What to Do with a Custom Shipping Container and How to Prepare for One

Custom shipping containers are incredibly diverse units that can be used for various purposes. Shipping containers can be modified to be something as simple as a storage container to a complex living space using multiple containers. No matter the reason for your interest in a customized shipping container to fit your specifications, a reliable vendor can help you get the desired results. In this article, we’ll give you a few suggestions as to what can be done with a custom shipping container while also giving you expert tips on preparing for receiving your modified container.

Portable Shipping Container in Raleigh NC: Customized Uses

A standard shipping container can be customized to fit your specific needs, so the sky’s the limit with what you can do with one. So, whether you’re just looking for a place to store your extra things or you’re looking for something more specific, customization is for you. Here are a few ideas.

A Quiet Space

For many people, having personal space at home is a huge thing. But, especially for adults busy with work and their families, there may not be a dedicated space to relax and wind down. A customized shipping container can easily be turned into a secluded man-cave or she-shed, a space all to your own to customize as you’d like. Explore a hobby without noise and distractions or enjoy the peace and quiet – it can be all yours.

Kids’ Playhouse

Maybe your kids are too crazy and active for your home, or they don’t have a space where they can just let loose. Every kid wants an incredible clubhouse, and a custom shipping container is a perfect solution. First, you won’t have to worry about building this clubhouse because it already comes pre-assembled. Second, you can tailor it to your kids’ preferences, decking it with some cool features.

Craft Studio

A shipping container could be the perfect isolated space for you to let loose with your artistic creativity. In addition, you won’t have to worry about making space in your home for your art and supplies, as they can all stay in the container where you practice your craft.

These are just a few ideas – you are only constrained by your imagination.

Shipping Container Preparations

Planning will make the placement easier. Here are a few things to consider before your shipping container is ready to sit on your property.

Permits

First, you’ll need to check with the local government to see if having a shipping container on your land is legal or requires a permit. In addition, if you’re part of an HOA, check the covenants about what can be placed on your property.

The Land

Next, the land must be prepped to receive the shipping container. Because this container is a large steel fabricated structure, you’ll need to create a foundation for it. Concrete and gravel make the best bed to support it.

Utilities

Finally, if you plan on hooking up utilities to your container, you’ll need to sort out how that will work. Contact an electrician, plumber, and other utility technicians to get estimates and a timeline for installation.

Carolina Containers

Do you need extra space for personal or business reasons? Carolina Containers can help. We’re the best choice for Custom-made and portable shipping container in Raleigh NC. With a ton of experience under our belts, we can handle any shipping container needs you may have. Contact us at 919-562-9187 and see what we can do for you.

The post What to Do with a Custom Shipping Container and How to Prepare for One first appeared on Carolina Containers.

Top Uses of Refrigerated Storage Containers

Have you ever wondered how to preserve and store a product at a specific temperature? How can you ship it all around the world? Refrigerated containers are the answer. Refrigerated containers, also known as reefer containers (The word “reefer” is a short form for “refrigerated.”), are globally used to transport these types of goods.

Refrigerated containers can maintain a steady interior temperature while controlling humidity and providing sufficient airflow. Maintaining the temperature in reefer containers keeps the products inside them from spoiling or degrading. Ruined products are often the result of excessive heat, moisture, and lack of sufficient airflow. Refrigerated containers are standard containers capable of maintaining specific temperatures between -18 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (-27 to 27 degrees Celsius). These containers are equipped with diesel generators to keep the preset temperature constant during a power failure. They can be acquired in 20- and 40-feet lengths. This article will discuss the various uses of refrigerated containers.

The Uses of Refrigerated Containers

These containers generally store and ship dairy products, frozen products, vegetables, seafood, meat, etc. In addition, refrigerated containers are also used to store medical supplies. Finally, everything perishable or may spoil due to temperature changes and contact with air can be preserved using reefer containers. Let us review some of the most widespread uses of these containers.

Fruits and Vegetables

Produce is probably the most widespread use of reefer containers. Fruits and vegetables are perishable and, most of the time, need to be stored and shipped in cold temperatures. They are usually transported by sea, land, and occasionally by air. For example, large, refrigerated containers can accommodate up to 15,000 boxes of bananas.

Meat and Poultry

Meat and poultry are the second most common items stored and transported by reefer containers across the oceans. Studies show that meat and poultry consumption has increased significantly in recent decades. One of the main reasons is the ability to transport these goods to different parts of the world using refrigerated containers.

Medicines

Several years ago, it was possible to transport medicines to remote destinations only by air. That was because the refrigeration and ventilation technologies were not as advanced as they are today. This shortcoming limited the number of medicines that could be shipped at one time since airplanes cannot carry as much cargo as ships. Shipping via air also inevitably raised the price of medications significantly. Fortunately, refrigerated containers have made it possible to transport massive amounts of medicines worldwide, reducing the cost of medications.

Dairy Products

Manufacturers usually use reefer containers to transport dairy products within the country or the continent. Most of the time, containers are hoisted over trucks and trains to ship dairy products to various destinations.

Seafood

It is good to know that statistically, 19 percent of the food items carried and shipped by reefer containers are seafood and seafood products. Everyone knows that seafood spoils exceptionally quickly. That is why refrigerated containers used to store and send this kind of food must be very high-quality to ensure the food reaches the kitchens freshly as if it has just been taken from the sea.

Movie Props

You may be surprised to hear this one, but big movie producers use refrigerated containers to transport movie props and other movie-related paraphernalia. These items may be worth millions of dollars, and producers do not want to risk delaying filming due to damaged or degraded props. Also, movie shooting is sometimes done in harsh environments, and delicate movie equipment and props must be protected from nature’s elements. Therefore, reefer containers are handy because they are mobile, weatherproof, and climate controlled.

Flowers

The flowers you buy to express your love to your partner may have come from South America, Asia, Europe, Australia, or some other distant country. However, they still have the fragrance and freshness as if they had just been cut. The truth is that this delicacy would never be possible if it were not for the usage of reefer containers. Over 700,000 metric tons of flowers are transported globally. Although more than 90 percent of it is transported by air, the advancement in refrigerated containers has made it possible to transport more types of flowers by the sea. The result is a drastic reduction in shipment cost and a massive increase in the quantity of the flowers transported.

Wine

Like other perishable products, wine may become undrinkable when exposed to sudden temperature changes. That is why it is stored in highly specialized reefer containers when transported over the oceans. Wide varieties of wine are transported by sea, and it is essential to control the temperature to maintain their quality.

Military Operations

Military forces use refrigerated containers to transport and store food, medicine, chemicals, and other items that might perish in bad climate conditions. In addition, military forces use special reefer containers resistant to extreme temperatures, electromagnetic interference, and vibration.

Carolina Containers

Does your business need to ship a delicate or perishable product? Refrigerated containers may be the answer, and Carolina Containers can help. We carry a large inventory of containers that can be modified to your business needs. Contact us at 919-562-9187 and see what we can do for you.

The post Top Uses of Refrigerated Storage Containers first appeared on Carolina Containers.

Getting the Perfect Shipping Container for You

Whether you run a logistics company or want to create remote offices for your workers on offshore sites, shipping containers are a must-have. However, shipping containers aren’t something people can go to the market and buy without significant knowledge about them. There are many different aspects to consider.

If you’re in the market for a portable shipping container, it’s important to find one perfect for your needs. All sorts of containers are available, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. So, how do you choose the right one? This blog post will discuss some factors you need to consider when choosing a shipping container.

Know That Shipping Containers Can Be Expensive, So Set Your Budget Accordingly

It all starts with knowing your budget. When looking for shipping containers, it is crucial to set a budget. Shipping containers can be expensive, so it is better to research before purchasing one. For example, a 20-footer shipping container can cost around $5000. You can find used shipping containers for a lower price. But, of course, these prices vary depending on the container’s location, age, and condition.

The Dimensions of the Shipping Container That You Need

When in the market for a shipping container, one crucial thing you need to consider is the container’s dimensions. The standard size of a shipping container is 20 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 8 feet tall, but other sizes are available, such as 40 feet long. Therefore, you want to ensure that the container you choose is the right size for your needs.

Familiarize Yourself with the Regulations Regarding the Use of Shipping Containers

Before your container search, it is vital to familiarize yourself with the regulations regarding their use. Depending on what your plans are for your shipping container, certain restrictions in place could impact your ability to use one.

If you are looking to use a shipping container on your property as a storage shed, you will need to ensure that it meets all the requirements for such structures in your municipality. But, again, taking the time to research the regulations upfront will help you avoid any headaches down the road.

How Much Weight Can It Hold?

Payload capacity is a consideration for any container, but especially shipping containers. Therefore, you need to ensure that the container you select can handle the weight of your goods.

One way to determine the payload capacity of a given container is to check its tare weight. The tare weight is the weight of the empty container. It’s important to note that the tare weight will vary depending on the container’s material. For example, a steel shipping container will have a higher tare weight than an aluminum one. The tare weight can be found on the CSC plate, which is affixed to every shipping container.

The Material of the Shipping Container

You have a choice of materials when looking for the perfect shipping container. The most popular and most common type of shipping container is made out of steel. Steel is strong, so it is the material of choice for most container manufacturers. However, there are some disadvantages to using steel as well. One is that it can rust over time if not well maintained.

If you live in an area prone to heat and moisture, you may want to consider another material for your shipping container. Aluminum is another popular choice for shipping containers. It is much lighter than steel, making it easier to move around. Aluminum is also not susceptible to rusting.

Level of Modifications You Can Perform on the Shipping Container

Another thing you need to decide is how much you want to modify the container. Some containers come as-is, and others have been modified for uses other than shipping goods. If you’re planning on using the container as-is, you don’t have to worry about making any modifications. However, if you want to modify the container, you’ll need to factor in the cost of materials and labor. The most common modifications that people make to shipping containers include adding:

• Windows and doors
• Insulation
• Electricity
• Plumbing
• HVAC systems
• Exterior paint

Of course, you can always hire a professional to do the modifications for you. However, if you’re on a budget and the changes are minor, you can do them yourself. Just keep in mind that some modifications will require building permits.

Is the Container Insulated or Not?

You will want to think about whether you need an insulated container or not. If you are storing things that need to stay cool, you will need an insulated container. Insulated containers typically cost a bit more, but they are worth it if you need climate control.

If you are storing food or other perishable items, you will need a refrigerated container. This is the only way to ensure that your goods stay fresh and unspoiled. These containers can be quite expensive, but they are worth it if you must keep your food fresh.

Carolina Containers

If you’re looking for an affordable and high-quality portable shipping container in Raleigh, NC, look no further than Carolina Containers. Their containers are wind and water-tight, which will keep your belongings safe and dry during transport. Plus, our team of experts will work with you to find the perfect container for your needs. So, what are you waiting for? Contact Carolina Containers by calling 919-562-9187 today and let them help you find the perfect solution for your business.

The post Getting the Perfect Shipping Container for You first appeared on Carolina Containers.

Shipping Container as a Portable Office

Shipping container offices have many benefits over a traditional office. They can be built quickly, your office will be custom designed to your needs, and they are less expensive than other office space options. Shipping container offices are also more durable, environmentally friendly, and portable. Portable shipping containers are often used as storage units but could also be used as offices or homes. This article will give you a detailed description of shipping container offices.

What is a Shipping Container?

A shipping container is a steel box used to transport goods worldwide. The standard shipping container’s width is 8 feet, and they come in various lengths – 10, 20, and 40 feet. The most common size is 20 feet long by 8 feet wide by 8 feet high, but some smaller ones are also available. Shipping containers are substantial because they are made from thick steel. Therefore, they can be stacked on top of each other if you want to save space or create a multi-story building for your office.

Advantages of Using a Shipping Container as an Office

Shipping containers are energy efficient. They’re made of steel and insulated with foam, making them great for blocking out the weather and keeping things cool in the summer.

A shipping container is easy to move around. Thanks to their modular design, you can pick one up and move it as needed with a truck. You can build your office on wheels inside a large cargo truck trailer that will allow for plenty of room for equipment while also providing maximum stability when moving from place to place.

Shipping containers are modular by nature. You can add windows where there aren’t any, replace doors with more secure hardware, add electrical outlets or wiring, and configure shelving units however works best within available space constraints.

Quick Construction

In many cases, you have a container office in just a matter of days. The traditional building process takes months or even years to complete. In addition to this, if you want your new office to be built in an existing parking lot on the main street of town, it will take some time before you can get approval from local government agencies. With container offices, however, they can be built on remote sites with minimal interference from surrounding buildings or infrastructure.

Environmentally Friendly

A shipping container office is environmentally friendly for many reasons. First, it’s made from steel – recyclable material. Second, as it requires less energy to build than conventional construction methods, less waste needs to be dealt with during the manufacturing process. Thirdly, because shipping containers are mobile and compact when not in use for offices or storage units, they take up less space than most buildings would on-site – so there’s more green space available for humans. Fourthly, solar panels can be installed on top of the containers, which will help make them self-sufficient and good-looking.

Sustainability and Affordability

Because shipping containers are recycled, they are incredibly sustainable. They can be used over and over again. This reuse keeps them from ending up in landfills where they would otherwise sit forever. Furthermore, shipping containers are affordable. Since there is no need for extensive construction or labor to construct a building from scratch, using containers as portable offices offers lower costs than traditional office space or even renting one in an existing building would offer.

Transportation and Mobility

The most obvious benefit to using shipping containers as portable offices is that they can be transported anywhere. They are designed to move and travel, and you will find them at ports worldwide. Their mobility makes them ideal for use in remote areas where permanent buildings are not available or practical. Shipping containers are also straightforward to transport and move around once they arrive. They can be moved by a crane, forklift truck, or by hand, depending on the size of the container. You can even bring your container indoors if desired.

Shipping Container Office

Shipping containers are an excellent, cost-effective, sustainable solution for your office space needs. You can get a shipping container office fixed up and fully furnished in no time, and they’re easy to move around as needed. They’re also customizable and made from recycled materials, so you’ll be making an environmentally friendly choice when choosing a shipping container office.

When choosing your new home or office space, consider using a shipping container as part of your building plan. Because these modular structures are prefabricated off-site before being shipped to their final location, they can be constructed quickly with minimal labor costs. In addition, they’re built out of recyclable materials such as steel or aluminum (or both), so there’s less environmental impact than traditional building methods would cause.

If you’re looking for office space, but don’t want to spend the money on a traditional building, then a shipping container office might be ideal. Shipping container offices are durable, versatile, and cost less than a conventional building. They can also be delivered quickly so your company can start working in no time.

Carolina Containers

Are you looking for new office space? Carolina Containers can help. We carry a large inventory of shipping containers, both standard and modified. Don’t see exactly what you need? We can customize it to your specifications. Give us a call at 919-562-9187 and see what we can do for you.

The post Shipping Container as a Portable Office first appeared on Carolina Containers.

Signs That Your Shipping Container Needs Maintenance

Shipping containers are incredibly durable and versatile. Their relative affordability means they can be found across the globe performing various duties with transporting goods as their primary job. Since they are giant steel boxes, they do this job very well. Unfortunately, shipping containers tend to be left exposed to the elements until needed again when that task is completed. Since they are giant boxes, some people think they can be left alone and remain in excellent functioning condition. That isn’t the case, though. Shipping containers do need regular maintenance to stay functional. Knowing the signs when shipping container maintenance is needed can help save the container keeping it sound for decades.

Keeping an eye on them for maintenance is easy enough, but it’s essential to know how to care for the containers to make them last. Some aspects are apparent, like keeping the paint up-to-date to prevent rust, but sometimes it can take a little extra knowledge to ensure the containers remain in usable shape.

Signs Maintenance is Needed

Rust

The most common and most obvious danger for a shipping container is rust. They are, after all, giant steel boxes. When manufactured, these boxes are treated with weatherproof and water-resistant paints, but time can wear those coatings away. So, ensuring the paint job remains in excellent condition is the first step in rust prevention. Then keeping standing water off the container and the bottom of the container dry completes this maintenance routine.

Sagging Roof or Walls

Along with potential rust, the roof can sag with time, especially if it is not correctly placed on a flat surface with even weight distribution. Keeping the roof clear of debris, excess weight, and water will help prevent warping or sagging.

Sticking Hinges

Rust and simple wear can affect the various hinges around a shipping container. Over time, metal scraping against metal can cause wear, remove paint, and result in squeaking, sticking, and, naturally, rust. Therefore, hinges should be checked regularly and maintained with new paint and lubricant.

Moldy Interior

Along with the outside, the inside needs to be regularly checked. This check is essential for containers with HVAC systems. Not only is there a risk of rust, but also mold or mildew. Keeping an eye on the heater or cooler and the walls for mold growth will help keep the container clean. Removing mold can be easy enough once it’s spotted. However, making sure it doesn’t come back might require HVAC repairs, so keep an eye on the system. Most likely, it’s a moisture issue from excessive humidity.

Buckled & Unlevel Flooring

The floor buckling or warping can happen if the container is not kept on a level surface for even weight distribution. Signs of warping or buckling are pretty easy to spot. Flat, hard surfaces are ideal for shipping container storage.

The importance of a flat, level surface has been mentioned several times now. However, the placement location of the containers can shift occasionally. If that is the case, the containers need to be re-leveled to prevent warping.

Frequent Maintenance Chores to Complete

Rust Prevention

As for the ever-present risk of rust, prevention can be achieved with thorough cleaning and drying of the container, especially the roof and inside. Dents picked up along the years are also potential rust points and should be scrutinized.

Lubricate Hinges

As for the hinges, regular lubrication and the occasional opening and closing to make sure everything is working correctly will help. First, open the right door and check carefully for rust, squeaking, or sticking when inspecting. Clean, lubricate, and repaint as needed. Repeat the same process for the left door.

Interior Cleaning

The inside of the container might seem safe, but the risk of rust and mold is still present, especially if an HVAC system is involved. Measuring humidity and checking for mold or wear in the system itself should be done regularly. If there are issues, they need to be addressed to prevent further damage. After all, no one wants to use a container filled with mold or vents clogged with debris.

Maintenance is Necessary

Some people tend to think that shipping container maintenance isn’t needed. While containers are durable and weatherproof to a massive extent, some damage will occur if they’re sitting in a lot for months or even years on end. Paint can get chipped or scratched off, water can accumulate, and the ground can settle in strange ways. Proper maintenance of shipping containers is needed to keep them in working order. Otherwise, they won’t be weather- or rust-resistant anymore, and that tends to defeat the purpose of shipping containers in the first place. Keeping them maintained ensures they can do what they do best when needed.

Carolina Containers

Is your business in need of shipping containers? Carolina Containers can help. We carry a large inventory of shipping containers in all sizes and can instruct you on proper shipping container maintenance. We can even do customized modifications to meet your needs. For more information, contact us at 919-562-9187.

The post Signs That Your Shipping Container Needs Maintenance first appeared on Carolina Containers.

Your Guide to Shipping Container Modifications

Shipping containers are incredibly versatile. They are not only a vital aspect of international transportation but also great for other purposes. Since they are giant steel boxes constructed from durable material with hinged doors and weather-resistant finishing, they can, with modifications, be transformed for all sorts of needs, even homes. Of course, it helps that shipping containers are incredibly cheap, making it easy to turn them into shipping container houses in NC.

Modified Shipping Containers

Mobile offices, first aid stations, bathrooms, and classrooms are all common modifications for shipping containers, but they’re not the only ones. Increasingly, containers are being transformed into homes. The largest-sized containers are about the size of a mobile home, so the idea isn’t as odd as it may seem. Shipping containers can also be welded together to make larger homes and buildings. Since shipping containers are durable and resistant to weather conditions, they can create affordable housing in areas severely lacking such infrastructure. While modifying steel containers is relatively easy, it’s still a process with steps, just like any other construction job.

Purchasing a Container

While construction is underway, or even before, the actual containers need to be purchased. After transporting cargo, shipping containers are often left at destinations because it’s usually cheaper to leave them than ship them back from whence they came. Generally, ports and major shipping companies are likely to have some lying around, and it is even possible to find them through online auctions and listing sites. It might take some digging, but the containers are available for purchase in all price ranges and conditions.

Making Modifications

While pre-modified homes can be purchased, when it comes to handling the modification process, experts need to be consulted. In addition, to maintain the integrity of the shipping container structure, you should hire an engineer to ensure everything is done correctly.

The various modifications that cut into the walls of the container (i.e., adding windows and doors) should be handled by experts under the supervision of an architectural engineer or someone similarly qualified. Having an engineer review the container’s structural integrity is essential, especially if containers are to be stacked (in the case of creating larger houses). Safety, comfort, and building codes also need to be incorporated, and architects and engineers are trained to make sure everything is safe.

Adding Utilities

These modifications are pretty apparent. Locations for windows and doors and access for various utilities need to be built into the container, along with the necessary HVAC support and equipment. The contractors will handle all that and knowing how to properly layout a smaller home will ensure enough room for everything needed to make a safe and secure place.

Design Tools

Design software tools are also incredibly helpful for this process. Such programs offer sketches and designs to help with the modification process. Architects who specialize in such work are worth considering as well. As for the floor plan itself, consider looking at similar tiny home designs already done by designers. Pay attention to the details they add, especially storage.

Lot Preparation

One of the first steps of the process is to obtain the future site for the modified container home. Of course, proper drainage is a must. The location also needs to be graded appropriately to account for drainage, maintenance, and the usual issues that any building faces over long periods. Next, municipal services need to be installed, such as septic, water, and electricity. Some excavation may be necessary for all this – a step not required for mobile homes.

Placing the Container

Once the construction site is prepared, and the container has been transformed into a home, the two need to be brought together. Transporting the new home to the lot is easy enough since any truck designed to handle shipping containers or mobile homes can easily take care of that part of the process. To put the home in place, though, will require a crane since the site is excavated and set up for the permanent settling of the house. First, the home needs to be set on the foundation and then welded to secure the building properly. Next, the new home needs to be reinforced (if required), the utilities hooked up, and any external features installed, namely doors and windows. Once that’s all completed, it’s a house.

New Home Option

There are a lot of steps to modify a shipping container into a home, but the results are pretty straightforward. The new home will be durable and reliable, the same as any other house. While it might take time and effort, the same can be said for any home construction. While a shipping container home might not be everyone’s go-to solution for affordable and reliable housing, it is an option more people should consider. Shipping containers are durable, and an adequately maintained container will last many years.

Carolina Containers

Are you thinking about creating a shipping container house in NC? Carolina Containers can help. We sell a wide range of shipping containers, plus we do modifications. Contact us at 919-562-9187 and see what we can do for you.

The post Your Guide to Shipping Container Modifications first appeared on Carolina Containers.

Your Ultimate Guide to Buying a Shipping Container

Buying a shipping container for storage is a big deal. However, because the containers are not particularly cheap, it’s essential to be an informed consumer before making a purchase decision.

Even if you are just on the market to rent a shipping container for yourself, you need to know what you’re looking for to ensure you’re getting a Conex container that will meet your needs. (Conex is a top brand known for its quality and durability.)

Shipping containers can quickly get confusing and having to dig through the internet and piece together all the information doesn’t help.

Are You Sure You Should Purchase or Rent the Container?

Before you make any big decisions, you need to be sure to buy a container. Say you only think you’ll need the container for a few weeks or even shorter – we’re going to have to recommend that you look into renting over purchasing. It’ll save you money in the long term. There are positives and negatives to each, which we will go over below.

When buying a container, it costs far less over a long period than renting. Renting, though, will come out to be cheaper for shorter periods. With a rented container, though, you aren’t having to worry about paying for maintenance or storage when not in use. So, it’s all very situational. We’re happy to talk numbers with you if you contact us and help figure out what route will be the best for you.

Do You Know What Kind of Container You Need?

Now that you have an idea of renting or purchasing a shipping container, you need to figure out exactly the style and configuration you need.

People often assume that shipping containers only come in one standard size and design. That’s very far from the truth, though; shipping containers come in all kinds of shapes and sizes. In terms of overall length, you’re mostly going to find 20ft containers and 40ft containers. 10ft shipping containers are not as commonplace as the larger, more standard sizes.

Take a look at our container specs page to see every different type of container we have, but we can go over some of the big things to review.

What exactly you intend to store in your container will determine what is best for you. For example, say you’re running a butcher shop, but cooler space is getting limited – a reefer (refrigerated) container could be perfect for that overflow storage and keep your meat safe.

Containers come in both open-top and side-opening models. Open-top containers are ideal for transporting large machinery and any difficult to store and move materials. A side-opening container is a perfect option for those with longer or bulkier cargo.

If you just let us know what you primarily need a shipping container for, we can certainly help point you in the right direction based on our own experiences.

Getting the Right Grade of Shipping Container for Your Needs

Second-hand or used shipping containers are perfect for many who don’t necessarily need a brand new Conex container.

The whole grading system can be confusing. Grades are based on the container’s size, condition, age, and other factors.

Say you are looking to store food or deal with anything perishable like that – you want a container with a grade on the higher end to keep things safe. But, on the other hand, maybe you’re just storing dirty construction equipment – you could get away with a slightly lower grade.

Grade A (Cargo Worthy)

Grade A containers are at the very top of the grading system. They should have a clean interior with no rust or dents and be fully watertight.

No pests or bugs should be able to get in this container at all. Minor scratches are fine, as long as the container is still functionally perfect. These containers should have a CSC plate, allowing use in overseas shipping.

These containers are also ideal for converting into your own office or store.

Grade B (Watertight)

These tend to be older than containers marked grade A. These containers may show a bit more surface scratches and maybe even patches of surface rust, but they still should be watertight and be able to keep any bugs or pests out. The interior may not be spotless, but these containers are still great for moving things en masse. They’re also ideal for storing items that don’t need much care to protect them.h

Grade C

These are the oldest containers you’re going to find on the market. We tend only to carry higher-grade containers but wanted to give you all of your options to be well informed. These can have some dents and rust/corrosion making them no longer wind or watertight fully.

Find a Reputable Conex Container Retailer

If you are outright purchasing your shipping container, you need to take the time to research shipping container retailers near you. It’s always good to ask friends and family for their opinions. Maybe they’ve dealt with some retailers in the area and can point you in the right direction.

Online searching is your best friend here. A quality retailer will have a good representation of their stock available online and will be more than happy to talk with you and answer any questions they have. You can also read the reviews of others online, an excellent resource for judging the quality of a container retailer.

You can never go wrong shopping with Carolina Containers. We have a reputation as the premier shipping container retailer in central North Carolina.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out. We will happily answer all of your questions.

Don’t Forget Any Conex Container Transportation That You May Need

Whether you’re just storing things in a particular place or transporting them from one place to another, you’re going to need container transportation services at some point.

Carolina Containers offers full-service shipping container transportation for all of our customers. We’ll get that container delivered where you want it, without fail.

Experienced professionals, such as ourselves, must drop off your Conex box. They need to go on flat surfaces only, and our experts can usually gauge things like drainage pretty well. It’s beyond important that your shipping container isn’t sitting in water or a compromised position that can quickly take even a brand new container from great shape to nearly falling apart.

Maintenance is also essential if you do end up purchasing your container. Just keep an eye out to make sure no debris is sitting on top of it for a long time and look out for rust and things like that.

As strong as a container is, they are not indestructible. They can stay in good shape for a very long time to come. We offer shipping container customization and repair services.

Learn more about our shipping containers for sale. We offer 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft shipping containers. We also offer shipping container rentals. Contact us today at 919-562-9187. Carolina Containers is here to help you.

The post Your Ultimate Guide to Buying a Shipping Container first appeared on Carolina Containers.