Category: moving tips

Portable storage weight limit

No matter what portable container company you are using you will learn about a weight limit. We will cover what a portable storage weight limit is, why we have weight limits, and how to gauge the weight of the contents.

What is a portable storage container weight limit?

A weight limit can be expressed as the total maximum allowable weight of the container and contents, or the weight limit of the contents alone. CAPSULE’s weight limit Is expressed by contents alone. The CAPSULE can have 6,000lbs of contents inside the capsule without going overweight.

Why do CAPSULE containers have weight limits?

Weight limits are typically specific to containers that will be moved with contents. Most weight limits do not apply to containers used only for on-site storage. CAPSULE has a weight limit of 6,000lbs of contents for our 8×16 CAPSULEs. This limit, and almost all weight limits set by portable storage companies are due to TXDOT weight regulations, not necessarily the durability of the container or equipment. For our truck, equipment, and container to operate on the road without a CDL driver, the entire rig needs to be under 26,000lbs. That is where the weight limit comes in. This is also why CAPSULE only provides 8x16ft containers and not 20ft, people go overweight with bigger ones, and the weight limits is actually less.

How do you gauge the weight of the contents?

CAPSULE has a machine that weighs the container before loading. However, to avoid delaying your move you want to make sure you do not go overweight. This can be tricky, but there are some easy and clear ways to make it a breeze.

First, it is more about what you put in it, than how much. Household items are not an issue, but some things are, BIG flags that affect the weight are things like:

  • Large gun safe
  • Large Rolling toolbox or shop full of tools
  • A fully dismantled rock fireplace (yes that happened)
  • Multiple full filing cabinets
  • Abnormal amounts of boxes with books and paper

If you do not have any of those things, but you are still a little concerned, take the heaviest things you plan to pack, and look them up online for a weight (most retailers provide this online). The weight of the heaviest items should not exceed 4,500lbs. Here is a link to a moving weight calculator you might find useful.

loading capsule portable storage in Texas heat

Other things to consider about weight:

If you’re getting multiple CAPSULEs, try spreading the heavy items between the 2 CAPSULEs instead of all the heavy stuff in one, and all the light stuff in the other.

It is also beneficial to try to evenly distribute the weight in the container for transport. Some make the mistake of loading all the heavy items first, that means they all go in one capsule, and/or loaded on one end.

If you have any questions you can always call ant talk or email us.

Capsule loaded full of weight contents

Is a CAPSULE Moving and Storage Container Right for You?

There are a lot of benefits to a CAPSULE moving and storage container, but it may not be the best option for everyone. We don’t like to talk ourselves out of business, but we have a high customer satisfaction level because we want to make sure we are a good fit.

In order to understand if it’s right for you, let’s look at the primary benefits. Then, we will look at the common misconceptions where a Capsule may not be a good fit vs the alternatives.

Benefits of CAPSULE Portable Storage Bins

Containers for moving

  • Reduces labor and effort.
    • Load at your own apace
    • Load at ground level
    • Packing one time
    • You call when ready to move
  • You’re packing so you know where things are at
  • Flexibility when things change
    • Things do and will change, supply chain issue, construction dates, closing issues. 80% of moves change because things do not remain on schedule.
    • Closings or projects don’t always stay on schedule, don’t get stuck with bad options if things fall through on closing or a contractor doesn’t finish on time. 
  • You don’t have to drive a large truck
  • Cost effective when compared to full service movers

On Site Storage of Restoration or Remodeling

  • Keep things on site and near for quick easy access
  • Get stuff out of the way of construction workers
  • Avoid having to move items multiple times

Moving Storage Container Misconceptions

  • Moving all in one day
    • If you need the container dropped off in the morning and moved the same day you may be better of renting a truck, or a full-service moving crew. Capsule does not provide same day drop and pick up, this is due to logistics, someone is always waiting on someone else (mover don’t show up on time or you thought it would take 30min to load). No one else does this either, be weary of salespeople in a call center that promise you that.
  • Apartments
    • Capsule has helped many people move in and out of apartments. However, you want to check on the apartment complex rules regarding them, plan for where you want to put it.
    • Second, if you’re in downtown Dallas, and the only parking is a parking garage, there may be no place to drop the capsule, we do not put them on the curb. They must go on your property, or in a parking space.
  • 24 hr Access
    • If you plan to put the container into our storage, we are happy to give you free access during business hours with 24hrs notice so we can pull it. However, if you plan to make regular stops in and out, a traditional 24hr self-storage facility may be a better option
Moving alternative in DFW, what’s right for you?

How Much Does It Cost to Use a Storage Container?

What are portable storage and moving containers?

Portable Storage or Moving containers are not shipping or conex containers. Portable storage is normally smaller and intended to be used for relocation or onsite storage in residential situations for remodeling or restoration needs.

The value portable storage is boundless, but primarily saves and labor, time, and provides flexibility with delays or changes in schedule.

Whereas the shipping containers are larger, and typically only used for onsite storage in heavy industrial situations or actual ocean freight. If you’re curious about what our Capsules look like, we’ve added some pictures below, or you can check us out on Instagram or Facebook.

Capsule 8 x16 Portable storage and moving containers used for Residential relocation or onsite uses.
Capsule 8 x16 portable storage and moving containers used for residential relocation or onsite uses.

How Much Does It Cost to Use a Storage Container?

The two biggest costs associated with renting a container is the monthly rent, and the transport fees. Rental rates in the DFW area range from $189 – $310 a month. The second primary cost are the transport fees, which are relative to where you’re at, where you’re moving, and what type of storage. They can range from $65-250+ per local DFW move.  

Capsules Pricing model:

Capsules are all 8x16ft in size. We charge a flat rental rate whether you keep it on site, or we bring it back and store it for you. Our transport costs are a flat rate dependent where you are and are charged each time we move the Capsule, including initial delivery, and pickup empty. We either provide service to your area, or not, there is no hidden mileage fees, or extra admin fees. We only service the DFW area and do not prorate. You can find out if we service your area and get a free instant online quote and visit our FAQ page linked below:

CASULE Pricing summary

  • All CAPSULES are 8×16
  • Flat rental rate
  • No term contract (month to month until you move out)
  • Flat transport fees (no mileage)
Capsule Container rental is simple and easy

How do other companies charge rental and transport rates for Portable moving and storage containers?

Several factors play into the rental rate, and some providers vary greatly. First factor depends on where the container will be stored. Will it be on-site at your location, or will it need to be stored off site at some point? Most companies charge an additional rental rate if they must store it for you. Many times, this rate can start at the very beginning of the rental, or just during its time stored off site for you.

Second, some companies base the rental rate on how long you “think” you’ll need the container.

Ask yourself:

 If you do not stay in the capsule the full length of your contract, is there a penalty? Does the rate get higher after the term does it goes month to month?

IF you keep the container on site for 3 months, have them store it for 1 week, are you paying 3 months of extra rental fees, or just that one extra week?

Transport fees vary greatly from company to company. Below are some common pricing models and pitfalls.

A company advertising “FREE TRANSPORT” typically limits this to a small area near their location. They will have mileage rates after that radius, but will not quote it. This comes as a shock to some when they get charged for it after delivery. Another side effect of “Free Transport”, is a very high rental rate. If you’re only keeping it one month, that may seem fine. However, not everything stays on schedule when moving or building. If you had to have it a second month, you’re stuck with a very high recurring rate.

Others may have some free transport into storage, or no pickup empty fee. These all come into play dependent if they are charging extra in rent, and for how long.

The types of deliveries can fall into one of 5 categories:

  • Initial Deliver empty
  • Final Pick up Empty
  • Move house to house (Curb to Curb)
  • Return full into storage
  • Deliver full out of storage

Other fees some companies charge

  • Administration fee
  • Credit card fee
  • Required container insurance
  • Setting it on grass fee
  • Extended rental if they can’t get it by anniversary

Promotions and discounts

Many companies run promotions and discounts, Capsule does not run any promotions or discounts. Instead, we focus on giving back directly to our community, focusing on children in our immediate community. You can read more about how we give back and are involved in the community HERE.

Capsule’s Mission

Capsule’s mission explicitly states our goals of simplicity and transparency.  These values echo through every part of our business from pricing, product, communication, and more.  

Part of the Capsule Mission is to be a simplistic and transparent as possible with current and future customers.

Portable Storage in Southlake and Keller

Capsule Portable storage DFW. Helping with your moving and projects.

Are you wanting to use Portable Storage in Southlake and Keller area? Capsule portable storage and moving containers near you can help. Our 8×16 mobile containers can be used for your next move or project. We are exclusive to the DFW area. Capsule is local, independent, and family owned. We have a lot of experience helping people in Southlake and Keller communities.

Below we have highlighted some moving tips along with some local resources you might want to use in conjunction with Capsule Portable Moving and Storage Containers.

Moving supplies companies for Portable Storage in Southlake and Keller, TX.

The list of moving supplier companies can make your portable storage in Southlake and Keller easier.

  • Best Price Boxes: 500 N Main St, Keller, TX 76248
  • Office Depot : 1317 TX-114 WEST, Grapevine, TX 76051
  • Home Depot: 300 S Village Center Dr, Southlake, TX 76092

Local Organizations and City Websites in the area around Southlake and Keller, TX.

Charitable Organizations around Southlake and Keller, TX.

Capsule Portable Storage loves giving back to our kids as you can read here. When renting portable storage in Southlake and Keller consider giving back to local charities that focus on children in our community such as these:

Portable Storage in Southlake with ground level loading for easy moving.
Southlake Capsule Moving and portable storage container

Other Capsule moving resources:

Feel free to reach out to us by phone or email. You can use the Contact us page, or include any questions you have into the notes of our instant quote tool.

Choosing a Moving Service: What to consider

Capsule is local and helping North Texas DFW

Choosing a moving service or moving and storage container company? If your shopping around a container company to use, you might find it a bit confusing now that you realize there is more than just one company. I’ll walk you through some pricing models and what you might want to evaluate.

Here are the quick things to Consider:

  • Beware of “No transport fees”
  • Get all your costs upfront and in writing, advertised pricing is not your pricing 
  • Beware of high storage rent
  • Beware of term commitments
  • “Transparent Roof” means it’s plastic, not Steel 
  • Read reviews

Moving & Storage Container Pricing

CAPSULE

Capsule has a low constant rent with no term commitments, with flat transport fees. We do not charge more in rent if we keep it, and we do not charge by the mile. What we quote, is what you pay. It’s all month to month so no early move out penalties. This keeps it simple for you and for us. Transport fees help keep the monthly rent low and helps customers based on need. Not everyone is needing the same type of move or storage, we typically  move it 2,3, or 4 times. 

Other Moving Container companies:

Beware of “no transport fees”. That’s because there usually are, read the fine print if they travel more than 20-30 miles from their shop, there is a set $ per mile you’ll get charged after the delivery. These are gimmicks that usually result in “no transport” but a high monthly rent. This is bad for 2 reasons, you’ll get an charge you didn’t know about and a high rent. This is problematic if something goes wrong and you need it longer, because you’re going to pay that very high rent again. Most people who choose this route, think they only need it one month, but get a big surprise at the final bill. 

Others may charge more rent if you keep it with them. One red flag to keep in mind is that if you only need them to store it for a week, but you keep it on your property for 5 months, your paying 5 months of high rent. Just because they kept it with them for one week.

Another thing to keep in mind is term commitments. This is when you say you’ll probably need it for 6 months, and the company quotes you based on 6 months of rent.  Beware if you move out early from what you originally said, you may pay a penalty.  Term commitments you make at the beginning also tie into transport fees along with rent, any deviation may result in a high unexpected transport fee.

80 % of our customers that needed it one month or less had issues with a contractor, realtor, or title company that resulted in longer storage.

Moving Service Reviews:

When choosing a moving service or moving and storage container company why are reviews important? I’ve been told, there’s no difference, they all the same thig, and that couldn’t be further form the truth. The containers and service between competitors can be like day and night.

We are very proud of our customer satisfaction level and our online reviews. Like choosing a traditional mover you will want to do your research on them. They are not all just a box, they are not all the same.

Google, Facebook and twitter are good places to look for customer reactions and feedback. Yelp too, but it isn’t Used as much in our industry because their platform doesn’t conform to our niche industry.

Also, many boast about “transparent” roofs. That’s because they are plastic, we live in Texas, get a steel roof. 

We hope this helps you in your search for the right company. We hope we can help you out

choose  moving service : Plastic roof vs CAPSUEL steel roof Capsule has better quality containers than pods, packrat, mibox, u hual or anyone else
CAPSULE roofs vs a intonationally owned company
Capsule is locla and heling north Texas DFW
Capsule was chosen to Helps Texas Rangers Move to their new stadium in 2019-2020

Packing a CAPSULE…

Interior view of a CAPSULE container

So, lets say you’ve made a smart decision and decided to use Capsule moving containers for your local move here in DFW. Now all you need to do it pack, but although some things might seem obvious it’s always good to go over the basics on how to pack before you start. Packing a Truck, and a moving container are fairly the same. When Packing a CAPSULE there are three basics, heavy stuff on bottom, secure it using straps or packing it in tight, and try to distribute weight evenly.

  • Pack up the walls and across the ceiling, like 3-d Tetris.
  • Start with the heavy stuff first like dressers at the bottom, then pack up with the lighter weight stuff from there.
  • Larger heavy furniture should be placed around the edge of the Capsule container. Try to do distribute the weight equally around the left and right side of the Capsule moving container.  
  • Stand longer items up tall to take up less floor space and allow for more room on the floor. Packing up, is harder than using more floor space.  
  • Stack lighter boxes on top. Boxes should be stacked by weight not size. IF using boxes accordingly, smaller boxes hold heavier stuff.
  • Do not underestimate using boxes. The help organize and allow things to be stackable.
  • Use straps to hold anything down that could fall over or slide. Do not ratchet stuff down to hard, just enough to keep stuff in place.
  • If you have got bolts from taking things apart, use baggies, and label them.
  • Label boxes.
  • Do not be afraid to use different size boxes, they come in handy when wedging stuff into place.
  • Load the things you’ll need first at the new place last, and at the doors.

All that seems like common sense, but its good to go over before you start.

Packing a CAPSULE to the door
Packing a CAPSULE to the door, Popcorn machine and all. Looks like Tetris
Interior view of a CAPSULE container
Inside of clean disinfect CAPSULE. Hooks and inserts’ to latch straps