Boxville Case Study
Supplier Guide: 100% External Storage Containers
External storage containers have gained popularity for maximising land use and increasing profits. Traditionally used to fill gaps around buildings, these containers are now being used for entire storage facilities. Entrepreneurs are increasingly choosing external storage containers over traditional structures due to cost savings, flexibility, and efficiency. Today, we will review a facility built exclusively using Boxwell external storage containers.
The Project
ABC Storage*, a storage syndicate in the Southeast U.S., sought to develop a new facility using external storage containers. The chosen site, a 4.3-acre commercial lot with high traffic visibility and proximity to suburban neighborhoods—ideal for storage.
Phase 1: Planning
Cost Analysis
External storage containers presented a significant financial advantage. “Compared to a traditional single-story drive-up facility, we saved nearly 50%,” said an ABC Storage team member. Additionally, warranties matched those of traditional buildings, ensuring long-term confidence in the investment.
City Approval
Local laws vary, so the ABC team prioritised educating city officials. Boxwell provided detailed site plans and specifications, ensuring a smooth approval process. To meet city requirements, they integrated a stone facade, landscaping, and an anchoring system for the containers.
Ordering Containers
With approvals and funding secured, ABC Storage ordered 308 external storage containers, subdivided into 542 rentals. Containers and roll-up doors were both sourced from Boxwell, streamlining logistics. In three months, their order would be fabricated and transported.
Phase 2: Development
Site Preparation
External storage containers are all-in-one kits, each containing a base, walls, roof, and doors. They’re functional on virtually any surface with no foundation needed. This makes site prep simple, straightforward, and cost effective. However, ABC Storage prioritised aesthetics and cleared all debris, graded the land, and added a gravel base for drainage. With the addition of fences, curbs, and other perimeter work, the site prep was largely complete.
Container Delivery & Installation
ABC Storage utilised Boxwell’s turnkey delivery and install service. Containers arrived flat-packed, allowing for efficient transport. 26 ocean containers were unloaded and within six weeks, a small crew assembled and installed all 850 containers & doors, averaging 30 minutes per container. Once built, external storage containers are steadfast, durable, and built to last. The wind rating stands at 120 mph and load capacity at 10,000 pounds.
Completion & Results
Within six months, the facility was operational. ABC Storage’s team highlighted “speed to market” as a key advantage, estimating savings of 4-6 months compared to traditional builds. A robust digital marketing strategy and strong roadside visibility drove tenant interest, resulting in 150 containers rented (28% capacity) within four months of opening.
This project validated external storage containers as a viable, cost-effective alternative to traditional storage. Encouraged by success, ABC Storage expanded its portfolio, with plans to operate multiple external-only facilities in 2025, totaling 2,500 containers.
Conclusion
External storage containers are transforming the industry, offering affordability, speed, and flexibility. As developers continue to embrace this model, external containers are becoming a mainstream choice for both infill projects and full-scale storage developments.
*Company name has been changed.
