Nearly all international cargo–a full 95%–travels by ship. Shipping containers are the most cost-effective means of transporting large amounts of goods. However, these containers have many uses beyond moving dry cargo and perishables across the ocean.
With the average container lasting 20 years or more, most of them are repurposed for new uses after shipping. Learn about some of the most unexpected and creative applications of storage container modifications below.
1. Your next desk job might be inside a shipping container.
Perhaps one of the many things you didnt know about storage containers is that one of them may end up standing in for an actual building if you work in an office or at a desk job. Shipping container offices are especially trendy among startups and new businesses. Why?
Storage container offices are cost-efficient and eco-friendly. Entrepreneurs can start out with an office made out of one or two containers and add on to this building if their business continues to grow. In addition to being highly customizable, these types of offices are portable meaning that businesses can easily relocate if need be.
2. There are storage container restaurants!
That’s right! The storage container provides a perfect compromise between a food truck and a run-of-the-mill building. Just like you can modify storage containers to live in, a growing number of restaurants are modifying them to create kitchens, bars, and dining areas. Even Subway is getting on-board with this trend. One of its locations in New York City is crafted from nine repurposed shipping containers strung together.
3. Farmers are tackling challenges with 40 foot shipping containers.
It is not always possible to predict the weather–unless you can somehow create a predictable, temperature-controlled environment. With a storage container, you can. Many reefer containers are already equipped with temperature controls and ventilation systems that make it possible to ship fresh or frozen food items at a particular humidity.
Storage containers give farmers the freedom of growing crops anywhere, during any season. Farmers typically use fewer resources as they do not have to shield plants from animals and pests. Finally, if people wish to move or ship their farm, it is already self-contained, portable, and ready to go.
4. Some countries are using storage containers to re-grow coral reefs.
What are some things you didnt know about storage containers? More and more shipping containers are being recycled for specialty projects, including projects that may help save the planet. Some, in particular, are being used to create artificial coral reefs.
Cambodia is kicking off efforts by purposely sinking storage containers. Once underwater, fish use the containers as shelters and nurseries to repopulate dwindling fish populations. Just like we use farm-grown coral fragments to help repair and regrow existing reefs, these fragments can be placed strategically around underwater shipping containers to encourage and nurture new reefs.
5. Storage container homes are reducing homelessness and affording people more options.
Major cities including Los Angeles and London are experimenting with ways to curb their homeless populations using storage container housing. Shipping containers are cost-effective and eco-friendly, making them an appealing option for addressing homelessness.
For those reasons, shipping container homes also appeal to the general public. With storage containers, people can enjoy bigger homes for less. Plus, storage containers are extremely hardy, making them safe and durable in all weather conditions.
What are the things you didnt know about storage containers? Shipping containers are being put to new, exciting uses every day. Ask a shipping container company if your modification or crazy idea can become a reality.
The tiny home movement is going strong! The definition of a tiny home is not set in stone. While many will describe tiny homes as units ranging from 100 and 500 square feet, a growing number of people are using the term to describe any home that is relatively compact and modest. By choosing tiny homes, residents hope to live sustainably, waste less, and be free from the constraints of more traditional, high-cost living–or things like home association (HOA) fees and sky-high electricity bills.
Not only are tiny homes just as popular as ever, but people are also discovering new, more efficient ways to build them. Find out why more Americans are repurposing several used shipping containers to put together their very own tiny home.
Why Shipping Containers?
First, what exactly is a shipping container? Shipping containers describe 20 foot or 40 foot shipping containers used to ship dry or perishable goods across oceans. Most are made out of durable, weather-resistant steel and may be used to ship items for up to 20 years. After, these storage containers often go unused. In fact, out of 17 million containers worldwide, just 6 million are being used for shipping. That leaves 11 million up for grabs–and more homeowners are recognizing the value of recycling a storage container or several storage containers to construct their homes.
Here are just a few of the benefits of living in a shipping container home.
Weather- and climate-resistant. Shipping containers are built to endure. While crossing international waters, containers may face 50 foot waves and 100 mph winds. With a track record like that, you can be confident that–even during particularly nasty storms–your house will be just fine.
Cost-effective. Building a home out of used shipping containers can amount to tens of thousands less than houses currently on the market.
Pest proof. Unlike traditional houses with cracks and crevices for pests to get in, shipping containers are made out of metal and steel. This frame resists moisture and mildew, things that typically attract bugs.
Fast construction. Build times vary. However, on average, construction on a shipping container home is much faster than construction on a house. Building a house may take six months or more. It is possible to put up shipping container homes in as little as eight weeks.
Energy efficient. True, the act of recycling used shipping containers to build a house is environmentally friendly on its own. The energy efficiency and sustainability of a storage container home does not stop there. Because storage container homes are relatively small, it takes less energy to heat and cool them–and your energy bills will be lower, too!
What To Know Before You Build
Used shipping container homes pack many benefits. Even so, it is wise to do your research before you start construction.
Before purchasing, ask to see containers in person or ask for thorough photo documentation. It may be easy enough to cover up any imperfections with a fresh coat of paint, but look at photos or inspect containers beforehand to help determine if this will be necessary. Familiarize yourself with building codes and fire codes. Used shipping containers are highly customizable. Still, it is wise to avoid too many cuts in a single container for insulation and durability purposes. Plan ahead for plumbing and insulation when designing your shipping container home.
Are shipping container homes the way of the future? They certainly seem to be on track to become a lasting part of the tiny home movement. Others are thinking beyond tiny homes, too. Salt Lake City is even experimenting with its first multi-story apartment building made out of used shipping containers.
When it comes to storage containers, there are endless possibilities in the ways that they can be used. Many businesses are using them to solve the unique challenges they face. Storage containers provide an affordable and convenient solution for a variety of challenges. Here are five ways for utilizing storage containers for your business.
Mobile Office
You can use portable storage containers to create an office for your company. If you have to travel to various project sites, you can have storage containers delivered and set up to create a mobile office. There can be plenty of space for a desk and any other equipment you may need. Since many individual workstations have shrunk to about 39 square feet, these units are ideal for handling your business needs while on the go.
Equipment Storage
Landscaping and construction companies are constantly moving to various locations. This also involves having to transport their equipment with them as well. Portable containers solve both problems by allowing them to move their equipment and store it onsite as well. Since the units can be locked, the equipment stays safe and secure until the job is done. Businesses can also use these containers to store excess inventory, office furniture, and supplies.
Paperwork And Files
Businesses are also utilizing storage containers to keep files and paperwork organized. These units can be used onsite to store paperwork that is not immediately needed to declutter an office space. They can also be used to transport important documents to ensure they don’t get lost in the shuffle while on the move. This makes it easy for employees to get set up upon arrival to a new location.
Corporate Events
If your company is sponsoring a community marathon or setting up at a festival or sporting event, storage units can be an excellent option for storing supplies. Since the units are waterproof, you won’t have to worry about inclement weather ruining your goods.
Renovations
If your business is undergoing a renovation, these units can be an ideal solution to keep everything neat and organized. Plus, they will keep inventory and fixtures safe from thieves while the work is being done. You can store everything onsite for easy access when the specialty project is complete.
When it comes to utilizing storage containers for your business, you are only limited by your imagination. These containers provide a secure and flexible solution where and when it’s needed the most. These units can save you both time and money. When you need to organize or move your business, purchase storage containers for sale to get the job done right.
Updating your home can be both stressful and exciting at the same time. You’ll need to be incredibly organized to handle all the moving parts of the process. Before tackling any specialty project around your home, you’ll need to have a plan in place to keep your belongings secure during the remodel. Here are three storage tips for home renovation projects.
Get Storage Containers
Portable storage containers give you the capability to clear items from your home while being able to still have them conveniently nearby when you need them. You can use various shipping containers to store perishable food, furniture, tools, and vehicles. There are at least 5 million active shipping containers in active circulation around the globe every year for this type of specialty project.
There are various sizes and delivery options you can choose from. Before you rent or buy used shipping containers, be sure to get permission from your homeowner’s association if applicable. You might need to check with your local city hall to make sure you can keep these containers on your property. You may also want to invest in heavy-duty locks as well.
Create An Inventory List
It’s a wise idea to create an inventory list of all the items that will be stored during your specialty project. You can list items by either category or location to make things easier. Taking measurements of bigger items can help you immensely when you go to buy used storage containers in order to pick out the right sizes. Consider climate-controlled containers for items like electronics or appliances during times that there are any extreme seasonal changes.
Properly Store Items
Properly storing your items can save you from much headache and stress. Label all your boxes by the room it belongs to as well as a general list of the items that are inside. Store bigger items first such as furniture in the back of the used shipping containers first. Wrap items in bubble wrap or cover them to protect them against accidental damage. By putting a bit of extra thought and planning into properly packing the containers, you’ll make unpacking a breeze
Storage containers can help make your home renovation specialty project less stressful. You’ll be able to clear the items away from the project area and store them safely until the job is finished. When your home makeover is complete, your items will be ready and waiting for their freshly renovated location.
When you own a business, it’s tough to make sure that you’re unique, appealing, and profitable. Many challenges get in the way of achieving success, and finding the right storefront location is no exception. If you’re planning to make a concession stand, costs can quickly add up and cut into your ability to maintain a steady profit. But what if you could use another option such as a storage container in order to create portable concession stands that attract customers and save you some money? Here’s just a few of the main benefits of using a storage container to create portable concession stands for your business ventures.
Portable concession stands create a unique storefront sales environment
In a world where all kinds of businesses are constantly competing for the attention of the end consumer, it helps to take advantage of every little detail that can help your business to stand out. When it comes to building a storefront that is both unique and attractive, you would find it to be quite a challenge to find a set up that is more appealing than using shipping containers to create portable concession stands. After all, creating a unique environment is one of the key elements of ensuring that your business stands out from all the rest.
Because there are so many special projects that you can undertake to design and differentiate your portable concession stands, the options for custom builds are nearly limitless. For example, if you’re concerned about viewpoints, you can install multiple windows in your storage container. Furthermore, you can add skylights, climate control, and custom paint jobs to ensure that your portable concession stands meet the ideas you have in your mind. For any business owners who are looking to help their business stand out from the rest, using storage containers to build custom portable concession stands is an excellent move.
Buying used storage containers for sale can save you money
Of course, it comes as no surprise that most small businesses are running on a tight budget. With start-up costs including employee wages, product stocking, and shipping, it’s easy to feel as though you’re drowning in expenses before you even start to see a noticeable profit. For this reason, it’s important to ensure that you make the right choices when seeking out a location for your concession stands. Far too many business owners end up paying exorbitant amounts of money for a concession stand when in reality, they could save a lot by investing in a used storage container.
The global fleet has 6 types of ships: tankers, passenger ships, container ships, fishing vessels, bulk carriers, and general cargo ships. There are approximately 55,000 merchant ships carrying cargo around the world. Used storage containers can be bought for a reasonable amount in the majority of cases. In fact, when you use the right supplier you would be surprised at how many deals there are out there just waiting for the right business owner to capitalize on them. What’s more, with a bit of ingenuity and vision, you can virtually transform your used storage container to meet a myriad of criteria. Most people make the mistake of thinking that a used storage container is an option that will limit their vision and their ability to achieve their business goals. This could not be further from the truth. When you buy a used storage container from a trusted, experienced supplier, you can create incredible, portable concession stands that don’t break your budget.
Portable concession stands give you more flexibility
You simply can’t overlook the flexibility that a portable concession stand can bring to your workflow. When you are not stuck to doing business in one single location, you are free to advertise to and capture customers from a variety of different areas and regions. Furthermore, this flexibility allows you to offer a greater level of service to your existing customer base, wherever they may be. When you choose the right storage containers for your portable concession stands, you will soon discover that your business is more flexible than ever before.
Buying shipping and storage containers for your business can be challenging if you don’t know what to look for. If you’re not sure how to find the right container for your business, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today for more information.
