Frequently Asked Questions

When you need extra storage space, choosing the right solution can depend on what you’re storing, how long you need it, how you plan to access it, and how much space you have available for delivery and placement.

Storage On-Site provides storage containers and storage trailers for rent and sale in Indianapolis and surrounding communities. Whether you need temporary jobsite storage, additional warehouse capacity, space for inventory, or a long-term storage solution, our team can help you determine which option fits your needs.

Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about renting and buying storage containers and trailers.

General Storage Questions

Storage containers and trailers can be used for many commercial, industrial, construction, and residential applications, including:

Construction materials and tools
Excess or seasonal inventory
Warehouse overflow
Equipment and supplies
Retail merchandise
Renovation materials
Furniture during remodeling projects
Event supplies
Maintenance equipment
Manufacturing materials
Landscaping equipment
Records and business supplies

Keeping these items on-site can also reduce the time spent traveling back and forth to an off-site storage facility.

Renting often makes sense when your storage need is temporary or you’re unsure how long you’ll need additional space. This may include construction projects, renovations, seasonal inventory, special events, or temporary warehouse overflow. Purchasing may make more sense when you expect to use the unit for an extended period or want storage that you can continue using for future projects. The right choice depends on your timeline, budget, and anticipated future storage needs.

The biggest differences are placement, height, and mobility.

A storage container is placed directly on the ground, making it convenient when you need ground-level access to tools, materials, inventory, furniture, or other items.

A storage trailer remains elevated on wheels and can be positioned at dock height, making it especially useful for warehouses, distribution operations, manufacturers, and businesses that regularly move palletized inventory.

If you’re unsure which option makes sense, Storage On-Site can help you compare them based on your property and how you’ll use the unit.

Our customers include contractors, construction companies, warehouses, manufacturers, retailers, property managers, schools, organizations, event planners, restoration companies, and homeowners. Portable storage is particularly useful when you need additional space but don’t want to permanently expand your building or lease additional warehouse space.

Storage Container FAQs

Storage On-Site offers 20-foot and 40-foot containers. The amount you’re storing, the available space on your property, and your access requirements can all help determine which size is appropriate.

A 20-foot container can be a good choice when you have a moderate amount to store or limited room available for placement.

A 40-foot container provides significantly more storage space and may make more sense for commercial inventory, construction materials, equipment, or larger projects.

Before choosing a size, consider both what needs to fit inside the container and how much room is available for delivery.

Yes. Storage containers are placed on the ground. This makes them convenient when workers need to walk materials, equipment, or supplies directly into the unit without using a loading dock.

Storage containers are constructed to withstand outdoor conditions and provide enclosed protection for stored items. However, proper placement and maintenance are still important. Containers should be positioned on stable ground, and sensitive items should always be stored appropriately for temperature and humidity conditions.

Storage containers provide an enclosed, lockable space that can help protect tools, inventory, equipment, and other materials from unauthorized access. Good storage security also depends on where the unit is positioned, the locking equipment used, site security, and how the container is managed.

Storage Trailer FAQs

What sizes of storage trailers are available?

Storage On-Site offers storage trailers in 28-foot, 48-foot, and 53-foot sizes, depending on availability.

What is the difference between swing doors and roll-up doors?

Swing doors open outward and provide a large opening for loading and unloading. Roll-up doors open vertically.

Can storage trailers be moved?

Trailers can be relocated when needed, making them useful for businesses or contractors whose storage needs change between locations.

Are storage trailers dock height?

Storage trailers are designed for elevated access and can be positioned at receiving docks.

Do I need a loading dock to use a storage trailer?

Not necessarily, but storage trailers are especially convenient for facilities with loading docks because of their elevated design.

Rental & Purchasing FAQs

Storage On-Site offers flexible rental options for both short- and long-term storage needs. Your project might last a few weeks, several months, or considerably longer. Contact us with your anticipated timeline so we can discuss the options available for your situation.

Rental pricing varies based on several factors, including the type and size of unit, rental duration, container condition or grade, delivery location, and availability. Storage On-Site calculates quotes based in part on delivery distance from our Indianapolis location, so the best way to determine your cost is to request a quote for your specific project.

Delivery costs can vary based on your location and the unit being delivered. When requesting a quote, provide the delivery address or ZIP code so we can calculate transportation costs and help you understand the total price.

Yes. Storage On-Site offers storage containers for both sale and rent. Purchasing can be particularly useful for businesses, contractors, farms, and property owners who anticipate needing additional storage for years rather than months.

Yes. Storage trailers are also available for purchase. Owning a trailer can provide businesses with permanent overflow storage that can be positioned near a warehouse, loading dock, jobsite, or other facility.

Delivery & Site Preparation FAQs

How quickly can you deliver a storage container?

Delivery time depends on unit availability, your location, and site accessibility.

How much space do I need for delivery?

The delivery vehicle needs enough room to safely enter the property, maneuver, place the unit, and exit. A level, stable location with good truck access is ideal.

What type of surface should a storage container be placed on?

Choose a flat, stable, well-drained surface that can support the container and its contents.

Does the site need to be level?

Yes. A level, stable location helps the unit sit properly and allows doors to operate as intended.

Do I need a permit for a storage container or trailer?

Permit and zoning requirements vary by municipality, property type, placement location, and how long the unit will remain on-site. Before placing a container or trailer, check with the appropriate local authority or property manager to determine whether any permits, approvals, or placement restrictions apply.

What should I check before my storage unit is delivered?

Before delivery:

Determine where you want the unit placed.
Make sure the delivery area is accessible.
Remove vehicles, equipment, debris, and other obstacles.
Check for overhead wires, branches, structures, or other obstructions.
Make sure the ground is stable and reasonably level.
Verify any property or local requirements that may apply.

Planning ahead can make delivery faster and safer.

Request a Quote or Contact Us

Choosing between a container and trailer or deciding which size you need doesn’t have to be complicated. Storage On-Site has served businesses, contractors, organizations, and residents throughout the Indianapolis area with convenient storage solutions delivered directly to their properties. Call Storage On-Site at (317) 358-0380 or request a quote today to find the right storage container or trailer for your needs.