Storage Cost & Pricing Explained

Self-storage unit prices can be easily found especially if you’re searching online. Here are some average storage unit costs in Australia.

However, that’s not to say that self-storage prices are all that you’ll find as some companies provide container storage exclusively, whilst others, like us at Relocations WA, provide both types of storage options.

When it comes to self-storage rental prices, the tables above already give a rough estimate of the cost, depending on the size.

Overall, however, thorough research may reveal that self-storage rates are somewhat higher than container storage prices. However, self-storage also comes with the following advantages:

• Available in a range of sizes – from one as small as a single locker to a unit as big as a double garage (or even larger).
• Set in purpose-built buildings or indoor locations protected from the elements.
• Temperature control and other high-tech (e.g., Bluetooth entry/exit) options.
• Onsite security, padlocked doors and CCTV surveillance facilities.
• Availability of ancillary services and supplies, such as packing items, loading and transportation services, transit protection, etc.

So, while a container may come with lots and lots of space, the items you need to store may easily fit into a much smaller unit, ultimately pushing you to go for self-storage. After all, the monthly storage unit cost of renting a self-storage unit may end up to be more practical than getting container storage.

Shipping containers typically come in a range of sizes, although 10-foot, 20-foot and 40-foot containers are quite popular.

But how large is a container in metres or square metres? More importantly, what can you fit into each container based on size?

• 10-foot: 2.831x2.350 metres or 6.65 square metres
• 20-foot: 5.898x2.352 metres or 13.872 square metres
• 40-foot: 12.032x2.352 metres or 28.30 square metres

A well-packed 10-foot container unit can easily accommodate the contents of a one-bedroom apartment.

A 20-foot container is large enough to accommodate two cars or 200 mattresses. Put simply, you can put the contents of a standard three-bedroom house in a 20-footer. If you have a high-cube (taller) 20-foot container, it can accommodate everything inside a four-bedroom home.

Meanwhile, a 40-footer is just the right size to pack up to a five-bedroom home plus a family vehicle. A high-cube 40-foot container can easily accommodate the contents of a six-bedroom house.

When it comes to container storage costs, they tend to be relatively more affordable than self-storage unit prices. Some companies charge by the day, and rates can be set as low as $4.50 per day (or even lower depending on the unit size or how long you intend to rent the unit for).

Some companies offer a fixed minimum rental rate for the first two months and then charge by the day for any days in excess.

For example, you may be asked to pay $200 (plus GST) for a 20-foot container for the first two months, and then charged $3 per day (plus GST) for the next two to six months, and then a much lower daily rate as you extend your lease.

Other factors may also affect the final storage container cost.

For example, you may want to rent the container and keep it onsite or within your premises if you have adequate space. Else, you may also decide to rent one offsite. With this option, you’ll need to factor in delivery and pickup freight costs, aside from your monthly rental fee.

Thing is, when you’re considering renting a shipping container for storage, consider how you can maximise the space. And depending on what items you’ll be putting in storage, you may need to consider safety and security features, especially if you’re considering offsite storage.

That being said, some container storage providers offer certain options that may fit the requirements of specific customers, such as:

• Steel flooring
• Lockbox
• High cube for additional storage capacity
• GPS tracking
• Container modifications (e.g., shelving, power, lighting, air conditioning, etc.)
• Container grades and shipping or transport certifications

Shipping containers also have the following basic features that may be compatible with your storage needs:

• Water, wind, pest and vermin-proof
• Wooden flooring
• Floor and ceiling lashing points for securing goods
• Secure and lockable

Again, container rental prices also vary greatly, depending on the following:

• Size
• Duration of rent
• Location (onsite/offsite)
• Additional services and features

So, before choosing between self-storage and shipping container units, weigh the pros and cons of each and always consider your storage requirements and budget.