BigSteelBox Customer FAQ
Check out some of our frequently asked questions below.
What size moving container will I need?
There are a lot of variables, but in most cases you can move the contents (excluding appliances) of a 2 to 3 bedroom home in one 20’ BigSteelBox. Homes with more than 3 bedrooms will usually require an additional 10’ or 20’ container. Learn more about what size BigSteelBox you will need.
What makes BigSteelBox different from other competitors?
At BigSteelBox, we focus on the quality of the product, our responsiveness and reliability. For example, BigSteelBoxes are ISO certified, meaning they’re ship worthy and stronger than many other types of mobile storage containers. Weather proofing is also an important consideration and all of our doors include heavy duty rubber gaskets on both sides (inside and out) of the doors for an extra tight seal. It’s also important to us that a BigSteelBox is clean and in good condition. Learn more about the Security Features of a BigSteelBox.
Customer service is the other thing that sets BigSteelBox apart from our competitors. We understand that our customers are real people with busy lives. By listening to them and understanding their needs we strive to deliver the right solution. Check out our Competitor Comparison for more information.
How secure are BigSteelBox storage containers?
BigSteelBox storage containers are weather and rodent-proof to protect your valuables from the elements. BigSteelBoxes are made of heavy 8-gauge steel, and have extra-strong cross members and corner posts which further deter thieves from breaking and entering. In addition, our new storage containers are fitted with our special Lock Box system that protects your padlock from bolt cutters. We also offer the puck lock system for used Boxes that do not have a lock box, which can be viewed at our stores.
Learn more about BigSteelBox security features.
Can I store my belongings year-round in a BigSteelBox?
Yes! A BigSteelBox is weather and rodent-proof so your things will be safe inside, year-round. A BigSteelBox is a shipping container, so it’s made entirely of steel and it won’t bend or shift under the weight of its contents, and it can withstand the harsh Canadian elements.
If you can’t keep your BigSteelBox at your location, our full service stores offer year-round storage as well.
Can I get shelving in my storage container?
Yes! Shelving is one of our most popular accessories. We can install shelving brackets on one, two or three sides of your BigSteelBox. Please note: Because we cannot anticipate the weight or size of what you’ll be storing on shelves, we leave it to you to provide the actual shelves, but most customers use 2″x10″ wood boards for their shelving. In addition, BigSteelBoxes stored at our yard cannot have shelving installed and shelving cannot be used in a BigSteelBox that will be moved.
Learn more about installing shelves in a BigSteelBox.
Can I get modifications made to my BigSteelBox?
If you choose to purchase a BigSteelBox, we can add spray foam insulation, heat and lighting, and doors and windows before we deliver it to you. We also have container offices available for rent and sale. Visit our Modifications section to learn more.
How long will the modifications to my container take?
Depending on the modification you’re looking for and your city it can fluctuate between 2-4 weeks. For a more accurate timeline, please call us at 1-800-373-1187 or request your quote online and we’ll be happy to help you.
What types of payment options do you accept?
We accept Visa, Mastercard, Visa Debit and Mastercard Debit.
If I rent a container part way through the month will I only pay half the monthly rental fee?
One of our core values is reducing the stress on our customers. To help avoid rushing to meet deadlines and timeframes, our containers are rented month to month, and your rental month begins the day you receive your BigSteelBox. Your quote will include the first month’s rent of your container. We do not pro-rate rental rates if you return your BigSteelBox before the end of the 1-month rental term.
What is your rental cancellation policy?
If your plans change and you no longer need to rent a moving or storage container, there is no charge to cancel your order as long as you cancel one business day before your delivery is scheduled. Just call us at 1-800-373-1187 as soon as possible to make this change.
How do I rent a storage unit?
First, give us a call at 1-800-373-1187 or request your quote online. If you request your quote online, you will receive a follow up call or email from a Storage Consultant, usually within 1 business day. To begin the rental process, you will need to provide us with a valid Visa or Mastercard, or Visa or Mastercard Debit, and you will need to fill out a rental agreement. Once this is done, we will schedule the delivery of your BigSteelBox for a time that works for you.
Can I order a moving or storage container online?
We’re hoping to give customers the ability to reserve and pay for their BigSteelBox online soon. Until then, just fill out our online quote form and a BigSteelBox storage consultant will contact you (usually within 1 business day) to finalize your order and arrange for delivery.
How do I buy a shipping container?
BigSteelBox sells new and used shipping containers. You can pay by Visa or Mastercard or by certified cheque. Our availability of shipping containers for sale varies based on location, so contact the BigSteelBox store nearest you to find out what we have available for sale. You can call and order by phone, or you can come down to your nearest BigSteelBox store to pick out your container and make arrangements for delivery.
Do you offer rent to own, or lease options for containers?
We do not offer rent to own or lease options directly at this time. There are, however, third parties that offer these services. If you’re wondering what the best option for you would be, please give us a call at 1-800-373-1187 and we’ll be happy to help.
How soon can my storage unit be delivered?
Delivery time depends on a variety of factors which include our availability of storage containers and delivery vehicles, the distance from our store to the delivery location, the number of storage containers you need, and the kind of accessories you may require. Typically, it takes 2-3 business days from the time you order your BigSteelBox to the time it’s delivered, however, in cases where delivery is required sooner, we’ll do our very best to accommodate urgent requests.
Do I have to be present for the delivery of my storage unit?
At the time of booking the delivery of your BigSteelBox, your Storage Consultant will ask you a number of questions to confirm where you want your container to be placed on your property, the direction you want the doors facing, etc. So, while you’re welcome to be present for your delivery, unless there are any possible obstacles or special instructions that need to be relayed to the Driver on the day of delivery, there is no need for you to be present.
How do I arrange for delivery?
When you’re ready to have your BigSteelBox delivered, please contact your Storage Consultant directly to set up a time that works for you. We’ll ask you questions about where you want your container to be placed on your property, what door direction you prefer, if the area is paved or not, if there are overhead wires or shrubbery, and any other pertinent information.
Typically, it takes 2-3 business days from the time you first order your BigSteelBox to the time it’s delivered. We’ll do our best to accommodate urgent delivery requests of empty or loaded container, but when requesting re-delivery of your loaded BigSteelBox, please give us 3-4 business days notice prior to the date you need delivery.
How will you deliver my storage container?
Most BigSteelBox stores have delivery trucks onsite, ready to transport your storage container. We’ll need at least 70 feet of space in a direct line to place a 20′ container on your property. This includes the length of the Box, the length of the deck that extends backwards and the length of the truck. Learn more about how we deliver a BigSteelBox.
What if I don’t have room at my location for a BigSteelBox to be delivered?
No problem. Our delivery trucks need at least 70 feet of space in a direct line to place a 20′ container on your property, or 60 feet in a direct line to place a 10’ container. But, we realize that not all our customers can accommodate that.
If your property doesn’t have room for a BigSteelBox to be delivered, we can still help meet your storage needs. At most of our locations, you can bring your things to your BigSteelBox store to load the container. Just give your store at least 1 full business day (24 hours) notice to arrange to have a new container brought to the loading area for you. You can then pack your container while at our store and we’ll keep it for you in our yard. If you need to access it again, just let your store know 1 full business day (24 hours) in advance of your arrival.
We’ll store your BigSteelBox for as long as you need us to, and if you ever move to a new home that has enough room to place a container, we’ll be happy to deliver it to you. Please note, we charge a small storage and handling fee to keep your container at a BigSteelBox yard, which our Storage Consultants will explain during the quoting process. (Note: access to loaded containers on our site is available at most locations – contact us for details).
Will it damage my driveway?
All of our BigSteelBoxes are delivered by experienced drivers and placed onto wood blocks so the BigSteelBox doesn’t actually make contact with your driveway at all. No contact means no damage!
Will my contents shift during transport?
While ultimately the packing of the BigSteelBox is up to you, when items are packed and tied down correctly, there should be no shifting of contents inside the BigSteelBox. Learn more about how we deliver and move your items.
How can my BigSteelBox be moved across Provinces?
A BigSteelBox can be transported from our locations to almost anywhere in Canada, including the Maritimes! Your loaded container will be moved from your current home to the closest BigSteelBox store, where it will be picked up by a long haul transport company. Once moved to your new city, it will be delivered to the nearest BigSteelBox store and from there, we can store your Box or deliver it to your new home.
Long distance move timeframes vary based on the route. When you request a quote for your long distance move your Storage Consultant will give you the options available to you. Most routes offer Standard, Expedited and Economy transport timelines and pricing for you to choose from.
Learn more about moving to a new province and how to compare long distance moving options and costs.
How do I find and contact my nearest BigSteelBox location?
Call us toll-free at 1-800-373-1187 to be automatically connected to the BigSteelBox location nearest you, or to an agent in our Contact Center. Alternatively, you can also visit our Locations page to find the direct phone number and map of your closest BigSteelBox store.
What if you don’t have a store in my area?
BigSteelBox prides itself on being able to deliver to remote areas that other moving companies won’t. To find out if we service your area please give us a call at 1-800-373-1187 or request your quote online and we’ll be happy to help.
How much notice do I need to give to access my BigSteelBox at a Store?
The minimum amount of notice we need is typically one full business day, however, we suggest doing it earlier if possible. It is best to request access as soon as you know you will need it as it is a first-come, first-served service. Sometimes there isn’t enough space left to meet all of our access requests. The sooner you request access the better! Give us a call at 1-800-373-1187 and we will get your access booked in right away.
Still have questions about our moving and storage services?
Contact us today by phone, or request a quote online, and one of our helpful BigSteelBox Storage Consultants will be happy to answer any questions you have about our products and services.