Container Maintenance and Upkeep

All States Containers container maintenanceShipping containers were designed and are built for the specific purpose of withstanding the harshness of global sea travel atop massive container ships. They also have to withstand winding long journeys on trains and trucks via highways worldwide. They are constructed from solid steel and stainless-steel fittings & joints and floors treated and engineered to prevent rotting. With all that said, mother nature is a beast and can get through anything. If a shipping container sees a lot of use or gets battered, it’s going to need container maintenance done to keep it in excellent condition and ensure the most extended life possible.

Today shipping containers are used across the globe in transit, but they now see more prevalent use in private hands. Be it for extra on-site storage or to make transporting equipment in a secure container easier.

Tips for Ensuring Your Shipping Container has the Longest Lifespan Possible

Please do your best to keep them well maintained. Look out for potential trouble spots and have them checked out. Be careful loading and unloading cargo; this is where a lot of damage happens to the interior of shipping containers. Never overload the weight limit of your shipping container. It may seem like a huge number, but it adds up quickly with heavy stuff. An overweight load can damage the structural integrity of any shipping container and make it unusable. Best practices do exist for a reason. Please do your best to ensure you follow them to keep yourself and your container safe. Here are our six best tips, broken down.

Container Inspection Tip 1: Regularly Check the Roof

You may not be able to see the roof of your container, but you need to make sure somehow you are inspecting that regularly. Many experts would agree it’s the more critical part of your container. Unfortunately, containers are designated second-hand containers on the market due to slight roof damage and deeming them no longer seaworthy. Dents and bumps are common, considering how shipping containers are stacked on top of one another. The problem with deep scrapes and dents is that they allow rainwater to pool, causing rust and corrosion! We all know those two are the worst enemies of metal. That’s the last thing you want to have happen to your container.

Container Tip 2: Remove and Treat Suspected Rust Areas

So many shipping container retailers you see out there will flat out suggest that Cor-Ten steel, the material they are made from, is 100% rust-resistant. So yes, it is better than traditional steel, but it is no longer fully corrosion-proof at some point. So, any area that has been scratched or dented must be sealed and painted carefully to ensure they are rust-proof. This will significantly extend the lifespan of your container.

Container Tip 3: Keep Your Doors Running Smoothly

The only moving parts in a shipping container involve the door. As you could guess, anything with moving parts is more susceptible to being damaged/broken or being worn out over time. If you take care of nothing else, take the time to keep your door parts clean and lubricated. Shipping containers pick up lots of dirt and grit, get a brush or something and do your best to clean out the door hinges and the locking bars on the container. You may need strong cleaners to get it all. Then lubricate everything well with a quality lubricating spray like WD-40 on all hinges. Grease any other areas that see hefty use or need that extra bit of lubrication. Many people have no idea that shipping containers have gaskets along the doors to create a completely sealed environment. These door gaskets do only have a lifespan of somewhere around ten years. Eventually, they will not work, and you no longer have that safe sealed environment. When these get worn out pretty quickly, you can tell that they will crack or show other damage signs.

Container Tip 4: Check Sealing at Altered Location

Shipping container modifications are fantastic, but you need to carefully check any part of your container where the outer metal was altered (i.e., windows, doors). It needs to be sealed tight to avoid corrosion from water and dirt. Look for areas that may cause liquids to pool or collect extra amounts of debris. Rust can be easily removed, and the area can be treated with anti-corrosive paints.

Container Tip 5: Shipping Containers MUST be Placed on a Level Surface

One of the most simple but essential things you can do for the future of your shipping container and its well-being is to install it on a level surface. It’s also critical that the surface drains well; you don’t want to see what happens when your container sits in standing water. Likewise, you don’t want to have water collecting anywhere on or near your container.

Container Tip 6: Pay Close Attention to Electronics

This tip will mainly pertain to things like “reefer” containers – a shipping container with a built-in refrigerated unit attached. Doing regular maintenance cuts down on downtimes and the cost of significant emergency repairs. Being proactive with things like this is going to serve you well.

Go to the Container Repair and Maintenance Professionals When You Need To

Is your shipping container still in good shape but starting to show its age in some sport? Well, All States Containers are here to help you and ensure your shipping container gets the care and attention that it needs.
We employ a team of qualified container maintenance experts like welders and engineers to help you save money and prevent future downtime. We will work closely with you to ensure your needs are met. We are more than happy to lend our opinion and expertise if you aren’t sure what you need in a container or have any questions at all.

All States Containers

A quality shipping container could be a game-changer for any person or company. Contact All States Containers today at 704-802-7700 to handle all your container needs.

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Shipping Container Storage – What Makes Them the #1 Option, and What Do You Need to Look for?

Allstates Containers shipping container storageDecent storage is something that so many businesses and operations need quick and affordable access to. So many people’s storage needs adapt with time as well, so you don’t particularly want to lock yourself into a lease or contract if you may not end up needing all that storage long-term. There are so many storage options out there today, from buildings full of storage units for rent to sheds and extra warehouse-type buildings on your property. But you have not even ever heard of the best option before. Sometimes, shipping containers, referred to as Conex containers, are easily one of the best portable storage options you can have!

Used Shipping Containers are a Great Storage Option

Let’s talk about shipping containers for a minute. You’re likely at least somewhat familiar with what they look like, maybe even how they function to a certain degree. These shipping containers are built to the highest standards, designed to withstand the harshest elements and conditions that the world and open seas have to throw at them. Of course, you always need to do your research and closely inspect anything you buy that has been previously used. Still, you can rest assured that all of the containers we receive at Allstates Containers have NOT taken many international trips (if any), and we inspect all of them in great detail. We will not put a Conex container on our property that we feel isn’t up to our high standards. We offer both brand new, single-use, and used shipping containers for sale and rental. We aren’t here to gouge you and get every penny we can out of you; we want to ensure everyone that needs safe portable storage has that option at a reasonable price.

Finding shipping containers for sale is simple. However, finding QUALITY shipping containers being sold by a reputable retailer is where it gets tricky. What you see is what you get with a shipping container, so in this article, we want to go over a few of the most important things for you to keep an eye out for when buying a shipping container.

Parts of Your Conex Container to Check

Check the function of the doors – The doors and hinges of any part of the container are among the most likely to suffer damage and long-term issues in a used shipping container. Be it from being hit with another container or equipment, constant opening and closing, whatever else. You should be able to open both doors with minimal effort required. If doors feel extra sticky or hard to open, you may want to look at other options.

Check inside and out for rust spots and general damage – No used shipping container will look quite as nice as a brand new one, but they are so strong that wear and tear tend to happen very slowly. Small areas of surface rust aren’t the biggest deal; this is to be expected after exposure to so much saltwater. But any rust that weakens the overall structure will be a problem. Don’t forget to check out the container’s floor as well; that can rust and weaken just like the rest of it! Ask your expert retailer any questions you have about rust that you spot.

Comparing Shipping Containers to More Common Storage Like Sheds

There’s no shortage of outdoor storage options available to you, but they are NOT all made the same. Shipping containers and your average backyard shed are among the most popular and make a great comparison. Everyone has specific needs, and different things may work better for you, but for those on the fence, this can help you make the right choice. A 40′ shipping container will give the average person more storage space than they could ever really use.

Consider the Overall Cost/Your Budget

For many, the cost is the most critical factor. Of course, both have more expensive and cheap options, making it even more challenging to decide. So, your traditional storage shed will arrive on-site already constructed, though some companies still bring it out in pieces and assemble it on site. On the other hand, shipping containers are always fully assembled and can be customized as much as you may want in the future. Used sheds are a huge liability. On the other hand, used shipping containers make up most of the market for being a great combination of price and strength.

Security and Protection

When securing your belongings and assets, you can never really be too safe. Sheds offer decent protection; they lock up tight enough to keep many casual thieves out and have the strength to protect from most weather elements. But if someone wants to enter, they can bust down a wall or something. You essentially need to cut a hole in it with a welder to gain unauthorized access with a shipping container. They are constructed with Corten steel, specially designed for strength and longevity.

Durability is Critical

When it comes to the long-term durability and serving you well for a lifetime, you will find no option better than a shipping container. They are designed for longevity. A strong storm could blow over your shed with no warning, but a shipping container can stand firm through essentially anything.

Keep your Stuff Pest and Rodent Free

Sometimes, regardless of how hard you work to lock your stuff up, rodents and bugs are almost always going to be able to get into your shed. Generally, this isn’t an issue unless you store something perishable or organic, then it can become a disaster.

For a long time, rats/rodents on ships were the main vectors of global disease transmission, and since then, a lot of time and energy has been put into fixing that situation. These containers are welded expertly and sealed entirely from the outside world.

How Much Storage Space Do You Need?

One of the most important questions to ask yourself is just how much storage do you or your business need? When it comes to storing awkwardly sized or overly tall items, you can’t beat shipping container storage. Your average 20′ shipping container is 8 feet tall total, giving you much more usable storage space.

Shipping Containers were Designed to be Transported

Shipping containers were designed to be easy to transport, whether on a massive container ship or the back of a truck. Want to move your container somewhere else? We’ll come to load it on the back of a truck and be on our way. It’s that simple! Learn more about shipping container transportation.

So, if you’re in the market for additional storage for your home or business, you’ve likely been able to come to the same conclusion as we have through your research. Shipping containers are essentially all-around the best strong, long-term portable storage option on the market. Contact us today to learn more about our shipping containers! We offer Conex containers for rent as well as Conex containers for sale. Learn more about our container customization needs as well.

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Global Container Shortage – Conex Containers for Sale Greensboro

All States Container conex boxes for sale in GreensboroCovid-19 was a “black swan” event in the international shipping industry and has caused issues never before seen in the supply chain. Already, this unforeseen disruption in global trade has caused delays and led to the current surge in freight rates. As the effects of the pandemic continue to trickle down the supply chain, the shortage of shipping containers worldwide is fast becoming a new norm. Hopefully, things will change for the better shortly. In the meantime, there are Conex boxes for sale in Greensboro NC, at All States Containers.

The Challenge In Brief

Most of the shipping containers available today, especially in the U.S., are manufactured in China. And because it was easier and cost-effective for freight shippers to bring in new shipping containers (loaded with cargo) from China, they were unlikely to ship empty containers to China after use.

This imbalance in trade volume has existed for quite some time, especially before the pandemic. It was the reason for the enormous amount of empty shipping containers in North America.

Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, the demands on transpacific trade lanes have skyrocketed. More so, since Conex containers are in short supply, the rates on international container shipping have massively increased.

At All States Containers, we believe this is the real problem behind the present freight delay. Luckily, there are still Conex boxes for sale in Greensboro. And they might be the go-to solution at this time.

The “Black Swan” Event- What Does This Mean?

First things first: The term “Black swan” seems to be the latest buzzword in the international trade zone. Ideally, the term refers to an unpredictable event that has grave consequences. However, the extremely rare events like what is happening in the trans-pacific trade zone perfectly compliment the phrase.

How Did We Get Here?

The Coronavirus outbreak started in China, causing many blank sailings (i.e., sailings that the carrier has canceled) that resulted in containers being stranded in China. It’s the primary reason for the short supply of containers in the U.S and several other countries. Currently, freight shippers are dealing with these significant factors:

  • Delays in cargo unloading in China
  • Enormous pressures on the global supply chain
  • Locating empty containers to fill
  • Delays on return trips of ships that sailed to China
  • Mandatory quarantine on incoming ships (up to 14 days as seen in the U.S.)

Keep in mind that these are only a few of the reasons causing the surge in freight rates. Unfortunately, it’s not yet possible to tell what the future holds.

All States Containers

Are you searching for a Conex container for shipping or other use? All States Containers can help. We carry a large inventory of containers. Need modifications? We can do that, too. Give us a call at 704-802-7700.

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Setting Up the Ideal Shipping Container Home Office

All States Containers Shipping Containers for Sale in North CarolinaShipping container homes and offices are becoming increasingly popular in recent years. Their popularity stems from their affordability, sustainability, and efficiency – perfect for someone who wants to live a more simple life. Setting up your shipping container home office is no easy task, though; it requires a detailed understanding of what you need before moving forward with the project.

There are many benefits of having a shipping container home office. You wouldn’t have to disturb the natural settings of your house, and you can transport your office wherever you go. This blog post will cover all the tips you’ll need to set up your new shipping container home office.

Shipping Containers for Sale in North Carolina: Home Office

Storage Space & Overhead Cabinets

One of the most common complaints about people working in shipping container offices is the lack of storage space. Luckily, this doesn’t have to be an issue. You can install several different overhead cabinets throughout your office that will give you ample amounts of storage room and will also increase your floor space. You also want to make sure that they go all the way up to the ceiling; otherwise, you end up with a lot of wasted space. The more shelves and compartments around your desk area, the better off you will be when it comes time to organize everything.

Proper Plumbing System

Having a sound plumbing system is very important for all types of office setups. Even if you only need water, it’s better to have that on hand than having to run out and buy gallon after gallon of water from the store. It would also be beneficial to make sure your container has a bathroom inside; this can save you time and money in both installation and usage.

Office Fixtures

One of the most crucial aspects of setting up your shipping container home office is ensuring you get a proper desk setup. In addition, have all necessary office fixtures, including power outlets, lights, fans, and all other things that make working in the most efficient manner possible.

HVAC System

Having an HVAC system is very important for any office environment. You want to be comfortable in your workstation, primarily if you work long hours throughout the day. There are plenty of different HVAC systems you can choose from when setting up a shipping container home office. The most common choice would probably be a traditional air conditioning unit that takes up less space and allows efficient temperature control. However, if you plan to get multiple shipping containers, it is better to have a central cooling or heating system.

Add Some Decorations

Last but not least, make sure you add some décor items to create a warm and inviting workspace. Whether this means getting some plants, adding posters, or personal items – just don’t forget about them. Having a pleasant working environment will make you want to be in your workspace.

All States Containers

If you are looking for someone who deals in shipping containers for sale in North Carolina, then you have come to the right place. All States Containers offer containers for both rent and purchase. So what are you waiting for? Give us a call at 704-802-7700 and see what we can do for you.

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How Long Can I Expect My Shipping Container To Last?

Shipping containers are built from a particular type of high-quality steel called Corten. And some of the factors that determine how long it’ll last include the number of years of usage at sea before modifications, the environment where it’s stored, and how it is used. In addition to these, maintaining shipping containers and modified shipping containers can prolong its lifespan even more. The question that lingers remains, “how long ‘precisely,’ should I expect my shipping containers to last?”

The average lifespan of shipping containers is 25 years. That is because they are designed to be sturdy and durable enough to undergo modifications, transport cargo by sea, withstand storage, and much more. According to All States Containers, your source for shipping containers Charlotte NC, following the preventive maintenance tips below will help your shipping containers last many years beyond the average lifespan.

How To Know When Your Container Needs Maintenance

Rust Buildup

Rust build-up can damage the steel of your container; hence you’ll need to check the external parts of the shipping container to remove any trace of rust. To remove the rust properly, you’ll need mild bleach, a broom, and running water. For tougher issues like large dents and holes, your best bet would be to call a professional. Finally, reinforce the exterior finish by painting the whole container surface.

Musty Odors

Musty odors will come from either your air conditioning unit or ventilation. To avoid the musty odors- we recommend that you inspect your air conditioning unit frequently and replace the air filters as required. If you use PTAC (Package Terminal Air Conditioner) units, you’ll need to inspect the air duct lines, condensation drain line, and evaporator coil to ensure they’re as clean as they should be.

Difficulty Opening And Closing Doors

When it becomes a challenge to open and close the doors of the shipping container freely, that’s a sign that it needs maintenance.

First, we recommend adding lubricants to the hinges. The hinges are often constructed from a different type of metal than the rest of the container and are susceptible to rust.

If the bottom of the doors is scraping the ground, the container has become unlevel. Equalize the structure by propping up the lower corners on sturdy railroad ties. Of course, a long-term solution would be to move the shipping container elsewhere and place it on a firm, flat surface.

Be Proactive About Maintenance

To help your containers serve you much longer, here are some of the things you can do to prevent further damages.

  • Check the exterior paint and repaint areas where there are visible signs of rusts and patches
  • Fill major roof dents with a sealant like caulk, as required
  • Check the leveling of the container as often as possible to know when to relevel it
  • Inspect the air conditioning unit and replace the filter when needed.

All States Containers

If you need modified shipping containers, All States Containers is the best place to find shipping containers Charlotte NC. We can match the correct container to your needs. Contact us at 704-802-7700.

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Shipping Container Roof Care Tips

One part of the container that you must always look out for is the roof. A shipping container roof is a weak spot because if water puddles in any area, it will rust and deteriorate, and you end up with holes. Shipping containers are built to last, and with the proper maintenance, you can prevent deterioration and extend their lifespan.

The best thing you can do for the long-term strength of your container is to purchase it from a quality dealer, keep it clean, and not place any weight on the roof without reinforcement. Here are some more valuable tips from the leading dealer of shipping containers in Fort Mill that you can practice.

Rooftop Tips for a Shipping Container

  • Do not put any weight on the roof.
  • Always get your containers from a credible source
  • Remove water puddles
  • Leave the existing roof system of your shipping container as it is
  • Always remove rust, dirt, and debris on the rooftop

Don’t Put a Lot Of Weight on the Roof

Shipping containers are designed to carry weight on the corners. This design allows the containers to be stacked. The rooftop of a container is not reinforced to support any weight. In a situation where there’s a need for storage or weight to be placed on the rooftop directly, a reputable supplier can reinforce the roof of the shipping container to allow it to withstand this pressure.

If you’re not sure about the strength and rigidity of your container’s rooftop, it’s always best to discuss your concerns with your shipping container vendor. If the container is ISO-certified, it complies with the standard strength requirements and roof rigidity that makes them fit for load-bearing.

Purchase Your Containers From a Credible Source

You can find shipping containers being sold on the internet, but how do you know a reputable source? If you’re buying from a credible source, you would be able to find out the age of the container, its quality, whether you can modify it, or if it has any form of significant damage. The dealer should give you the history of any used container—research diligently before spending your hard-earned money.

Remove Water Puddles And Other Elements

Your shipping container will be affected by elements like snow, ice, or rainfall. Frequent visual inspections of the rooftop as soon as possible will help avoid rust, mold buildup, etc. If you think you might not be able to keep up with inspections, you can opt for shipping containers finished with environmentally-friendly water-resistant paint that lasts longer than oil-based paints. Using this type of sealant will allow a more extended time between inspections.

Leave the Existing Surface of Your Shipping Rooftop as It Is

A shipping container has convex rooftop trusses, which is very different from the sloping roofs you’ll commonly find on buildings. These unique trusses serve a purpose, and that is to shed as much water as possible. It is always better to leave the existing surface as it is.

Remove Rust, Dirt, and Debris on the Rooftop

To maintain the structural integrity of your shipping container’s rooftop, you will need to clean it annually with mild bleach or other cleaning agents. Ensure that dents and holes are repaired or at least covered. Every few years, repaint the whole surface to prevent damage.

All States Containers

If you need further help with the rooftop of your shipping container, All States Shipping Containers Fort Mill can offer solutions. All States Containers have a large inventory of high-quality containers for sale to meet any of your needs. Contact us today at 704-802-7700.

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All The Sizes And Variations That Shipping Containers Come In

All States Containers shipping containersShipping containers over time have become indispensable to many businesses. Not only are they used to move goods locally and internationally, but they also can be used in a variety of other ways, from extra storage to additional office space. Shipping containers can do it all.

Finding the correct type of container for your business or residential needs begins with knowing the exact size and variation required. Shipping containers are available in many variations: new, single used, used, 10-foot, 40-foot, to name a few. Which one fits your needs?

Conditions Of Shipping Containers

Used Containers

The better the condition of a container, the higher the price. Used Containers are, as the name implies, previously used. You can expect to see some rusty patches and wear on these containers. It also means that these containers have traveled on more than one trip, are up to 15 years old, or were used for storage purposes for a lengthy period. These reasons make it cheaper and more eco-friendly than a single-use shipping container.

Clients who select used shipping containers can have them modified to meet their needs. However, this happens after thoroughly examining the state of the used container to determine if its condition is suitable for the project.

One-Trip Containers

These containers are typically in better condition than used containers because they have journeyed only a single trip. A one-trip container is also known as a single-use container, and it usually requires no maintenance because it’s nearly new. Once these containers are loaded, shipped, and arrive at their destination, they are quickly unloaded and put up for sale. This process is cheaper than returning empty containers to their origin.

Purpose-Built Containers

These containers are designed for businesses or individuals with specific dimensions that they won’t ordinarily find in standard shipping containers. Purpose-built containers are fabricated to fit the custom needs of the client. They are built to resemble ISO shipping containers.

Standard Sizes of ISO Shipping Containers

ISO stands for International Organization for Standardization. This organization sets standards for a broad range of internationally traded items across many industries. These standards allow companies to produce products that have the exact specifications to be used interchangeably.
The most common sizes for ISO shipping containers are 20 and 40 feet in length, but these are not the only sizes. There are ISO shipping containers 53 and 43 feet long, but they are not readily available. 10-foot shipping containers are also less common, and it’s even more challenging to find 14-foot containers.

Keep in mind, businesses that require non-standard lengths can modify shipping containers to the exact size required. Long containers can be shortened, and multiple containers can be combined to create longer lengths.

High-Cube Shipping Containers

Consider the height of a standard container and imagine that it has an additional one foot. That gives you a clear idea of why this shipping container is called High-Cube. Its 9.6 feet height makes it desirable for an office and living space. Moreso, these containers are used in industrial enclosures since they provide better circulation for any equipment that radiates heat.

All States Containers

Shipping containers are available in various standard sizes and variations. They have become more versatile to fit commercial and residential custom dimensions. For further inquiries on the variations and sizes available, All States Containers has the best offerings and professional advice. Call 704-802-7700 and see what we can do for you.

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Is There A Difference Between Ocean & Domestic Shipping Containers?

Allstates Containers shipping containersWhile most shipping containers are constructed similarly and tend to look alike, there is a big difference between ocean and domestic shipping containers. Sending containers across the ocean is an economically good strategy, but it poses a higher risk than domestic shipping. This risk is why ocean containers are manufactured to withstand heavy weights while ensuring safety and reliability.

Differences in Shipping Containers

Ocean and domestic shipping containers are made with corrugated steel panels and are weatherproof. They include lockable doors, flooring, and security locking bars. This style is standardized to maximize functionality and is generally the same for all shipping containers, which is why it can be a challenge to discern the differences between the various types of shipping containers. While domestic containers are constructed with the same materials as an ocean container, they are typically 20 feet in length. They are designed to withstand three containers stacked on top of it. Domestic containers generally are manufactured for construction purposes or mobile storage. Because they are made locally, these are a more cost-efficient option that can be fabricated quickly.

Structural Integrity

The structural integrity of a shipping container is crucial. Ocean containers are engineered to handle ten containers stacked on top of it. The ability to stack the containers is necessary for efficient loading onto ships. The ocean containers are limited to 20 and 40-foot lengths to suit oceangoing vessels and transportation by land.

Alternative Uses

While shipping containers have their specific uses, there are several other usages for containers, such as residential storage, commercial onsite storage, and agricultural storage. They can also be used for enhanced security, portable storage, and modular buildings. Whatever the purpose, shipping containers are a safe and reliable option that ensures protection from the elements and potential damage of the contents. With used shipping containers also available, this is an excellent option for those looking for a cost-efficient way to have the benefits offered by a shipping container.

All States Containers

If you need extra storage or an additional office, shipping containers could be your answer. These durable containers can be modified to suit all your needs. Shelves, doors, flooring, walls, windows can all be added to make the container an inexpensive solution for your business. Contact All States Containers at 704-802-7700 and see what we can do for your business.

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Shipping Containers – Why Does It Matter What They Weigh?

All States Containers shipping container weightPortable shipping containers or Conex boxes are found in industries around the globe. From the retail sector to construction, they are designed to transport a wide variety of cargo. Outside of transporting goods, they can facilitate equipment, store furniture, or even serve as temporary office space. The most crucial aspect of a shipping container is its weight. Knowing the shipping container weight is the first step to using it, whether the intention is to transport it or use it to serve as storage space that remains stationary. Whatever the case is, these logistics are critical.

Shipping Container Weight

The empty weight of a shipping container is referred to as tare weight. Payload weight is the tare weight subtracted from the gross weight. Here are the weights for some standard-sized shipping containers:

  • 10ft. container: tare weight – 2,645 lbs., payload weight – 19,753 lbs., gross weight – 22,398 lbs.
  • 20 ft. container: tare weight – 4,914 lbs., payload weight – 47,900 lbs., gross weight – 52,813 lbs.
  • 40 ft. container: tare weight – 8,159 lbs., payload weight – 59,039 lbs., gross weight – 67,199 lbs.
  • 40 ft. high cube container: tare weight – 8,747 lbs., payload weight – 58,448 lbs., gross weight – 67,196 lbs.

Weighing Shipping Containers

There are three methods to determine the weight of a shipping container:

  • Trailer Suspension Weighing System: This method uses a truck suspension system to determine the container’s load on the truck. This system is not the most accurate method available.
  • Weighbridge: This method uses a large scale to weigh vehicles and is a more accurate measurement system.
  • Axle Weight Pads: These portable weighing scales can measure the weight of vehicles using transmission technology.

The first step for using a shipping container is understanding its dimensions and weight. Shipping containers come with many guidelines and government regulations because of the sheer size and weight. Complying with these rules is extremely important not only for the cargo but also for the safety of everyone involved. By knowing the limits of the shipping container, avoids the risk of overloading them.

There are strict guidelines that have to be adhered to when transporting shipping containers, whether by land or sea. Truck Size and weight limit laws will exist in every state. If the aim is to ship a Conex box overseas, a Verified Gross Mass or VGM of the container must be provided before it can be loaded onto a ship. Safe handling prevents overloaded containers and complies with the Safety Of Life At Sea (SOLAS) VGM requirements, which dictate the weight of shipping containers being transported.

All States Containers

Are you in the market for a shipping container? All States Containers has a large selection of shipping containers available. We can supply all specifications, including the shipping container weight for each unit. Contact us at 704-802-7700 and see what we can do for you.

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Maintenance Tips To Keep Your Container Working For A Long Time

Shipping containers are used across the globe to transport goods. They can be stacked onto ships, trains, and trucks to get them where they need to go, wherever their destination. Designed to last for years, but more often than not, shipping containers are used once and then set aside because it’s cheaper to discard them than have them returned empty.

Shipping Container Care

This system means that many empty shipping containers are lying around. These containers can be used for storage or converted into portable offices, classrooms, and clinics. Though they are designed to last for years, some simple shipping container care is all that’s needed to help them last even longer.

Rust and Hinges

Essentially a giant steel box, rust is a shipping container’s greatest enemy. Though they won’t rust quickly, they need to be kept free of standing water, and their paint maintained. Hinges and latches are the weak points with paint and should be repainted as required. Also, keep them well lubricated to prevent jams. Steel against steel can easily rust or seize up, so making sure hinges keep moving is essential. When opening containers, the right door is opened first. An eye should be kept on its hinges as they’re likely to show wear before any other of the container’s moving parts.

Level Floor

The bottom of a shipping container can also suffer damage if neglected. Containers rest on their corners, not the bottom, so placing them on a level surface above the ground keeps the container’s bottom dry to prevent rusts and dents. The placement site needs to be level; otherwise, the container might bend or warp due to uneven weight distribution. If multiple containers are stacked on top of each other, the location must be firm enough to support the additional weight preventing sinking into the soil. Grading and the use of concrete or gravel can help.

Extended Life

Shipping container care isn’t extensive or overly involved, and most of the work is keeping them dry. As long as a shipping container is kept free of rust and the hinges mobile, the container can continue to be used in various ways. Just because one’s no longer transporting goods doesn’t mean it can’t be reused for another purpose for a long time.

All States Containers

If your business needs additional storage, shipping containers are a great solution. With regular shipping container care, they can last for many years. All States Containers can meet all your storage and shipping container needs. Call us at 704-802-7700 and see what we can do for you.

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