to Rent a Construction Storage Container:

If you want to hand it off at the end of a project

A benefit to renting a storage container is that you get to use the unit for as long as you need and then return it to the rental company. This minimizes the potential hassle of relocating the unit. If you don’t need the unit after your project is complete, consider renting your construction storage container.

If you want an “off the shelf” unit

Renting a modified shipping container allows you to select from the available units on hand at a rental company. This will likely benefit you if you can’t afford to wait for the container to be modified to specific requirements. In most cases, rental containers have simple modifications such as vents or extra doors, so if you’re looking for a low-modification, standard storage unit, renting could work well for your company.

When You Should Buy a Construction Storage Container

To own for future projects

It may seem obvious, but if you purchase a shipping container, you’ll get to use it over and over again – this is a major benefit to owning your own unit. The opportunity to reuse the construction storage unit allows you to relocate the container as one project ends, and new projects begin – creating a great return on your investment. Additionally, you can even take steps to brand your container so those driving by the site know to associate the project with your company. Your container, or containers, will become an important asset of your construction company.

To customize the unit to meet your specific needs

A world of opportunity opens up for you when you consider buying a shipping container. Manufacturers – like Falcon – can modify your construction storage unit to match your specific design and vision (as long as the structural integrity isn’t at risk). If your construction company needs a climate-controlled container, double personnel doors, or any other specialized storage space, purchasing a shipping container is the ideal option for you.

Comparing Cost

In some cases, the choice to rent or buy a shipping container simply comes down to cost. If you need a shipping container for a shorter amount of time – say, for a year or so – renting is likely the better financial choice. Conversely, if you plan to use a container for a few years or more, purchasing is the smartest financial choice. So, you’ll need to decide if you want a construction storage container for one project – to likely return the unit upon completion, or many projects – to make the unit your own and use it for many years to come.

Take the Next Step

Along your journey to determine whether you should rent or buy a construction storage container, don’t hesitate to reach out to us here at Falcon. Although we don’t offer container rentals, we’re happy to discuss your project and help point you in the right direction based on your needs. You can reach us at  877-704-0177 or sales@falconstructures.com.