Read more: Digital Journal September 2024
Boxwell Case Study
This Boxwell case study highlights the transformative impact of relocatable self-storage containers on the storage industry. As the demand for flexible, cost-effective storage solutions grows, many storage facilities are turning to relocatable self-storage units to maximize property usage and boost profitability.
Boxwell containers, also known as relocatable units, are all-in-one kits containing a base, walls, roof, and doors. These units, which can be easily placed around buildings, along fences, and in easements, have become a popular choice for storage operators worldwide. Check out the latest Boxwell case study to learn more.
In fact, a new trend is emerging within the industry, with some storage operators opting to construct entire facilities using portable self-storage units. This innovative approach is reshaping the traditional storage model and driving new efficiencies in cost and development time. Portable self-storage units are becoming popular due to their fast and easy installation process.
Boxwell’s latest case study focuses on ABC Storage*, a fast-growing storage syndicate based in the Southeast United States. The study provides an in-depth look at their decision to build a facility in Athens, Georgia, using exclusively relocatable units.
Project Overview
The 4.3-acre site, located in a high-traffic area with excellent visibility and proximity to residential neighborhoods, was initially an overgrown lot. Through strategic planning and collaboration with city officials, ABC Storage transformed the space into a thriving storage facility. Upon establishing funding and approval, the storage location placed their order for 308 Boxwell relocatable units. A feasibility study suggested an ideal unit mix of 20-, 10-, and five-foot units. The 8’ x 20’ relocatable self-storage units were subdivided into 542 total rentable units.
Key Insights
The case study reveals several key insights:
- Cost Efficiency: By choosing Boxwell portable self-storage units, ABC Storage saved nearly 50% on construction costs compared to traditional single-story buildings. Additionally, the units came with warranties comparable to those of traditional structures, providing long-term confidence in their investment.
- Speed to Market: The use of Boxwell portable units allowed ABC Storage to accelerate its construction timeline, achieving market readiness four to six months faster than traditional methods. Over the course of six weeks, half a dozen laborers unpacked, installed, and placed all 850 Boxwell units and roll up doors. Each unit takes only 30 minutes to install.
- City Approval and Customization: ABC Storage successfully navigated local regulations by educating city officials and customizing the units to meet aesthetic and functional requirements. This included adding a stone facade to street-facing units, incorporating landscaping, and implementing a ground-anchoring system.
- Streamlined Development: Boxwell provided everything needed to simplify site preparation and installation. The portable units are functional on virtually any surface with no foundation needed. This makes site prep simple, straightforward, and cost-effective. The Boxwell units and doors were installed with precision.
Proven Results
Since opening, the Athens facility has seen impressive results, with 150 units rented within the first four months of operation, reaching 28% capacity. The success of this project has inspired ABC Storage to replicate the model in future developments. By 2025, their portfolio is expected to include multiple facilities featuring Boxwell’s relocatable self-storage units, totaling 2,500 rentable units.
We asked an ABC Storage team member what stood out about using Boxwell relocatable units for the facility. “Speed to market,” he says. “We were able to achieve somewhere in the range of four to six months of savings for our construction timelines versus a traditional product.”
They learned it is possible to build attractive, long-lasting storage using relocatable units. Once built, Boxwell relocatable storage units are steadfast, durable, and built to last. The wind rating stands at 120 mph and load capacity maxes out at 10,000 pounds. The roof is strong enough to hold six feet of snow, although that is of little concern to this Georgia team. What is of interest to them, though, is the weathertight, condensation-mitigating design. The roof will not leak, and a moisture-wicking desiccant spray is applied to the ceiling. These measures offer a welcomed peace of mind in a city that averages 50 inches of annual rainfall.
Portable self-storage units have proven to be a game-changer for both existing projects and ground-up builds. As more companies adopt this approach, the industry is witnessing a shift towards more flexible, efficient, and cost-effective storage solutions. If you are a prospective developer, we encourage you to conduct your own side-by-side comparison. You may find yourself bypassing the traditional build process altogether at your next storage facility.
*Company name has been changed.About Boxwell:
About Boxwell
Boxwell designs, manufactures, and installs innovative portable and relocatable self-storage units, roll-up doors, and hallway systems for businesses worldwide. Based in Boulder, Colorado, Boxwell offers custom storage solutions that maximize space and enhance operational efficiency. The company’s products are renowned for their quality, durability, and ease of assembly, making them the preferred choice for businesses across various sectors. For more information about Boxwell’s products and services, please visit www.boxwell.co or contact us at 303-317-5850.
