10 Uses for Storage and Shipping Containers

May 13th, 2021

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With cargo containers, the name speaks for itself. However, there are multiple uses for these containers that go beyond what you’d expect. Find out how you can use a shipping container in both expected and unexpected ways.

1. Storing Raw Materials On-Site

Many businesses opt to use a storage container to store excess raw materials on-location. That way, the materials are portable and easily accessible when needed. Raw materials, also known as feedstock, unprocessed material, or primary commodities, are often made up of:

  • Steel
  • Corn
  • Oil
  • Grain
  • Gasoline
  • Forest resources
  • Plastics
  • Lumber

2. Provide Extra Space for Orders That Aren’t Ready to Ship

A cargo container can provide an excellent solution to businesses with a significant e-commerce component. Warehouses that see an influx of orders can use them for extra storage space instead of overstuffing their processing area.

Organized storage, especially when it comes to pre-processed orders, is essential when dealing with a growing and in-demand business. On the other hand, new e-commerce businesses can use cargo containers in place of a warehouse. Whether a company is looking for warehouse space or opting out of renting a warehouse facility completely, storage containers provide the perfect alternative to store pre-packed orders. Instead of renting larger warehouse space, consider utilizing shipping container sales and rentals.

3. Storing Belongings During an Office Renovation

During an office or commercial property renovation, shipping containers can be a great solution to store furniture, electronics, office supplies, and any other goods that will not be in use to protect them from potential harm, dust, and debris. Storing unused items in a container saves you the hassle of moving countless items to short-term or rental office space while the renovation is taking place. Once a renovation project is complete, you can simply move the items out of storage to their new home.

4. Storage During a Long-Distance Move

Whether you’re moving across the country or internationally, it can be tough to find a mode of transport large enough to hold all your belongings. Renting or buying a storage container will save you money on countless back-and-forth trips. Meant to withstand the elements and the punishing effects of long-distance travel, cargo containers are tough enough to protect your cherished possessions. Once your move is complete, you can return your rental, but if you purchased a container, there are plenty of other reasons to hold onto it for future transport or storage.

5. Storing Chemicals or Sensitive Materials

It’s natural to want to keep chemicals or sensitive materials away from workspaces or non-sensitive goods. These materials can be dangerous and even explosive if exposed to the right environment or conditions. Cargo containers are a sufficient alternative if you want to store something away from a populated building or service area. However, when storing chemicals, you must ensure the container meets EPA and OSHA standards.

6. Extra Space When Downsizing a Store Front or Warehouse

The truth is that some businesses have to make the difficult decision to scale back and downsize their operation. Downsizing a storefront will likely result in extra furniture, racks, or electronics like cash registers or phones. Shifting to a smaller store front may be due to financial constraints or could be a move to open more locations. In some situations, there’s a case to be made that you don’t have to sell the excess items you may have use for in the future. By renting or buying a 20-40 foot storage container, you’ll at least have the option of storing these goods, whether you decide to hold onto or eventually sell them later.

7. Securing Archived Files or Valuables

Got sensitive physical files, documents, or valuables that you absolutely need to keep safe? A shipping container can be a fantastic way to create a vault-like storage space for archived files or valuables. These steel containers make the ultimate hiding place for sensitive information and irreplaceable goods. It’s a great alternative if your building doesn’t have a formal safe or secured storage. Instead of renovating a space or creating a new secure storage facility, simply acquire a storage container and make the necessary adjustments.

 For example:

  • Alter the closing and locking mechanism to be opened from the inside.
  • Add ventilation depending on your local climate and the goods you will be storing.
Metal doors with latches on a cargo container being utilized as a vault.

8. Increase Storage Capacity in Hospitals, Nursing Homes, Schools

Hospitals, nursing homes, and schools can never have enough emergency supplies. That said, even the essential items and equipment employees use every day can get overstocked. A cargo container eliminates the need to build or rent an expensive warehouse when the stockpile overwhelms current storage plans.

9. Store Extra Cars, Tractors, ATVs, and More

Farmers are among those that would benefit from a cheap storage solution for their extra vehicles. Cars and trucks, tractors, ATVs, and wagons all need a safe parking spot when they’re not in use. If your garage is full, altering a storage container can be a great alternative. Most 20 foot shipping containers can fit up to two full-size vehicles.

10. Sea Freight Transportation

Lastly, sea freight transportation is one of the most standard uses for shipping containers. If your business or organization needs to transport goods overseas, you will need a shipping container.

How Much Does a Shipping Container Cost?

Shipping containers vary in price based on size, condition, modifications, and delivery.

A used 20 ft. container may cost around $3500 while one in new condition would be closer to $6000. A 40 foot shipping container is typically 20%-30% more than a standard cargo container, new or used.

Additionally, other costs are associated when it comes to owning containers. For example, container chassis may be necessary because they are trailers or wheeled carriers that are designed specifically for the transportation of containers.

Click to learn more about how much a shipping container costs and the factors that influence the price.

Buy or Rent a Cargo Container Today

Hale Trailer Brake & Wheel, Inc. offers quality cargo containers to rent or buy. Take advantage of our exclusive deals during peak seasons, sales, remodels, layaways, and construction projects. Contact our professionals for more pricing information and to determine the container that’s right for you.

Browse our shipping container inventory and ask for a quote. Delivery prices vary by state, so be sure to ask for an estimate.

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