For years, Darlene had dreamed of living in San Diego. Every winter, she traveled from her Midwest home to visit her daughter, Sophia. The cold weather would leave her aching, but the sunny beaches of San Diego brought her back to life. As Sophia picked her up at Lindbergh Field, with the ocean shimmering in the distance, Darlene would often sigh, “If only I could live here.” Sophia would always respond, “Why not? Live your best life, Mom! Move here!”

After many seasons of longing, one winter, as they gazed at the ocean, something changed. “You know what?” Darlene said, surprising herself. “I’ll move to San Diego!”

The Countdown Begins

Fast forward a month: Darlene’s house is on the market, and she’s searching for a new home in San Diego. Excitement fills the air when she receives a call from her realtor—her house sold at full price, and the buyers want to move in ASAP! Suddenly, the move is happening faster than she ever imagined.

Sophia invites her mom to stay in her Little Italy apartment while she searches for her own place, but there’s a challenge: Darlene has accumulated years’ worth of belongings, and Sophia’s apartment can’t accommodate everything. That’s when Sophia remembers Big Box Storage.

Discovering Big Box Storage

Sophia recalls how her neighbor Jim had a Big Box delivered right to his parking spot. He had raved about how easy it was to use. With a renewed sense of hope, she goes online to check it out and gives Big Box Storage a call.

On the phone, Sophia explains her situation—her mom’s move, the need for temporary storage, and the budget constraints due to the costs of relocating. The customer service representative is understanding and offers a low-price guarantee: if Sophia finds a better rate elsewhere, they’ll match it and beat it by 10%. Plus, they offer free delivery and pickup for a minimum four-month storage commitment, which works perfectly for their timeline.

Big Box Storage stands out not just for its prices, but for its convenience. With both delivery and pickup services available, the movers can unload Darlene’s possessions directly into the Big Boxes, ensuring everything is secure during the transition.

A Smooth Transition

As the movers arrive with Darlene’s belongings, Sophia feels a sense of relief. The process is smooth, and soon the Big Boxes are filled with everything from cherished keepsakes to everyday necessities. With the positive reviews fresh in her mind, Sophia is confident her mom’s belongings will be safe.

In the following weeks, Darlene often finds herself needing items from the Big Box—a sunhat, her favorite beach chair, or a book she forgot to pack. She appreciates the flexible access hours Big Box Storage offers, allowing her to retrieve what she needs with just a two-hour notice. It’s comforting to know she can access her items whenever she wants without incurring extra fees.

Finding the Perfect Home

After several months of searching, Darlene finally finds a charming house in Cardiff by the Sea. The name alone feels like destiny. She excitedly tells Sophia, “I think the ocean is calling me!”

As her moving day approaches, Darlene schedules the delivery of her Big Box. On the day of the move, the driver arrives punctually, friendly, and ready to help. He places the Big Box close to her garage, but in the excitement, Darlene realizes she has misplaced the key! A moment of panic sets in, but the driver calmly produces bolt cutters, saving the day and allowing her to access her belongings without a hitch.

With the Big Box at her new home, Darlene spends the next couple of days unpacking. She had originally planned to keep the Big Box for a week, but her enthusiasm led her to finish in just two days. Big Box Storage is accommodating and fits her request for an earlier pickup into their schedule seamlessly.

A New Beginning

In the end, both Darlene and Sophia are thrilled with their decision to use Big Box Storage. The entire experience, from packing to moving in, was stress-free. Darlene appreciates having easy access to her things whenever she wants, and Sophia is relieved that her apartment remains clutter-free. Most importantly, Darlene can now begin her new life in San Diego, surrounded by her cherished belongings and the warmth of her daughter’s love.

As she settles into her new home, Darlene reflects on how far she’s come. With the sound of the ocean waves in the background, she knows she has finally found her place by the sea.

Being a student is challenging enough, but navigating college life during a pandemic presents a whole new set of obstacles. Many institutions, like NYU Tisch, have faced criticism for their handling of the situation, including a lack of refunds for canceled classes. Meanwhile, others have swiftly transitioned to online learning, utilizing platforms like Zoom and Skype to keep students engaged.

In the San Diego area, universities have largely moved to digital operations, hoping to minimize disruptions and return to normalcy as soon as possible. Students were sent home with little notice, leaving many out-of-state learners scrambling for solutions. Off-campus housing options were limited, making it difficult for some to find a place to stay.

We had the opportunity to speak with Adrian, a student at the University of San Diego (USD), who shared his firsthand experiences during this unprecedented time.

Interview with Adrian

Big Box Storage: Hi Adrian! Thank you for taking the time to chat with us about your experience as a student in San Diego during the pandemic.

Adrian: No problem! I have more time on my hands these days, so it’s great to help out.

Big Box Storage: Has adapting to life off-campus been a challenge for you?

Adrian: Not exactly. I joked with some friends that we’ve been through so much—terrorist attacks, school shootings, a recession, and even toxic dating apps. If anyone can handle a pandemic, it’s us!

Big Box Storage: I hope that includes social distancing and plenty of handwashing!

Adrian: Absolutely! I’m definitely not one of those springbreakers in Florida. I’m staying at my parents’ house in Point Loma, hanging out with my cat and my energetic cocker spaniel while doing TikTok videos and “studying.”

Big Box Storage: Were you living on campus before the pandemic?

Adrian: Yes, I was sharing a dorm with another girl. I loved the experience—dorm life, campus food, and making new friends. It felt great to have some independence.

Big Box Storage: When you were told to vacate the campus, what went through your mind? Did USD provide any storage options for students?

Adrian: Honestly, at first, it felt like everyone was overreacting. But getting the notice to leave made it all feel very real. I thought, “Wow, this might be more serious than I thought.”

Big Box Storage: Many of us shared that sentiment.

Adrian: Right? I called my dad and asked him to bring the truck to pick me up. He and my mom came to help load everything up, and now my stuff is piled in my old room.

Big Box Storage: Were your friends able to get their belongings?

Adrian: Not everyone. My roommate couldn’t take everything in time; she’s from Colorado and could only bring what she could carry on the plane. She had to leave behind her lamp, fridge, and printer. I don’t think she’ll be able to retrieve them since they said they would clear the rooms. I didn’t hear anything about storage services being offered by the school during that time.

Big Box Storage: It sounds like she became a refugee overnight.

Adrian: Yeah, but I talked to her recently, and she made it home safely, so that’s what really matters.

Big Box Storage: What has your experience been as a digital student?

Adrian: Honestly, I don’t like it as much as I thought I would. I need structure, and it’s tough to hold myself accountable. I miss my friends and, surprisingly, even my teachers!

Big Box Storage: How is USD handling the transition to online classes?

Adrian: Classes are okay. You log in, complete assignments, and take tests, just like in regular classes—except now it’s all online. The school is doing a good job managing the transition. They had to relocate 2,600 students on short notice, and the residential life and health teams worked hard to make it seamless. They’ve increased maintenance and cleaning staff hours to keep things sanitized, and they even have virtual mass on Sundays via Instagram to maintain a sense of community. Plus, I heard about the Toreros Together Emergency Fund, which helps provide resources for housing and food needs.

Big Box Storage: It’s great to hear there’s a support network in place for students.

Adrian: Absolutely! I’m proud to be a part of such a caring school.

Big Box Storage: Thank you for sharing your insights today, Adrian. It’s been enlightening to hear how students are coping with the pandemic in San Diego.

Adrian: No problem! Thanks for having me!

Big Box Storage: Supporting Students in Need

In response to the challenges faced by students, Big Box Storage has stepped up to offer support. Any student enrolled in a San Diego higher education institution who has been displaced from student housing due to COVID-19 will receive their first month of storage free, along with free initial delivery and pickup.

Big Box Storage provides portable storage units delivered right to your door. Each unit measures 8 feet deep, 5 feet wide, and 7 feet tall, typically holding about one room of household goods. We recommend ordering more units than you think you’ll need—you only pay for the Big Boxes you actually use. For example, if you have a two-bedroom house, ordering three Big Boxes allows you to pack efficiently and only pay for what you fill.

Once your items are loaded, we’ll pick up the Big Boxes and take them to our secure, centrally located warehouse. You can access your belongings seven days a week with just a two-hour notice during access hours, and there’s no charge for accessing your items.

Affordable Storage Solutions

No other portable storage company in San Diego offers better service than Big Box Storage. If you need affordable, reliable storage, call us today to set up your reservation.

Please share this information with any students in the San Diego area who may need emergency storage solutions!

Rancho Bernardo, located between Escondido and Poway, has a fascinating history as America’s first master-planned community. From its early days as stock-raising land to today’s family-friendly haven, this Southern California gem has undergone an incredible transformation. Let’s explore how storage needs have evolved and how Big Box Storage offers a modern solution for today’s residents.

Storage in the 1800s: Feed, Tools, and Survival

In the 1830s, Rancho Bernardo residents relied on barns and sheds to store livestock feed, tools, and equipment. Storage was essential for survival in the stock-raising economy, with ranchers starting their day before sunrise to access supplies for their herds. By the 1860s, during the Battle of San Pasqual, storage shifted to necessities like ammunition, rations, and gear for soldiers.

Today’s storage needs are less dramatic but just as important. Modern life presents challenges like finding space for a guest’s belongings or storing college essentials during summer break. Big Box Storage offers a revolutionary solution by delivering portable storage units directly to your doorstep.

From Ghost Town to Master-Planned Community

In the 1920s, Rancho Bernardo became a ghost town as settlers moved to Escondido. By 1961, the area was transformed into America’s first master-planned community, featuring schools, parks, hospitals, and other amenities. The Rancho Bernardo Inn, with its championship golf course, quickly became a central feature of this growing community.

Storage also evolved during this time. Traditional facilities required truck rentals, heavy lifting, and multiple trips. Big Box Storage simplifies the process by delivering portable storage units to your location, allowing you to load your items just once.

Modern Storage Solutions for Modern Lives

Convenience is a hallmark of modern living. From ordering food to managing appointments online, everything can be handled with ease. Storage should be no different. Big Box Storage provides portable storage units (8’x5’x7′) delivered directly to your home or business. Load the unit at your own pace and choose on-site storage or secure indoor storage at their central San Diego facility.

With 24/7 video monitoring, gated access, and no additional fees to access your belongings, Big Box Storage ensures your items are safe and accessible. Whether you need short-term storage during a move or long-term storage for business records, they’ve got you covered. Units can even be shipped out of state if needed.

Why Choose Big Box Storage?

Big Box Storage stands out for its convenience, security, and affordability. Their portable units eliminate the need for truck rentals or multiple trips to a facility. The secure indoor storage option offers peace of mind with 24-hour monitoring and easy access. Best of all, we guarantee the lowest price and will match and beat any competitor’s posted rates by at least 10 percent.

Call (619) 353-5995 today to speak with a friendly representative and reserve your Big Box. Save time and effort with Big Box Storage, the most convenient storage solution in Rancho Bernardo and beyond. Experience the perfect blend of history and modern convenience with a storage option designed for your lifestyle.

Sorry, students. Like most colleges and universities, San Diego State University does not offer free storage units for students over the summer break (or at any other point of the year). We (the staff here at Big Box Storage) have provided this response multiple times to inquisitive SDSU students who have contacted us regarding the matter over the years. For some reason (maybe a rumor?), many students felt as though it was possibly included as part of their tuition. In any event, SDSU storage units do not have to be a hassle or expensive!

So what’s an SDSU student to do with their household belongings over the summer months? Maybe they’re traveling abroad or just heading back to their hometown for the break and need some temporary, short-term, extra space. There are plenty of options to select from some more economical and convenient than others. 

In an ideal world, a nearby San Diego family member or friend would have some suitable space available in their garage. Even better would be a scenario in which they owned a truck large enough for the transport of your belongings to their garage. 

Of course, if we’re still in an ideal world, they would also be able to assist with the labor needed to load and then unload the truck. This perfect scenario aside, let’s take a look at some of the other storage unit options available to SDSU students.

Nearby SDSU Self-Storage Facilities

Within a radius of approximately three miles of the SDSU campus (5500 Campanile Dr, San Diego, CA 92182) and within the surrounding area zip codes 92115, 91942, 91941, 92120, and 92119 are the following self-storage facilities. 

Note that this isn’t intended to be a recommendation of any of the particular facilities, merely a listing of some of the storage unit companies within the nearby SDSU area.

• A-1 Storage: 4680 Alvarado Canyon Rd, San Diego, CA 92120 (approx. 2 miles from SDSU)
  • 8′ x 5′ unit for $109/month
• Mission Valley Self-Storage: 4437 Twain Ave, San Diego, CA 92120 (approx. 3 miles from SDSU)
  • 8′ x 5′ unit for $105/month
• Rocket Self Storage: 4920 70th St, San Diego, CA 92115 (approx. 2 miles from SDSU)
  • Call for pricing
• All-American Self Storage: 6225 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92115 (approx. 2 miles from SDSU)
  • 8′ x 5′ unit for $114/month

Aside from the above self-storage options, SDSU students would also be wise to consider the portable storage services of Big Box Storage of San Diego. The service is one in which the storage unit is dropped off at the student’s home, dorm, or apartment address in the SDSU area. 

Big Box Storage offers SDSU students a convenient and affordable storage solution with its portable storage services.

Convenient Storage Unit Delivery and Pickup:

A storage unit is delivered directly to your location, eliminating the need for truck rentals. You pack at your own pace, and Big Box Storage picks up the unit and transports it to their secure facility.

Secure and Accessible Storage:

Your packed storage unit is securely stored at Big Box Storage’s local facility, with seven-day access at no extra charge.

Storage Unit Dimensions:

Each Big Box measures 8 feet deep by 5 feet wide by 7 feet tall, suitable for storing the contents of up to one and a half rooms.

Storage Unit Weight Limit:

Each unit can hold up to 2,000 lbs., enough for furniture, books, clothing, and personal items.

Affordable Storage Rates:

Monthly rental is $79, with a low-price guarantee.

Exclusive Discounts for SDSU Students:

SDSU students get a $50 discount on the first month’s rent. A four-month minimum commitment waives the $99 delivery fee, saving $149 in total.

Storage Tips for SDSU Students

Regardless of whether it’s self-storage or portable storage, once you’ve decided on the best storage solution, consider these helpful tips specifically for college students seeking to rent a storage unit:

Packing Supplies – As you pack your storage unit, you might need supplies like boxes or bubble wrap. Big Box Storage offers these items for purchase. They can deliver them along with your storage unit.

Plan Ahead – Decide in advance what will be needed to continue using in your dorm or apartment on the final day/night before the loading of the storage unit. Maybe a mattress, certainly some clothes, some kitchenware, along with anything else you’ll be keeping with you.

Donate – While sorting household items for storage, set aside those no longer needed. Consider donating these items to a non-profit like Goodwill or, in San Diego, Father Joe’s. This helps declutter and supports a good cause.

Make an Inventory List – Knowing you might need to access your storage unit at some point, it’s a good idea to list everything you’re storing. This way, you can easily remember what’s in there. Plus, when it’s time to unload, you’ll have a much easier time figuring out where everything should go. Staying organized will save you a lot of hassle down the road.

Labels on Boxes – In addition to making an inventory list, it’s a good idea to label each box you put into the storage unit. This makes the unloading process easier since you can quickly identify what’s inside each box. Having clearly labeled boxes will save you time and effort when you need to find specific items later on.

Cleaning Your Stuff – It’s always best to first thoroughly clean all of the items to be placed into the storage unit. Doing so will make for a smooth transition when the time comes to unload the unit into your new home or address.

Labor – As mentioned, the most economical way to load and pack a storage unit is to do it yourself or with help from friends and family. However, if they aren’t available or the items are too heavy, you might need to hire a moving company. Many SDSU students start their storage rentals around summer break, typically in May. It’s important to choose a moving company early because spring and summer are busy times for these services.

Truck Rental – If you’re doing the labor yourself or with help, you might need to rent a truck to transport items to and from the storage facility. This isn’t necessary with portable storage companies like Big Box Storage, which deliver the unit to you. If you need a truck, consider the costs and reserve it in advance to avoid last-minute issues.

Maximizing Space – Load larger, heavier items into the storage unit first. Beds, sofas, tables, and nightstands should be among the first items placed inside. This creates a stable base and allows you to stack smaller items on top, maximizing your storage space efficiently.

Avoiding Mildew – Avoid placing any wet or damp items into your storage unit. Be especially cautious on rainy days, as even slight moisture can cause problems. Using plastic bags for items like clothing can attract moisture, mildew, and mold. Instead, use cardboard boxes whenever possible to keep your belongings dry and safe.

What Not to Store – Be careful when loading your storage unit, as every storage company, including those near SDSU, has restrictions on what can and cannot be stored. Typically, prohibited items include perishables, toxic materials, paint, flammables, guns, and ammunition. Always check the specific guidelines of your storage provider to avoid any issues.

So SDSU students, do your homework (no pun intended) when deciding upon a storage provider. As mentioned, on behalf of the entire staff at Big Box Storage, we’d certainly welcome the opportunity to assist with any storage needs that may come along for you.

Big Box Storage provides SDSU students with a practical and affordable storage solution. With direct delivery, secure facilities, competitive pricing, and student discounts, it’s an excellent choice for managing belongings during breaks or extended absences from campus. Give us a call at (619) 353-5995 to order your Big Box today!

Selling your home can feel like juggling a million tasks at once, but portable storage simplifies the process and keeps you organized. It’s a game-changer for homeowners with lots of household goods, helping at every stage, from preparing your home for sale to settling into your new one. Here’s why portable storage is a must-have when selling your home.

Streamline Renovations

Planning to tackle some home improvements before selling? Portable storage containers provide the perfect on-site solution for safely storing furniture, tools, and other household items during renovations. Whether you’re repainting walls or updating kitchen cabinets, you can keep work areas clear and your belongings protected. With portable storage, you can focus on upgrading your home without worrying about where to stash everything.

Declutter Efficiently

Prepping your home for sale means creating a tidy, inviting space, but that’s hard to do with years of accumulated belongings. Portable storage makes it easy to declutter while holding onto the items you want to keep.

Carefully pack items you don’t need immediately and store them in the container, creating a clean and spacious look in your home. This not only helps with staging but also gives you a head start on packing for your move. Keep the storage unit on-site as you work through your home, and when it’s time to show your house, move the container to a secure facility to keep everything safe until your big move.

Create a Staged Look

Homebuyers are more likely to fall in love with your home if they can picture themselves living there. Portable storage helps you achieve that by allowing you to store excess furniture and personal items, creating a minimalist and spacious feel.

Pack up personal photos, extra furniture, and any clutter, and leave behind a clean, neutral space. By doing this, you make it easier for buyers to focus on the home’s features rather than the stuff inside. A well-staged home often sells faster, and portable storage makes it simple to achieve that polished look.

Organize Storage Spaces

An overstuffed garage or cluttered basement can leave buyers unimpressed. Portable storage lets you tackle those tricky spaces like a pro. Sort through tools, toys, and seasonal decorations, keeping what you need and discarding the rest.

Once organized, move packed boxes to a portable storage container, leaving these areas neat. Not only does this help buyers see the full potential of your home’s storage space, but it also makes the moving day less stressful since much of the work is already done.

Simplify the Moving Process

One of the biggest perks of portable storage is how it streamlines your move. You can pack at your own pace, keep the container on-site, or have it sent to a secure storage facility while your house is on the market.

When it’s time to move, your packed container can be delivered directly to your new home. This is especially useful if there’s a gap between selling your old home and moving into the new one. No need for repeated truck rentals or multiple packing sessions — everything stays safely stored until it’s time to unpack and settle in.

The Bottom Line

Portable storage is more than just a convenience; it’s a smart tool for selling your home. It helps you declutter, stage your space, and prepare for moving day with ease. If you’re planning to sell, consider renting a portable storage container to make the process smoother, faster, and less stressful. You’ll thank yourself when moving day rolls around!

Ready to get started? Contact Big Box Storage today to learn more about portable storage solutions and how they can make selling your home a breeze. Don’t wait; call now (619) 353-5995 and let us help you take the stress out of your move!

When it comes to finding the right storage solution, rental rates are often top of mind. Whether you’re moving, decluttering, or just need extra space, understanding your options can save you time, money, and stress. Let’s explore the world of storage container rental rates and how Big Box Storage offers a simple, affordable portable storage solution in San Diego.

The Traditional Storage Approach

Traditional storage facilities are a popular option, offering a variety of unit sizes and amenities. However, the convenience comes with challenges. Units located on higher floors or farther from entrances are typically more affordable, but they can make loading and unloading a hassle.

In addition to monthly fees, consider hidden costs like truck rentals, fuel, and the time it takes to transport and organize your items. These extras can add up quickly.

Portable Storage: A Smarter Alternative

Enter portable storage, a modern solution that eliminates many of the inconveniences of traditional facilities. Instead of making trips to a storage building, the storage comes to you. With Big Box Storage, you can enjoy:

• Convenience: A portable storage unit is delivered to your home or business. Load it at your own pace, and Big Box handles the transport.
• Flexibility: Keep the unit on-site or store it in Big Box’s secure, centrally located indoor facility.

Why Big Box Storage is Different

Big Box Storage goes beyond offering portable units; they provide peace of mind. Their transparent pricing, unmatched convenience, and commitment to customer satisfaction set them apart. Highlights include:

• Guaranteed Low Rates: If you find a lower posted price, Big Box will match and beat it by 10%.
• No Hidden Fees: Unlike traditional facilities, there’s no need for truck rentals or additional moving costs.
• Secure Storage: Your items are stored in an indoor, climate-controlled facility with 24/7 monitoring.

Make Storage Simple with Big Box Storage

Finding the right storage solution doesn’t have to be complicated. Portable storage combines convenience and value, making it the ideal choice for homeowners, businesses, or anyone in need of extra space.

Ready to experience the benefits of portable storage? Contact Big Box Storage today to learn more about their affordable rates, unbeatable guarantees, and stress-free service. Save yourself the hassle—Big Box Storage brings the solution to you!