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Deciding Between a Portable Storage Unit and a Self-Storage Unit

If you’re among the many San Diego households considering a storage unit, you’re not alone. Choosing between a portable storage unit and a traditional self-storage unit can be a bit daunting with so many options available. Here’s a closer look at these two popular solutions to help you make an informed decision.

Portable Storage

Portable storage, also known as mobile or containerized storage, involves a storage container delivered directly to your home or business. Once loaded at your convenience, the container can either stay at your location or be transported to a secure storage facility.

Benefits of Portable Storage:

  • Convenience: The unit is brought to you, saving the time and effort of driving to a facility.
  • Flexibility: Load at your own pace, and the container is picked up when you’re ready.
  • Secure Storage Options: Containers can be stored indoors at facilities like Big Box Storage, offering climate-controlled environments.
  • Wider Service Area: Portable storage companies typically serve broader regions, making them ideal for moves or relocations.

Considerations:

  • Access: Some facilities may require advance notice for container access, so check their policies.
  • Delivery Fees: Portable storage often includes fees for delivery, pickup, and redelivery of the container.

Popular providers in San Diego include Big Box Storage (a locally owned company), PODS, Pack Rat, and Units.

Self-Storage

Self-storage facilities are the traditional option and are easy to find across San Diego. Renting a self-storage unit typically involves transporting your belongings to the facility yourself.

Benefits of Self-Storage:

  • Accessibility: You can visit your unit anytime during the facility’s operating hours.
  • Variety of Sizes: Units range from small lockers to large spaces for vehicles or furniture.
  • Immediate Availability: San Diego has numerous self-storage locations, ensuring one is likely near you.

Considerations:

  • Transportation Required: Renting or using a truck to move your items is typically necessary. Some companies offer free trucks for move-ins but not move-outs.
  • Additional Costs: Expect administrative or “move-in” fees, typically ranging from $15 to $30, along with the cost of a lock for your unit.

Major providers in San Diego include Extra Space Storage, Public Storage, and A-1 Storage.

Key Differences

Cost

  • Portable storage often includes delivery, pickup, and redelivery fees but may not charge administrative fees.
  • Self-storage has no delivery fees but often charges move-in fees. Monthly rental rates for both options vary by location, unit size, and amenities (e.g., drive-up access or climate control).

Convenience

  • Portable storage allows you to load the unit at your location, saving you trips to a storage facility.
  • Self-storage might be more convenient for those needing frequent access to their belongings.

Security

  • Portable storage units stored in a secure facility typically have fewer theft incidents since customers don’t access units directly.
  • Self-storage units face slightly higher theft risks, often linked to other customers at the facility. Always inquire about security measures like surveillance, gates, and onsite staff.

Which Should You Choose?

  • Choose portable storage if you value convenience, need temporary storage during a move, or prefer the flexibility of having a unit delivered to your home.
  • Opt for self-storage if you require frequent access to your items or prefer a facility close to your location.

Final Tips

Before committing to any storage option, take the following steps:

  • Compare costs, including delivery fees, administrative charges, and monthly rental rates.
  • Check the company’s security measures and customer reviews.
  • Visit the facility if possible to ensure it meets your needs.

With so many options available across San Diego County, you’re sure to find the perfect solution for your storage needs. Happy storing!

Big Box Storage Sponsors Boys & Girls Club Golf Day 2019

Big Box Storage is honored to sponsor the 2019 East County Boys & Girls Club Golf Day, an annual event dedicated to supporting local youth programs. This year’s tournament will take place on Friday, July 12, at Sycuan Golf Resort, bringing together more than 175 supporters for a day of golf, networking, and fundraising.

As one of the most anticipated golf events in San Diego’s East County, the tournament offers an exciting opportunity for businesses and individuals to contribute to a meaningful cause. The East County Boys & Girls Club encourages community members to participate by forming a foursome, sponsoring the event, or donating to the silent and live auctions. Sponsors and donors will receive recognition in the event program and on-site at the tournament.

The Boys & Girls Clubs are committed to providing a safe, clean, and enriching environment for more than 3,000 children, ages 5 to 18, throughout the year. With professional staff leading engaging activities, the Clubs aim to create a positive and lasting impact on young members.

Importantly, no child is ever turned away due to an inability to pay the $50 annual membership fee. To continue offering quality programs and resources, the East County Boys & Girls Club relies on the generosity of the community. Every contribution—whether through sponsorship, participation, or donation—directly helps provide valuable experiences and support for local youth.

Big Box Storage is proud to stand alongside other community supporters in making a difference. We appreciate the continued efforts of the East County Boys & Girls Club and encourage everyone to get involved in this incredible event.

For sponsorships, donations, or more information, visit East County Boys & Girls Club.

Summer Savings Deal for San Diego College Students

Attention San Diego college students! Big Box Storage has an unbeatable summer storage solution just for you. For a limited time, we’re offering an exclusive package for students from SDSU, USD, and other local colleges:

Here’s what’s included:

  • Initial Delivery of your storage unit
  • Return Pickup after summer
  • Three months of storage

Here’s How It Works:

  1. Delivery Made Easy: We bring the Big Box storage unit directly to your doorstep.
  2. Pack and Load: Gather your friends (offer them pizza if you must!) and load up your belongings.
  3. Pickup and Storage: Once packed, our friendly driver will pick up the unit and transport it to our secure San Diego facility.

Need access to your stuff over the summer? No problem! You can access your storage unit seven days a week.

Perfect Size for College Life

Our Big Box units are 8′ deep, 5′ wide, and 7′ tall, offering enough space to fit about a room to a room and a half of belongings. Need more space? No worries! We can deliver additional Big Boxes if required. Most students find one is just right.

Don’t Miss Out!

Take the stress out of summer storage with Big Box Storage. Need more space? No worries! We can deliver additional Big Boxes if required. Most students find one is just right.

Big Box Storage and The Village Team Up To Benefit Father Joe’s

Big Box Storage is proud to partner with The Village at Pacific Highlands Ranch to sponsor Father Joe’s Villages, a leading organization dedicated to helping individuals affected by homelessness and poverty.

On April 27th and 28th, from 8 AM to 1 PM, donations of clothing, small appliances, and toys will be collected in front of Westroot at The Village at Pacific Highlands Ranch. All donated items will go directly to Father Joe’s Villages, where they will be used to support those in need.

For 69 years, Father Joe’s Villages has worked to prevent and end homelessness in San Diego, growing into a comprehensive support network that houses more than 2,000 people each night. Their services include shelter, healthcare, meals, job training, and supportive housing programs designed to create long-term solutions for those experiencing homelessness.

Donated new and gently used items will be sold in Father Joe’s Villages’ thrift stores or through online auctions, with 100% of the proceeds supporting their mission. Every donation makes a difference, helping fund essential programs that provide housing, employment assistance, and healthcare to those in need.

We encourage everyone to visit the collection site and contribute to this important cause. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on the lives of our fellow San Diegans.

What Does 2019 Have In Storage?

The New Year is here! All bright eyed and bushy tailed, filled with possibilities and exciting new opportunities. Many people will be finding new jobs, moving to parts unknown, or starting new relationships. But with all the uncertainties out there, the big question is… What does 2019 have in ‘store-age’ for you? This month we will be focusing on this theme to illustrate how easy it us to save money, time, and energy in 2019 with Big Box Storage.

Part one of our four part series, “What does 2019 have in storage”:

How about a better apartment? If you are tired of the neighbors constantly barking dog, or maintenance not fixing your work orders, it may be time to move. Moving can be such a pain, though. Going through the trouble of renting a truck and worrying about liability on the road, or having to ask all your friends with a truck to help you move on their only day off with only lunch and a six pack as reward is not a good time. Not so with Big Box Storage! We pride ourselves in keeping it easy. First, make a reservation either online or by calling our office. Then have one or more “Big Boxes” delivered to your address, fill it at your leisure, and we’ll pick it up and take it to your new place. Easy as that!

Forget having to rent, load, and unload a truck. That takes too much time and energy! So many people are finding out how easy it is to use curb to curb moving with Big Box Storage on the speed dial. It’s time for you to find out too! Make a reservation today and ask about our great New Years’ specials!

Big Box Storage. Pack it at your place, store it at ours!

Big Box Storage Proudly Sponsors Mama’s Kitchen this Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time for reflection, gratitude, and togetherness. Families gather around the dinner table, enjoying shared meals, strengthening bonds, and maybe indulging in a few too many desserts. In San Diego, we are especially grateful for the support of our Big Box Storage customers, who trust us with their valuable belongings—and, of course, for the beautiful weather! However, as we celebrate all that we have, it’s essential to remember those who are less fortunate during this time of abundance.

With the growing awareness of the number of people in need in San Diego, Big Box Storage felt the need to give back. This year, we partnered with Mama’s Kitchen, a local nonprofit dedicated to providing nutritious meals to individuals and families facing critical illnesses such as HIV, cancer, and more. Their mission is to ensure that no one in San Diego goes hungry, especially those too sick to shop or cook for themselves.

Mama’s Kitchen envisions a community where all individuals, regardless of their health challenges, have access to nutritious food. Through their home-delivered meal program, pantry services, and nutrition education, Mama’s Kitchen helps vulnerable individuals stay healthy, maintain their dignity, and keep their families together.

This Thanksgiving, Big Box Storage is proud to sponsor Mama’s Kitchen to provide additional meals to those in need. We encourage our community and followers to consider supporting this incredible cause, ensuring that no one goes hungry during the holiday season.

For more information or to get involved with Mama’s Kitchen, visit their website at Mama’s Kitchen. Together, we can make a difference!

Big Box Storage sponsors Boys and Girls Club Golf Day

Big Box Storage was honored to sponsor the East County Boys & Girls Club Golf Day charity event, held on July 13, 2018, at Sycuan Golf Resort.

This annual golf tournament is one of the most anticipated fundraising events in San Diego’s East County, bringing together over 175 dedicated supporters to raise funds and awareness for local youth programs. Participants enjoyed a day of golf while making a direct impact on the lives of children in need.

The East County Boys & Girls Club is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for more than 3,000 children, ages 5 to 18, throughout the year. The Club offers a range of after-school programs, mentorship opportunities, and structured activities designed to help kids develop academically, socially, and emotionally. Led by trained, professional staff, these programs create positive, lasting impacts on young members, helping them build confidence and leadership skills.

One of the most inspiring aspects of the Boys & Girls Club is its commitment to inclusivity. No child is ever turned away due to financial hardship. While the annual membership fee is only $50, many families cannot afford even this small amount. To ensure that every child has access to these valuable programs, the Club relies on community support, donations, and sponsorships. Events like Golf Day play a crucial role in sustaining and expanding these essential services.

Big Box Storage takes pride in giving back to the local community and supporting organizations that make a tangible difference. Sponsoring the East County Boys & Girls Club Golf Day is just one way we contribute to helping children thrive. We believe that every child deserves a safe place to learn, grow, and build a brighter future.

We encourage others to get involved, whether by donating, volunteering, or participating in future fundraising events. Your support can help provide mentorship, educational resources, and a safe environment for thousands of children across San Diego’s East County.

Big Box Storage thanks everyone who participated in this year’s event and helped make it a success. We look forward to continuing our partnership with the East County Boys & Girls Club and supporting their mission for years to come.

Big Box Storage Sponsors April Pools Day

As we shake off the last remnants of “winter” and dive into spring here in San Diego, it’s essential to ensure our kids are equipped with valuable water safety lessons. That’s why Big Box Storage is excited to sponsor April Pools Day, a fun-filled water safety festival hosted by Bud Kearns Pool on Morley Field Drive.

A Day of Fun and Learning

April Pools Day is all about promoting water safety education in a family-friendly environment. This free event invites families to come out and enjoy a day at the pool while learning vital skills that can save lives. The pool will be open at no charge, giving everyone the chance to take a dip and have some fun in the sun!

Throughout the day, attendees can explore a variety of interactive booths set up on the pool deck. These booths are designed to educate families about water safety while providing engaging activities for kids and adults alike. From meeting Josh the Otter—the friendly mascot dedicated to teaching children about water safety—to participating in games and crafts in the KidsZone, there will be something for everyone.

Learn Essential Water Safety Skills

In addition to the fun activities, families will have the opportunity to learn essential water safety skills. There will be demonstrations on how to perform CPR, ensuring that parents and caregivers know how to react in case of an emergency. This is a crucial skill that can make a significant difference in saving lives.

The event will also feature giant inflatables, allowing kids to play and enjoy themselves while getting accustomed to being in and around water. Free sunscreen will be provided to help keep everyone safe from harmful UV rays while they enjoy their time outdoors.

Join Us in Making a Difference

At Big Box Storage, we believe in the importance of community engagement and education. Sponsoring April Pools Day aligns with our mission to give back and support initiatives that promote safety and well-being in our neighborhoods. Drowning is a leading cause of accidental death for children, and events like April Pools Day play a vital role in preventing these tragedies by educating families on water safety.

We invite everyone in the San Diego area to join us for this special event! Bring your family, friends, and neighbors to celebrate the arrival of spring while learning how to stay safe in the water. Together, we can foster a culture of safety and fun in our community.

For more information about April Pools Day, including details about the event schedule and activities, be sure to check out the April Pools Day Community Water Safety Festival Facebook page. Mark your calendars and get ready for a day of learning, laughter, and community spirit!

Thank you for supporting water safety education and for joining Big Box Storage in our efforts to create a safer environment for our children. We look forward to seeing you there!

Big Box Storage presents the October Teacher of the Month!

We’re proud to announce our October Teacher of the Month: Ms. Shoopman, a dedicated school counselor from Piedmont Hills High School. In a time when students (and let’s be honest, adults, too) need guidance more than ever, Ms. Shoopman has stepped up to create a safe, supportive space for young minds to explore their dreams and plan for the future.

She’s not just a counselor—she’s a lifeline for students navigating pressure, uncertainty, and big life questions. And now, thanks to Big Box Storage, she’ll be attending the Get Focused, Stay Focused conference to sharpen her skills and bring back powerful tools to support at-risk youth.

What She Needed

“I need the registration and lodging covered so I can attend a conference that helps counselors improve their career and educational planning for our at-risk youth,” said Ms. Shoopman. Done and well deserved.

Her Students

Ms. Shoopman describes her students as “well-mannered, hard-working, and driven.” Many are first-generation Americans honoring their families’ sacrifices through relentless dedication to education. Her biggest message to them? Struggling is part of growth, and perfection isn’t the goal. These are students who embrace diversity, celebrate different cultures, and inspire the very person hired to guide them.

The Project

The Get Focused, Stay Focused conference will give Ms. Shoopman the tools to:

  • Help students create a personalized 10-year career and education plan
  • Launch a comprehensive guidance program starting in 9th grade
  • Teach students to ask: “Who am I? What do I want? How do I get it?”
  • Build financial literacy and prepare them for real-world independence

This isn’t just about professional development—it’s about changing lives.

Why It Matters

Ms. Shoopman is doing the kind of work that echoes far beyond the walls of a classroom. And while this recognition is just a small gesture, we hope it helps her continue impacting San Diego’s next generation of leaders, dreamers, and doers.

Nominate a Local Hero

Know a teacher making a difference in your community? Help us recognize them!
Email us at support@bigbox.com with:

  • Teacher’s name & school
  • Class or subject taught
  • What support do they need
  • Why they deserve to be our next Teacher of the Month

Let’s give back to the educators shaping San Diego’s future—one student at a time.

Clear the Clutter, Make Room for Fun!

Here in sunny San Diego, the cost of living is soaring. With skyrocketing property values and rent prices, affordable housing and vacation rentals are hot topics in the city. Even the tiniest units can cost over $2,000 a month! For many young people, these rising expenses have led to a new trend—staying home and entertaining rather than splurging on nights out.

A Shift to Hosting at Home

With the cost of dining and nightlife outpacing the average late-20s income, it’s no surprise that millennials are bringing back the art of home entertaining. Sharing home-cooked meals or hosting small gatherings is not only cost-effective but also creates a more personal, cozy atmosphere.

But here’s the problem: where do you entertain when your home feels packed to the brim?

The Space Problem

Every inch of your home is valuable, and clutter is eating it up. That hall closet stuffed with off-season clothes? Is the spare bedroom doubling as storage instead of a guest room? These spaces are prime examples of why you need a better storage solution.

The Big Box Solution

That’s where Big Box Storage comes in! Unlike traditional self-storage, portable storage offers convenience like no other. Here’s how it works:

  1. We deliver a portable storage unit, aka a Big Box, right to your door.
  2. You pack your belongings at your own pace.
  3. Once you’re done, we pick it up and store it securely at our facility.

Need to access your items while they’re in storage? No problem! Our facility allows easy access seven days a week.

Entertain Without Stress

With your spare room freed up, Becky can comfortably crash after a fun evening. Your decluttered home becomes a welcoming space to host game nights, dinner parties, or just a casual get-together with friends.

Why Choose Big Box Storage?

  • Convenience: Delivery and pickup are included, so you don’t need to haul your belongings anywhere.
  • Cost-Effective: Stop paying thousands of dollars to keep unused items in your home.
  • Flexible Storage: Access your storage anytime or keep it safe until you’re ready.
  • Guaranteed Best Price: We offer the lowest price for portable storage in San Diego—no hidden fees or surprises.

Take the Next Step

Turn your home into the ultimate hosting space without breaking the bank. Call Big Box Storage today or visit our website to learn more about why we’re San Diego’s #1 portable storage company. Make room for fun—you deserve it!