Shipping Container FAQ: Comprehensive
Shipping Container FAQ: Comprehensive
We’ve compiled a comprehensive shipping container FAQ that addresses the most common questions people have about shipping containers. Shipping containers play a pivotal role in global trade, storage solutions, and innovative architectural designs. If you’re curious about them, you’re not alone.
1. How Much Do Shipping Containers Cost?
The price of shipping containers varies based on size, condition, type, and market demand. New containers, such as a 20-foot standard, typically cost between £2,000 and £4,500, while a 40-foot standard ranges from £3,500 to £6,000. High-cube and specialty containers are priced higher due to added features. Used containers are more affordable, with a 20-foot standard starting from £1,000 and a 40-foot standard from £1,500. However, older containers may require repairs, which should be considered in the overall cost.
Additional costs include delivery fees, which can add £200 or more depending on your location, modifications like adding doors or windows, and any necessary permits for placement or use.
2. What Sizes and Dimensions Do Shipping Containers Come In?
Shipping containers are available in several standard sizes to meet different needs. The lengths include 10-foot containers, ideal for small storage or limited spaces; 20-foot containers, commonly used for shipping and storage; 40-foot containers, which offer double the space of a 20-foot container; and 45-foot containers, which are less common but provide extra length.
All containers have a standard width of 8 feet (2.44 meters) externally. In terms of height, the standard height is 8.5 feet (2.59 meters), while high-cube containers are 9.5 feet (2.89 meters), offering an extra foot of vertical space. Understanding these dimensions is crucial, especially if you’re planning to use a container for storage, shipping, or conversion into living or office spaces.
3. What Are Shipping Containers Made Of and How Are They Constructed?
Shipping containers are primarily made from Corten steel (weathering steel), known for its durability and resistance to atmospheric corrosion. The construction process involves cutting large steel sheets, corrugating them for strength, and welding them together to form the walls. Corner posts and frames are welded to provide structural integrity.
The floor is installed by adding cross members, and it’s typically made of marine-grade plywood. Heavy-duty doors with locking mechanisms and rubber seals are installed to ensure security and weatherproofing. Finally, the container is primed and painted with a protective coating to guard against rust and corrosion. This robust construction allows containers to withstand harsh sea conditions and heavy loads during transportation.
4. Where Can I Buy Shipping Containers?
You can purchase shipping containers from various sources. Local dealers offer new and used containers, often with the option to inspect before buying. Online marketplaces provide listings where sellers offer available containers; however, it’s important to verify the seller’s credibility. Shipping companies sometimes sell surplus or decommissioned containers. Additionally, ports or shipping lines may auction unclaimed or abandoned containers.
5. How Long Do Shipping Containers Last and What Maintenance Is Required?
With proper maintenance, shipping containers can last 25 years or more. Regular inspections are crucial to check for signs of rust, especially in areas where the paint may have chipped. Addressing dents or structural issues promptly can prevent further deterioration. Repainting with rust-resistant paint every few years helps protect the container. Ensuring the container is placed on a level surface with good drainage will avoid water pooling, which can cause corrosion. Proper care extends the life of your container, whether it’s used for shipping, storage, or as a building structure.
6. How Secure Are Shipping Containers and How Are They Secured During Transport?
Shipping containers are highly secure due to their robust steel construction, making them difficult to break into. They are equipped with lockable double doors, and additional lock boxes or security features can be installed for enhanced protection.
During transport, containers are secured using twist-locks, which are metal devices that lock containers together at the corners when stacked. Lashing rods and turnbuckles provide additional stability on ships. Stacking cones align containers vertically and prevent shifting. Proper load planning ensures weight distribution and stacking order are optimised to prevent accidents. These measures ensure containers are safely transported across various modes of transportation, including ships, trucks, and trains.
7. What Are Common Uses for Shipping Containers Besides Shipping?
Beyond shipping, containers serve a multitude of purposes. They are commonly used as storage units for personal, commercial, or industrial needs. On construction sites or in remote locations, they function as temporary offices. In recent years, they’ve been converted into residential homes, known as container homes, offering an affordable and sustainable housing option. Commercially, containers are transformed into shops, cafes, or pop-up stores. They are also used as emergency shelters in disaster relief efforts due to their durability and ease of transport. Their versatility and durability make shipping containers a popular choice for a wide range of applications.
8. How Many Shipping Containers Are Used Worldwide and Who Owns Them?
Globally, approximately 17 million intermodal containers exist, with around 6 million in active circulation at any given time. Ownership is divided among shipping lines, such as Maersk and MSC, which own large fleets for transporting goods. Leasing companies provide containers to shipping lines and logistics companies. Businesses and individuals purchase containers for storage or conversion projects. Some investors buy containers as assets to lease out. Shipping containers are essential assets in the global logistics network, facilitating international trade.
9. How Many Shipping Containers Are Lost at Sea Each Year and Why?
On average, about 1,382 containers are lost at sea each year. The causes include severe weather conditions like storms and rough seas, which can cause containers to shift and fall overboard. Improper securing or failure in stacking mechanisms can also lead to losses. Accidents, such as collisions or ship malfunctions, contribute to the number of containers lost. Efforts are ongoing to improve safety measures and reduce these losses due to environmental and navigational concerns.
10. Who Invented Shipping Containers and When Were They First Used?
Malcolm McLean, an American entrepreneur, is credited with inventing the modern shipping container. In 1956, McLean introduced the concept of using standardized containers for cargo transport, significantly improving efficiency. The first voyage using containerisation was made by the converted tanker Ideal X, which carried 58 containers from Newark to Houston. This innovation revolutionised the shipping industry, leading to the development of the global intermodal transport system we rely on today.
11. How Heavy Are Shipping Containers and What Are Their Weight Capacities?
An empty (tare weight) 20-foot container weighs approximately 2,300 kg (5,071 lbs), while a 40-foot container weighs around 3,800 kg (8,377 lbs). The maximum gross weight for a 20-foot container is up to 24,000 kg (52,910 lbs), including the container’s own weight. For a 40-foot container, the maximum gross weight is up to 30,480 kg (67,200 lbs), including its own weight. Understanding the weight is crucial for transportation planning and ensuring compliance with legal load limits on roads and bridges.
12. What Should Not Be Stored in Shipping Containers?
Certain items should not be stored in standard shipping containers. Perishable goods should be avoided unless using a refrigerated container, as temperature control is not available. Hazardous materials like chemicals, explosives, or flammable items require special permits and containers designed for such purposes. Storing illegal items is prohibited and punishable by law. Moisture-sensitive goods may be damaged by condensation if proper ventilation or climate control is not in place. Always ensure that the contents comply with local regulations and that appropriate measures are taken to protect the items stored.
13. How Are Shipping Containers Transported?
Shipping containers are moved using various methods. By road, trucks with flatbed or skeletal trailers designed to carry containers are used, but they must comply with road weight and size regulations. By rail, intermodal trains with special railcars carry containers, sometimes stacked two high in a practice known as double-stacking. By sea, container ships specifically designed to carry large numbers of containers are employed, with capacities ranging from a few hundred to over 23,000 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units). While less common, air transport using cargo planes is possible for smaller containers or urgent, high-value goods. Efficient intermodal transport allows containers to move seamlessly between ships, trucks, and trains.
14. Why Is There Sometimes a Shortage of Shipping Containers?
Shortages of shipping containers can occur due to several factors. Increased demand, particularly from the growth of e-commerce, puts pressure on container availability. Trade imbalances lead to containers accumulating in import-heavy regions and being scarce in export-heavy regions. Logistical challenges like port congestion, labor shortages, and disruptions from events such as the COVID-19 pandemic can delay container return and circulation. Solutions include improving logistics to streamline port operations and container management, and manufacturing more containers to meet demand. A shortage can lead to increased shipping costs and delays in the global supply chain.
15. What Are the Environmental Impacts of Shipping Containers?
Shipping containers have several environmental impacts. Lost containers pose risks to marine life and navigation. The production of steel for containers consumes energy and produces emissions. However, recycling and repurposing containers mitigate some environmental concerns. Upcycling old containers into homes, offices, or shelters reduces waste and the need for new building materials. Steel from decommissioned containers can be recycled, reducing the demand for new raw materials. Efforts are being made to mitigate negative impacts through better practices and innovative reuse of containers.
Conclusion
Shipping containers are versatile, durable, and integral to global trade and innovative projects. Whether you’re considering purchasing one for storage, building, or simply curious about their role in the world, understanding these key aspects will help you make informed decisions.