Shipping containers have evolved beyond their primary use in transportation. They now serve multiple purposes, including storage units, homes, offices, and more. With various sizes, types, and modifications available, it’s crucial to choose the right shipping container that fits your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for a simple container for shipping goods or one for a more creative purpose, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Why Choosing the Right Shipping Container is Important
Choosing the wrong container can lead to complications like insufficient space, increased costs, or safety issues. A right choice means efficiency at even lower costs and times; therefore, let us go through the factors that you would consider in choosing a shipping container.
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Understand Your Purpose
The very first thing you need to know, before choosing a shipping container, is for what purpose. Is this for shipping goods overseas, on-site storage, or turning it into a living space? Each one of them has different types of containers.
Shipping: If you need a container for shipping, then you have to ensure that it is International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) approved. ISO standard shipping containers are designed in such a way so they could bear the harshest of environmental conditions and may be used for shipping goods by sea or land.
Storage: Containers are secure and a weather-resistant of storage. The size and condition depend upon what you need to store. On-site tools and building materials in construction sites have been known to utilise 20ft containers for storage.
Container Homes and Offices: A container conversion to a home, office space, or retail will make size, insulation, and ventilation important factors. High-cube containers in this case are in higher demand, with more ceiling height.
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Find the Right Size
Shipping containers come in standard sizes. The two most common sizes are 20ft and 40ft containers. However, other options are available depending on your needs.
- 20ft Container: It is the most usable container and can hold as much as 1,172 cubic feet. It is the best option for small and medium-sized storage or shipping. It is also one of the favorite sizes for homes because it serves a small area.
- 40ft Container: These containers are twice as long and have twice as much space-2,385 cubic feet-as their 20ft counterparts. The 40ft containers are mainly utilized for storage needs that are bigger in size or when one has to ship bulkier items.
- High-Cube Containers: These come in both 20ft and 40ft sizes but offer an extra foot in height, making them ideal when taller equipment needs to be carried or if you’re converting the container into a habitable space.
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Consider The Condition of The Container.
Shipping container units are supplied in different conditions:
New (One-Trip Containers): These have only one use, other than delivery, and are considered brand new. They are perfect for someone who wants a long-serving container and little wear and tear.
Used (Cargo-Worthy): These are cargo-worthy containers that have seen several uses but still are fit for shipping. There could be some dents and superficial rust, but generally, they are structurally sound.
WWT-Wind and Water-Tight: These containers may not meet shipping standards but are still suitable for storage. They keep out water, wind, and pests, making them perfect for on-site storage solutions.
As-Is: These containers normally come at cheap prices but may require critical repairs. They may be suitable for projects where structural integrity is not crucial and may not be ideal for long-term storage or shipping.
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Material of the Container
Most shipping containers are built from corten steel, which is exceptionally strong and resistant to corrosion. Corten steel would be the best option if you plan on using the container in harsh weather conditions or for long-term storage because it has a very, very long life. Other materials, such as aluminum, are available for certain types of containers but are not as strong as corten steel.
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Consider Modifications and Customisation
When selecting a container, think about whether you’ll need to modify it for your specific needs. Shipping containers can be customised in numerous ways:
- The doors and windows: This is one of the common additions when containers are being transformed into homes and offices.
- Insulation: In case you are using it as your space to live in, or as storage for some temperature sensitive item, proper insulation cannot go unmentioned. Insulating a container helps in temperature regulation and also protects its content.
- Ventilation: Containers get very hot in the summer and cold in the winter. Adding a little ventilation will keep the inside temperature comfortable, assuming you intend to use it as a living or working space.
- Shelving/Racks: You will want to include shelves or racks if you want the container for storage. For space maximisation and holding everything in its place, you need a shelf or rack.
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Understand the Different Types of Shipping Containers
Different types of shipping containers are designed for various purposes. Depending on what you need the container for, consider the following types:
Dry Shipping Containers: These are the standard containers, which are widely used in the shipping of most commodities. They can also be used for most storage and conversion purposes.
Refrigerated Containers (Reefer Containers): Refrigerated containers are used in the case where the shipping or storage requires the maintenance of items within a specific temperature.
Open-Top Containers: These are most feasible for items that are taller than the size a standard container allows. They have a detachable top so that inner area can be approached easily.
Flat Rack Containers: These are similar to standard containers but offer an open design if one is shipping heavy or oversized items, such as machinery or vehicles.
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Think About Transportation and Delivery
When you are choosing your shipping container, you have to think how it is going to get to your site. Containers are big and heavy, and delivering them requires particular equipment. It is important in considering a shipping container, also to consider the delivery cost, besides ensuring you have sufficient space to accommodate unloading and placing.
Truck Delivery: With some rare exceptions, all containers are delivered on trucks equipped with a crane or a tilt bed. The site must be accessible for truck traffic, and the area at the site must be large enough to safely off-load the container.
Foundation: There are several different types of foundations containers can sit on, ranging from concrete blocks or piers, depending on the condition of the ground and how long you intend on keeping the container in place.
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Consider Longevity and Maintenance
Shipping containers are constructed to last, but they still need a bit of maintenance, especially if they are due to be exposed to the outdoors for some time. You may have to:
Rust Check: Steel containers will rust, especially in humid conditions. Occasionally check the container for rust and apply a rust-proofing solution when necessary.
Repaint: This is highly advisable to repaint your container in every couple of years. This will make the container look even better and add an additional layer for protection against rust and corrosion.
Seal Leaks: Containers can develop leaks over time, especially if they have been used several times. It is important that you check the roof and walls of your container regularly to ensure that it doesn’t leak.
9. Comparing Costs
The prices of containers differ according to their size and condition. A comparison should be made between different gains so that one can obtain the best offer.
New Containers: Most expensive but in the best conditions.
Second-Hand Containers: These are more affordable and for most applications, just as efficient.
Modified Containers: Customisation adds to the cost, so if you’re modifying a container for a specific purpose, be prepared for the extra expense.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right shipping container for your needs requires careful consideration of size, type, condition, and purpose. By taking the time to understand your specific requirements, you’ll be able to select a container that meets your needs, whether it’s for shipping, storage, or a creative project like a container home.
Remember to inspect the container before purchasing, consider potential customisations, and plan for transportation and ongoing maintenance. With the right approach, your shipping container can provide a versatile and durable solution for many years to come.
Ready to choose the right shipping container? Contact us today.