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.

Growing your startup: When to consider external storage solutions

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For startups, growth isn’t just an aspiration; it’s a marker of success and survival. As your startup evolves, so do its needs. The initial days of managing stock from your garage or cramming files into a tiny office corner can quickly transition into a logistical nightmare. Here’s the challenge: recognizing when to consider external storage solutions and the flexibility that external temporary storage Seattle can provide. So, let’s explore the telltale signs that it might be time for your startup to consider an expansive change.

Is your startup squeezed for space?

Firstly, acknowledging the problem is half the battle. Space, or the lack of it, directly impacts productivity and operational efficiency. Approximately 65% of startups struggle with managing their physical space within the first three years. This is evident when your breakout area starts doubling as a storage room or when employees complain about the clutter affecting their focus.

Moreover, there’s a financial angle too. Renting or purchasing additional office space, especially in prime urban locales, can dig deep into a young company’s pockets. Instead, using mobile storage containers Seattle provides to transfer excess inventory or seldom-used equipment to external storage can be a financially savvy move. This not only saves on rent but also ensures that your main office remains a space dedicated to productive work.

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Learn about signs showing when to consider external storage solutions timely

Why startups are turning to self-storage

With space issues cropping up, the logical step forward might seem to be moving to a bigger place. However, this can be both time-consuming and costly. For example, a startup dealing with seasonal goods might not need extra space throughout the year. Thus, having a flexible storage solution only for specific months can be a boon.

Additionally, these external storage spaces often come with top-tier security, ensuring your assets remain safe. A 2019 study revealed that 75% of startups prioritizing external storage found it more cost-effective than other alternatives. With options like door to door storage Seattle offers, even the process of transferring goods becomes hassle-free.

Sorting it out: Ideal candidates for external storage

Transitioning into storage might sound easy, but knowing what to store is crucial. Think of it this way: you wouldn’t want to pack away items you’ll need next week, right?

  • Seasonal surpluses: Every business has its peak season. For a clothing startup, winter stock in summer is just occupying space. Instead of crowding the office, store them away until the demand surges again.
  • The bulk buys: Got a great deal on office supplies that will last a year? Fantastic! But where to store them? Instead of letting them eat up valuable workspace, consider them for external storage.
  • The past in paper: Archived files, old documents, or tax records from years ago need safekeeping. But they don’t need to occupy your prime office real estate. These are prime candidates for a storage unit.
  • The occasional tools: Every startup has equipment that’s used infrequently. Maybe it’s a special printer or a promotional stall setup. Instead of letting them gather dust in the corner, storing them away until needed can free up substantial space.

When considering external storage solutions, it’s all about optimizing your resources. Making the most of your available space is essential, ensuring every square foot of your office is utilized effectively. Moreover, it’s about enhancing operations in a cost-effective manner so you don’t stretch your budget too thin.

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There are certain items that are better suited for storage than others

Tips for Picking the Right Storage Unit

Embarking on the journey of external storage selection can be intimidating. Nevertheless, when you consider external storage solutions, it’s essential to choose the right fit for your startup’s unique needs. With several options available, especially in thriving cities like Seattle, making an informed decision becomes imperative.

  • Location is paramount. On-demand storage in Seattle, for instance, has surged in popularity due to its convenience. Opting for a facility that’s easily accessible from your office can save you both time and transportation costs.
  • Storage unit size matters. There’s no point in paying for a massive unit if you’re only storing archived documents. On the flip side, underestimating your storage needs can lead to overcrowding. Therefore, it’s wise to assess your needs for inventory storage Seattle can provide and choose a size that offers a bit of wiggle room for future needs.
  • It’s not just about space and location; value for money is crucial. Cheaper doesn’t always mean better. Balancing cost with quality ensures your assets are stored securely without burning a hole in your pocket.

Potential pitfalls & their prevention

When addressing external storage, it’s not just about recognizing the benefits but also being aware of potential pitfalls. As startups expand, they often grapple with the nuances of what, when, and where to store. Consequently, when to consider external storage solutions becomes a frequent concern.

Security should always be a priority

An alarming 2019 report showcased that 15% of startups experienced theft or damage in non-secure storage facilities. Hence, it’s vital to opt for a facility that offers top-tier security measures, ensuring the safety of your assets.

The right storage environment

Furthermore, not everything thrives in a standard storage environment. Delicate items, electronics, or specific inventory might need temperature-controlled settings to avoid damage. Ensuring your chosen facility provides such options can save you from potential losses.

Accessibility is a crucial factor

There’s nothing more frustrating than needing an item urgently but finding the storage facility is closed. A 24/7 access option, especially for Ballard self-storage near Seattle, can be a game-changer for startups that operate closeby and outside the traditional 9-5 window.

Picture of a team that is making plans on when to consider external storage solutions
When opting for external storage solutions, it’s essential to integrate them effectively.

Incorporating storage into your business flow

Transitioning to using external storage doesn’t end with just moving items. The integration of storage into your business operations ensures smooth functionality. Proper inventory management systems can streamline the process of tracking what’s in storage, what’s in the office, and when re-stocking is required. By 2021, 73% of businesses with external storage adopted some form of inventory management software, showcasing its growing importance.

Scheduled visits to the storage facility can also be beneficial. This not only aids in keeping a check on your stored items but also helps in ensuring everything is in order. For startups, especially those relying on quick turnarounds, this can significantly boost efficiency.

Managing a startup’s growth

Among many key decisions, understanding when to consider external storage solutions is vital. It’s not just about freeing up space; it’s about optimizing resources, safeguarding assets, and ensuring operational efficiency by improving focus. If you recognize the signs early on, make informed decisions on storage solutions, and integrate them seamlessly into business operations, you can set your startups up for a future of sustainable growth and success.

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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