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Portable storage is a versatile solution that meets a variety of storage needs. From partial DIY moving to household renovation projects to staging your home for sale, portable storage containers are a great solution. Whether you keep your storage unit on your property or have us pick it up for long-term storage, there are some steps you can take to make using portable storage containers easier and safer. 

Estimating How Much Storage Space You Need

Arrow Moving & Storage Portable Storage Containers are 16’ x 8’ x 8’, providing just over 1,000 cubic feet of storage. Consider what you need to store, whether it’s bulk items like furniture or boxes, and estimate the volume they will occupy. Breaking down some items can save space, so check if that’s a possibility. Based on your calculations, determine the number of containers required. 

Making Space for the Storage Unit(s)

Each unit will need to have a minimum of 16’ x 8’ of ground space, plus a minimum of a few feet of access space around it. Additionally, the space must be accessible by truck to facilitate the drop-off and pickup of the unit.  In addition to space, the ground should be flat and relatively level; uneven or unlevel ground may cause damage to the storage unit and create safety issues.  

The ground must also be firm and have good drainage. Ensure the location of the containers is solid and will not become soft during rain. Well-drained areas will also protect your belongings by minimizing the chances of flooding around the units.

Plan Your Dates

One of the advantages of portable container storage is the flexibility. You can keep it on your property, have it relocated to a new location, or store it in long-term storage until you need the items. However, planning your dates ahead of time is important so that you can reserve the portable containers you need. Schedule your delivery date with the estimated time you will need the units on-site. 

Depending on the project, you may have flexible dates or need the units to arrive and be removed on specific dates. The longer the lead time, the more likely it is that your dates can be met.

Pre-Delivery Steps – Packing Materials

When the portable containers arrive, you’ll likely want to get started right away. Therefore, based on the items you are storing, pick up your packing materials in advance. Using appropriately sized and strong boxes is essential to protect your items and your back. Planning ahead of time will ensure you have everything on hand and avoid the temptation to skip steps and get started.

Call, Ask, and Schedule

When you’re ready, contact us to arrange for your portable storage container. This is a good time to ask any questions about the units, the preparation of the area, or the logistics of delivery and pickup. Once scheduled, we will keep you informed about the unit and delivery. Of course, feel free to contact us at any time with questions.

Portable storage units have become a popular option for individuals and businesses seeking flexible, secure, and cost-effective storage solutions. Whether you’re moving, renovating, or simply need extra space, these units offer numerous advantages that cater to a variety of needs. Here are seven practical reasons to consider using portable storage.

1. Spring Cleaning

Spring is an ideal time to declutter and organize your home. Portable storage units provide a convenient space to temporarily store items while you clean and reorganize. This approach helps prevent overcrowding and allows for a more thorough cleaning process. Once you’ve decided what to keep, donate, or discard, you can retrieve your stored items and place them thoughtfully in your refreshed space.​

2. Home Staging

When preparing your home for sale, creating an appealing and spacious environment is crucial through home staging. Portable storage units enable you to remove excess furniture and personal items, making your home more attractive to potential buyers. By storing these items off-site, you can showcase your home’s features without distractions, potentially leading to a quicker sale.​

3. Renovations

During home renovations, protecting your belongings from dust and damage is essential. Portable storage units provide a secure space to store furniture, appliances, and other items while work is in progress. Having your items safely stored allows contractors to work more efficiently and helps maintain a cleaner, safer work environment.​

4. Flexible Moving Schedules

Not all moves align perfectly with closing dates or lease agreements. Portable storage units allow a flexible option for storing your belongings during transitional periods. You can load your items at your own pace and have the unit delivered to your new home when you’re ready, thereby reducing stress and facilitating a smoother move.​

5. Temporary Storage for Seasonal Items

Seasonal items, holiday decorations, lawn equipment, or winter gear can occupy valuable space in your home. Portable storage units offer a convenient way to store these items during off-seasons, freeing up space and keeping your home organized year-round.​

6. Storage During College Semester Breaks

For college students, managing belongings during semester breaks can be challenging. Portable storage units offer an ideal solution, enabling students to store their belongings securely without the hassle of transporting them home. This is especially beneficial for those studying abroad or living far from campus. By utilizing portable storage, students can focus on their studies and appreciate their breaks without worrying about their possessions.​

7. Business and Event Storage

Businesses and event organizers often require temporary storage solutions for equipment, inventory, or supplies. Portable storage units offer a secure and accessible option for storing items on-site or at a designated location. This flexibility is beneficial for trade shows, conferences, or seasonal events, where quick access to materials is essential.​

Simplify Your Storage Needs with Portable Units

Portable storage units offer versatile solutions for a wide range of moving and storage needs. Whether you’re decluttering, staging your home, renovating, or managing a flexible moving schedule, these units offer convenience and peace of mind. If you’re planning a move or require temporary storage, we’re here to assist you. Contact us to discover how our portable storage options can benefit you.

When planning your household move, one of the first questions you may encounter is whether it is a local or long-distance move. This classification impacts not just the logistics but also the cost, time, and level of preparation necessary. Understanding the difference can help streamline your moving process and smooth the transition.

Defining a Local Move

In most cases, a local move is defined by distance—typically within a radius of up to 50 miles from your original location. This often covers moves within the same city or to nearby towns. Local moves are usually simpler and quicker to plan, frequently completed within a day. The pricing for local moves is generally based on an hourly rate, considering labor costs, truck travel, and the time it takes to complete the move.

Local moves have the advantage of familiarity. Knowing the area can make settling in more manageable, and it’s typically more convenient to handle logistics like address changes or utility transfers. Local moving companies might offer deals that cater specifically to these shorter-haul moves, providing opportunities to save some money.

What Qualifies as a Long-Distance Move?

Long-distance moves, often called interstate moves, are typically classified as any move over 50 miles. This can range from moving across a state line to traveling across the country. Due to the distance, logistics become more complex, requiring more planning and often involving different pricing structures.

Long-distance moves are generally priced based on the weight of your household goods and the distance traveled. The planning phase requires a deeper dive into your inventory list, careful scheduling, and considering delivery windows that might span several days or weeks. Selecting a reputable moving company with expertise in long-distance relocations is also critical, as the risk of mishaps increases over greater distances.

Planning Your Move Effectively

Once you understand the category of your move, planning becomes more straightforward. For local moves, preparation might include recruiting friends for help, renting a smaller truck, and planning for minor downtime. For long-distance moves, the strategy shifts towards thorough inventories, choosing professional movers, and preparing for an extended period of changing homes.

Regardless of the type of move, start by decluttering your belongings. This not only reduces what you have to move, but it can also decrease costs significantly—be it hourly rates for local moves or weight-based fees for long distance. Create a checklist of tasks to tackle leading up to moving day to ensure nothing essential is overlooked.

We’re Here to Help You Move with Ease

Whether you’re crossing the street or the state, we’re here to make your household move straightforward and stress-free. Our team understands the intricacies involved in both local and long-distance moves, and we’re committed to ensuring your relocation is smooth and successful. Contact us today, and let us help you embark on this new journey with confidence and peace of mind.

Embarking on a move during the summer months has unique challenges, yet it can also be the most rewarding time to relocate. The days are longer, the skies are brighter, and generally, moving companies are ready to accommodate more flexibility. However, the key to a successful summer move is working smart in the face of heat and humidity. Here’s how to make your summer household relocation a breeze.

Rise and Shine: Start Early

Beat the heat by beginning the moving process as early as feasible. The morning hours offer cooler temperatures, making the physical demands of lifting and loading far more manageable. It also reduces the risk of heat exhaustion and sunburn. Plan to start packing, loading, or commuting by sunrise, which ensures you’re working during those precious cooler moments of the day.

Stay Hydrated and Dress Light

Heat and physical exertion can quickly lead to dehydration, so drinking plenty of water should be a priority. Aim for at least one glass of water every hour to maintain high energy levels. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing—think cotton or linen. It’s also wise to wear a hat and apply sunscreen frequently to protect against sun exposure.

Check the Weather and Plan Ahead

Keep an eye on the forecast for your current location and new home. Severe weather warnings can disrupt plans, so schedule cautiously around these alerts. Have a plan B, whether it’s an alternative date with your moving company or a ready-to-go kit in case overnight accommodations become necessary.

Protect Your Belongings from Heat

Sunshine can be treacherous for some items in transit. Electronics, candles, and perishable goods can suffer damage if exposed to high temperatures. Use insulated coolers for perishables and ensure heat-sensitive electronics are transported in climate-controlled conditions whenever possible.

Secure a Reliable Moving Service

Summer is peak moving season, so secure your moving company well in advance. A reputable mover can be an ally in enduring a hot summer’s day, handling logistics to ensure your move proceeds smoothly. Verify the mover’s expertise, availability, and service quality by checking reviews and recommendations.

Pacing: Consistency Over Speed

Rather than rushing, focus on maintaining a steady pace throughout your tasks. It’s easy to burn out when fast-tracking the process, especially in the heat. Take breaks in shaded areas and create a balanced itinerary that mixes periods of activity with rest.

Cool Off with Breaks

Strategically plan your breaks to coincide with the hottest part of the day. Use this time to cool down indoors, preferably in air-conditioned comfort. Occupy yourself with sorting boxes, making calls, or refreshing schedules while indoors to keep productivity congruent with comfort.

Your Smooth Summer Move Begins Here!

We understand that a summer move requires effort and a thoughtful approach. We provide a seamless and customized moving experience so you can focus on settling into your new home worry-free. Contact us today to explore your options and see how our services can transform how you handle your summer move. 

Moving from your cherished home often stirs a complex mixture of emotions. Whether excited about new beginnings or nostalgic about leaving familiar spaces, a household move is more than just packing boxes and renting trucks. It’s an emotional journey that resonates deeply with the essence of home.

Why Leaving Home is Hard

Our homes are sanctuaries, filled with memories and emotional touchstones. As we prepare to leave, we commonly feel a sense of loss. The favorite nook where you’ve read countless books, the kitchen that became your experimental lab, or even the backyard that hosted family milestones—all contribute to a layered emotional landscape that’s tough to part with.

Harnessing Excitement for the Future

Instead of letting nostalgia overpower you, channel your thoughts toward what lies ahead. Envision the possibilities that your new home presents. Will it be a place for new traditions, or perhaps the creative canvas for your next DIY project? Beside you on this journey are future memories waiting to be formed. Embrace the excitement that comes with new opportunities to shape your living space.

Creating Room for Grief

It’s okay to feel grief amid the excitement of moving. Allow yourself time to acknowledge these feelings. Create physical space in your moving schedule to revisit old rooms, taking photos or journaling about the moments that marked your life. This cements those memories and aids in the emotional unraveling of leaving home. Accepting these feelings prepares you to fully immerse yourself in new experiences without holding onto the past.

Tips for Managing Stress During a Move

A household move can quickly become overwhelming if not handled efficiently. Start by making a comprehensive moving plan. Break the process into actionable steps: declutter, pack, and coordinate logistics long before moving day. Scheduled checkpoints will ensure you stay on track.

Involving family members or friends can also mitigate stress. Assign specific tasks to each person, transforming what could be a mundane process into a shared pursuit. Additionally, focus on the essentials—make sure the utilities are set up at the new place, your change of address is submitted, and all critical documents are packed separately.

Enlisting Emotional Support

Don’t negate the value of emotional support during your transition. Reach out to friends who’ve experienced moves. They might offer tips from their journeys or simply be there to listen, which can be a huge relief. Families, especially with children, should openly discuss the move and involve them in decision-making, which can soften the emotional blow and make them feel part of the change.

Actionable Steps to Personalize Your New Home

Once you’ve moved, make the new space yours. Paint the walls in shades that resonate with you, unpack items that reflect your personality, and place familiar objects in key points around the home to create continuity. Build a routine or ritual in your new home within the first few days to establish a sense of belonging and purpose.

Let Us Carry the Load So You Enjoy Life’s Transitions

If you’re navigating the complexities of a household move, let us ease your burden. Our professional service ensures your focus remains on the joyful aspects of transition. We manage the logistics, giving you time to embrace change and look forward to your new beginnings. Reach out for a stress-free move that lets you enjoy the journey.

Relocating to a new town can be an exciting adventure, but it also presents challenges, especially for your kids. The uncertainty, leaving friends, getting used to a new city, and starting a new school can be overwhelming. As a parent, there are various strategies you can use to ease this moving experience and make it a favorable time for your children. Here are some practical tips to help your kids.

Open the Dialogue Early

Start the conversation about moving well before the actual relocation. This allows your children to process the information gradually. Address their concerns and questions honestly. Be open about why the move is happening and how it will affect the family. Set aside time to discuss the move and check in regularly as it progresses. Honesty builds trust, and trust makes the transition more manageable.

Involve Them in the Process

Empower your kids by involving them in the moving process. Let them pack a box with their favorite items or help choose decorations for their new room. If feasible, include them in house-hunting across the new town. This involvement gives them a sense of control and helps them look forward to the new environment.

Visit the New Area Beforehand

Whenever possible, take a trip to the new town before the move. Visit local parks, see the new school, and find a favorite ice cream spot. Find places and activities in which they may have a specific interest. Familiarity can reduce anxiety, and exploring together will make the new town feel more like home even before the move happens.

Maintain Routines

Consistency is key for children, especially during times of change when possible. Try to keep daily routines, such as bedtime rituals and playtime, as constant as possible before, during, and after the move. A steady routine provides a sense of security amidst the chaos of moving.

Stay Connected to Old Friends

Moving doesn’t mean losing friendships. Encourage your children to stay in touch with their friends through video calls, texting, or even letter writing. Maintaining these connections helps them feel less isolated and provides a comforting reminder that goodbyes don’t have to be permanent.

Create New Opportunities for Socializing

Help your kids make new friends by encouraging them to join clubs, sports teams, or other group activities. Attend school events or neighborhood gatherings together. The quicker they find a community, the sooner they can feel at home.

Be Patient and Supportive

Understand that adjusting takes time. Your kids might experience various emotions, from excitement to sadness or frustration. Be patient as they assimilate. Listen actively and offer your support, reinforcing that it’s normal to miss what was left behind while embracing what lies ahead.

Your New Adventure Begins!

While relocation can be challenging for children, how parents approach the situation makes a big difference. With open communication, involvement, consistency, and a little fun, you can help your kids adjust and thrive in their new environment. Remember, each move is an opportunity for growth and new experiences. Embrace this new adventure as a family, and it may be one of your life’s best chapters.

Ready to make a move? Contact us today!

Relocating for a job shows commitment, and the process can indeed become complex for employees with families. Ensuring a seamless transition for the entire family requires careful planning and consideration. A move that positively impacts an employee’s personal and professional life contributes to their success and longevity with the company. Let’s delve into some actionable steps companies can take to make family-inclusive relocation successful.

Understand Family Needs

Before kicking off the relocation process, companies need to engage with the employee and understand their family’s specific needs and concerns. Early-on open dialogues can uncover a variety of considerations, ranging from schooling and childcare to employment opportunities for spouses or partners. By genuinely understanding these needs, companies can tailor their relocation packages to alleviate potential stressors the employee’s family faces.

Offer a Comprehensive Relocation Package

A well-rounded relocation package should be more than just financial compensation. Consider including:

• Housing Assistance: Assisting with housing searches, connecting employees with real estate agents, or covering temporary accommodation costs can ease the burden of finding a new home.
• Schooling Support: Providing resources or consultations for identifying schools and understanding enrollment procedures can benefit families with children.
• Spousal Employment Aid: Helping spouses find employment opportunities in the new location showcases an understanding of dual-income family dynamics.
• Community Insights: To ease the cultural transition, share information about community events, local points of interest, and neighborhoods.

Involve Families in the Decision-Making Process

Encourage employees to involve their families in relocation discussions. Visiting the new city together, exploring neighborhoods, and evaluating schools, healthcare options, and amenities allow families to participate actively in decision-making. It reinforces the idea that each member’s concerns are valued, fostering a positive outlook on the move.

Invest in Settling-In Services

Providing settling-in services is another way to demonstrate a company’s commitment to employee well-being. These services include arranging moving and storage, helping with utility setup, or providing language classes and cultural training for international relocations. Ensuring families settle smoothly into their new lifestyle develops long-term satisfaction and employee retention.

Create a Supportive Network

Establishing a support network is crucial for reducing the feeling of isolation often experienced after relocation. Encourage local employees to contact new arrivals and offer assistance or guidance. Organizing informal meet-and-greet events or buddy programs can be a great way to build new friendships and provide social support.

Offer Continuous Support

Post-move adjustment requires ongoing support. Consider offering periodical check-ins with employees to address any concerns after settling in. Providing continuous access to relocation experts or HR support ensures families feel valued and helps maintain morale and productivity.

It’s More Than Just a Move

Relocating employees with families requires a considerate and comprehensive approach. By anticipating and accommodating the multifaceted needs of an employee’s family, companies can facilitate smoother transitions, foster loyalty, and cultivate an engaged workforce. Beyond meeting organizational objectives, a thoughtful relocation strategy underscores a company’s commitment to caring for its people—no matter where they are.

Contact us for employee relocation services.