If you’re thinking about buying a shipping container, then there are a few things you need to know to get the most out of it. First of all, you need to think about its lifespan. The average shipping container has an estimated lifespan of about 25-30 years. Shipping containers are built tough, but they’re not indestructible. With proper care and maintenance, they can last for decades, but if you neglect them, then they’ll start to fall apart pretty quickly. So what can you do to ensure your shipping container lasts as long as possible? Let’s take a look.
One of the most important things you can do to prolong the lifespan of your shipping container is to perform regular maintenance checks. Just like any other piece of machinery, a shipping container needs to be regularly serviced in order to stay in top condition. This means checking for rust and corrosion, as well as making sure the seals and gaskets are intact. Shipping container maintenance is essential if you want your shipping container to last. Hire or buy a storage container that’s the right size for your needs. If you have a lot of stuff, you’ll need a larger container. But if you only have a few items, you can save money by getting a smaller container.
It’s also important to choose suitable materials for your shipping container. If you’re going to be using it in a harsh environment, then you need to make sure it’s made from rigid materials that can withstand the elements.
It’s worth mentioning that how you use your shipping container can also affect its lifespan. If you’re constantly moving it around or filling it with heavy goods, then it’s going to wear out much faster than if it was just used for storage.
You probably think that the only way to make a shipping container last longer is to buy a new one. But there are a few things you can do to extend the life of your shipping container. Here are some tips:
- Keep it clean: This may seem obvious, but it’s worth repeating. A clean shipping container will last longer than one that’s full of dirt and grime. Regularly washing your container will help keep it in good condition.
- Inspect it regularly: It’s important to inspect your shipping container regularly. Check for rust, dents, or other damage that could cause problems down the road.
- Protect it from the elements: If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, it’s important to take steps to protect your shipping container. Try and protect the outside of the container as best you can from UV exposure and moisture.
These tips will help you keep your shipping container in good condition for years to come. There are a lot of shipping container services out there; it is best to consult with the shipping container service to get their best estimates and recommendations before you make your decision to purchase a new or used storage container.
1. Site Selection
If you are not mounting the container for the long term, choose a spot where the ground is even and the soil firm and compacted so that it will support the frame of the container. If your site is rough or slanted you can add a layer of gravel or small stones to keep the container stable and secure.
2. Surroundings
If your container is going to remain in place for a length of time, it can be valuable to pave the surrounding area prior to installation. This will provide a solid firm base for your structure and will enable you to utilise the outer area of the container more easily.
3. Vehicle Access
If your site is in a position behind other buildings then you may have trouble getting your container to your site. There are options to have your container dropped in situ’ by a crane but this is expensive. If your site is accessible by vehicle you will keep delivery costs down. Setting up storage containers in Sydney, where the topography varies, it is a great idea to prepare a level area prior to delivery.
4. Weather conditions
It is ideal to have your container delivered on a day free of rain, after a dry spell. Installing your container directly onto sodden earth may lead to sinkage and misalignment of your final structure. If you are in a particularly rough area you may need to secure your shipping container to the ground, but in most circumstances, the natural weight of the container will hold it firmly in place.
5. Ventilation
If you are concerned about water or drainage around the site of your container then it may be worthwhile setting the container down on concrete blocks. This will keep it raised from ground level, free of moisture and well ventilated.
Betta Storage are your local Sydney specialists in movable new and used storage containers. Contact us to discuss your requirements and let us help you choose the right container for your needs.