What Makes Steel Shipping Containers So Versatile?

It is outside the shipping industry that steel shipping containers become multi-purpose thanks to their durability and flexible design. You can modify a steel shipping container to fit your needs, whether it’s for commercial or domestic use. Luckily we have enough supply of new and used shipping containers, given that more than 17 million shipping containers are in circulation today. Of these, five million are actively involved in the shipping industry, and they make around 200 million trips a year, as Billie Box says.

Why, though, are steel shipping containers so reliable even beyond the shipping industry? Here’s how their use extends beyond the shipping industry, into the military and government, as well as why their qualities lend to such flexible uses.

Steel Shipping Containers are Made Using Sturdy Materials

Corten steel is the primary material used to make shipping containers. From the corrugated walls, cross members to cargo doors and frames of a shipping container, sturdy corten steel is utilized. Corten steel is also known as weathering steel. It’s a group of steel alloys specially made to be rust-resistant, weldable, and eliminate the need for painting shipping containers. For this reason, steel shipping containers can withstand adverse weather conditions with zero to minimum damage. For instance, if you’re a contractor who works in remote areas with harsh climates, you can modify a steel shipping container into a site office or a storage facility for your tools, machinery, and equipment.

Shipping Containers are Easily Portable

Steel shipping containers are specifically designed to allow for crane rigging. The corner castings of a steel cargo container are reinforced to make the container strong enough for crane lifting even when it’s loaded to the maximum. The forklift pockets and twist locks also enhance the portability of a shipping container. Since steel shipping containers are easy to move, you can make a portable concession stand, mobile offices, or container pop up shops. Having the capacity to take your services and products where the customers are is necessary in the modern business world. Even as you move around showcasing your products, you’ll not worry about your products’ security because steel shipping containers are secure and hard to break into. Additionally, you can have reinforced cargo doors and install an alarm and monitoring system to enhance your products’ security.

Steel Shipping Containers Can Accommodate Various Modifications

Being made from weldable steel, it’s easy for technicians to make modifications to a shipping container without incurring huge costs. You can install doors, windows, ventilation, shelves, cabinets, and insulation to custom-make a shipping container to fit your needs. The ease of modifications on steel shipping containers increases not only their efficiency but also their utility. Many businesses in different industries can modify a shipping container to serve twin purposes in their line of work. For instance, a logistics company may modify a 40 feet container to serve as a pick-up office and a temporary storage facility.

A business can also modify a shipping container to capitalize on branding. The exterior walls of a shipping container are a perfect space for a business to paint its logo, corporate colors, and advertising message. Since steel shipping containers are easy to modify, it’s faster and affordable for a business to customize several containers to fit their brand’s needs.

Steel Shipping Containers are Long Lasting

The corrugated steel used to make shipping containers has no elements of organic materials, and it’s likely to last a lifetime. Ultimately, 98% of shipping container parts are recyclable. Therefore, when your shipping containers have outlived their usefulness, you can send them to a steel recycling company instead of the dumpsite. After doing a solid 10 or 12 years in the shipping industry, a shipping container can last for another 15 years in different services. If you modify a new steel shipping container and maintain it well, it may serve your business for a lifetime.

These are the qualities that make steel shipping containers extremely useful outside the shipping industry. The good thing is that shipping containers are plenty in supply and easy to customize to serve different business purposes.

Government and Military Usage

Shipping lines own almost half of all shipping containers. However, such containers are popular with the military and government as they serve many purposes. Shipping containers are made of steel which makes them very strong and durable. They are also weatherproof and can withstand all types of climates. Here are some ways the military puts steel containers to good use.

Storage

These containers conveniently store many items ranging from food and water to ammunition and medical supplies. Shipping containers can also store equipment and vehicles. During deployments, soldiers may be in harsh conditions and need to be able to access supplies quickly. Storing food and equipment supplies in a steel container provides a temperature-controlled environment and keeps supplies organized.

Barracks

Steel shipping containers are used by the military to create barracks when soldiers are away from an official military base. They can be stacked on top of each other to create two or three-story barracks. The military can also place them side-by-side to create long, linear barracks. These containers can be outfitted with all the necessary amenities to provide soldiers with a temp home, including electricity and running water.

Offices

When working in remote locations, the military often uses steel containers as offices and command centers. They are outfitted with furniture and supplies to provide a private space for soldiers to work. They provide a secure location for soldiers to coordinate operations and communicate with other units.

Training

The military always needs ongoing training. Luckily, shipping containers become training facilities for a variety of purposes. They can be used as mockups for urban warfare, provide a realistic environment for medical training, and make a suitable location for target practice.

Barrier

Shipping containers can become strong barriers. By placing them in the water to create a floating barrier or on the ground to create a barricade, they can block roads or create checkpoints.

The military has no problems putting steel shipping containers to good use. They are strong, durable, and weatherproof. They can be used for storage, housing, training, and barriers. In other words, soldiers have reliable steel shipping containers to thank for many of their comforts while deployed.

The versatility of steel shipping containers makes them incredibly useful in the business world. The design, size, and shape of shipping containers makes them appropriate for different uses such as storage, pop up shops, mobile offices, and portable concession stands. Today, businesses of all sizes are modifying shipping containers to provide solutions for their various needs. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons steel shipping containers are so popular among business owners right now.

Readily Available for Purchase and Use

Billie Box estimates that there’re more than 17 million shipping containers in circulation globally. After their service in the shipping industry, most steel containers are still in great shape and can be reused for different purposes. Therefore, you can buy used shipping containers at an affordable price. Alternatively, you can buy new shipping containers for sale from a dealer near you. Since new and used shipping containers are plenty in the market, you can buy one at a great price.

Easy and Affordable to Modify

It is convenient to modify your shipping container to fit different applications. You can custom-modify your new or used shipping containers at an affordable price. For instance, you can install windows, doors, storage cabinets, ventilation, insulation, and air conditioning for a mobile office container. It doesn’t take long to modify a shipping container and install all the extra amenities that you need for your operations. This makes it particularly attractive for big companies looking for quick turn-around solutions to provide extra office space or storage space. Even when you conduct extensive modifications to your shipping container, it will still be more affordable than the traditional brick-and-mortar offices.

Sturdy and Long-Lasting

According to Container Auction, shipping containers can last for more than two decades if they are taken care of with regular maintenance. It does not take much to maintain your steel shipping container. You only need to dust it down and pressure-wash it occasionally. Other than that, your shipping container will withstand adverse weather conditions without sustaining damage. This is because steel shipping containers are made from corrugated steel that can accommodate heavy loads and hostile weather conditions. That is why steel shipping containers will endure adverse conditions such as heavy ocean waves, high pressure, gale-force winds, or hammering rain. Additionally, the corrugated steel is mold and rust-resistant because it contains zero organic material. For this reason, steel shipping containers are ideal for specialty projects that may require you to work in remote places with inhospitable climates.

Sufficient Space for Your Goods

Steel shipping containers vary in size. The most common size is 40 feet and 20 feet shipping containers. Depending on your application, you may need a bigger or smaller container. It is therefore convenient that shipping containers vary in size. If you need extra space, you can buy another container and stack it on the existing one. This also saves you ground space, as you can stack several containers without eating up your warehouse space.

Steel shipping containers provide handy solutions for companies in need of storage or office space. Since it is easy to modify shipping containers, they’re convenient for companies of all sizes in search of custom solutions. Steel shipping containers are sturdy, affordable, and durable, making them ideal for any number of uses.

To learn more about securing used and new steel shipping containers, contact Integrated Equipment Sales today! We’re happy to provide you with these products and assist you with utilizing them in accordance with the industry they’re needed in. 

 

Who Needs to Use Shipping Containers?

A lot of people and companies are looking to buy a shipping container. In fact, the whole container fleet capacity is projected to grow 7.5% in 2023, according to Statista. Who should use these containers? Here are several industries that could benefit from them.

Construction

Construction requires the use of equipment, and that equipment needs to be stored when it’s not in use. There are sheds that can be leased, but that can quickly make costs add up. Instead, shipping containers can quickly be assembled to hold these items. It’s a much better way of protecting the equipment. That’s not all, though. The construction workers could convert these containers into homes for people, too.

Manufacturing

Manufacturers run into storage issues, too. They have a lot of raw goods, and they need to have places to put them. Rather than having to get one large warehouse, they can create several of them with the containers and even be able to have them set up to maintain certain thermal conditions. Pharmaceuticals are one of the manufacturers who could benefit from this since they can be sure to have the containers modified to meet every regulatory guideline for the storage of their components.

Automotive

This one is a given. A lot of car manufacturers send their finished vehicles overseas in shipping containers. They are large enough to hold multiple vehicles and keep them safe from all kinds of outside conditions, like rain, heat, and cold.

Education

If a school is under construction, one way to continue to teach classes when classroom space isn’t available is by utilizing shipping containers. They can be turned into temporary classrooms equipped with insulation, a whiteboard, tables and chairs, and more.

As you can see, shipping containers are used for far more than just transporting items across the seas to ultimately be put in warehouses. They can be really inexpensive solutions for scenarios that might otherwise see you facing long-term leases. You will find that your decision to buy a shipping container could be one of the best ones that you’ve ever made. If you’re looking to buy a shipping container, we can help you find ones that fit the dimensions you need. Contact Integrated Equipment Sales today to learn more!

What to Remember When Considering Shipping Container Purchases

Shipping containers have long transcended their original overseas shipping purpose. While many are still used to transport goods internationally, businesses and individuals have found various applications for these versatile products. Before investing in a new container, consider these ideas.

Desired Purpose

What you plan to use the container for will determine the type you purchase. For example, refrigerated shipping containers for sale must be used to store things that need a cooler environment. You’ll want to check out the possibility of modifications if you need one for business purposes, and storage containers must be in good condition to ensure they can be used for years.

Approximate Age

According to SP Global, about 12% of containers are too old to be scrapped. However, some people still purchase these containers at a discount to transport goods. Companies can use them for overseas transportation until they end their lifespan. On the other hand, an aged shipping container may not be the best option for a workspace. Consider how old it is and whether that will work for your desired purpose.

Previous Use

It’s essential to consider what a shipping container was used for previously. Ones used to store toxic chemicals shouldn’t be used for something where people will be inside it. Take the time to ask a company what a container was previously used for, the cleaning methods used, if it was sanitized, and any other questions you may have before making a purchase.

Current Condition

When looking at new shipping containers for sale, you can expect them to be in fantastic condition. Seals shouldn’t be worn down, and it should be sparkling clean. However, when it comes to used ones, you’ll need to closely inspect the condition to ensure the seals are watertight and corrosion-free.

Delivery Services

Before buying a new container, it’s essential to ask the company you’re purchasing the product from if they offer a delivery service. Ask how much the delivery fee is. New shipping containers for sale require special equipment to move them, as they can be heavy and awkward. An inexperienced person attempting to move a shipping container can cause an injury.

We offer both new and used shipping containers, and we ensure that all the seals are in good condition before selling them. Contact Integrated Equipment Sales for more information today.

Here’s How Used Storage Containers Can Surprise You

Storage containers are gaining popularity for all kinds of different businesses. Why is that, though? How are storage containers useful for small and medium-sized businesses? Well, if you’re like most people, then you probably don’t know too much about how storage containers can be used to fit a variety of needs. Here are a few things you probably didn’t know about storage containers.

Most storage containers can be customized to meet your needs.

Of course, you probably wouldn’t want to use a storage container as is, unless you’re using it for its original intent. The good news is that with the right vision and help by your side, you can make some truly outstanding transformations to a storage container. Looking to make a pop-up shop or storefront, but you’re concerned about the internal environment and temperature? Well, you can make your storage container into a climate-controlled location that provides a unique look and feel. Don’t like the bland surfaces? Paint over them to advertise your business and attract new customers. The options are endless.

Steel cargo containers have become a popular choice for many small businesses.

Most small businesses want to cut costs when possible. The costs of renting a space for office workers, merchandise storage, or storefront can get quite pricey quite fast. When you make use of a used storage container, though, you can achieve all the same levels of productivity without the cost. It also doesn’t hurt to know that other small businesses are seeing the benefits to using the unique advantages that come with storage containers.

Steel cargo containers are the perfect place to try out specialty projects.

Of course, there are numerous business applications for storage containers. But that doesn’t mean buying a used storage container for sale limits you to storefront endeavors alone. In fact, there are many more use cases for steel cargo containers and the like.

For example, we’re living in a world where remote work is becoming more and more important in a variety of industries. As a result, many companies are considering alternative workplace environments. As such, portable offices and workspaces are more popular than ever before. After all, were you aware of the fact that The average individual workstation has shrunk from 80 square feet in 1992 to 39 square feet this year? At least that’s the average for projects that were taken on by Jacobs, a major design and workspace construction firm. Because used shipping containers are so flexible in terms of custom designs, many business owners looking to create portable workspaces find that outfitting steel cargo containers or shipping containers is far easier than making changes to a brick-and-mortar location.

As the world changes for all sorts of businesses, it’s important for the people running those businesses to keep up. Making use of storage containers is one beneficial way to do just that. 

What Should I Consider When Buying a Used Storage Container?

Storage containers for sale are a popular way to provide both short term and long term storage solutions. They can be found all over the world, with 97% of them manufactured in China. With the many options that are available, there are a few things you’ll want to consider before you invest in these storage containers. Here are four factors to keep in mind when you buy used shipping containers.

Delivery Space

You’ll need to have plenty of delivery space available for the storage containers. Ideally, you’ll want at least twice the length of the container plus around 10 feet in a straight line. There needs to be enough adequate clearance to avoid any potential problems. There should be plenty of space for the driver to be able to maneuver and unload the containers to avoid any potential damage from occurring.

Restrictions

Certain cities may have restrictions regarding uses for storage containers. Before you buy used shipping containers, you may want to ask your local city or county government about any rules or regulations. You may need to purchase a permit or adhere to certain zoning laws for specialty projects.

Location

It’s important to consider the location where you’ll place your used shipping containers. If the location isn’t level, the doors may not work properly. To level the container on uneven ground, you’ll need to be prepared with woodblocks on hand when the delivery driver arrives. The location for your containers should also have adequate drainage to prevent the containers from sitting or sinking in standing water.

Container Size

Storage containers in New Jersey are available in sizes that range from 10 feet to 45 feet long. You’ll need to consider carefully what you’ll be putting inside the container in order to select the right size. If you research shipping container capacities online, you can get information regarding what size containers you’ll need for specific items. You can also contact one of our professionals who will be happy to help you select the right size for your exact needs.

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.

How Many Ways Can Used Storage Containers Be Modified? 

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 didn’t know about storage containers? Used storage 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.

What Advantages Do Modified Shipping Containers Provide For Businesses?

As the world of business continues to grow and evolve, so must the mindsets and approaches of those who own small and medium-sized businesses. Sure, technology and the internet have certainly had a profound impact on the workflow, customer acquisition, and sales process for many small businesses. However, physical space limitations and rent prices have also made a major impact on the way some people do business. That’s where new solutions such as shipping containers come into the picture. Here are a few ways in which you may be able to modify shipping containers in order to meet the needs and demands of your business, no matter how large or small they may be.

Climate-Controlled Options for Mobile Workspaces and Stores

Most people instantly think about working conditions when they hear that another business owner has decided to use shipping containers as a workspace. However, with some of the new innovations within shipping containers and storage container modifications, the temperature is not an issue. With a few simple additions, businesses can now create a comfortable, climate-controlled atmosphere to cater to each and every employee out there. Gone are the days of worrying about feeling too cramped or overheated in a shipping container workspace. Modern modifications make it easier than ever before to pursue your business in the exciting and refreshing context of a used or new shipping container.

Portable Office Containers Are Becoming More Popular

The internet and other mobile technology have made it so that businesses can allow their employees to work more and more remotely. After all, were you aware of the fact that the average individual workstation has shrunk from 80 square feet in 1992 to 39 square feet this year? At least that’s the average for projects that were taken on by Jacobs, a major design and workspace construction firm. Changes such as these point to some major changes in the way people conduct business across a wide range of industries. Shipping containers come in handy for businesses that choose to shift to a more portable work setup. Once again, climate control modifications can make it so that you never have to worry about sacrificing your workforce productivity. Furthermore, some shipping containers may even offer you distinct advantages as far as the work setting goes. Anyone looking to improve employee satisfaction without having to take a hit on their overall production should consider buying shipping containers to modify for the sake of their small business.

Specialty Projects Enhance Storefronts

Grabbing the attention of your ideal customer is more important than ever. With so many screens and billboards constantly competing for consumer attention and engagement, any advantage you can get will help you to maintain the consistent growth of your business. The way your storefront looks can also have quite an extensive impact on your overall brand recognition both in your local community and in the wider world. This is why so many business owners are choosing to invest in non-traditional storefront spaces. And there are few better non-traditional storefront spaces than modified shipping containers.

A shipping container storefront gives your customers an easy way to remember their visit with you. Sure, providing exceptional service is key. It doesn’t hurt to create a consumer environment that is friendly to the tactile experience. If you’re selling food and other concessions, shipping containers are quite easy to modify so you can begin operations without much hassle or delay. These kinds of setups may also make it easier for your customers to keep up with your day-to-day offers and specials. People of all demographics love the chance to visit a unique and one-of-a-kind storefront. With a modified shipping container, you can be sure you’re standing out.

How a Storage Container Can Bring Value to Your Small Business

If you are anything like most small business owners, then when you hear about alternate uses for storage containers you probably have a lot of questions come to your mind. For example, what is the main difference between new vs. used storage containers? How can a storage container deliver the right services to your business without breaking the bank? These questions and similar ones may be rattling around in your mind, and this is actually totally normal and expected. Most people are not too familiar with how a storage container can bring value to your business. That’s why we have taken the time to come up with this brief guide that will aim to outline three main ways a storage container can bring value to your small business.

1. Storage Containers Help You Downsize

Whether or not you are wondering about new vs. used storage containers or any other issue, there is just simply no way for you to deny the way in which a storage container can help you to save space in your business. Far too many small businesses end up renting out commercial spaces that eat up a huge amount of their month-to-month budget. On top of this, many small businesses can find that with a storage container working on their side, they are able to streamline each kind of business process that they use in their day-to-day processes. This kind of achievement is a major one, and it is one that should never be ignored if you are curious about how you can make use of a storage container to help you downsize your small business for greater efficiency. After all, did you know that the average individual workstation has shrunk from 80 square feet in 1992 to 39 square feet this year? At the very least, that’s the average for projects that were taken on by Jacobs, a major design and workspace construction firm.

2. Storage Containers Help You to Save Money

Saving money is a key to keeping your small business running smoothly both in the immediate moment and in the long run. If you are like most small business owners then you are probably expecting to be spending a large amount of your money on renting out a business space. However, this does not have to be the case. When you look at new vs. used storage containers it becomes quite clear that with either option you can be saving a whole lot of money when you make the switch to a storage container model for your small business. A storage container can help you to cut down on costs and offer the same quality services that you have always hoped and dreamed of.

3. Storage Containers Bring a New and Unique Appeal to Your Customer Base

You cannot ignore the fact that a storage container brings a unique appeal to the rest of your business. Foodies will love the convenience that comes with a storage container concession stand. Those who are looking for a unique spot to buy boutique goods will love the chance to enter a one-of-a-kind storage container pop up shop. These applications and others make it clear that a storage container business can help you stand out.

In the modern world of business, there are many different options that are available to you that can serve to improve your business reach, relevance, and productivity. Many business owners simply accept whatever defaults they are handed. However, it does not have to be this way. With so many options out there, why settle for anything less than the best? Portable concession stands are just one example of a new workplace environment that you can use to enhance your business. Here are a few of the key ways that a portable concession stand can improve your business.

Portable Concession Stands Generate Interest in Customers

Anyone who happens to own a business knows just how important it is to make sure that you are attracting the intrigue of both new and old customers alike. Sure, it is important to capture the business of people who live in your local community and stroll past your business each and every day. However, the right business location is one that can also attract the attention of any people who might happen to be passing through a location at any given time. A portable concession stand can help your business stand out. Rather than offering a bland, standard experience for people, a portable concession stand is unique and one of a kind, serving to give people an easy point of interest for which they might find themselves spending money on your products and services.

Portable Concession Stands Help Your Staff and Employees

Were you aware of the fact that studies of IT and accounting workers by researchers at the University of California at Irvine found that employees switched their focus from one project to another on an average of every 10.5 minutes? And those same people were interrupted during more than half of their 10.5-minute project segments. While studies like these stand to showcase the way that people work in their most productive state, they also showcase some of the values of a portable concession stand. With an unconventional work setting for your employees, you can benefit from greater productivity and employee satisfaction. Employees who can enjoy the varied environments brought about by a portable concession stand will remain focused and perform to a high standard throughout the workday.

At Integrated Equipment Sales, our team is committed to helping you out with your portable concession stands, office containers, pop-up shop containers, and any other kinds of shipping container sales. Our team is here to make sure that none of your questions are left without answers. We will help you understand the many benefits of using portable concession stands, and work to implement your ideas so that you can find the perfect portable concession stand for your business needs, no matter how large or small they may happen to be. To learn more about our products and services, please do not hesitate to reach out and get in touch with a member of our team today. We can’t wait to hear from you.

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