A Look Back at Shipping Containers Through the Years

It’s hard to overstate the usefulness and durability of shipping containers. For basically a giant steel box, they have proven incredibly versatile. Besides the obvious use of transporting goods, they can be modified to suit all sorts of needs. Modern shipping containers can be transformed into long-term storage, mobile homes, offices, classrooms, and even mobile clinics. Shipping container sales remain high because they are so cheap that companies use them once and let them sit. That’s why so many can be obtained for even lower prices and modified for various needs.

Shipping Container Sales: The Versatility of Shipping Containers

In the Beginning

Shipping containers weren’t always so versatile or ubiquitous. Until the twentieth century, products were transported in either wooden crates, barrels, or exposed to the elements. With all these different sizes and shapes, efficient shipping was complicated. Also, this method brought spoilage risks, and the container often weighed more than the goods themselves.

Modern Times

In 1956, American businessman Malcolm McLean sought to make the industry of shipping more economical. He worked to develop a large, versatile container that could hold a lot of goods. His invention was, obviously, the metal shipping container. It was standardizing the container size and making them stackable that revolutionized the transportation industry.

The containers quickly became a commercial and international transport standard. More than 17 million are used, and shipping container sales show no signs of stopping as world trade increases. However, for the first few decades of their use, shipping containers remained primarily relegated to transportation.

Beyond Shipping Goods

In the 1980s, people at construction sites started to look for a place to secure big, bulky stuff on-site to deter theft. As a giant steel box with doors, a couple of locks and chains can turn any properly maintained steel container into a massive safe.

Their versatility only grew with demand. By the turn of the 21st century, shipping containers were being modified to serve as temporary housing for construction workers and similar laborers who needed to travel long distances for their contracts. From there, the modification of containers to offices and classrooms proved easy enough. As a result of recent health crises, shipping containers have also been used as mobile medical clinics and testing sites.

Shipping containers may not have a long history, but their presence has revolutionized transportation and other infrastructural fields. It’s almost impossible not to see a shipping container in daily life because there are so many of them, and they’re so helpful and versatile. Thanks to one man’s transportation vision, such containers are helping people across the globe.

Carolina Containers

Do you need extra storage, office, or retail space? A modified shipping container could be the solution. Carolina Containers is tops in shipping container sales. We have a wide selection of standard and modified shipping containers. Don’t see what you need? We can change it to your specifications. Contact us at 919-562-9187 and see what we can do for you.

The post A Look Back at Shipping Containers Through the Years first appeared on Carolina Containers.

What Are the Most Challenging Parts of Working in the Container Industry?

When an industry is evolving, a lot of roadblocks and hiccups pop up. The shipping container industry is no different. There are many challenges, while most people think it’s a seamless industry. Below are some of the challenges that several leaders in the shipping container industry face.

Portable Shipping Container Raleigh NC: Industry Myths

Shipping Container Structures are Cheap

An unmodified shipping container is inexpensive. However, that cost is about 10% of the total for a modified shipping container. The balance includes electrical, carpentry, plumbing, site work, finishes, and other additions and changes. Therefore, the notion that container structures are cheap is false, and people need to change their mindset and choose to buy containers because they provide solutions, not because they are cheap.

The Industry is Young

The standardized metal shipping container industry began in the 1950s. Since then, the industry has expanded to using containers for various reasons, from extra storage to homes. The more the customization, the higher the cost for the customer. The industry continues to grow as the popularity of recycling containers into portable shops, eateries, and offices increases.

Modifications are Easy

Many people think they can alter a shipping container just because they have experience with welding or a home renovation. However, modifying a shipping container isn’t as easy as it seems. Faulty work ends up with compromised structural integrity, thus giving the industry a bad reputation. Most reputable companies have structural engineers on staff who have software to analyze every structure. This analysis is especially critical for multi-container designs.

Standards in Safety and Quality

As of now, container structures are regulated by states and local governments, and those regulations vary widely. Each entity has developed its own safety and quality standards. Unfortunately, there are no national organization standards. So it is wise to be cautious and research who you hire for modifications. Of course, any changes that include electrical or plumbing must meet standard codes of safety.

Standard Building Codes

Existing building codes weren’t meant for modified container structures. This situation makes these building codes challenging to follow. The codes are often opaque and inconsistent from locale to locale and even state to state. It is unclear what to follow and what not to follow and what even is being enforced.

Carolina Containers

Are you looking for more storage or office space? Your solution may be a portable shipping container in Raleigh NC. Carolina Containers carries a large selection of standard and modified containers for a variety of uses. Don’t see what you need? We can modify any container to meet your needs. Contact us at 919-562-9187 and see what we can do for you.

The post What Are the Most Challenging Parts of Working in the Container Industry? first appeared on Carolina Containers.

Are You Looking For A Custom Shipping Container for Winter Storage?

Shipping containers are so versatile and functional that you can use them for practically anything, ranging from storage to housing! They have only become more popular with new trends like shipping container bars, shopping outlets, and even homes. In fact, the use of cargo containers for self-storage has been around for many years now. The fact that real estate is becoming costlier with time means that these alternative dwellings are gaining even more ground with people.

The advantages of using cargo containers from Raleigh are well worth every penny. You will find our cargo containers to be safe, durable, cost-effective, and even weatherproof. One of the most common uses of shipping containers is converting them into storage space. When you think about conventional storage facilities, they are quite expensive to physically maintain and are usually not conveniently close. Buying a cargo container is like making an investment that can pay off any way you want it to in the future, not to mention you can use it as soon as you get it!

Long-Lasting Dependability

Cargo containers are also very durable thus they are ideal options for storing personal items outdoors particularly during the harsh upcoming winter weather. These storage containers have been designed and built to withstand all manner of external forces. Strong impacts and harsh weather will have little to no effect on your container. Cargo containers in Raleigh are made using weathering steel that is very high strength, with a finish that will keep out the elements and corrosion. You can truly trust the waterproofing abilities of a container, your things WILL be dry if you store them in your container. Water can cause grave damage to so many things, don’t give it the chance!

Security & Confidence 

Our containers are extremely secure. They have a lot of structural integrity, just looking around one will assure you of that. If you choose to buy more than one storage container, you can easily stack them on top of one another! They’re made to be stacked tall when they sit in shipyards or even on their overseas journeys. This allows you to truly maximize your storage space. You can add ladders or whatever you want to make it easier for you to access.

If you no longer have any good use for your cargo container, you can probably look to re-sell it for a decent price! You could also look to rent it out to anyone who needs temporary storage. You can also quite easily relocate your container wherever it is most convenient for you! Just one more great feature of shipping containers is how easy they are to transport, you can load them up on the back of a truck and take them where you want them!

As it Gets Colder out, Make Sure You’re Ready to Meet All of Your Storage Needs

It’s important that your power tools and other sensitive things be stored somewhere safe, make sure you have a secure and non-freezing place to put your things. You can base the size of the container you need on your own personal storage needs. You’ll need a larger container for any kind of vehicle, but much smaller if you’re just storing “stuff”.

Can you afford to lose the valuable household stuff you’ve labored for years? Definitely no, nor do you want to! At times, especially during the holidays, you want to do some extra shopping, have some new furniture, or even a car, so chances are good you need somewhere to keep some of it. Sometimes it’s a big risk to keep gifts for other family members in your home, as they can easily be stumbled across! Do everyone a favor and store all of your gifts in your container, it’ll save you from clutter and from that awkward moment!

Buy New Or Used Carolina Containers?

When it comes to the choice of shipping containers, you need to know what all of your options are. Shipping containers are available in different sizes, dimensions, and prices as well. You can either go the new or used route just depending on your exact wants and needs. Used shipping containers have been used for 10-15 years or more and may contain some visible surface rust. If the rust is a matter of concern to you, then, consider buying a new shipping container which is a bit expensive compared to the used shipping containers but will last you quite a bit longer.

If you give your shipping container proper maintenance, it’s going to serve you for a long time. Pressure washing and painting can help extend the life of your shipping container for maximum protection of your stuff. They are completely water and airtight, they are made to travel across entire oceans after all!

How Do I Get A Storage Container?

If you are looking for the most ideal standard quality storage container Raleigh, we can help you find the best storage container tailored to your specific needs. We modify our storage containers to meet the needs of our different customers and the results have been overwhelmingly positive. The smallest changes can make huge differences, such as a light or heating unit.

We Deliver Direct On-Site

Finding the best storage container in Raleigh has never been this easy. Imagine, by calling us, from the comfort of your home or workplace, we can help you find your dream storage container and we deliver exactly where you want when you want. So, don’t worry, we’ve taken the hassle out of the whole thing. Just tell us what you need and we help make it a reality!

So, Is a Storage Container on Your Wish-list?

We know it’s holiday time and spacious, safe, and secure storage is obviously something that interests you if you’re still here. Don’t miss out on our amazing offers on all types of storage containers. We’ve got the right price for the right container to give you great value for your money and make it an investment well worth the price.

Harsh climates with hot summers and chilly winters can be dangerous for some items that require long-term storage if they are exposed to the weather for long. Insulation is vital not only for comfort but also to prevent the container from mold or corrosion. Let’s see how one can insulate a shipping container.

Foam insulation

To keep the container warm during cooler climates and dry in damper ones, spray foam insulation is the way to go. As the most flexible and quickest method of insulation, it creates a consistent vapor barrier combating condensation and leaving the container dry. Foam insulation is sprayed into gaps on the inside and outside of the shipping container as well as underneath it to prevent moisture from creeping in.  If one is interested in painting over the foam, allow it to settle. Spray foam insulation is messier and more expensive than other options such as blanket insulation or insulation panels.

Insulation panels and blanket insulation

These two options require stud walls to use.  Insulation panels are purchased at predefined sizes and fitted into the gaps of a stud wall. Their depth gives them a high insulating power which is much cheaper compared to foam insulation. For blanket insulation, rock wool or fiberglass is the material used which requires a lot of care when handling. For safe installation, personal protective equipment should be at your disposal. Out of the three options mentioned, blanket insulation is the cheapest.

Eco-friendly options

Options that include natural materials like wool, mud, cotton or a living roof for insulation are all considered eco-friendly. Wool insulation method uses sheep’s wool while cotton uses recycle cotton which makes it differ from blanket insulation. Though it’s not recommended to replace proper insulation, a living roof can minimize indoor temperatures and mud can be used on the container’s roof.  It’s advisable to use mud only in areas where rain is scarce; too much water isn’t friendly to mud.

No need to stick to one method, combining more than one insulation process is different sections can ultimately provide a better result.

Types of Insulation

Styrofoam, spray foam and batt are the three main types of insulation used in shipping containers. Let us look at each of them:

• Styrofoam: Polystyrene (commonly known as Styrofoam) is ideal for insulating storage containers. It is a fast, easy, and cost-effective way of insulating a storage shipping container and also helps reduce sound. Conventional climate-controlled storage containers typically come with an inch of Styrofoam insulation already installed.
• Spray Foam: This is ideal for temperature-sensitive enclosures. It is not considered to be the most aesthetically pleasing insulation, and it is sprayed directly onto the container walls. The spray foam then sets as a water-resistant, hard covering. Spray foam is a more expensive insulation option.
• Batt (or Roll): This insulation material is ideal for living spaces and offices. Batt is made up of finely woven strands of mineral wool, plastic fibers, or glass, and it is the industry standard for insulation used in residential and office containers.

The quickest way to insulate shipping containers is to put in insulation panels that are readily available in predefined sizes, making it easy to fit them. Blanket insulation is also considered to be one of the cheapest options available. Eco-friendly insulation materials are also available such as cotton, wool, and mud.

So when you are buying a shipping container, keep in mind the various insulation options there are as only with proper insulation can you successfully convert a container into a comfortable living or office space.

For more information on modifying a shipping container, please contact Carolina Containers at 919-562-9187.

The post Are You Looking For A Custom Shipping Container for Winter Storage? first appeared on Carolina Containers.

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.

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