Transportation expenses make up a significant portion of supply chain costs. As a result, companies are constantly searching for ways to reduce truckload shipping fees, fuel surcharges, and labor costs associated with loading and unloading goods. These expenses can be especially high for businesses with fluctuating demand or complex logistics operations.

For many businesses, the solution lies in optimizing how and where goods are stored and moved. This is where storage trailer rentals come into play. One of the most effective yet often overlooked ways to tackle high transportation costs is by renting storage trailers on wheels. This simple solution can make a big difference to your bottom line.

What Are Storage Trailer Rentals?

Storage trailer rentals are portable trailers that can be parked at locations close to your warehouse or distribution center. These trailers are used for temporary storage but can also function as staging areas where goods are loaded and unloaded, without the need to move them immediately via truck.

These trailers give you the flexibility to quickly move inventory in and out of a facility without needing to schedule expensive shipping every time stock is needed or when a shipment is ready to leave. By having trailers on-site or nearby, you can significantly cut the logistical costs associated with moving items while maintaining operational efficiency.

Nearby Storage Trailer Rentals Can Save You Money

1. Reduced Trucking Costs
   When you rent a storage trailer and position it nearby, you can optimize long-haul shipping. Instead of scheduling a truck for every pick-up or delivery of inventory, you can load trailers in advance and have them ready to go. This minimizes downtime and reduces the number of shipments needed.
2. Flexibility in Inventory Management
   For businesses with fluctuating demand, nearby storage trailers provide a practical way to store excess inventory without needing to ship it to a distant warehouse. This gives you the flexibility to scale up or down quickly without incurring additional transportation costs. During seasonal peaks, for example, you can simply load the trailer with extra stock and keep it onsite or at a nearby location until you're ready to ship it.
3. Less Loading and Unloading Time
   One of the biggest costs associated with transportation is the labor required for loading and unloading goods. When you use storage trailers, you can load the trailer on your own schedule. And you avoid paying extra for rushed shipments or on-demand loading and unloading services.
4. Reduced Risk of Damage and Theft
   Long-distance transportation exposes your goods to the risk of damage or theft during transit. Keeping products in trailers that are stationed close to your distribution points makes it easier to ensure that your shipments are secure and safe from harm.
5. Shorter Shipping Times and Less Reliance on Freight Carriers
   With a storage trailer nearby, you no longer need to wait for freight carriers to schedule and pick up your goods. This results in faster turnaround times for orders, which is particularly important when you need to meet tight deadlines or fulfill urgent customer requests. You can also reduce the frequency with which you rely on third-party carriers, keeping your shipping cost down.
6. Eliminating Over-the-Road Costs
   Using local trailers means you can avoid the heavy costs associated with moving goods long distances. Depending on your specific needs, you may be able to store products directly at your loading dock, or in trailers positioned just outside your facility. This reduces the need for heavy trucking and over-the-road transport, directly translating into substantial cost savings.

Case in Point

WOW’s large inventory of over 400 local trailer units saved a global manufacturer thousands of dollars in fees for contingency inventory management during a line stoppage in three of its locations. The dry trailers held re-usable packaging, parts, finished goods, tools and machinery.

Not only were the WOW monthly rentals more affordable, but the alternative was to source storage trailers from rental companies located nearly six hours away or lease additional warehouse space. The average cost to deliver and return competitor trailers ranged from $800 - $1,000 plus highway mileage. Trailers are 9 to 12 times less expensive than fixed space.

WOW’s local maintenance team provided quick service to reduce trailer usage downtime and also provided a yard-management system for trailer inventory.

Warehouse managers are under constant pressure to find ways to cut costs while keeping operations efficient. Storage trailer rentals offer a practical and effective solution to reduce transportation expenses without compromising service. Whether it's by reducing trucking costs, cutting down on loading times, or improving inventory management, renting nearby trailers can lead to significant savings. With the right approach, this solution can be a game-changer in optimizing your logistics strategy and keeping your transportation expenses under control.