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.

How to choose between different types of storage

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The demand for storage units is on the rise due to its practicality and safety. Storage facilities are a convenient option for all of those who are in need of some extra space for placing their household goods. Not only they are convenient, but they are also secure and can keep all of your belongings safe for as long as you need it. But, since there are so many different types of these facilities, you will need to do your homework before renting one and learn how to choose between different types of storage.

If you are a first-timer, choosing the right type of storage unit might be a challenge for you. But, worry not, we are here to help you determine what type of self storage in West Seattle will suit you the most! We are here to keep you away from making bad decisions and spending more money than you need. You only have to keep reading and follow the tips we have prepared for you.

Things to consider when choosing between different types of storage units

Whether you are looking for a Lynnwood self storage facility to place your belongings while you are in between a move or you simply need some extra space during the remodeling of your home, you shouldn’t rent the first storage you stumble upon. This isn’t a process that shouldn’t be rushed. Apart from many companies that offer storage solutions, there are also various types of these facilities which is exactly why you need to do your best to find a solution that suits you the most. And, in order to do that, there are some things that need to be taken into consideration during your search. Here are some of them.

  • Volume – Think about how many containers you may need to accommodate all of your items;
  • Length of time – Ask yourself whether you need to store your belongings for less or more than three months;
  • Location – If you plan to check on your storage unit often, consider getting a unit that is closer to your home;
  • Cost – Determine your budget before getting a storage facility and make sure to stick to it;
  • Temperature – Make an inventory list to see whether you will store some temperature-sensitive belongings;
  • Safety – Examine how secure is the facility you want to rent and whether there is any kind of surveillance;
  • Accessibility – How often are you going to need to get to your items?  Find a location that offers easy access.
Woman reading an article on how to choose between different types of storage
Define your needs and requirements before you start your search for storage facilities

The most common types of storage facilities

Factors we have listed above need to be taken into consideration because they can help you determine what your needs are. And trust us, even if you need to just store away winter clothes, you will still have to choose your storage unit wisely. Only that way you can be sure that you will be placing your precious belongings in a safe facility.

Now that we have covered the basics, let’s take a look at the most common types of storage facilities. We will write a bit more about them just to make the process of choosing between different types of storage as simple as 1-2-3.

Indoor vs Outdoor self storage

One of the most common dilemmas among people who want to store their items is whether they should choose indoor or outdoor facilities. If you too are struggling with this decision, you will have to learn more about how these two differ.

The most important difference between these two is where the doors are located. With indoor storage facilities, you have to enter the building first and then find your storage in a shared hallway. Since belongings are located inside the building, many find this option to be safer than storing items in an outdoor facility. On the other hand, outdoor storage facilities are a great option for those who want an accessible storage facility. If you choose an outdoor unit, you will be able to drive right up to it. You won’t have to carry your belongings inside and outside the building since you will be parked right in front of your storage. For many people, the best solution in this regard is Portabox as it offers the most convenience for loading & access while providing the best safety in a secured warehouse.

indoor storage units
Indoor facilities are safer than those that are outdoor but aren’t easy to access

Short-term vs Long-term self storage

In order to choose between different types of storage units, you will need to determine how long you want to store. If you are thinking about storing furniture for a month or two, then you should rent one of the short-term storage facilities. However, if you need to keep your belongings inside a storage unit for more than 3 months, then you should opt for a long-term facility. Thus, consider the length of time, and you will know which option will suit you the most. It is as simple as that.

So, which type of storage unit are you going to choose?

As you can see, you can choose between different types of storage with ease… You only have to follow our tips! And, once you determine what kind of storage unit you need, contact us. At PortaBox Storage, you can find various facilities of the finest quality. Even if you are not sure what type of storage unit you should get, we will gladly help out. Choose us and place your belongings in a safe and secure place.

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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