How do you guarantee the quality of the Shipping Container?

by Evie Victoria Shipping Containers

Shipping containers that are available on the market for storage can appear similar however there are a few aspects to be aware of that will give you an idea of whether a container is in good condition. Shipping containers are either utilized (10-15 years old and removed from shipping lines) or used once (a one-time use container will have been transported once, with freight from the region of manufacturing to help reduce the cost of import). Even though a container that is used is more affordable than its former counterpart but that does not mean that it is less efficient as a storage device and is an ideal solution for those with a limited budget.

Containers that are used aren't always the most attractive. It's normal for your old container to show scratches, dents, dings and the rust. These are not indications that the container isn't suitable or not suitable for the job these are just signs of its former life as a shipping container.

There are however certain features of used containers that can give an indication to their value:

Repairs to seams that are fully seam-welded. These containers are transporting cargo across oceans for a long time typically stacked on ships carrying cargo, and then loaded with a range of cargo. In addition, due to the ocean sea, the air and salt water handling at different shipping depots all over the world, certain containers may require repair and maintenance to ensure they are usable. This is done by taking a damaged or broken piece of corten steel, and replacing it with a similar section of steel corrugated. Then, complete seam welding the patch in order to ensure that the container is waterproof and structurally sound. Some view the patches as unattractive but a correctly seam-welded patch is a repaired vessel which is not damaged.

Seals in good condition as well as 'free and easy doors. Shipping containers' doors are sealed around the outside to stop any water intrusion that could damage the contents inside while the container is being transported. A thing to watch on is check that the seals on the door of the container remain intact and line perfectly with the container. We refer to these doors as S2 doors. However, we also manufacture other door styles specifically for storage markets. It is also important to ensure that the doors on your container are "free and simple". Containers that are used have a reputation as having stiff and hard doors. Although it is common, you should to ensure that doors are able to shut and open properly. Sometimes, rust builds in the hinges, rendering the doors inoperable, not to mention rigid!

There is no light inside. This may sound simple, but because these units have been transported numerous times, the rust will be visible. This is normal since Corten Steel is designed to be rusty to further protect against elements, however in the absence of treatment it could cause a complete corrosion. One of the initial checks we conduct when inspecting used units that come into our facility is to step inside the container, and then close the doors. If we see lights shining through anyplace it is a sign that the unit needs to be repaired to seal it off again.