Category: packing 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?

Portable Storage for Remodeling and Restoration

Capsules can be used for more than just relocation purposes. Many customers use Capsule portable storage for restorations and remodeling needs. We will cover why they work so well for this purpose and try to answer any questions concerning their use for onsite storage.

 

Benefits of portable storage for restoration and remodeling

Out of the way but still accessible

You don’t have to be working around your belongings or moving them from room to room as the work progresses or tries to progress. Homeowners don’t have to worry about a couch getting dusty or their clothes covered in building materials.

Easy Loading and Unloading

You’re loading at ground level and not up into a truck. The door of the Capsule is 5” off the ground, and a truck door is 36” (average) off the ground. You’re also not in a rush due to time constraints, the Capsule is delivered, and you pay by the month, not the day.  

It reduces labor by over 75%. Instead of loading a truck, driving it, unloading it, and doing it all again in reverse… you pack and unpack one time.

Capsules are secure and weatherproof

Capsules are built for Texas, they have steel roofs instead of plastic. The doors are swing style doors making them easy to open, but more secure to lock than roll up doors. The floors are made out of 3/4“ marine grade plywood and steel. To date, we have not had any issues with heat, cold, or rain.

Capsules are Flexible with Changes

Project runs over schedule? No problem, the Capsule is yours, as long as you keep up with monthly rental.

HOA says it’s been there too long? No problem, we can bring it back to our place and store it for you. Your rent does not increase, but you do pay transport fees in and back out.

Commercial or residential uses

Capsules can cover big or small jobs. Many individual residential customers only need one, sometimes two capsules. However, we do plenty of work with large scale restoration projects. Our Capsules fit perfectly in Parking spaces, and help pack out companies, speed up jobs, and reduce labor. We even helped the Texas Rangers move to their new stadium in 2020, Helped countless restorations projects during the big 2021 freeze, and flooded apartments in 2022.

Capsules moving Texas Rangers

Questions about portable storage for restorations and remodeling

How long can I keep my Capsule?

Capsule does not care how long you keep your capsule as long as you keep paying rent. However, some cities and HOAs have rules about how long they can stay. Knowing their local rules and regulations is the customers responsibility. However, we can store the Capsule for you if you need us to and bring it back when you’re ready to unload.

Where can I place the Capsule?

Capsule does not allow placement on streets, curbs, or public right of ways. It must physically go on your property. We will place them on grass or gravel if you want, if its does not look like it’s a low-lying area. Customers take responsibility for City and HOA rules regarding placements.

How much room do I need to deliver a Capsule?

All Capsules are 8×16 ft in size. We ask for 9 Foot tall and 9 ft wide opening for placement. Dispatch will go over this with you prior to delivery, and there is no need for anyone to be home at delivery if we know where it is going and have access.

Capsule machine needs 9 foot tall and 9 ft. wide for most placements

For more FAQ visit our FAQ page HERE or feel free to call or CONTACT US with questions.

You can Also get a free online quote and online reservation. All we need is your email, and zip codes. HERE

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.

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