The name ‘shipping container’ doesn’t cover all the uses for these extremely simple containers. Also called Conex boxes, shipping containers are large steel containers used in various industries and not just shipping. They’re used for everything from storage to living space plus shipping container transport is an easy affair.
Shipping Container Uses
Some of the many industries that use shipping containers are:
- Retail: For storing items for showrooms, stores, restaurants, mobile pop-up retail space
- Education: Storing equipment for sports, office records, and surplus furniture. Also, additional classrooms or offices
- Construction: Storing tools and materials on-site
- Industrial: Storing equipment and parts
- Government: Storing documents and other sensitive materials
- Automotive: Storing extra parts, tools, and tires
- Healthcare: Storing laundry, records, PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), and medical equipment
- Agriculture: Storing farm equipment, tools, and machinery
- Shelter: Temporary office spaces, emergency housing, or mobile clinics
The attribute that matters the most with a shipping container is its weight. Logistics, longevity, and maintenance of the shipping container all revolve around this one attribute.
Mobility & Durability
The reason why shipping containers are so versatile is their mobility and durability. Shipping containers were designed to withstand plenty of abuse while protecting the contents. They are weathertight and built from steel – practically indestructible. The bonus is these robust steel boxes are entirely mobile.
This mobility allows them to be used on sites where they are needed temporarily and then moved to another location. A temporary need may be due to a project (construction), a season, or a short-term solution (overflow inventory). A shipping container can be modified to meet the immediate need and delivered on short notice.
Moving
With shipping container transport, you must factor in safety, efficiency, space, costs, and logistics. Popular methods to move a shipping container are by truck, train, and boat, for which they were specifically designed. Many companies can be contracted to transport shipping containers. The outsourcing price depends on container size, the number of containers, transport method, distance to site location, and other costs like stacking and siting. A forklift or a crane is sometimes needed for shipping container placement. The maneuverability space at the destination site will determine if extra equipment will be required. Always check if any additional insurance is necessary when moving the container.
Are you planning to get a shipping container delivery?
Anyone who has purchased a shipping container needs to prepare for delivery ahead of time. The buyer wants the delivery process to be smooth and straightforward. They need to develop a plan where the shipping container will be transported and stored. This post will go over the steps necessary to have a shipping container transported and placed successfully.
Best Ways to Prepare
Adapt Location If Needed
A shipping container needs to be delivered to a specific location. Choose where this location will be ahead of time and think carefully about this area. Make sure this place is somewhere where you and the company delivering the container can easily access it.
Verify that the size of the location is big enough. If your shipping container doesn’t fit on the site, this will be a big problem. This area should also be level and solid to support the shipping container. Remember, shipping containers are weighty and large.
Create a Foundation
Before the shipping container comes, look at the area you have chosen. Is the ground flat enough and sturdy enough? Concrete, gravel, and other foundation surfaces are excellent for shipping container stabilization. Place the container on a firm foundation to prevent sinking into the ground and begin to list. If the container is transported across the soft ground for final placement, use wood planks placed on the ground to create a delivery truck pathway.
Clear The Area
Once the ground is stable enough for the shipping container, make sure that there is nothing in the way. Clear the land and the surrounding area so the truck delivering your container can get in and out with ease. Remember to look up for power lines, trees, and other overhead obstructions.
How Will Shipping Container Be Delivered
How the shipping container is delivered will depend on a few factors:
- Whether container has Front or Side Door Entry
- Length of container
- Size of placement site
- Access to the placement site
A flatbed tilt truck can be used if the site has enough maneuvering space for the truck to back into the placement site and slide the container off. A flatbed truck can be used when there is tighter space but still needs room for a forklift or crane to deliver the container to the final placement.
Make a Schedule
Lastly, ensure that you have scheduled a time for your delivery. Talk beforehand to the delivery company. Confirm when and where you will meet. Be on time, and do not make the truck wait for you to arrive.
Here are some frequently asked questions to help with the planning process:
How to Prepare for Container Site Setup and Delivery?
Many things have to be considered when planning the preparation – size of the site, soil conditions, the slope of the ground, size of the container, and container usage are important factors. Each of these items may require a separate process. If the soil needs to be leveled, does that mean bringing in extra dirt or removing it? Will the container need to be accessed frequently (it’s an office or tool storage) or infrequently (long-term supply storage)? Review what will need to be done and in what order they will need to be completed.
Will the Container Be Moved Frequently?
If the container will be moved frequently, it should be placed on dry, flat soil. The ground should be level to ease container relocation. The site should have easy access for a truck to deliver and pick-up the container. Spending money preparing the site should be kept to a minimum.
Will the Container Stay in One Place on the Site?
When a container sits in one location for a lengthy period, the site setup should still not only be on level ground but consider using gravel pads to prevent the container from sinking into the ground or becoming stuck. Often, dirt settles over time, and the gravel pad will prevent the container from sinking with it. A best practice is to check the container and levelness with the ground routinely.
Does the Container Need Electricity and Plumbing?
A licensed electrician and plumbing company are needed for site setup. Sometimes permits are required to set up electricity and plumbing, so it’s essential to call the local permit office during the planning process. Before you call, check that power is possible at the container setup site. Confirm the presence of water/sewer/septic lines if a plumbing hookup is needed. If the container is being modified, check the number of disconnect panels required for setup. Determine if electricity will be through a generator or utility service. Finally, schedule an appointment with an electrician and professional plumber for installation.
How Do I Prepare for a Container Delivery?
The container site setup extends beyond the level ground. Different counties require regulations for container sites. Check with local offices for any necessary permits or codes for the site. Some jurisdictions do not allow containers to be placed at specific locations, so check early in your planning.
Finalize Plans
Double-check delivery dates so that all permits and site preparation, such as electricity and plumbing are in place. Be sure to contact Carolina Containers to confirm the delivery date of the container.
Contact Carolina Containers
Carolina Containers is ready to ease container site setup and delivery. Learn more about our services today by calling 919-562-9187.
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