storage container rental for churches used for seasonal décor

Storage Container Rental for Churches: A Simple Way to Create Space and Support Growing Ministry

When a church or nonprofit organization grows, space gets tight fast. Classrooms fill up, ministries multiply, and storage closets start overflowing with supplies, décor, equipment, and resources your team relies on every week. But building new storage takes time, money, and permits, resources most ministries don’t have. That’s why so many church leaders are turning to a storage container rental for churches as a simple, affordable, and flexible way to stay organized and support growing ministry needs. With years of experience serving churches and nonprofits across the West Coast, Get Simple Box helps ministries create space quickly, steward budgets wisely, and keep their campuses uncluttered so they can stay focused on what matters: people and discipleship.

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Storage Container Rental for Churches: A Smart Stewardship Solution for Growing Ministries

When a church grows, space becomes one of its most valuable necessities. Classrooms fill up with kids, ministry teams gather more supplies, and seasonal events seem to multiply overnight. Before long, leaders start opening closets and storage rooms only to find the same frustrating reality:

“Where are we going to put all of this?”

Most churches want to stay organized, support growing ministry, and steward their space well, but new construction isn’t always realistic. Many campuses simply don’t have the land or flexibility to build or add on. And even when building is possible, it can take months of planning, expensive permits, and budget dollars that are already stretched thin. Ministries need a solution now, not next year.

That’s why more and more churches are choosing a storage container rental for churches as a simple, affordable, flexible way to create space without adding stress. A container offers the breathing room ministries need, right when they need it.

At Get Simple Box, we’ve had the privilege of serving hundreds of churches, nonprofits, and faith-based organizations across the West Coast. We understand the unique rhythm of ministry, the volunteer-driven schedules, the multi-purpose rooms, the seasonal surges, and the desire to use every dollar wisely. Our goal is to help churches and nonprofits stay focused on what matters most: people, discipleship, and meaningful ministry – not managing clutter.

This guide will walk you through how churches actually use storage containers, why they work so well, which sizes ministries prefer, and how to avoid the common mistakes we see during church building projects or campus transitions. You’ll also see real stories from ministry leaders who’ve used containers to stay organized, reduce stress, and create space for growth.

Churches operate differently than traditional businesses, multiple ministries sharing the same space, seasonal events, and volunteer-driven teams all shape very different storage needs. They rely on:

  • Volunteers
  • Part-time staff
  • Multi-use rooms
  • Tight budgets
  • Seasonal ministries
  • Week-to-week flexibility
  • Creative problem solving

On any given week, a church building may host Sunday services, mid-week kids’ classes, youth events, community groups, recovery ministries, and holiday outreach. Each one requires its own supplies, curriculum, décor, equipment, and furniture, all of which need a safe, accessible, secure place to stay organized.

A portable storage container solves these challenges because it:

  • Provides instant extra space
  • Costs far less than building new storage
  • Keeps equipment clean, dry, and secure
  • Organizes ministry supplies in one central place
  • Can be placed anywhere on campus
  • Works for short-term or long-term needs
  • Is easy for volunteers to access
  • Eliminates the need for construction or permits

As Ross Black, CEO of Get Simple Box, shared:

“A lot of churches want their buildings to stay functional and uncluttered. A container is a great way to extend the use of your church building, but it can also be a sign that you’re growing and running out of space.”

Because Get Simple Box handles everything in-house, container quality, customer support, delivery, and pick-up, renting a container is one of the simplest, least stressful ways for a church to expand its storage capacity and stay focused on ministry.

Top Ways Churches Use Storage Container Rentals

After years of serving churches across the West Coast and beyond, we’ve seen ministries use container rentals, Conex box rentals, and portable storage units in some incredibly practical (and surprisingly creative) ways. Here are the most common ways churches put their containers to work.

Seasonal & Holiday Décor Storage

Seasonal décor is one of the biggest space challenges for churches. Things like Christmas trees, nativity sets, Easter décor, faux greenery, stage props, and signage only come out a few times each year, but they take up a massive amount of room the other eleven months.

Most church buildings weren’t designed to store bulky items long-term. A shipping container rental gives churches a secure, weather-resistant space where everything can be organized once and accessed easily when it’s time to decorate again.

As Ross often says, “Many churches have a basic, functional building, but they want to decorate for different seasons. Containers are super helpful for that.” A dedicated décor container keeps classrooms clear, hallways open, and volunteers much happier.

Vacation Bible School (VBS), Kids Ministry & Sunday School Supplies
VBS is one week of high-energy ministry that requires a year’s worth of preparation, and an unbelievable amount of supplies. Leaders tell us the same thing every summer: “We have great VBS materials… we only use them one week per year… and we have no idea where to put everything.”

And it’s not just VBS. Sunday School supplies, kids ministry materials, and Bible curriculum (especially for churches that also operate schools) take up more space every single year. These resources are valuable, reusable, and essential, but they quickly overwhelm classrooms and closets when there’s nowhere else to put them.

A container is the perfect long-term solution. VBS and curriculum materials last for years, but storing them indoors clutters classrooms and drains volunteer time. Many churches create a designated “VBS box” or “Curriculum Box” by adding shelves and bins so everything is organized and ready to go the moment summer arrives.

Ross puts it simply:  “Everything for VBS goes back into the container. You don’t need it for a whole year, but the supplies still have many years of use.”

Youth Ministry Gear & Games
Youth pastors collect some of the most unique items on any campus, gaga ball pits, inflatables, Nerf gear, portable stages, basketball hoops, camp supplies, and endless stacks of balls and games. These items are essential for ministry, but they definitely don’t belong filling up the sanctuary or office hallways.

A Conex box rental gives youth ministry a dedicated space to keep everything organized, accessible, and out of the way. A few shelves and labeled bins go a long way toward creating a youth pastor’s dream storage setup.

Seasonal & Outreach Ministry Events

Churches don’t just meet on Sundays, they show up for their communities all year long. And every major event comes with its own mountain of supplies. Fall Festivals, Easter egg hunts, Church in the Park, Trunk-or-Treats, community barbecues, Christmas outreach, volunteer training days… they’re powerful ministry moments, but they require a lot of equipment.

Tents, sound systems, signage, craft supplies, décor, lawn games, portable lights, folding tables, and outdoor gear can easily overwhelm classrooms, offices, and already-limited storage closets.

A dedicated storage container solves the problem instantly:

  • Everything has a home
  • Team members know exactly where to find event supplies
  • Setup and teardown run faster
  • Volunteers don’t burn time searching for equipment
  • Seasonal items stay protected and ready for next year

For many churches, a single 20ft or 40ft container becomes the “Events Box”, a central place to store everything needed for outreach or large gatherings. Some ministries even organize the container seasonally, so teams can pull out event supplies at a moment’s notice.

When space is limited and ministries are juggling multiple events, a container becomes one of the easiest ways to stay organized and focus on people, not clutter.

Building Projects, Renovations & Remodels

During construction or renovations, churches often need temporary storage for furniture, sound equipment, classrooms, offices, and tech gear. Construction creates dust and chaos, and churches need a clean, secure place to store things while work is underway.

That’s where a portable storage container shines. It can be placed right where it’s needed, behind the church, next to a classroom wing, or near the contractor’s workspace. And because churches only rent the container for the months it’s needed, it’s far more affordable than leasing indoor storage.

Landscaping & Groundskeeping Equipment

Many church campuses, and the nonprofits that share space with them, include lawns, fields, playgrounds, memorial gardens, courtyards, and parking areas. Grounds teams and volunteer crews need access to lawn mowers, trimmers, leaf blowers, fertilizers, tools, and supplies, but storing them indoors isn’t practical or safe.

With break-ins and vandalism increasing in recent years, secure outdoor storage is more important than ever for both churches and community nonprofits. As Ross advises, “Landscaping and cleaning stuff should always be in a separate space. Moisture is huge—clean the mower and follow our storing tips to avoid moisture problems.”

A Conex box keeps equipment protected, volunteers equipped, and shared campuses running smoothly, whether it’s a church maintaining its grounds or a nonprofit caring for the community spaces they serve.

 

Camps, Retreats & Outdoor Ministries

Whether it’s youth camps, men’s and women’s retreats, sports camps, worship nights, or community events, churches often need space to store items like tents, grills, games, craft supplies, portable stages, and sound equipment. These items are used only a few times a year but take up a lot of room.

A storage container keeps everything clean, organized, and ready for the next event, without filling up classrooms or office areas.

Midweek Ministries, Life Groups & Community Programs

Weekly ministries often have their own supplies, curriculum, craft bins, snacks, signage, tables, décor, hospitality items, and more. Instead of filling up every classroom, many churches use a container as a shared hub for all their midweek programs.

This is perfect for recovery groups, MOPS, ESL classes,youth groups,  homeschool co-ops, after-school tutoring, and outreach programs. Everything stays labeled, accessible, and out of the way.

Mobile Classroom, Library, or Ministry Space

Some of the most innovative churches use containers not just for storage, but as usable ministry space. With a little creativity, a container can become a mobile classroom, prayer room, counseling space, library, clothing closet, or food pantry.

Churches often add shelves, lighting, insulation, or interior finishing to create a functional, ministry-ready environment, without the cost of a new building.

What Size of Conex Box Is Best for Churches?

Every church campus is different, and so are the storage needs that come with growing ministries. Over the years, we’ve found that most churches choose one of two container sizes depending on how they plan to use it. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the right container size that fits your ministry best.

20-Foot Container: The Most Popular Choice

Dimensions:

  • Exterior: 20’ L × 8’ W × 8’6” H
  • Interior: 19’5” L × 7’8” W × 7’10” H
  • Door Opening: 7’7” W × 7’4” H
  • Weight: ~4,900 lbs.

This size is the go-to option for most churches and nonprofits because it fits easily on almost any campus, often using no more than a single parking spot, and offers plenty of room without dominating the property. It’s especially helpful for storing items used throughout the year such as:

  • Seasonal and holiday décor
  • VBS supplies and curriculum
  • Youth ministry games and equipment
  • Landscaping and groundskeeping tools

Churches love the 20 ft shipping container because it’s simple to place, easy for volunteers to access, and large enough to meaningfully reduce clutter.

40-Foot Container: Best for Larger Churches or Multi-Ministry Storage

Dimensions:

  • Exterior: 40’ L × 8’ W × 8’6” H
  • Interior: 39’5” L × 7’8” W × 7’10” H
  • Door Opening: 7’7” W × 7’4” H
  • Weight: ~8,200 lbs.

A 40 ft storage container offers double the space and is ideal for churches with multiple ministries sharing supplies or those navigating construction and renovation projects. It’s the preferred option for:

  • Camp, retreat, and outdoor ministry equipment
  • Large or bulky items
  • Construction, remodel, and staging storage
  • Multi-department storage needs

Larger campuses especially appreciate how much room a 40’ unit provides, allowing ministries to consolidate supplies, free up classrooms, and stay organized throughout the year.

Rent-to-Own Options for Long-Term Stewardship

Some churches prefer a long-term or permanent storage solution without the upfront cost of purchasing. Rent-to-own options make that possible and budget-friendly.

Available options include rent-to-own storage containers that help churches and nonprofits manage tight budgets through affordable monthly payments, and a buyout program that makes it simple to transition into full ownership whenever it’s the right time

This allows churches to keep payments low while investing in a permanent storage solution that will serve their ministry for years to come.

Pro Tip for Church Leaders: If your church is tight on space, or if volunteers will be accessing the container regularly, choose the 20-foot container. It’s easier to place on campus, simpler to organize, and more convenient for quick weekly access. Save the 40-footer for long-term, high-volume, or construction-related storage.

 

Portable storage container transformed into a donation station for clothing, shoes, and community outreach at a church

Why Churches Choose Get Simple Box

There are plenty of companies that offer container rentals, portable storage units, or storage pods, but churches consistently choose Get Simple Box for a reason: we understand ministry, and we work hard to make your experience simple, clear, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we’ve learned that church leaders value honesty, simplicity, and people who treat their campus with respect. Those are the same things we prioritize.

Here’s what sets Get Simple Box apart.

  • Transparency You Can Trust. Churches deserve complete clarity, no surprises, no mystery equipment, no confusing fees. When you rent from Get Simple Box, you know exactly what you’re getting every step of the way. You receive:
    • Photos of the exact container you’ll receive
    • Honest, upfront pricing
    • No hidden delivery fees
    • No random substitute containers
    • No upselling or last-minute add-ons

Church administrators often tell us that transparency is one of their favorite things about working with Simple Box. It helps them steward their resources well and confidently recommend us to their leadership team.

  • Simplicity That Supports Your Ministry Work. Church staff and volunteers juggle an enormous amount, weekend services, midweek programs, special events, communication, budgeting, and facilities. Renting a storage container shouldn’t add to that load. That’s why we built the entire Get Simple Box process around simplicity. You can expect:
  • A quick, straightforward ordering process
  • Clear communication from real humans
  • Friendly, in-house customer support
  • No automated phone mazes
  • No pushy sales tactics
  • Straightforward rental terms you can explain to your team

Many churches tell us the same thing: “That was the easiest part of our whole project.”

Our goal is to make storage so simple that it frees up your time for ministry, not management.

  • Delivery by Our Own Trained, Respectful Drivers. This is one of the biggest differences between Simple Box and national rental companies. We never outsource deliveries to third-party haulers. Every container is delivered by a driver who is:
  • Local
  • Professional
  • Highly trained
  • Courteous
  • Experienced with church campuses

We know how important your space is, kids are playing, people are gathering, vehicles are moving, and volunteers are serving. You can count on our drivers to show up on time, communicate clearly, drive safely, and treat your campus with respect.

Our Mission: Serving Churches with Purpose

Get Simple Box exists for more than just business. We’re driven by a desire to make a real difference.

As our CEO, Ross Black, puts it:

“Our core value is to make a difference. The thing we are most passionate about is using our time, talent, and treasure to care for the needs of orphans and widows.”

When your church partners with Simple Box, you’re not just renting a container, you’re supporting a company that shares your heart for service, generosity, and caring for people in need.

For many churches, this alignment of mission is one of the biggest reasons they return to Simple Box year after year.

 

Some churches get creative and even display nativity scenes inside containers as part of their Christmas celebrations or outreach events

Why Renting a Shipping Container Is Better Than Building More Space

When storage starts running low, many churches jump to the same idea: “Maybe we should build a bigger storage shed.”

But construction, no matter how small, comes with a long list of challenges that can drain time, money, and staff bandwidth. New buildings typically require:

  • Permits
  • Contractors
  • Inspections
  • Architectural drawings
  • Capital campaign dollars
  • Weeks or months of lead time
  • Ongoing maintenance and insurance

And all of those things take focus away from what your church is really about: people, ministry, and discipleship.

Ross puts it simply:

“A church has a mandate to be good stewards. You don’t want to build a bigger building just because you need room for rakes and shovels.”

A storage container rental solves the problem without creating new ones.

Why Churches Prefer Renting Over Building

A container rental:

  • Solves the space problem immediately — no waiting months for permits or construction
  • Costs a fraction of new construction — smart, budget-friendly stewardship
  • Requires no permits — just choose a spot, and we’ll handle the delivery
  • Is weatherproof and secure — built to protect your ministry’s equipment
  • Can be temporary or permanent — adjust as your ministry grows
  • Doesn’t tie up staff or volunteers — we deliver, you load, and ministry continues
  • Avoids long-term maintenance — no roofs to repair or buildings to insure

For many churches, renting a container from Get Simple Box becomes the simplest, most flexible way to create space without getting stuck in a building project or draining the budget.

It’s a solution that works right now, and keeps working as your ministry grows.

Common Mistakes Churches Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Even though storage containers are incredibly simple to use, churches often run into a few avoidable issues, especially during their first rental. The good news is that with a little planning, you can sidestep the most common mistakes and make your container work even better for your ministry.

  • Mixing outdoor equipment with indoor ministry supplies is risky.
    It may seem convenient to store everything in one place, but lawn mowers, fuel, cleaning chemicals, and landscaping tools can release moisture, odors, or fumes that damage curriculum, paper goods, décor, and VBS crafts. Keeping outdoor equipment in its own dedicated container protects your ministry materials and helps everything last longer.
  • Storing equipment without cleaning it first causes damage.
    Dirt, debris, and moisture trapped under mower decks or inside trimmers can lead to rust and corrosion. A few minutes of cleaning before storage can extend the life of expensive equipment and help prevent unpleasant smells or pests later on.
  • Underestimating how much space is needed is common.
    Containers fill up faster than people expect, especially when multiple ministries share the same storage space. That’s why we always walk churches through how they plan to use the container before delivery, helping them choose the right size the first time so they aren’t stuck scrambling for more room halfway through a project.
  • Timing during construction or remodels is crucial.
    Contractors typically want containers onsite early for staging, equipment, and temporary storage, but churches sometimes wait until the project is already underway. Ordering ahead ensures your team and your contractors have what they need from day one, keeping the project moving smoothly.
  • Organizing the inside of the container makes a huge difference.
    A container can quickly become overwhelming if everything is stacked floor-to-ceiling. Simple shelving, labeled bins, and a clear layout make a massive difference, not just in accessibility, but in volunteer efficiency. When everything has a place, ministry flows more smoothly.

Pro Tip for Ministry Teams: Take 30 minutes before your first load-in to map out zones inside the container, kids’ ministry, décor, youth gear, grounds, events, etc.  A little planning upfront saves hours of digging, searching, and reorganizing later on.

Frequently Asked Questions About Storage Container Rental for Churches

Every church has its own unique rhythms, campus layout, and ministry needs, so it’s natural for leaders to have questions before choosing a storage solution. Over the years, we’ve helped hundreds of churches navigate everything from seasonal storage to full-campus renovations, and we’ve heard many of the same questions along the way. Whether you’re a pastor, facilities director, administrator, or volunteer helping organize supplies, these FAQs will give you clarity and confidence as you explore your options.

Here are the most common questions churches ask, and what you should know before renting a container.

  1. How much does a storage container rental for churches cost?
    Pricing depends on your location, whether you choose a 20-foot or 40-foot container, and how long you need it. Most churches discover that renting a container is far more affordable than building new storage or leasing an off-site unit. Get Simple Box provides clear, upfront pricing and photos of the exact container you’ll receive, no surprises, no hidden fees, and no mystery equipment.
  2. What size storage container do most churches need?
    Most ministries choose a 20-foot container for everyday needs such as seasonal décor, VBS materials, and youth ministry supplies. This size fits easily on almost any campus, often using no more than a single parking spot, while still providing plenty of room. Larger churches, or those storing landscaping equipment, construction materials, or multi-ministry supplies, often prefer a 40-foot container for the extra space. Our team is happy to help you determine the right size based on your campus, layout, and ministry goals.
  3. Do churches need permits for a storage container on their property?
    In most cases, no permits are required because containers sit at ground level and are considered temporary. However, some municipalities, especially larger cities, may have guidelines for long-term placement or specific zones. Our team is familiar with these situations and can walk you through any local requirements before scheduling your delivery.
  4. Can a storage container be placed anywhere on a church campus?
    Yes, containers can be placed on most parking lots, gravel pads, staging areas, open fields, and construction zones. Because Get Simple Box uses its own trained, professional drivers, placement is precise and safe. If your campus has tight turns, curbs, or limited space, we’ll help you identify the best location for smooth access and maximum convenience.
  5. What can churches store in a portable storage container?
    Churches use containers for almost every ministry need imaginable, seasonal décor, VBS supplies, youth group gear, construction materials, landscaping tools, retreat equipment, outreach items, and more. As long as the items are safe, clean, and allowed under your church’s policies, they can be stored securely and protected from weather, moisture, and theft.

Why Churches Keep Coming Back to Simple Box

After serving hundreds of churches across the West Coast, we hear the same thing again and again: partnering with Get Simple Box simply feels different. Churches appreciate that we’re local, not a national chain. They trust that our team is professional, reliable, and ministry-minded. And they value that our containers are secure, weatherproof, and built to last, helping their teams stay organized without overspending.

Leaders also tell us they appreciate our moving container options, our friendly communication, and the care our drivers show when delivering to a church campus. Whether we’re placing a container near a sanctuary, behind a youth building, or on a tight drive lane next to a portable, we treat your church the way we’d want someone to treat ours: with integrity and respect.

That’s why so many congregations, and even entire church networks, return to Simple Box whenever they need storage, delivery, or flexible space solutions. We don’t just drop off a box. We support your ministry.

Ready to Expand Your Ministry Space—Without Expanding Your Building?

Whether you’re preparing for VBS, storing seasonal décor, organizing youth ministry gear, equipping your grounds team, or planning a remodel, Get Simple Box is ready to help your church take the next step with confidence. We offer:

  • Transparent pricing with no surprises
  • Simple, friendly ordering
  • Safe, professional in-house delivery
  • Local service in your community
  • Kind, respectful support from a ministry-minded team

Our goal is simple: help your ministry stay organized, flexible, and ready for whatever God calls you to next.

Request a Quick Quote for Your Church Today

Tell us your campus location and storage needs, and a local manager will respond within one business day, no pressure, no pushy sales techniques, just genuinely helpful service.

Click below to get your cost estimate and see how easy and affordable a storage container rental can be for your church.

→ Get Your Free Church Storage Quote

In Summary: Making a Confident Container Purchase

Making sure you’re getting the best deal on a shipping container doesn’t have to be complicated. By trusting a reliable local supplier, understanding potential hidden costs, inspecting the container thoroughly, and choosing the right size and condition for your needs, you can make a confident and informed decision. Remember, it’s not just about finding the lowest price—it’s about getting the right container to meet your goals and make your project a success.

At Get Simple Box, we’re here to help you every step of the way, from answering your questions to delivering your container safely and securely. If you’re ready to start or just want to learn more, reach out to us or visit one of our locations to see our containers in person.

Contact us today to get a quote or schedule an appointment to inspect your container and feel confident you’re making the right choice.

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