Most people planning a do-it-yourself move, and businesses or families looking for additional storage, are typically thinking about traditional approaches. You can rent a moving truck or a self-serve storage container, which can be costly and inconvenient, or you can move and store your stuff the smarter way in a portable storage container. The flexibility and convenience of a portable storage container can also be a big asset when faced with a sudden emergency or expansion. We have listed the most common circumstances where using a portable storage container would be the most practical and effective solution for you.
A portable storage container should be placed in the right-of-way of any road, level with the existing street grade/slope, and parallel to the curb with its outer edge no more than eight feet from the face of the curb. The container should not occupy more than the designated parking lane width along the frontage of the property. Its placement will be subject to all existing parking regulations unless specifically exempted from compliance by written approval of the Director of Public Works. Further, no portable storage container should be placed on the sidewalk area without the approval of said Director. A minimum clear way of travel for pedestrians of four feet needs to be be maintained at all times on sidewalks. In commercial areas and in other areas with a high volume of pedestrians, a minimum six-foot path of travel should be provided and maintained.
Individual Location Permit
An individual location permit may be obtained for each mobile storage container that is proposed to be placed within the public right of way. Only annual permit holders may apply for individual location permits.
- Said permit holders shall submit a written request to Public Works no later than three days prior to occupancy of the public right of way with a mobile storage container at a specific location with the following information :
- Name of the annual permit holder
- Local contact information for the permit holder
- Proposed location of the mobile storage container(s)
- Name and contact information for the property owner or tenant who will use the container
- Any other information specified in the departmental order or other regulations
- The individual location permit fee shall be as specified in the fee schedule per day of occupancy. When the permit is to be issued for a period not to exceed 24 hours, or for the first three days of occupancy, said fee(s) may be paid separately for each individual location permit or deducted from the deposit.
- No individual location permit shall be issued for a period that exceeds seven days.
- The property owner needs to apply for a Temporary Occupancy Permit and post “No Parking” signs at least 72 hours in advance for the occupancy of the public right of way.
The director, in his or her discretion, may approve, conditionally approve or disapprove a Mobile Storage Container Permit. The director’s decision on an annual permit is appealable to the Board of Appeals.
Things you might need
- Dolly
- Boxes
- Tape
- Loading Straps
- Pads/Blankets
Preparing the moving container
Your furniture and household things need a wrap to protect them from dirt and debris. It might be helpful to use blankets, pads, and other moving supplies listed above to ensure your things are protected correctly in a portable storage container.
Loading the portable storage unit
The larger, heavier things should be loaded into the container first. These types of items would include couches, appliances, tables, etc. Be sure the heavier things are evenly distributed throughout the container to avoid any shifting whileen route. Pack the lighter, smaller boxes over your larger items to maximize space.
Distribution of your items in the moving container
The tighter your things and boxes are packed together, the less moving there will bewhile in transit. Try to place your heaviest items on each side of the storage container, so there is equal distribution throughout. This will encourage stability. There are points along the container’s wall to use your loading straps. Using the loading straps will ensure your items stay secure and safely attached.
Performing proper moving methods is an important tactic to make sure you have a successful transition from house-to-house. You will rest easy knowing your goods will arrive in the same situation as when you left them.