Frequently Asked Questions

What is the process of working with Big Blue Boxes?


How do I open the container?

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How much space is required for delivery?

The amount of space required is minimal. For a 20′ storage container, you will need approximately 80 feet of straight clearance. For a 40′ storage container, you will need approximately 100 feet of straight clearance. The width requirement is approximately 10 feet, plus enough room for the truck to swing back into place.
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How is the storage container delivered? Will a Big Blue Box moving container damage my driveway?

We deliver our portable storage units using a specially-designed rollback truck. We gently set one end of the storage container on the ground, then pull out underneath it. When we pick up the container the bed of our truck rolls back to gently lift your container back on the truck.
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Is there any site preparation necessary?

The only thing you need to worry about is that the surface is fairly level, smooth, and firm. We can also deliver on cement, pavement, asphalt, or gravel.
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How long will delivery take from the time of order?

Normal delivery time can be as quick as 1-5 days, providing you are not having any modifications done to the unit. If you need something sooner, we will do our best to accommodate your schedule.
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What type of payment is required upon delivery?

For rentals, we collect the first month’s rent, plus delivery and pickup fees. For purchase, we collect the total sales price including delivery charge and sales tax. We accept personal or business checks, cash, Visa MasterCard, American Express and Discover.
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What type of modifications will you do?

We can add extra doors, turbine vents or partitions when you purchase your storage container.
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What if I want shelving?

We can provide shelving in many different configurations to suit your storage needs. Shelves can be installed in the container high or low, wrap-around, or on just one side – whatever works for you.
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How secure are Big Blue Boxes?

All of our new and used storage containers come equipped with a steel lock box welded to the outside of the unit. The lock box conceals and protects your lock from being tampered with.
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How is my lock protected and how do I lock my Big Blue Box?

How far do you deliver?

For cargo container purchases, we will find the best container to meet your needs out of the closest available depot to you from throughout the United States. In addition to finding the closest container, we can arrange for ground or flatbed delivery and can also arrange to transport your purchased container from your location to anywhere you may need it in the world. For rentals we are able to deliver to virtually any destination in the world for moves originating in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, California or Arizona; please call to find out about additional service areas.
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Are the storage containers weatherproof?

Yes. We water-test all of our storage containers before they leave our delivery site to be sure they do not leak. The containers are completely enclosed and will keep wind and rain and snow out so your contents stay dry and secure. We also recommend you test your container as well.
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What if my container needs repair?

We will maintain the unit throughout the term of the rental period. If you need maintenance, simply give us a call and we will come out promptly. Regular maintenance repairs are free of charge.
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What color are the containers?

Our rental containers are painted blue or tan to match the natural surroundings. If you are purchasing the unit and require a specific color to match your building, please let us know — we will accommodate you.
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Are Big Blue Boxes Clean and Attractive? What color are the containers?

What cannot go in my container?

While our containers are great for holding household goods, there are some things we cannot allow you to pack in your container. Hazardous materials are not allowed. They include any hazardous, noxious, odorous, waste, toxic, explosive, illegal, stolen, poisonous, flammable, acidic, contaminated, unsanitary or dangerous material in the container. This includes, but is not limited to gasoline, oil, propane, paint, varnish, paint thinner, insect and rodent poisons, liquid bleach, toxic cleaning products, aerosol cans, fire arms or ammunition or waste. In addition, do not store perishable foods, food in glass jars, live plants, pets or matches. We do not recommend loading candles, tapes of photos if you are storing over the summer. We do not recommend storing flat-screen TV’s in our containers. If you have any reservations about particular items, it is best to contact the manufacturer.

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Can I access my Box while it is in storage?

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