Shipping containers have been very popular for years as additional storage spaces, used by both companies and individuals. Depending on needs and budget, containers offer various possibilities. But what exactly does this entail?
Initially, we should verify what we need. Therefore, it's worth considering and answering the following questions:
- How much space do we have?
- Is one container sufficient, or do we need more?
- Will the container be visible?
- Should it match the color scheme of the surroundings, e.g., the building's facade?
- What's our budget?
- How much time do we have?
Answers to the above questions will help us specify whether we can afford a beautiful, simple, and super aesthetic new 20’ container, or if a more economical renovation of a large 40’ used container is viable, or if the cheapest option - simply a used container - is the way to go.
If we have very specific guidelines, then it’s good to have a bit more time for the search for "the one."
If aesthetics are important, then painting the container has three huge advantages - first, during surface preparation, we eliminate corrosion foci, and thus, if any holes in the casing are to appear - they will be caught and properly repaired at this stage. Secondly, we can perfectly match the color – to make it identical to the company logo, the color of the building, or to match previously owned units. And thirdly, the new paint will look good for a long time (even up to 15 years).
Once we know what we're looking for, it's time to examine the containers themselves. I always believe it's worth either checking them personally or trusting a proven supplier, as not everything is visible in photos.
Inspection Checklist
- External appearance — damages, scratches, dents, holes, corrosion - it's worth examining everything closely and ensuring that water isn't seeping in anywhere, or there aren't damages that will soon cause us a headache because they let in water on important documents stored in the container. If we want to commission painting, the simpler the side walls, the better the effect we'll achieve.
- Rollers and handles — evaluate their condition, and whether they are bent, as this could make opening and closing the container difficult. The repair is usually not hard but requires a large hammer and a strong operator thereof.
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Seals – let’s pay attention to whether they are intact and attached to the container doors. They can be patched and glued, but a torn seal requires re-riveting, otherwise, rain might leak into our container, and it will also be a perfect hiding spot for spiders and the like :)
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Opening – in my opinion, one of the more crucial issues when choosing a container. If opening goes smoothly - great. If mediocre - survivable, but if every time it requires a struggle, and the container will be opened more than occasionally - we look further.
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Interior – generally, take a look at how the inside looks. Of course, various marks and scratches will be visible, but there's a difference between a used container and a container in which scrap metal was transported.
- Ceiling – pay attention to the corners, as they often get damaged. Check if there are visible dents, and if anything is wet. Apart from that, of course, the watertightness of repairs, if anything was patched.
- Floor – mainly, we pay attention to whether the floor isn’t torn, and the boards aren’t broken. It’s less common for something to be pushed upwards - in that case, the bottom of the container is likely damaged. The floor should be flat, without nails and holes :) we also pay attention to its cleanliness - sometimes there are greasy spots, sometimes mud, as long as nothing smells weird and it can be cleaned – it’s okay.
- Smell – that is, what you can't see. Most importantly, nothing should sting the nose upon entering the container :) The smell of moisture usually requires proper airing and drying, which should do the trick. All other issues can be scrubbed and possibly sprayed with a neutralizer.
Now we know how to inspect a container to see what should interest us. Unfortunately, as is often the case in life, we usually have to compromise and decide between easy opening and an ugly wall or nice appearance but a patched roof. Sometimes, however, it’s possible to find a gem that meets all our expectations, which I wish all our clients :)
*The article was written by Kasia Józefowicz. For any additional questions, please contact us directly. *