Shipping Container Facts

Shipping Containers or any of there other names are large metal boxes. There is a growing community of people that are building things with these containers that are no longer certified. There are fun youtube videos and websites dedicated to building with these containers. This short list looks at some facts about these containers that are often glossed over.

1. Other than standard there are Tank, Refrigerated, Open Top, Half Height and many others for special purposes.
2. Length: 10ft, 20ft, 30ft, 40ft external length with an internal length that is 7in - 10in shorter depending on construction. There are variations on the market that are larger.
3. Width: 8ft external with an internal width 5in smaller depending on construction. There are variations on the market that are larger.
4. Height: 8ft 6in, 9ft 6in(called a high or high cube) external height and 8in shorter interior. There are variations on the market that are larger.
5. Weight: 4900lb(20), 8400lb(40), 8600lb(40 high) empty on average.
6. Material Frame: Weathering steel is a type of steel that resists corrosion. Salt water is a major corrosive substance.
7. Material Floor: Treated or impermeated wood. Chemicals used vary. Toxic to eat. Sealed or coated they can be safe to host floating or vinyl floors.
8. Material Roof: The same weathering steel is used without corrugation. This causes it to be weaker and not ideal and prone to dents or bending.
9. Used or cheap containers are containers that no longer pass the strict international standards for them. The could be old or damaged. The price for these unfit containers near ports low. In other rural or inland locations containers are often available.
10. Containers are strong. They are designed to be lifted and carried by only their corner posts. Unfit containers should be used with more structural support.