With so many things, from toys, souvenirs, and cars to furniture, paintings, clothing, and shoes, people often run out of space to store their possessions. Things accumulated over the years lie scattered in the room, garage, and basement. There is never enough room to store things away. This is where shipping containers come in handy as storage units.
Shipping containers are made of sturdy, thick steel. They are safe, waterproof, economical, and durable, making them ideal storage units. This blog discusses all about storage containers for storage units.
What Are Storage Containers Used for?
Here's what shipping containers are used for -
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Corporate Storage - This adds an extra space to contain additional inventory, business equipment, or documents.
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Personal Storage - It can also be used for personal use, as it can help store all your garden or shed needs.
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Moving Storage - They can be used as moving storage, which helps keep the items safe and secure, especially if you're shipping them overseas.
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Vehicle Storage - They are great for storing and shipping race cars, tractors, or any vehicles that take up additional space in the driveway.
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Agricultural Storage - You can store farm equipment, hay bales, feed, etc., in shipping containers to protect them from harsh weather elements.
Why Use Shipping Containers for Storage?
Homes and businesses prefer shipping containers for storage because -
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Shipping storage is more affordable than building a traditional storage.
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They are dust-proof and have tight seals around the doors to keep unwanted animals and pests out.
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They are more secure, as there is a lock on the door handle and a special lockbox for additional security.
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The doors open completely, making it easy to store larger or bulkier items, such as trailers and trucks.
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Compared to buildings, shipping containers have a longer lifespan and require little to no maintenance.
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They are strong, sturdy, waterproof, and weatherproof, made of thick steel walls to keep your belongings safe.
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Using shipping containers for your business gives you a lot more freedom because you may move, add, remove, and rearrange units as needed.
Which Shipping Storage Size Should I Choose?
Here are some of the shipping storage sizes that are considered ideal -
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20-Foot Storage Containers - These are industry-standard storage containers that are best for transportation and easy loading.
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40-Foot Storage Containers - These are considered best if your storage needs are on the larger side. They offer perfect storage space without stressing over budget.
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40-Foot High Cube Storage Containers - These are best if you need extra space to accommodate oversized items. They also have some extra height to store tall items or stacked lightweight cargo.
There are several other storage and shipping containers available, such as -
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Open top containers
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Flatrack containers
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Insulated containers
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Refrigerated containers
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20' double-door shipping containers
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40' double-door shipping containers
Many container providers can customize and modify the containers to suit your needs. Whether you need heating and cooling, lock boxes, panic bars, vents, etc., they can design a custom shipping container that suits your needs.
Best Tips to Use Shipping Containers as Storage Units
Shipping containers make amazing storage units for both commercial and residential properties. This is mainly due to their cost-effectiveness and efficiency in storing items. Here are some tips on how shipping containers can be used as storage units -
Decide How the Container Should Be Delivered
When you buy or rent a container from a certified shipping container supplier, they will handle the delivery and transportation arrangements. Depending on the location where you want the container, a crane may be required to put your new storage unit in a tight space or at a place where the tilt bed truck can't get the required clearance.
Get Permits
To build a structure without a permanent base, you might need to obtain one more permit. Permits are often necessary if you intend to convert the shipping container into a shed or barn. You can check with the clerk's office in your area for more clarification and an immediate response.
Decide if You Need a New or an Old One
New shipping containers are costlier than secondhand ones. They are less exposed to the elements, which gives them a better appearance and allows them to last longer. Used containers are also considered good for use, but they should be resistant to wind and watertight. You can choose between the two based on your budget.
Buy a Quality Container
Make sure the shipping container you choose is of great quality, whether it is new or secondhand. Do your own research to ensure the seller you intend to get your shipping container from doesn't provide subpar or corroded containers. The better the quality of the shipping container, the more comfortable your storage will be. It also ensures that your investment is worth it.
Choose the Right Container Size
The size of the container impacts the product's value. To avoid wasting money or eventually needing to buy another shipping container, ensure you buy the appropriate size container for all your storage requirements.
Get Loading/Unloading Equipment
Shipping containers are often used to store bulk items and heavy equipment. You may also want to buy certain equipment, such as forklifts, dollies, ramps, and other supplies, to help you load and unload the container whenever necessary. These are very helpful if you don't have a secondary door around the middle of the container, as they allow you to access the back of the container without unloading it.
Invest in Anti-corrosive Paint
Even the sturdiest container may corrode over time, and the process can accelerate if you live in a wet climate. Hence, anti-corrosive paint is the best investment when purchasing a shipping container. It ensures the container lasts longer when applied both inside and outside the container.
| Notes | Only a single layer of anti-corrosive paint can help enhance the longevity of the shipping container. |
Prevent Container Rain
In humid regions, moisture condenses on the shipping container roof and eventually falls, causing container rain. This may cause damage to the container or the items inside it. Hence, it is advisable to install dehumidifiers or other products that can help prevent container rain.
Use Coffee to Eliminate Bad Odor
Like any other facility, shipping containers smell terrible after extensive use. To get rid of the foul odor, consider spreading coffee beans throughout the container. Ensure that the container doesn't have openings or gaps that may let the rats and mice in. In addition, make sure to have an anti-rodent trap set up.
Check for Ventilation
Check if the container has ventilation. If not, consider adding HVAC systems or fixed vents throughout the container, depending on your budget. This is necessary if the temperature during the day and night fluctuates. This may cause condensation, which usually results in container rain.
Add Security
The items you may want to keep in the container must be valuable, so you need a good security measure. Security measures prevent the space from being invaded by rodents and other vermin and keep animals from entering the storage.
Conclusion
Shipping containers are the best solution for all your storage needs. They save you money and offer a safe and secure space. Shipping containers can also be used for several other purposes, such as creative housing solutions. They are durable and weather-resistant, which makes them an ideal choice when people think about storing their large items.
