Storage Container Maintenance: The Roof

If you’ve ever wondered, “How can I possibly keep the roof of my storage containers in the best state?” Then this article is for you. Storage container maintenance is a big deal because it could determine how long it’ll serve you; hence you’ll need to ensure it’s not deteriorating from accumulated debris or the elements.

Storage Container Maintenance and the Roof

Here are some actionable steps you can take to keep the roof of your storage container in tiptop shape.

Don’t Place a Lot of Weight on the Roof

If you’re in the habit of walking across your container or putting too much weight on it, keep in mind that it’s only a matter of time before it’ll start to flex and bow. The structural integrity of every storage container relies on its solidified corner casting rather than the roof or sides.

Clean-Up Surface Rust and Dirt

To clean the surfaces, we recommend that you either use an anti-mildew solution, commercial wetting agent, or bleach. You’ll also need a broom and hose to tidy up the surface entirely. This maintenance should be done regularly.

Buy Your Storage Container from a Credible Source

One of the best ways to guarantee the long life of your containers is to buy them strictly from a reputable source- even if it means investigating the manufacturer/seller before you commit.
Here at Carolina Containers, we diligently choose the type of containers we rent or sell. Hence, we strongly advise that before you purchase any container, ask about the age, quality, and check for any trace of dents or damages.

Prioritize Regular Inspection

Schedule inspections of the container inside and out. Don’t delay repairing any trace of dents (it might collect rainwater and wear away the paint), and treat the surface with rust-proof paint to prevent corrosion.

Remove Standing Water, Snow, And Debris

It’s better to be safe than sorry; hence remove standing water and other weather elements from the surface of your shipping container. Failure to do so can result in moisture accumulation, rust, and other defects.

Carolina Containers

A well-maintained storage container can last a long time. If you have any questions about the storage container maintenance, Carolina Containers and Transport is happy to help. We have lots of shipping containers on our lot ready to sell or rent. Contact us at 919-562-9187 and see what we can do for you.

The post Storage Container Maintenance: The Roof first appeared on Carolina Containers.

What’s the Best Option For Getting A Shipping Container?

Renting VS Buying Shipping Containers

When looking for efficient on-site storage for your worksite or business needs, a shipping container may be the next thing you need. These containers are available in different sizes, endurance, and price. These containers are durable, long-lasting and secure. They are ready to use as soon as they are delivered. Carolina Containers is one of the leading shipping container suppliers in Raleigh.

You may be looking for a shipping container to use either for an occasional or short-term project or you don’t have enough cash to buy the container right away. The next best option is to consider renting. Carolina Containers gives you great prices for new or used containers as well as friendly monthly rentals. Long-term shipping container rental is also available for clients who want to own the shipping container for a longer duration.

Factors To Consider When You Rent A Container

Renting a portable storage container is not a cheap investment and you, therefore, need to make informed decisions for you to get satisfaction and value for your money. There are several factors to be considered when you want to select a storage container for rent.

Why You Need The Storage Container

Different individuals want shipping containers for diverse purposes. If you are looking for a perfect storage option for stuff that can be left out on site, buying a storage container is the best option. A storage container can really work for you if you are looking for a safe, efficient and secure storage unit for building and construction items, site office or other related stuff that can move with you. We offer mobile offices for rent and sale also if that’s more in line with your needs.

Customized Specifications

Your project is as unique as you are. Carolina Containers takes care of your customized needs and modifies the container to your specifications. They offer office doors, vents, air conditioning & heating, refrigeration, electrical, roll-up doors, windows, and any other modifications needed. You’ll have to buy your container to customize it though.

How Much You Want To Spend

When looking for a portable storage unit that works for you, you need to work on your budget and find out how much you are ready to spend. Mostly, rental prices for storage containers depending on the size and length of the container and whether it is new or used. Used cargo containers Raleigh are available at a much lower cost compared to the new containers.

What Size Storage Container Do You Need?

Depending on the size of your project, consider renting a storage container that meets your needs. You can opt to rent a 20’ container or 40’ storage container that gives you ample space for your project. Take an inventory of the items you need to store to determine the size of the storage unit you require.

Duration Of Renting

Depending on the size and nature of your project, you need to know for how long you need the storage container. If you need the storage unit for a short period, look for convenient and affordable offers. For long-term rentals, ensure you get a Conex box at affordable monthly rates. If you need something truly long-term, it may work out to be cheaper for you to just go ahead and buy it outright, we can help you do some quick math there and figure out what’s best for you.

What should you know about used vs new shipping containers?

Container prices are going to differ based on whether you buy new or used ones, it won’t be thousands of dollars but it won’t be anything. Each option comes with its benefits and negatives of course. Depending on why you need a container, you’re probably going to consider all of your options very in-depth. Truly the large majority of the time there is nothing – or very little wrong with any used shipping container.

Most people and we support this, look out for all the different deals they can find. In the end, we can guarantee that most used containers are going to hold up as well as a new one, apart from maybe looking a tad more beat up on the outside. Let’s break this down further for you below.

Save on cost

If your budget is tight and you need a container, we certainly recommend that you really consider used ones. They are more affordable for the simple reason that otherwise they’d just be sitting somewhere rusting away, these containers have to be extremely high quality to be considered “sea-worthy” so you’re almost “recycling” it in a certain sense. Though they may have been used a lot in the past, they really do stay in great shape through all of this use. You do not have to compromise on quality simply because your budget is a little on the lower end. If you compare a new and used container of the same size and similar conditions, the used is going to be cheaper almost every time.

Purpose of the Shipping Container

The reason you need a container will play a major role in determining if you really need a new one. For example, if you are purchasing a container because you want to turn it into a home or an office, you should just go with a new container so you can ensure you’re starting from a perfect base. You don’t want to risk finding any dents or rust that compromise the integrity of the container. You need to ensure a secure and safe environment if you will be living in it.

On the other hand, if you’re just going to be using it as a “storage shed”, a used container will be more than adequate. It will serve the same purpose just as well as a new one in addition to saving you money on overall costs.

Will you have modifications made to the Storage Container?

Buying shipping containers so you can turn them into homes or office space obviously means fairly intense modifications that need to be made. You may choose to reinforce the floor, add windows and vents, subdivide the space, and/or allow for plumbing. Whatever you’re doing, considering that these alterations can be very costly, it is highly recommended that you do them on a new container, this way you can ensure that you’re working with a quality base and things aren’t going to fall apart over time. If you start modifying a used shipping container, you could be halfway through installing A/C before you realize you have a spot of rust near the base that’s weakening the wall, that could be all it needs for your container to fail.

Chances of Shipping the Container

Do you think you’ll ever move your container overseas to transport anything? Or do you even think you’ll be loading it up on a truck and having it driven elsewhere in the country? A new container is already certified for shipping but that will cost you a small premium. On the other hand, there is absolutely no need to buy a certified container if you do not intend to ship it to another country, that would be a waste of money.

So when it comes down to it, the new vs used debate all hinges on your intended use and if you have any desire to actually use it for shipping. Basically, if you want to ship it or use it for something more involved and intensive like a home or shop, you need to buy new. If you’re literally just using it as a storage shed or anything else like that, we totally recommend that you go the used route. These containers are just like the new but maybe with a dent or two, and a lower price tag! Learn more about our shipping container sales if you’re still unsure.

What should you know before buying a shipping container? 

Many people today are interested in the off-the-grid living concept.  A shipping container can make this dream become a reality and be the ideal solution for those individuals looking to build an alternative type of home, guest house, or farmhouse. When searching for that perfect container here is some vital information one should know before buying a shipping container.

Purchasing Prefabricated Containers

Purchasing a prefabricated shipping container might sound like an affordable option at a glance. However, this should only be done if the alterations are exactly what is wanted.  If additional work is required to alter what has already been done, it may be cheaper to start with a blank slate.  This approach all depends on the specifications of the project.

Purchasing from a Local Warehouse

Local warehouses might have used shipping containers for low prices; however, it is important to verify the ownership of the respective container before committing to the purchase.

Know the Material

Although one shipping container might appear to be similar to another, the material can be different.  It is important to pick the right kind of material to enjoy the best return on investment. It is always better to go for a shipping container made out of “Cor-Ten Steel.” Such containers will tolerate severe weather conditions and last for a very long time.

Get the Assistance of an Expert

For those who don’t have confidence in selecting the right kind of container, it is better to seek the help of an expert. Perhaps, a friend, a relative, or a colleague can provide the necessary help.

Compare Prices

The best way to get a shipping container for an affordable price is to request quotations from several sellers. It is also better to pick a vendor who offers free transport.

Personally Inspect Before Purchase

It is not wise to rely on the outer appearance of the container; it should be free of rust, holes, and other damages. That is why physical inspection is so important when purchasing a shipping container.

What are the most common mistakes when buying and renting shipping containers? 

It’s easy to make mistakes when purchasing a shipping container for the first time. Buying shipping containers is no joke. To save money and get the best quality container possible, this task should be taken seriously. With some necessary information, one can avoid the most common purchasing mistakes.

Buy From a Reputable Vender

When buying a shipping container, research needs to be done. It’s tempting to purchase a container from the cheapest vendor, but this can lead to problems down the line. Containers are an investment. They should only be bought from reputable companies that have the best quality products. Carolina Containers is one such vendor. We provide quality and sturdy containers that will last for many years. No one wants to have a leaking or rusted container, so consider this when buying or renting a container.

Placing Too Much Weight on The Container Roof

Another mistake first-time container owners make is putting too much weight on the roof of the structure. Containers are most sturdy at their foundations. So heavy objects should not be placed on top of the roof. The weight can damage the shipping container creating extra expenses for damage to the container and contents.

Not Cleaning A Container

Like any other purchase, shipping containers need to be well maintained. Make sure to clean containers inside and out. Get rid of snow, water, and ice as well. Otherwise, the container can rust and develop holes. High-powered vacuums can rid containers of water and debris.

Inspect Your Shipping Containers

Related to cleaning is inspection. Anyone who rents or owns a container should look out for scratches, rust, and other potential problem areas. If these issues are not dealt with and remain overlooked, they could ruin the container. Inspect containers annually to prevent this.

Not Following to Manufacturing Instructions

If there is a heating device or cooling device present in the container, make sure manufacturing recommendations are being followed. Parts might need replacing, and the units need to be inspected and kept up-to-date. Don’t make the mistake of letting this go. It’s more expensive if these systems have to be entirely replaced because they were not well maintained.

Contact Carolina Containers

A shipping container purchase is a big deal. Carolina Containers can answer any further questions about these products. And if you want to make a purchase or get a price range, we are more than happy to talk with you. We also offer shipping container rentals at very affordable rates and even include transport that we handle personally. That way we can ensure the proper delivery of what you pay for. For more information on storage containers Durham call 919-452-5418.

The post What’s the Best Option For Getting A Shipping Container? first appeared on Carolina Containers.

Renting vs. Owning Your Heavy Equipment

Heavy equipment is a necessity for many businesses. Whether you’re in the construction industry or need heavy machinery to make your business function, it’s essential to know what type of machinery meets your needs. In this blog post, we’ll cover the pros of heavy equipment rentals versus owning heavy equipment so that you can make an informed decision on which route would work best for your company.

Pros of Heavy Equipment Rentals

You Don’t Have To Pay Upfront

When you rent equipment or machinery, you don’t have to pay a large sum of money upfront. You only have to pay for the usage time. Rentals work well for equipment that is used only periodically and not for equipment used daily.

Rentals save on maintenance costs. For example, if you purchase equipment, you have to keep it in good condition. However, when renting equipment, it is the job of the rental company to do the maintenance.

Updated Machinery and Equipment

One of the best things about renting heavy equipment is that the rental companies continuously update their equipment. Therefore, when you rent equipment, there is a very high chance you will get the latest equipment model. Heavy machinery is costly, which means most businesses cannot purchase new equipment when a new and updated model comes out.

No Storage Issues

Rented equipment does not have to be stored when not in use. However, if you purchase the equipment, you have to protect your investment from environmental elements in a secure place.
Modified Shipping containers are excellent for storing equipment during the rental period.

Pros of Purchasing Heavy Equipment

Lower Overall Cost

Depending on the usage frequency of the equipment, sometimes purchasing the equipment can lower your overall cost. For example, if you use the equipment daily, the long-term rental fee could be very high. Therefore, it is better to buy the equipment in such cases instead of going for rentals.

Ownership

Another advantage of purchasing the equipment is that you get ownership. The equipment is yours, so you don’t have to worry about availability issues.

Safety Concerns

Even though the heavy equipment provided by other companies is usually well maintained, you can never be sure about any accidents or problems it has encountered previously. In addition, high usage of the machinery on different project sites can wear it out.

Carolina Containers

Both buying and renting heavy equipment have their advantages and disadvantages. If you are looking for reliable heavy equipment rentals, contact Carolina Containers & Transport at 919-562-9187.  We carry compact track loaders and excavators to meet your construction needs.

The post Renting vs. Owning Your Heavy Equipment first appeared on Carolina Containers.

How to Maintain your Shipping Container to Make it Last

Shipping containers are robust and designed to withstand extreme situations from hurricanes to scorchy heat waves. The entire shipment industry relies on these bulky containers for the transfer of goods and cargo worldwide.

However, with time even these bulky steel containers may show wear. You cannot expect any material to last forever, but some maintenance along the way can make your containers last much longer. Most of these tasks can easily be performed on-site.

Shipping Container Maintenance Tips

Place the container on level ground: Use railroad ties or concrete blocks when placing and leveling the container. A level container helps avoid corrosion and damage due to water collecting in puddles on the container floor and roof. Placing the container on even ground at a raised level solves all issues of moisture collecting under the container. Being on level ground also allows the doors to open smoothly.

Keep doors lubricated: The doors of the shipping containers may remain closed for long periods when not in use. The lack of lubricant may cause the door hinges to seize and lead to rusting. Lubricating regularly can help prevent damage to the doors.

Control rust and mold: Use bleach and other cleaning agents for regular cleaning of the container. Periodic cleaning will avoid rust and mold from building up. Mold especially can damage the container contents.

Storing dry goods: Storing only dry goods reduces the chance of condensation being introduced inside the container. Also, do not open the doors and vents in humid conditions like in rainy weather and humid summer days.

Replace the worn rubber seals: The doors and the walls of the container are sealed with rubber for moisture control. However, these rubber closures may get damaged after several years. When any wear and tear is noticed on the rubber seals, replace them immediately to ensure protection from moisture.

Purchase Shipping Containers from a Reputable Source

Do not skimp on your budget when purchasing shipping containers. Whether buying a new or used container, conduct some research about the seller, and only invest in good quality and dependable products. You can rely on Carolina Containers for renting or purchasing your container. We provide support at all stages for our customers

Avoid Putting Excess Weight on the Roof

The roof of the shipping container is its weakest point in the construction. The top lacks strength when compared to the corner posts (where the weight is carried when the containers are stacked). Hence, do not put excess weights on the roof, or it may result in dents and sagging.

Clear the Roof of Debris, Water, and Snow

If debris, water, or snow sit on the roof for an extended period, corrosion can develop and cause leaking. Keep tools and materials handy to maintain a clean roof. Clear any standing water and snow from the rooftop as quickly as possible. Water retention can result in rusting of the thin metal layer, which will accelerate the degradation of the shipping container. Clear any debris from time to time as debris may trap water and also put weight on the rooftop.

• Follow the Manufacturer Provided Guidelines for Climate Control
• The temperature regulatory system within the container is similar to that of any HVAC system. Hence, staying proactive with timely inspections and regular maintenance is very important.
• Identify and Replace the Caulk and Weather Stripping
• Moisture can penetrate through cracks and crevices created from exposure to weather. Water can also promote mildew growth. Avoid such incidences by regular inspections and replacement of the caulk.

ROOF MAINTENANCE TIPS

The last thing you want is a leak in the roof of a storage container. Protecting the contents is a priority. Using a shipping container for storage can give peace of mind that the contents will always be safe.

The roof of a shipping container is simply a corrugated sheet metal with a small side pitch to shed water. The roofs are made up of specially formulated steel called Cor-Ten steel that does not warp if there is standing water on it. But if water pools in a particular spot over an extended period, the roofing can start deteriorating. You could then encounter rusting, leading to small pinholes in the roof.

When containers are stacked, you need to check the roof for dents, which can be a result of stacking. These dents can collect rainwater and cause corrosion. So to ensure the longevity of a container, paying particular attention to the container roof and overall drainage of the shipping container is key.

WILL MY SHIPPING CONTAINER HOME RUST OVER TIME?

In a world where we are constantly looking for sustainable options, living spaces have always posed a problem. Converting a shipping container into a house was first recorded in the late 1980s when a patent was filed. The eco-friendly nature of this technique and the vast numbers of containers available worldwide further adds credibility to it. These houses may be as small as 100 square feet or up to 1500 square feet according to the need.

Strong & Dependable, but not Indestructible

These containers are usually made from steel, specifically, Corten steel which is rust-resistant and weldable. However, climatic conditions play an essential role in triggering rusting of such container homes.

There are two types of rust that may show up on a shipping container house:

1. Structural rust– this happens to those houses situated in areas with high humidity, high rainfall, and frequent fog. These conditions may lead to rust damage to the structure of the container.
2. Non-structural rust– this type of rusting is generally harmless and on the surface level, which can be easily treated.

The best Treatment is Prevention

There are many tried and tested methods of treating rust and related problems in shipping container homes. Though not exhaustive, some of them mentioned below:

• Preventing exposure to harsh weather is the best way to safeguard your home. Painting using ceramic insulation paint and blocking the moisture from reaching the container structure.
• Design your home in such a way that there is enough vegetation on those sides that are bound to receive more rain and fog or salt-laden winds. Constructing a basement before placing the container; this will keep the underside safe.
• Check that water does not collect in parts like the rooftop and any dents on the container.
• For wooden parts, regularly make sure there is no pest infestation.
• There are several insulating materials available that can be used to protect your home from condensation such as spray foam, insulation panels, blanket insulation, natural insulators like wool, cotton, etc.
• Sandpaper can be used to remove small patches of rust and clean it using agents like vinegar before painting. In critical stages, the rust is sandblasted, and bare metal is exposed and then painted or coated.

Shipping container homes are one of the most sustainable and affordable options in today’s population crisis. Proper maintenance will help them to withstand tests of time and nature.

For more information on caring for a shipping container home, contact Carolina Containers at 919-562-9187. Carolina Containers is your source for shipping containers in Raleigh NC.

The post How to Maintain your Shipping Container to Make it Last first appeared on Carolina Containers.

How The Military Uses Shipping Containers To Ensure Security

The shipping containers used today throughout the transportation industry were first developed by the U.S. military to transport food and supplies during the Korean War. The original containers were called Container Express or ConEx. They were designed to be durable, weatherproof, pest-proof, and stackable. In addition, the dimensions allowed them to be used on different modes of transportation (i.e., ships, trucks, and trains). Over the years, the military has discovered that these portable, durable containers can be used for various purposes. Here are a few ways the military uses shipping containers during their operations around the world.

Shipping Containers:  Military Uses

Training Operation Barriers

During training, the military strives to present realistic operations (as close as possible) to prepare the trainees for real-world situations. Due to their structural integrity and durability, shipping containers make excellent training barriers. They simulate the types of obstacles that troops might encounter in a military arena.

Office Spaces

As the military moves around the world, they often have to create bases to run their operations. One of the things a base needs is office space. Modified containers can have windows, doors, HVAC systems, etc. – anything needed to accommodate workers. The HVAC system is vital in locations with harsh conditions.

Barracks

Along with office space, military personnel need a place to live. Shipping containers can be outfitted to create very comfortable living spaces. They can be stacked to make multi-story buildings. They are quick to set up and take down as needs change. These safe, secure, and weather-resistant living quarters can be temporary or permanent.

Storage

When the military sets up a base in a foreign land, they have to bring in all necessary supplies – food, office supplies, uniforms, linens, medical supplies, equipment, etc. These versatile containers can handle it all. Refrigerated containers are used for food and medicines that require strict temperature control. Shelves and other organizing fixtures can be added to make all stored items easy to find.

Weapon Platform

The U.S. military has converted several 20-foot containers into remote weapon stations. A lifting platform is designed to rise through doors in the roof, allowing various weapons to be used from any position on the battlefield.

Carolina Containers

The portability, durability, and versatility of shipping containers make them ideal for the military. How can you use them in your business? Contact Carolina Containers at 919-562-9187 and see what we can do for you.

The post How The Military Uses Shipping Containers To Ensure Security first appeared on Carolina Containers.

What Exactly Are Metal Shipping Containers Made Of?

Shipping containers are incredibly versatile and long-lasting if properly maintained. They are effectively giant metal boxes with doors, so it makes sense that they are often used as custom storage containers. As valuable and adaptable as shipping containers are, most people do not think much about their construction. They probably figure the containers are from steel and leave it at that.

Custom Storage Containers: Corten Steel

Custom storage containers are made from weathering steel. The metal is called Corten steel, and it’s a special alloy that is perfect for the creation of shipping containers. Corten steel alloy is designed to prevent the need for paint, improved protection from the elements, be easy to weld, and be rust-resistant. Since it’s rust-resistant and not rust-proof, some owners still paint their custom storage containers, though they often do so for promotional or logistical reasons. Under most conditions, the rust won’t progress enough to cause severe damage.

Other Metal Parts

Though the central portion of a container will be made from Corten steel, other metals can be used in the overall construction. Some parts are cast, such as the reinforced corner pieces.
There are doors, hinges, and slots for forklifts, all of which may be made of different metals.
These parts are usually more susceptible to rust and require regular maintenance.

The bottom of the container is supported with beams and joists which hold it above ground level. This construction style is why placing containers on level ground is necessary to prevent bending or twisting of the metal because these containers rest on just their corners.

Container Interior

The interior flooring of most containers is constructed from plywood. These floors are marine-grade plywood to avoid water damage and prevent the products inside from getting scraped or scratched on the metal.

Maintenance

Corten steel is an easy to work, valuable alloy designed to resist weather damage. Still, if neglected, shipping containers can break down. When maintained and adequately stored, though, custom storage containers can last for decades. In addition, their versatility and durability make them outstanding in a variety of fields, not just cargo transport. This success is in large part due to corten steel.

Carolina Containers

Is your business in need of custom storage containers? Carolina Containers can help. Our large variety of new containers for sale can be customized to your business’s specific needs. Contact us at 919-562-9187 and see what we can do for you.

The post What Exactly Are Metal Shipping Containers Made Of? first appeared on Carolina Containers.

Unique Ways to Use Shipping Containers

A recent trend in construction is using custom shipping containers to create unique structures and homes.  Ever thought about building something from custom shipping containers?  We have come up with a list of some of the best ideas for these containers.

Fire Resistant Barn

Ever thought about the fire hazard that dry hay presents?  With a shipping container barn, you don’t have to worry about fire.  It is also weather-tight and affordable for any farm.  Multiple units can be combined to develop unique and purpose-built barns.

Deck House

Ever dreamed of having a little deckhouse or a guest room separate from your house?  Shipping containers are a great option for that, and they can be easily repurposed.  Sides can be replaced with glass to provide enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces that still have a view.

Custom Home

You can create a full home from custom shipping containers.  From a single container tiny home all the way to multi-floor units that utilize multiple containers.  Some container homes use multiple containers to construct an eco-friendly house.  They can withstand harsh environments, including beach conditions.

Store/Shop/Café

Starbucks has made custom containers into full Cafés while Illy has turned them into retail outlets.  They can make great little stores with plenty of different layouts.  Illy has a unique design where a display folds out of the side.  You could combine multiple units to create exercise facilities and studios.

Schools and Educational Facilities

Connecting two shipping containers allows you to create an educational room big enough to be a teaching space.  Some schools have their whole campus built entirely from shipping containers, and it is a fantastic and affordable school.  For areas that have tornados, these shipping containers can double as shelters.

Pools

Who would have thought about having a custom shipping container as a pool?  Well, multiple people have already and the pools created are genius.  You can utilize shipping containers to make both above-the-ground and built-in pools.  These pools can vary hugely in size as the size of containers can be anywhere between 10 feet and over 50 feet.

There are plenty of creative ideas for shipping containers to be used.  Shipping containers are great because they are so versatile and durable.  What do you want to do with custom shipping containers?

We all know that shipping containers are used extensively in the transportation industry to transport a broad range of materials domestically and internationally.  Now, these versatile containers are also used in a variety of applications for residential, commercial and industrial purposes.  The structural variations are endless making them a less expensive alternative for buildings.

Businesses can order custom shipping containers to fulfill a variety of specific needs and purposes.  The versatility of these boxes means a company can have what they need regarding space and storage without the time and expense it takes to build a brick-and-mortar building.  Here are three common uses:

Office Space

Finding enough space for an office can be difficult, especially for an organization that is growing rapidly.  Sometimes you need the added space and can’t wait for new construction or space to become available in the area.

In this case, shipping containers can work very well.  A custom-designed shipping container can be ready and delivered in a short time frame.  The empty shell is customized to your specifications (windows, doors, A/C, etc.) to create a pleasant work environment quickly.  The containers can be single units or stacked to create larger environments.  Multiple units can be joined with staircases and walkways.

Moveable Business

Another common use for these containers is for moveable or seasonal businesses.

Pop-up restaurants or retail stores are ideal for using shipping containers.  Eateries in areas that are only open in the summer or retail stores selling holiday items can use customized shipping containers as their base of operations.  The cost to customize is relatively small, and the whole store can be moved to a new location during the off-season.

Secure Storage

On-site secure storage is a must for many businesses.  Whether there are tools or equipment to protect or just supplies that need to be readily available a customized shipping container can be the solution.  The steel construction makes them tough to penetrate, and they are weatherproof to protect the contents from the elements.  A customized interior can keep contents organized for easy access and inventory control.

Shipping Container as a Wine Cellar?

Luis Fernando famously said, “Wine is the only artwork you can drink.” Most people would completely agree with that statement. The same people would also agree that storing wine for future use is no simple task. This is why we will look at a simple way to build a storage unit for your wine. For this do-it-yourself project, we are going to use a refrigerated shipping container.

Steps to building a wine cellar:

• Get all the relevant approvals from the local government – Proper zoning and permits allow you to build on your land and are approved by the local government after inspection of your building plans.
• Purchase a refrigerated shipping container – whether you decide to buy a new or used shipping container, it will be suitable as you will only need to replace the refrigeration unit with an air conditioner for controlling the cellar’s temperature and humidity. These types of shipping containers are already insulated and contain a three-phase current to power the air conditioning unit.
• Dig a hole that corresponds to the shipping container’s dimensions as well as making sure the shipping container’s door is not obstructed. Make sure you also take into account space for things like stairs to and from the cellar.
• Construct a concrete pad at the bottom of the hole – This will act as the base on which you will place the shipping container.
• Cover the exterior of the shipping container with roofing tar to protect it from moisture.  Moisture will cause the container to rust if proper protection measures are not put in place.
• Using the proper equipment, place the shipping container on the concrete pad.
• Once the shipping container is in place, frame the roof. Make sure you also install a skylight to improve light distribution in the cellar.
• Buy a good air conditioner that will meet the necessary conditions of wine preservation. Replace the refrigeration unit on the shipping container with the recently acquired air conditioner.
• Cover the shipping container in earth leaving plenty of room to access the doors.
• Hire a local contractor to build the stairs and make any additional improvements to the cellar.
• Get a local carpenter to construct wooden racks to place your wine on.
• Plant vegetation where possible so as to make the landscape around the cellar aesthetically pleasing.

Your self-made wine cellar is ready to store your drinkable artwork.

Other Uses for Shipping Containers?

As international trade goes from strength to strength, storage containers have become a ubiquitous part of the modern world. However, they aren’t just for getting objects from point A to point B- if you start to think outside the box, then there’s no limit to the number of uses you can find for shipping containers.

A Storage Container Summerhouse

Wooden summerhouses often let all sorts of creepy crawlies in- with a metal shipping container, you’re protected from that, as well as from the elements. They are easy to set up, and thanks to the easy customization of shipping containers, you can add windows and doors to your liking, making for the perfect addition to your garden. There’s no need to place on a foundation since a shipping container is already strong enough as it is- meaning you’ve got an instant summerhouse as soon as you buy one!

A Ready-Made Pool

Shipping containers come in multiple sizes, from as small as 10ft in length to up to 53ft, so however much space you have on your property, you’ll be able to transform them into a ready-made swimming pool, instead of making it out of concrete. You can either submerge them in the earth or cover the outside in wooden planks for a great hot tub look. Shipping containers are also very easy to paint- so you can get the perfect look with no hassle!

A Pop-Up Shop

By adding adjustable or sliding doors to a shipping container, you can have fun with it- including using fold-out doors to turn what was a wall into some extra floor space. With that in mind, shipping containers make for great pop-up shops, especially food vendors. Instead of selling your wares out of a truck, you can give your customers somewhere to sit before folding everything away neatly at the end of the day.

Shipping Containers on a Farm: 

Reusing retired storage containers is awesome for many reasons. These storage containers are considered to be a very eco-friendly and creative option for different types of enterprises. Depending on the level of creativity of the builder, these storage containers can be used for very attractive and handy projects. Because of the high versatility of these containers, they are considered to be a perfect value addition for farms or hunting camps too. This article explains why shipping containers belong on a farm or hunting camp.

Storage containers are made out of sturdy, durable, and weatherproof steel materials.  They successfully withstand extreme conditions like fire, tornados, and storms.  In fact, storage containers have all the important aspects one would expect from an outdoor structure (durability, strength, sturdiness, and weather resistance).

There may be reasons farm owners may want to change the location of their barns or storage facilities. This scenario is when buildings made out of shipping containers become exceptionally handy; unlike permanent structures that are built using concrete or similar materials, barns from a storage container can be moved from one place to another whenever it is necessary.

Storage containers are also a great alternative for farmhouses. They are easily customizable to match the needs of perfect farmhouses. They can be customized easily regarding colors, shapes, and sizes. Farmhouses made out of containers will stay strong even during harsh weather conditions; more importantly, they have a very long lifespan.

Hunting camps that are built using storage containers are becoming popular among hunters. They can be easily placed in remote areas with relatively little effort and time. They can be colored to blend with the surroundings. Again, they are durable and protective; there is nothing to worry about regarding safety.

Using shipping containers in farms and hunting camps is an eco-friendly option. By reusing the containers, farm owners can help reduce industrial waste and make the environment a better place. They are easy to set up, easy to move, an

For more information, contact Carolina Containers at 919-562-9187.

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