Founded in 1890, Hansen Bros. Moving & Storage the parent company of Portabox has successfully weathered many history-changing events including the Great Seattle Fire, WWI, the Spanish Flu of 1918, the Great Depression, WWII, the 2008 recession, and 9/11 among many other public crises. We are taking the current COVID-19 threat very seriously and will promptly adhere to any and all directives from local, state and federal government officials. Hansen Bros. and Portabox have been categorized as an essential industry business (moving & relocation) within the current mandate established by Washington State Governor Jay Inslee.

As essential services, we will maintain normal operations until such time as either company management determines we must close our offices or we are directed to do so by a governmental authority. We are taking extensive precautionary measures including the adoption of all CDC guidelines and the establishment of our own policies intended to minimize health risks for all customers, employees, contractors, vendors, and community stakeholders. We are proud to be able to support the needs of our customers during this crucial time but are prepared to quickly change course as required.

Stay safe together with Hansen Bros. and Portabox

The COVID-19 crisis is fluid and there are many uncertainties and factors outside of our control that may, with little or no advance notice, impact our delivery of moving & storage services. Please be aware the current crisis could potentially result in small inconveniences such as a delayed project start time or significant inconveniences such as the complete rescheduling of services.

Although there are many unknowns to be navigated, you can be certain that Hansen Bros. and Portabox will be timely and transparent in our communications regarding servicing your moving & storage needs, and our professional relocation consultants will work diligently to offer creative solutions in the event your project is impacted by the current health crisis.

Steps We're Taking:

  • Company-wide Implementation of all precautionary measures recommended by the Center for Disease Control (CDC).
  • Office staff and crews are being monitored daily for symptoms and/or known exposure by management and asked to go home, contact their healthcare provider, and self-quarantine as directed. Staff that experience symptoms and/or aware of exposure when not at work have been directed to stay home and notify their supervisor.
  • Office staff and crews are receiving daily briefings on precautionary measures and have been directed to follow them on and off the job.
  • Office staff and crews are being instructed to maintain appropriate “social distance” of 6 feet minimum between one another, customers, and all other people.
  • Office staff and crews are being provided with appropriate hand sanitizer and surface disinfecting supplies. They have been directed to disinfect truck cabs and moving equipment between each move to the best of their ability. These supplies will continue to be replenished as we are able, based on availability from retailers.
  • We are limiting visitation to our branch offices. If you wish to purchase moving boxes or supplies, please simply call in your order and we will happily deliver to your vehicle outside.

We are all in this together.  The team at Hansen Bros. and Portabox is proud to continue offering our services in accordance with the necessary precautions outlined above. We are here to make the process of storing belongings seamless & safe for you.

Creative tips for packing for storage on a budget

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Are you looking to stow away your belongings without breaking the bank? Packing for storage on a budget doesn’t have to be a difficult task. PortaBox Storage is here to help with practical and wallet-friendly tips that will make the process a breeze. Whether you’re downsizing, decluttering, or just need extra space, our easy-to-follow suggestions will assist you in optimizing every inch of your storage unit. From smart material choices to savvy packing strategies, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to pack efficiently, save money, and keep your cherished items safe until you need them again.

Do your best to declutter and prioritize

Embarking on the journey of decluttering and prioritizing your possessions can be liberating. Take the time to sift through your belongings, embracing the opportunity to free up space and unburden your surroundings. Consider parting ways with items that no longer serve a purpose in your life. You can do this through donation, selling, or discarding. This process not only streamlines your storage efforts but also breathes new life into your living space.

Man in a room filled with items
Before committing items to storage, decluttering can significantly reduce the volume and make the process more manageable.

When consciously choosing to keep only what truly matters—be it sentimentally or practically—you’ll create room for the things that resonate with you most. In a situation of this kind, you will benefit from relying on effective storage solutions. Self-storage allows cherished memories and essential items to coexist without clutter, promoting both mental clarity and an organized living environment. Your storage experience will thus become more focused, purposeful, and budget-friendly. And you will curate a collection of belongings that align with your present and future.

Use packing supplies that are inexpensive and of good quality

When it comes to packing for storage, resourcefulness is your greatest ally. Look beyond traditional packing materials and consider the potential of everyday items. Repurpose old newspapers, magazines, and clothing as reliable cushioning for fragile items, offering protection without the cost. Your well-loved linens and towels can double as soft wraps for delicate belongings.

Additionally, seek out free or low-cost cardboard boxes from local businesses or friends—these can prove invaluable for organizing your possessions. Also, remember that packing supplies Seattle offers are also at your disposal. If you harness the power of these inexpensive yet effective supplies, you’ll ensure your items are stored safely and securely while keeping your budget intact.

When packing for storage on a budget, organize storage space

Efficiently utilizing every inch of Seattle mini storage can be a game-changer when packing on a budget. Consider disassembling furniture to create more compact pieces that fit snugly within your storage unit. Fill gaps and empty spaces with smaller items, turning what might have been wasted space into functional storage.

This strategic approach not only helps you save money by potentially requiring a smaller storage unit but also ensures that you’re making the most of the available room. By stacking chairs, tables, and other items smartly, you’ll open up vertical space for additional storage options. Embrace the benefits of this space-maximizing strategy, and you’ll find your belongings organized and easily accessible without overspending.

A couple packing and labeling boxes
Properly labeling boxes and containers ensures you can locate items easily, saving time and frustration in the future.

Pack your items in an efficient and smart way

Packing efficiently stands as the cornerstone of a budget-friendly storage strategy. Here’s how to manage it:

  • Group Items: Grouping items of similar sizes and shapes not only conserves space when packing for storage on a budget but also facilitates easier unpacking.
  • Use Transparent Containers: Opt for clear plastic bins or bags for effortless identification of contents without the necessity to unpack.
  • Label Everything Clearly: Labeling your bins or bags to enhance organization makes retrieval of items more straightforward in the future.
  • Minimize Search Time: Streamlined packing reduces time spent searching and decreases the likelihood of item damage from unnecessary rummaging.

In embracing these strategies, you achieve a harmonious balance of convenience, space maximization, and potential cost savings.

Think about renting a small storage unit

Choosing a storage unit size that matches your needs is a savvy, budget-conscious move. Opting for a slightly smaller unit can result in significant savings as long as you apply efficient packing strategies. By skillfully arranging your belongings, disassembling furniture, and stacking items, you can make the most of the available space. Careful organization ensures you’re using every nook and cranny effectively.

This will reduce the necessity for a larger, more expensive unit. The approach not only saves you money but also reinforces your commitment to thoughtful and purposeful storage. Embrace the challenge of a smaller unit, and you’ll discover that with strategic packing, you can comfortably accommodate your possessions while keeping your budget in check.

Accessibility should be a priority

Crafting a plan for accessibility within your affordable mobile storage unit is a clever approach that enhances efficiency and ease. Arrange your unit with a strategic mindset: place items you don’t frequently need towards the back and keep those you often use in the front. This arrangement eliminates the need to sift through your belongings each time you require something.

Woman smiling is surrounded by boxes
Clearing out unnecessary items when packing for storage on a budget not only frees up space but also creates a sense of order.

To further streamline access, tape an inventory list within the unit, allowing you to navigate without disturbing the entire setup. A thoughtfully arranged layout minimizes frustration and maximizes your time, making retrieval simple and stress-free. So, if you organize your storage unit with accessibility in mind, you’ll find that the items you need are always within reach. This makes the entire storage experience both budget-friendly and highly convenient.

A sum of smart strategies equals cost-effective storage

Optimizing storage on a budget hinges on creativity and meticulous preparation. When decluttering thoughtfully, leveraging affordable materials, maximizing your packing space, and organizing your storage unit wisely, you don’t just conserve funds — you sculpt an efficient and user-friendly storage system.

Every action, from sourcing complimentary packing supplies to choosing a compact storage space and ensuring ease of access, paves the way for an economical yet effective storage journey. Armed with these savvy techniques, you can seamlessly complete packing for storage on a budget. Moving and storing belongings without straining your finances is possible!

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Locations Served

LYNNWOOD PORTABOX

2902B Lincoln Way Lynnwood, WA, 98087

SEATTLE PORTABOX

10750 Aurora Ave N Suite B Seattle, WA 98133

NEWCASTLE PORTABOX

6868 Coal Creek Pkwy SE Newcastle, WA 98059

BOISE PORTABOX

103 N Curtis Road Boise, ID, 83706