Why Rent a Storage Container Instead of Buying One?

Are you considering a container rental in Montreal?

Or…should you buy a storage container rather than renting one. Which option will be more beneficial? Which will be an easier option to use?

If you’re looking for answers to these questions, then you are at the right place, because we’ll be exploring both these options with enough depth that you’ll be able to make an informed decision when it comes to whether you should buy or rent a container.

Top Six Reasons in Favor of Renting a Storage Container Instead of Buying One

Reason #1: Better Productivity

If you buy a new storage container instead of opting for container rental, then it means you will have to make a large upfront expenditure. Making such an upfront expenditure proves to be a viable option only when you will require the container for long-term use, such as more than 4 years.

If you decide to make such an expenditure, you’ll of course have to budget for a larger amount of upfront capital. In today’s ever-changing business world, unless you’re certain of your budget and the predictability of your business, buying a container may, in the future, leave you with a smaller budget.

On the contrary, if a storage container is rented, then it frees up available funds, and you can use those funds for other business purposes.

In addition, for 3rd parties that are managing a container rental service for any client, it becomes easier to bill for actual expenditure as part of a bigger project—for example, during a construction project.

In case a company buys a container, then they may, in turn, decide to rent the container, and in that case, rent calculation is to be done on the basis of estimated value of the container. The company will also have to factor in other aspects such as depreciation while calculating the rent value and would turn out to be a complex endeavor for the business.

Reason #2: Reduced Liability

If a storage container is rented, then the owner may bear the liability in case there are any defects, or if the container suffers any damage. But, when you buy a container, all the responsibilities and liabilities will fall upon you.

In addition, if you opt for container rental, the responsibility of maintaining the container and its security will fall upon the owner—not you. If you have a small business, then this may be a significant benefit, since you will be able to avoid the expenses of maintenance, such as painting the container on a regular basis, rust prevention, and floor repairs.

Reason #3: Increased Flexibility

It is likely that, over time, your business needs will change, and if you are going with a container rental in Montreal, you will get the flexibility of changing the containers as per your requirement. For example, let’s suppose that you started with a larger-size container, and then, over time, you discovered that a smaller container would suffice. That’s not a problem, as you can have your larger container exchanged for a smaller one.

Thus, renting allows you to make a selection as per your requirement without getting stuck with a container of any particular size or shape. You are also able to rent newer models to maintain a fresh image for your business. This option would be particularly attractive to consumer-facing businesses.

Such flexibility is not available when you purchase a storage container. When the container is not needed, you will feel that you are stuck with something that is not required and go through the ordeal of finding the right buyer for it.

Reason #4: Ideal for Short-Term Needs

As stated earlier, if you choose to buy a container, you’ll need more funds than you would if you were to rent a container.

Of course, if you only have a short-term need for a container, then it may make more sense to rent. Short-term storage container rental means less upfront funds, and offers you required flexibility without hampering your business or putting a burden of assets that are not that important for your business.

Reason #5: Easier to Move

If there are plans of shipping or moving your container from one location to another, then you may decide to rent a container, and that may be the more convenient option.

The reason is that when a container is purchased, it is the responsibility of the buyer to arrange a truck or search for a moving provider.

As such, in terms of time, shipping a storage container you’ve purchased may prove to be a more costly option than renting a container. Many container rental companies also provide moving services, which would mean less stress, and time expenditure for you.

Reason #6: Right for Consumer-Facing Businesses

Intended use of a storage container will determine whether you should buy or rent a container. For instance, if you have a consumer-facing business then the container you use should be in good shape, in order to impart a positive impression on your customer. But, if the container will be used for cross-country freight transport then it need not have a very polished appearance.

For instance, if you are planning to set up a temporary pop-up store inside a storage container, but do not have required resources for maintaining that container, then renting a container may be a more viable option, as this will help you keep it presentable in front of your prospects. By renting a container, you get the assurance that you’ll be getting a newer model which is in perfect condition.

A Final Note

From above details, it is very clear that there are several benefits of renting a storage container instead of buying one. When you rent, you’re able to save a potentially large amount of money. Additionally, you do not have to bear the responsibility of maintaining it.

If any container were to get damaged, you can simply rent a new one. Also, you have lesser liability since you do not own the container and it will be the liability of the company that owns the container.

Thus, if you are planning to use a container, then renting one will be a better option compared to buying one. It will be advantageous from many different perspectives and help you increase your productivity without having to manage the headaches associated with owing a container.