Shipping or storage containers are large metal boxes specifically used for transportation and storage of goods. Of course, their applications increased after years of usage, meaning nowadays they come with numerous applications in different industries on the market.
Their original idea is to simplify storing and transporting goods across the ocean, meaning they are weather-resistant, secure, and durable. In most cases, you can find options with high-strength steel, which allows them to withstand rough handling and harsh conditions.
We recommend you click here to learn more about different storage containers and their cost. In further article, we will talk about different options you can find on the market, applications, and other uses of steel containers.
Different Types
- Standard – These are the most common options that come in standardized sizes, which is between twenty and forty feet, depending on your preferences and needs.Â
- High-Cube – They are similar as standard options, but they come with additional foot in height, which increases the volume and allows more products to fit inside.Â
- Refrigerated – As the name suggests, you can find units that you can use for transporting perishable goods.Â
- Open–Top – When it comes to open-top, you will get a convertible top that you can remove, which reduces the hassle when moving the item inside. You can use crane to put it inside, which makes it appealing option for specific goods.Â
- Flat Rack – Finally, you can find the options that features collapsible sides, meaning you can use them for heavy machinery and oversized loads.Â
The Most Common Uses
As mentioned above, storage containers are specifically created to aid shipping industry, since back in the day the shipping goods required manual labor. After introduction of cranes and storage containers, the shipping industry became more efficient, meaning the process became seamless and more convenient.
However, after a long period of using it in shipping industry, other industries started using it for different purposes. Watch this video: How a Steel Box Changed the World, to learn the history of shipping containers.
They feature exceptional security, durability, and versatility, meaning they come with wide range of applications that are important in different sector. In further text, we will explore the most common uses you should remember.
1. Logistics and Shipping
The essential reason storage containers were created in the first place was to increase the efficiency in transportation sector. Since they were portable and simple to stack one on the another, shipping industry started using them to move goods across the globe.
The best thing about them are standardized sizes, which allowed simple transportation, stacking and handling, which created a more reliable and efficient global trade than before.
2. On-Site Storage
Another important consideration is that both individuals and businesses can utilize storage containers for on-site and secure storage. They are perfect due to robust construction, meaning they can hold tools, equipment, inventory, personal belongings, and furniture. As an individual, you can use them to keep your items safe from pests, weather, and theft.
For instance, construction sites are using them as temporary offices, storage areas for machinery and materials, as well as changing rooms for employees. The robust and sturdy construction allows them to withstand harsh conditions that exist on most construction sites, which makes them functional and safe working areas.
3. Disaster and Emergency Areas
After a potential disaster happens or after emergency, storage containers can become medical facilities, temporary shelters, and places where you can store supplies required for a specific disaster and emergency.
Since they are highly portable, local offices and government agencies can deliver them to emergency areas, which will allow specialist to provide immediate support and assistance.
4. Pop-Up Shops and Creative Spaces
Some people decide to transform various containers into fashionable cafes, pop-up shops and studios. Since they feature modular nature and ability to change their appearance and move them from one place to another, you can turn them into affordable spaces for artists and businesses.
At the same time, you can transform storage container into commercial space or office, which is budget-friendly alternative to renting an office in expensive buildings. You can avoid traditional construction and take advantage of their flexibility and customization to ensure you get proper business area that will function without any additional hassle.
Advantages of Using Storage Containers
- Durability – We have mentioned above that containers come from high-end steel, meaning they can withstand harsh weather conditions without damaging the content after heavy rain or snow, for instance. At the same time, it can resist structural damage and corrosion, which increases the durability, meaning you will need occasional maintenance.
- Security – Another important consideration is the security you will receive when using a container, since they feature tamper-proof construction, lockable doors, and ability to withstand harsh conditions. It means you can use them to store valuable items, which is perfect solution in case you wish to protect your belongings.