--- title: "Portable Storage and Shipping Container Glossary | NPSA" description: "220 portable storage and shipping container terms defined in plain English: container grades, sizes, parts, delivery equipment, leasing and regulations." url: https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary publisher: National Portable Storage Association (NPSA) phone: "(816) 960-6552" email: info@npsa.org --- Learn # Portable storage glossary 220 terms from the container yard, the delivery truck and the trade show floor, defined in plain English with a source for each. Search the glossary 220 terms ## # - [**10 ft container**A 10 ft container is a steel box about 10 feet long.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/10-ft-container) - [**12 ft container**A 12 ft container is a steel or modular storage box about 12 feet long.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/12-ft-container) - [**12 gauge steel**12 gauge steel is steel sheet about 0.1046 inch (2.66 mm) thick on the standard steel gauge scale.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/12-gauge-steel) - [**14 gauge steel**14 gauge steel is steel sheet about 0.0747 inch (1.9 mm) thick on the standard steel gauge scale.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/14-gauge-steel) - [**16 ft container**A 16 ft container is a storage box about 16 feet long.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/16-ft-container) - [**20 ft container**A 20 ft container is the standard short ISO shipping container.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/20-ft-container) - [**40 ft container**A 40 ft container is a long ISO shipping container, 40 feet long and 8 feet wide.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/40-ft-container) - [**45 ft container**A 45 ft container is a shipping container 45 feet long and 8 feet wide.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/45-ft-container) - [**53 ft container**A 53 ft container is a very long container used for domestic freight in North America.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/53-ft-container) - [**8 ft container**An 8 ft container is a small steel storage container about 8 feet long.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/8-ft-container) ## A - [**advocacy**Advocacy is work to represent an industry's interests to lawmakers and regulators, and to speak for it in public.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/advocacy) - [**annual vehicle inspection**An annual vehicle inspection is a periodic inspection of a commercial motor vehicle.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/annual-vehicle-inspection) - [**Approved Continuous Examination Program (ACEP)**An Approved Continuous Examination Program is one of two container safety examination schemes allowed under the CSC.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/approved-continuous-examination-program-acep) - [**Associate member**An associate member of NPSA is a company or group that provides product, financial, legal or other services or support to the portable storage industry and is not eligible to be a Regular member.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/associate-member) - [**attendee badge**An attendee badge is the name tag a person wears at a conference or trade show to show that they are registered.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/attendee-badge) ## B - [**bailment**A bailment is a transfer of possession of property without a transfer of ownership.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/bailment) - [**best practices**Best practices are methods that an industry agrees work well and are safe, legal and efficient, and that members can copy and teach.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/best-practices) - [**bottom side rail**A bottom side rail is the long steel beam along the lower edge of each side of a container.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/bottom-side-rail) ## C - [**call for speakers**A call for speakers is an open request for people to propose talks for an event.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/call-for-speakers) - [**cam keeper**A cam keeper is a steel bracket on the top and bottom of a container door frame.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/cam-keeper) - [**cargo door**A cargo door is one of the two hinged steel doors at the end of a standard shipping container.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/cargo-door) - [**cargo insurance**Cargo insurance protects goods that a carrier hauls for others.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/cargo-insurance) - [**cargo worthy (CW)**Cargo worthy is a trade term for a used container that is sound enough to carry cargo by sea.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/cargo-worthy-cw) - [**CDL**A CDL is a commercial driver's license, required to drive certain commercial motor vehicles.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/cdl) - [**certificate of insurance**A certificate of insurance is a document that summarizes an insurance policy and gives proof of coverage.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/certificate-of-insurance) - [**chassis**A chassis is a skeletal semi-trailer built to carry a container.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/chassis) - [**Class A CDL**A Class A CDL is the commercial license for combination vehicles.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/class-a-cdl) - [**Class B CDL**A Class B CDL is the commercial license for heavy straight vehicles.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/class-b-cdl) - [**climate controlled storage**Climate-controlled storage is indoor storage built to hold a more even temperature, and sometimes humidity, than an ordinary unit.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/climate-controlled-storage) - [**code of conduct**A code of conduct is a set of rules for how people must behave at an event or in a group.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/code-of-conduct) - [**commercial auto insurance**Commercial auto insurance covers motor vehicles that a business owns or uses.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/commercial-auto-insurance) - [**community forum**The NPSA Community Forum is a members-only online discussion board where portable storage companies ask questions and share information with peers.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/community-forum) - [**compacted base**A compacted base is a layer of soil or crushed stone that has been pressed down so it is firm and stable.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/compacted-base) - [**conex box**A Conex box is a cargo container type first built for the U.S.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/conex-box) - [**conference and trade show**A conference and trade show is an event that combines education sessions with an exhibit hall where suppliers show products.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/conference-and-trade-show) - [**container condition report**A container condition report is a written record of a container's condition at one point in time.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/container-condition-report) - [**container forklift**A container forklift is a forklift used to lift or load containers.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/container-forklift) - [**container HVAC**Container HVAC is a heating, cooling and ventilation system fitted to a shipping container.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/container-hvac) - [**container inspection**A container inspection is a check of a container's outside, inside, doors, floor and roof for damage, leaks and wear.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/container-inspection) - [**container insulation**Container insulation is material added to the walls, roof and floor of a shipping container to slow heat flow and reduce condensation.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/container-insulation) - [**container jack**A container jack is a portable lifting device that raises one end or corner of a container.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/container-jack) - [**container modification**A container modification is a change made to a standard shipping container.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/container-modification) - [**container office**A container office is an office made from a shipping or storage container.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/container-office) - [**container repair**Container repair is work that fixes damage to a container, such as holes, dents, floors and doors.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/container-repair) - [**container shuttle**A container shuttle is a short trip that moves a container from one point to another nearby, such as from a yard to a job site, from one address to another, or from a customer site to a storage center.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/container-shuttle) - [**container survey**A container survey is a formal inspection of a container by a qualified surveyor, with a written result.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/container-survey) - [**container yard**A container yard is an area where shipping containers are stored, staged and moved between trucks, rail and ships.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/container-yard) - [**contents coverage**Contents coverage is protection for the items stored inside a container.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/contents-coverage) - [**corner casting**A corner casting is a cast steel fitting at each corner of a container.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/corner-casting) - [**corner post**A corner post is a vertical steel member at each corner of a container.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/corner-post) - [**corrugated steel**Corrugated steel is sheet steel pressed into a pattern of ridges and valleys.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/corrugated-steel) - [**corten steel**Corten steel is a weathering steel alloy used for the walls and roof of most standard shipping containers.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/corten-steel) - [**crane truck**A crane truck is a truck with a crane mounted on the bed or chassis.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/crane-truck) - [**cross member**A cross member is a steel beam that runs across the width of a container floor.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/cross-member) - [**CSC plate**A CSC plate is a metal safety approval plate fixed to a freight container under the International Convention for Safe Containers.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/csc-plate) - [**CSC safety approval plate**A CSC safety approval plate is the plate that the International Convention for Safe Containers requires on approved containers.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/csc-safety-approval-plate) ## D - [**damage waiver**A damage waiver is an optional fee in a rental agreement that limits what the renter owes if the rented unit is damaged.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/damage-waiver) - [**delivery access**Delivery access is the space and route a truck needs to reach the drop spot.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/delivery-access) - [**delivery fee**A delivery fee is a charge for bringing a container to the customer's site.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/delivery-fee) - [**depot**A depot is a facility where empty shipping containers are stored and returned.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/depot) - [**depreciation**Depreciation is an annual income tax deduction that lets a business recover the cost of property over the time it uses the property.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/depreciation) - [**door gasket**A door gasket is the rubber seal around the cargo door opening of a container.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/door-gasket) - [**door locking bar**A door locking bar is a vertical steel rod on a container door.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/door-locking-bar) - [**door opening**Door opening is the width and height of the clear opening when a container's doors are open.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/door-opening) - [**DOT medical card**A DOT medical card is the common name for the Medical Examiner's Certificate.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/dot-medical-card) - [**DOT number**A DOT number is an identifier assigned to a company that operates commercial vehicles.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/dot-number) - [**double door container**A double door container has doors at both ends, so you can load or unload from either side.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/double-door-container) - [**drive-up storage**Drive-up storage is a self-storage unit on the ground level with an outside door, so a customer can park a vehicle next to or in front of it.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/drive-up-storage) - [**drop deck trailer**A drop deck trailer, often called a step deck, is a flatbed trailer with a lower rear deck.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/drop-deck-trailer) - [**drop-off charge**A drop-off charge is a one-time fee for returning a leased container to a depot.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/drop-off-charge) - [**drug and alcohol testing**Drug and alcohol testing is the federal program that tests safety-sensitive transportation workers.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/drug-and-alcohol-testing) - [**dry van container**A dry van container is the standard enclosed freight container for general cargo that does not need refrigeration.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/dry-van-container) ## E - [**educational session**An educational session is a talk, panel or workshop at an event that teaches attendees a skill or topic.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/educational-session) - [**electrical package**An electrical package is a set of wiring, lighting, outlets and a panel installed in a container.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/electrical-package) - [**electronic logging device (ELD)**An electronic logging device, or ELD, is a device that connects to a vehicle engine.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/electronic-logging-device-eld) - [**exhibit hall**An exhibit hall is the large room at a trade show where companies set up booths to show products and services to attendees.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/exhibit-hall) - [**exhibitor**An exhibitor is a company that rents booth space at a trade show to show its products or services.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/exhibitor) - [**external dimensions**External dimensions are the length, width and height of a container measured on the outside.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/external-dimensions) ## F - [**fall networking seminar**The Fall Networking and Seminar is an NPSA event held in the fall, apart from the spring conference.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/fall-networking-seminar) - [**finance lease**A finance lease is a lease that works much like financing the purchase of an asset.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/finance-lease) - [**flat rack container**A flat rack container is a container with a strong floor and end structures but open sides and no roof.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/flat-rack-container) - [**flatbed truck**A flatbed truck has a flat, level bed with no sides or roof.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/flatbed-truck) - [**fleet utilization**Fleet utilization is the percentage of a fleet's available time that it spends on productive, revenue-generating work.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/fleet-utilization) - [**floor treatment**Floor treatment is the chemical or coating treatment applied to a container's plywood floor.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/floor-treatment) - [**FMCSA**FMCSA is the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, an agency within the U.S.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/fmcsa) - [**forklift pocket**A forklift pocket is a slot in the bottom side rail of a container.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/forklift-pocket) - [**forty-foot equivalent unit (FEU)**A forty-foot equivalent unit is a unit of cargo capacity based on a 40-foot-long intermodal container.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/forty-foot-equivalent-unit-feu) ## G - [**GCWR**GCWR is gross combination weight rating.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/gcwr) - [**general liability insurance**General liability insurance is business coverage for claims of injury or property damage to other people.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/general-liability-insurance) - [**general purpose container**A general purpose container is a totally enclosed container for general cargo.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/general-purpose-container) - [**gravel pad**A gravel pad is a prepared base of crushed stone or gravel placed on the ground for a container to sit on.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/gravel-pad) - [**ground level office**A ground-level office is a mobile office that sits directly on the ground, usually a converted storage container, so that visitors can enter from the grade with no tall steps.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/ground-level-office) - [**guard shack**A guard shack is a small building where a security guard or attendant works, usually at a gate or entrance.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/guard-shack) - [**GVWR**GVWR is gross vehicle weight rating.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/gvwr) ## H - [**hasp**A hasp is a hinged metal strap with a slot.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/hasp) - [**hiab**Hiab is a brand of truck-mounted loader cranes and is also used as a general name for them.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/hiab) - [**high cube container**A high cube container is a container that is taller than standard, usually 9 feet 6 inches tall outside, compared with 8 feet 6 inches for a standard unit.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/high-cube-container) - [**HOA covenant**An HOA covenant is a rule in the recorded declaration of a homeowners association, often called CC&Rs for covenants, conditions and restrictions.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/hoa-covenant) - [**hours of service (HOS)**Hours of service are FMCSA rules on how long commercial drivers may be on duty and how much rest they need.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/hours-of-service-hos) ## I - [**ID plate**An ID plate is a metal plate fixed to a container with identifying and approval data.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/id-plate) - [**IICL 5**IICL 5 is the common short name for the IICL Repair Manual for Steel Freight Containers, fifth edition.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/iicl-5) - [**IICL 6**IICL 6 is the common short name for the IICL Guide for Container Equipment Inspection, sixth edition, published in 2016.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/iicl-6) - [**inland marine insurance**Inland marine insurance is property coverage for items that move or sit away from a fixed location.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/inland-marine-insurance) - [**Institute of International Container Lessors (IICL)**The Institute of International Container Lessors is the trade association of the marine container leasing and chassis provider industry.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/institute-of-international-container-lessors-iicl) - [**insulated container**An insulated container is a container with insulation on its walls and roof to slow heat transfer.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/insulated-container) - [**intermodal container**An intermodal container is a standardized, reusable container that can move between ships, trains and trucks without unloading the cargo.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/intermodal-container) - [**internal dimensions**Internal dimensions are the length, width and height of the usable space inside a container.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/internal-dimensions) - [**International Convention for Safe Containers (CSC)**The International Convention for Safe Containers is a 1972 treaty written by the International Maritime Organization and the United Nations.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/international-convention-for-safe-containers-csc) - [**interstate commerce**Interstate commerce is trade, traffic or transportation in the United States between a place in a state and a place outside that state.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/interstate-commerce) - [**intrastate commerce**Intrastate commerce is trade, traffic or transportation that begins and ends inside one state and stays within that state.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/intrastate-commerce) - [**ISO 1496**ISO 1496 is a series of international standards for the specification and testing of series 1 freight containers.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/iso-1496) - [**ISO 6346**ISO 6346 is the international standard for coding, identification and marking of freight containers.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/iso-6346) - [**ISO 668**ISO 668 is the international standard that classifies series 1 freight containers by their external dimensions.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/iso-668) - [**ISO container**An ISO container is a freight container built to the ISO series 1 standards, such as ISO 668 for classification and dimensions and ISO 1496 for specification and testing.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/iso-container) ## J - [**job-site trailer**A job-site trailer is a trailer used as an office or storage space on a construction or work site.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/job-site-trailer) ## K - [**keynote**A keynote is the main speech at a conference, usually given by a featured speaker to the whole audience.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/keynote) ## L - [**lease-to-own**Lease-to-own is a plan where a customer pays regular lease payments and may own the item at the end.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/lease-to-own) - [**level ground**Level ground is a flat, firm surface without noticeable slope or dips.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/level-ground) - [**Lifetime Achievement Award**The Lifetime Achievement Award is an NPSA award for a person who has contributed a great deal to the portable storage industry and has left, or will leave, a legacy.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/lifetime-achievement-award) - [**light leak test**A light leak test is a simple check for holes in a container.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/light-leak-test) - [**loading time**Loading time is the period a customer has to fill a portable storage container once it is delivered.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/loading-time) - [**local move**A local move is a move within the same area, usually the same city or region.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/local-move) - [**lock box**A lock box is a steel housing that fits over a padlock on a container door.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/lock-box) - [**long distance move**A long distance move is a move to a distant city or another state.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/long-distance-move) ## M - [**marine plywood floor**A marine plywood floor is the wood floor in a shipping container, made of thick laminated plywood fixed to steel cross members.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/marine-plywood-floor) - [**master lease**A master lease is a framework lease between a container owner and a lessee.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/master-lease) - [**maximum gross weight**Maximum gross weight is the most a container may weigh when loaded, including its own tare weight and the cargo.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/maximum-gross-weight) - [**MC number**An MC number is a form of FMCSA operating authority.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/mc-number) - [**member directory**A member directory is a list of an association's member companies with contact details.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/member-directory) - [**mentorship program**A mentorship program connects newer members of an association with experienced people.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/mentorship-program) - [**minimum rental term**A minimum rental term is the shortest period a customer must pay for.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/minimum-rental-term) - [**mobile office**A mobile office is an office space that is built and finished off site, then delivered ready to use.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/mobile-office) - [**mobile self-storage**Mobile self-storage is a service where an empty storage unit is delivered to your location.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/mobile-self-storage) - [**mobile storage**Mobile storage is storage that moves to the customer.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/mobile-storage) - [**mobile storage unit**A mobile storage unit is a storage box built to be moved, delivered and picked up by truck.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/mobile-storage-unit) - [**modular building**A modular building is a building made in sections called modules in a factory, then moved to the site and joined together.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/modular-building) - [**moving container**A moving container is a portable storage container used to move a household.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/moving-container) ## N - [**National Company member**A national company member is the NPSA Regular membership category for companies with 10 or more staffed locations.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/national-company-member) - [**networking reception**A networking reception is a social event at a conference where attendees meet over food and drinks.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/networking-reception) - [**NPSA**NPSA is the National Portable Storage Association, a trade association for the portable storage industry.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/npsa) ## O - [**off-hire**Off-hire is the end of a container lease when the lessee returns the unit.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/off-hire) - [**off-site storage**Off-site storage means keeping a portable storage container at the provider's facility instead of on the customer's property.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/off-site-storage) - [**office trailer**An office trailer is a mobile office built on a trailer-type frame and delivered by truck.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/office-trailer) - [**on-hire**On-hire is the point when a lessee takes possession of a leased container.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/on-hire) - [**on-site storage**On-site storage means keeping a portable storage container on the customer's own property, such as a driveway or a job site.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/on-site-storage) - [**one-trip container**A one-trip container is a container that has made a single cargo voyage from the factory before being sold or rented.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/one-trip-container) - [**one-way move**A one-way move is a move in which a portable storage container is picked up at one location and delivered to a different one, such as a new home in another city.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/one-way-move) - [**open top container**An open top container is a container with a removable or open roof, so cargo can be loaded from above by crane or lift.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/open-top-container) - [**operating lease**An operating lease is a lease where the lessor lets the lessee use an asset for a set period, much like a typical rental.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/operating-lease) - [**OSHA**OSHA is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, part of the U.S.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/osha) - [**overhead clearance**Overhead clearance is the free vertical space above a road or drop site.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/overhead-clearance) - [**oversize permit**An oversize permit is a state-issued permit that lets a vehicle or load travel on public roads even though it exceeds legal size or weight limits.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/oversize-permit) ## P - [**packing materials**Packing materials are the items used to protect goods for a move or for storage, such as boxes, tape, paper, bubble wrap, blankets and straps.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/packing-materials) - [**patch repair**A patch repair fixes a damaged container panel by welding a steel plate over the damage.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/patch-repair) - [**payload**Payload is the weight of cargo a container can carry.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/payload) - [**per diem**Per diem is Latin for "per day." In container leasing, it is the daily rate a lessee pays for each day a leased container is on-hire after any included free days.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/per-diem) - [**periodic examination scheme**The periodic examination scheme is one of two approved CSC ways to keep a container safe in service.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/periodic-examination-scheme) - [**permanent modular construction**Permanent modular construction, or PMC, is a way to build whole buildings in a factory as modules and join them on site, as a lasting part of the property.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/permanent-modular-construction) - [**personnel door**A personnel door is a standard-size door cut into a container wall so people can walk in.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/personnel-door) - [**pick-up charge**A pick-up charge is a fee for collecting a container.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/pick-up-charge) - [**portable classroom**A portable classroom is a classroom building that can be moved and placed on a school site.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/portable-classroom) - [**portable moving and storage (PMS)**Portable moving and storage, or PMS, is the part of the portable storage industry that delivers containers to homes for moving and storage.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/portable-moving-and-storage-pms) - [**portable storage**Portable storage is storage in a container, trailer or similar unit that can be moved to the customer's site or elsewhere.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/portable-storage) - [**Portable Storage Awards**The NPSA Portable Storage Awards are yearly honors that NPSA gives to member companies and people in the portable storage industry.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/portable-storage-awards) - [**Portable Storage Company of the Year**Portable Storage Company of the Year is an NPSA award for a Regular member company that has proven to be an overall standout in the portable storage, or portable storage and moving, industry.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/portable-storage-company-of-the-year) - [**portable storage container**A portable storage container is a container made for rent or sale as movable storage.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/portable-storage-container) - [**pre-trip inspection**A pre-trip inspection is the check a driver makes of a truck and trailer before driving.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/pre-trip-inspection) ## R - [**ramp door**A ramp door is a door that lets vehicles or equipment roll into a container or trailer.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/ramp-door) - [**reach stacker**A reach stacker is a vehicle that handles intermodal cargo containers in terminals and ports.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/reach-stacker) - [**reefer container**A reefer container is a refrigerated container with its own cooling unit and temperature controls.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/reefer-container) - [**refrigerated trailer**A refrigerated trailer, or reefer trailer, is an insulated trailer with a transport refrigeration unit.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/refrigerated-trailer) - [**refurbished container**A refurbished container is a used container that has been repaired and cosmetically restored, usually with surface preparation and new paint.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/refurbished-container) - [**Regular member**A regular member of NPSA is a company engaged in the portable storage industry that is primarily engaged in renting, leasing or selling storage products to end users.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/regular-member) - [**relocatable building**A relocatable building is a partly or fully assembled building made in a factory that is designed to be reused and moved to different sites.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/relocatable-building) - [**rent-to-own**Rent-to-own is a plan where a customer pays rent on an item and gains ownership after enough payments.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/rent-to-own) - [**rental agreement**A rental agreement is the contract that sets the terms for renting a container or similar unit.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/rental-agreement) - [**rental rate**A rental rate is the price charged for keeping a container for a billing period, often a month.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/rental-rate) - [**residual value**Residual value is an estimate of what an asset will be worth at a future point, often near the end of a lease or its useful life.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/residual-value) - [**right-of-way permit**A right-of-way permit is local government permission to use public right-of-way, such as a street or the grass strip between the curb and sidewalk.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/right-of-way-permit) - [**roll-off truck**A roll-off truck is a truck with a cable hoist and tilting rails that pulls a container or dumpster onto its frame and rolls it off.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/roll-off-truck) - [**roll-up door**A roll-up door is a garage-style overhead door fitted in a container.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/roll-up-door) ## S - [**sea can**Sea can is an informal name for a shipping container, mainly used in Canada.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/sea-can) - [**security deposit**A security deposit is money a renter pays at the start of a rental.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/security-deposit) - [**self-storage facility**A self-storage facility is a business that rents secure space where customers store and retrieve their own goods.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/self-storage-facility) - [**semi-trailer**A semi-trailer is a trailer built so that part of its weight rests on the truck that pulls it.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/semi-trailer) - [**setback**A setback is the area between a property line and a building or structure where building is not allowed.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/setback) - [**shipping container**A shipping container is a standardized steel box used to move freight by ship, rail and truck without unloading the goods.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/shipping-container) - [**side door container**A side door container, also called an open side or side access container, has doors along the long side as well as at the end.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/side-door-container) - [**side loader**A side loader is a trailer with two lifting arms that picks up a container, carries it and sets it on the ground or on another trailer.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/side-loader) - [**site office**A site office is a temporary office placed on a work site, most often a construction site.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/site-office) - [**site preparation**Site preparation is the work done on a spot before a container arrives.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/site-preparation) - [**skid**A skid is a steel runner or base fitted to a container so it can be towed, dragged or slid across a yard.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/skid) - [**sponsor**A sponsor is a company that pays to support an event or an association program in return for brand exposure.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/sponsor) - [**spot lease**A spot lease is a short-term lease priced to current market conditions.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/spot-lease) - [**standard container**A standard container is a regular-height dry container, usually 8 feet 6 inches tall outside, as opposed to a high cube.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/standard-container) - [**storage center**A storage center is a secure site where a portable storage company keeps customer containers off the customer's property.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/storage-center) - [**storage container**A storage container is a container used to store goods, often a retired shipping container, that sits on a site and keeps items dry and secure.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/storage-container) - [**storage trailer**A storage trailer is a trailer used as a movable storage space instead of for hauling cargo from place to place.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/storage-trailer) - [**storage unit**A storage unit is a rented space for keeping personal or business goods.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/storage-unit) - [**Supplier of the Year**Supplier of the Year is an NPSA award for an Associate member company that has stood out as a supplier of products or services to the portable storage industry.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/supplier-of-the-year) ## T - [**tag trailer**A tag trailer, or tag-along, is a trailer that hitches behind a truck on a drawbar or pintle hitch instead of a fifth wheel.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/tag-trailer) - [**tare weight**Tare weight is the weight of an empty container or vehicle.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/tare-weight) - [**temperature controlled storage**Temperature-controlled storage is a space that holds goods within a set temperature range.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/temperature-controlled-storage) - [**temporary structure permit**A temporary structure permit is local approval to place a structure on a site for a limited time.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/temporary-structure-permit) - [**term lease**A term lease is a lease that runs for a fixed period.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/term-lease) - [**tilt-bed truck**A tilt-bed truck has a bed that tilts down toward the ground.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/tilt-bed-truck) - [**top side rail**A top side rail is the long steel beam along the upper edge of each side of a container.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/top-side-rail) - [**turning radius**Turning radius is the minimum space a vehicle needs to make a turn.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/turning-radius) - [**twenty-foot equivalent unit (TEU)**A twenty-foot equivalent unit is a general unit of cargo capacity based on a 20-foot-long intermodal container.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/twenty-foot-equivalent-unit-teu) ## U - [**USDOT number**A USDOT number is the unique identifier that FMCSA gives to a company that operates commercial vehicles.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/usdot-number) - [**used container**A used container is a container that has served a working life, usually at sea, before being sold or rented for storage.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/used-container) - [**utility locate**A utility locate is the marking of buried utility lines before digging.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/utility-locate) - [**utilization rate**A utilization rate is the share of time that rental assets earn money.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/utilization-rate) ## W - [**weathering steel**Weathering steel is a group of steel alloys that form a stable outer layer of rust, which removes the need for painting.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/weathering-steel) - [**white paper**A white paper is a report that explains a topic or problem and gives guidance, often with research behind it.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/white-paper) - [**winch**A winch is a mechanical device that pulls in or lets out a rope or cable on a drum.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/winch) - [**wind and water tight (WWT)**Wind and water tight is a trade term for a used container that should have no holes or defects that let wind or water in.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/wind-and-water-tight-wwt) - [**window cut-out**A window cut-out is an opening cut into a container wall for a window.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/window-cut-out) - [**workers compensation**Workers compensation is insurance that covers an employer's liability for injuries, disability or death of people in its employment, without regard to fault.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/workers-compensation) ## Z - [**zoning ordinance**A zoning ordinance is a local law that controls how land can be used and built on.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/zoning-ordinance) No terms match. Try a shorter word, or [browse the guides](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/guides). For the industry ## Grow your portable storage business with NPSA Members get event rates, the Community Forum, the directory listing and leads from this website. [Join NPSA](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/join-us)[See member benefits](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/member-benefits) Need storage? ## Get quotes from NPSA member companies Tell us what you need and where. A member company that serves your area will contact you. [Request a quote](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/request-a-quote)[Which unit do I need?](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/find-storage)