Construction sites vary in size from multiple large new homes to minor house remodeling to road construction. All construction sites have tools, equipment, machinery, and lumber and other raw materials to get the job done. Usually, there aren’t any facilities already on-site for safe storage, rest rooms or break rooms.

Often times, these areas are the responsibility of foremen or company owners. That’s where versatile shipping containers come in. They can be used for job site storage, locker rooms and so much more.

Benefits of Using Shipping Containers

Shipping containers bring construction sites many advantages, such as:

• Affordability: Containers are a cost-effective option when compared with building from the ground up.
• Versatility: Containers are great for on-site offices for logistics managers, project managers, architects, contractors and store managers. Plus, they can be easily stacked or connected side by side to form large office spaces, points out GlobalTrade.
• Portability: When done with one on-site project, you can take your container with you to the next one.
• Durability: Made from Corten steel, shipping containers are long-lasting, corrosion-resistant and weatherproof.
• Security: With the right locks, containers are very hard to break into.
• Rapid Deployment: With little to no ground preparation, containers can be delivered on the same day of request in many cases.
• Compact: Your shipping containers take up less of a footprint on your site than a traditional building.

Uses For Shipping Containers

There are many uses for shipping containers on a construction site, from mobile offices to repair shops.

Practical Uses

You can use them for:

• Overnight storage: Store your expensive tools for protection against theft.
• Safe storage for flammable or hazardous liquids.
• Protection for fragile goods such as windows or bathroom fittings.
• Climate-controlled storage for materials that are sensitive to heat, cold and rain.
• Repair centers where you can make fixes to on-site equipment as needed without having to send it out for expensive and time consuming repairs.

You can make further adaptations through the addition of climate control systems, shelving, or extra doors.

They’re also very durable. Use storage containers for palleted goods such as tiles, cement, blocks, and other bulk deliveries. On top of that, you can add extra security features, such as alarms, lights, cameras, and special locks. And if you are concerned about environmentally-safe storage of fuel, oils, and lubricants, you can add vents and drip trays.

On-Site Workshops

While most work takes place on location, you may want to designate a workshop for cutting timber, putting together components, or recharging equipment. This weatherproofed and well-equipped workshop space is ideal in many trades to boost workflow and reduce accidents. You can also use these spaces for preparing materials for use on your site to prevent work stoppages and delays. An extra bonus: you can move these workshops around the site as needed.

On-Site Offices

A construction site must be able to accommodate administrative work too, which is why you need a container for:

• Blueprints and plans
• Computers and printers
• Planning documents, permits, compliance paperwork, etc.
• Health and safety paperwork
• Employee and subcontractor paperwork
• Delivery notes
• Accounting books

These containers keep all important documentation in one place, safe from the wind and rain.  In addition, you can use mobile space as:

• Sales offices
• Security offices
• Conference rooms

Medical Attention Station

Construction sites are dangerous places. Even the most safety-conscious construction sites will run into minor accidents here and there, such as falls, slips and trips. Even with rigorous safety rules put in place, major accidents are still a possibility, not to mention other health risks such as dehydration and allergic reactions to bug bites.

This is why it’s wise to use a shipping container as a mobile first-aid station. This will ensure fast, focused treatment of minor incidents, as well as for first response stabilization when it comes to more serious incidents. You will want to stock this unit with anything from bandages and medication to defibrillators and other life-saving equipment.

From break rooms to mobile offices, the benefits of shipping containers are far-reaching on a construction site.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

Call us for a free quote on any of our container sizes and modifications you may want when creating a mobile office for your construction site. Get started when you call us at (910) 483-7828. We would be happy to suggest the ideal modifications to meet your needs.

When you buy a shipping container, you want assurances that your cargo will remain safe from the elements and thieves. You also want to make sure it’s easy to access whenever you need to. That’s why the cargo doors you choose are so important, as is the overall safety of your container.

From heavy-duty doors and theft-proof locks to alarm systems, surveillance, and perimeter fencing, there are many things you can do to ensure the safety of your unit. Doors are the main concern for many.

Types of Shipping Container Doors

There are many methods of cargo safety measures, the main measure being manual elements such as locks and bars. Remember, the right doors will protect your cargo from outside influences of humans and nature.

Here’s a look at the different types of doors:

• Double doors: These are the most common, providing you with the highest level of cargo loading flexibility. You can opt for both the front and rear ends of the shipping containers to have double doors, or you could add a set just at one end. It’s your choice.
• Open side doors: These are another popular choice, with two-leaf gates at the sidewalls that you can fully open for easy loading of heavy cargo.
• Personnel Doors: These doors are made of heavy-duty steel with insulated cores, and allow for easy and frequent access to the container by approved personnel. The insulated core regulates temperatures inside the unit.
• Roll-up doors: These are great for heavy cargo transport and unloading. They’re lightweight and can easily be rolled up to provide easy access to the interior. Also known as overhead entrances, roll-up doors can be attached to the sidewalls.
• Sliding glass doors: Made of glass and vinyl, these are not as common due to their transparent nature and the security issues they pose.
• Sliding steel doors: Similar to sliding glass doors, these are slightly more viable for cargo safety.
• Cargo Door: These are heavy-duty steel core, two-leaf doors located at the rear, providing tunnel access to the interior.
• Combination Door: This allows you to add different types with more security measures and cargo-loading flexibility. You can even have multiple access points, great for containers used as tiny homes or offices.

Container Door Elements

The kind of door you choose will determine decides how quickly, efficiently and safely you can load and unload cargo.

Open-side doors, for example, are a secure way to load heavy equipment securely due to the wider access.

But in addition to the door, you also should know about some of the markings, which tell you a lot about the container’s identity. This is where all the owner or manufacturer information will be listed, as well as the ISO number, maximum payload capacity and empty container weight.

You will also find safety approval plates such as the Container Safety Convention plate and the Approved Continuous Examination Program which tells you all about the safety status of the container. And finally, you will also see height caution stickers on the doors.

In the end, your container door acts as the last line of defense between the interior of your shipping container and the outdoors. That’s why it’s important to carefully research the type of cargo door you want. The right one will keep intruders at bay (important for those who own businesses with expensive equipment).

The right one will also keep Mother Nature out, as well as pests, moisture and rot. The above types of doors can generally be included on all common sizes of shipping containers, such as 20-foot, 40-foot and high cube containers. They can also be used on specialty units such as flat racks, open-sided containers, open-top containers, hard-top containers and refrigerated units (reefers).

Don’t hesitate to speak with your shipping container provider, as they can help you choose the right cargo doors for your intended purpose, budget, security needs and container type.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

We welcome any and all questions you may have about door options for our many shipping container models. You can get a free quote on our container sizes and modifications such as doors when you give us a call at (910) 483-7828. We service a large area for your convenience and bring you all the add-ons you need to complete your container.

Whether at your home or on your construction site, you probably always find yourself in need of extra storage. While your first thought may be to get a metal shed, you may want to consider a shipping container instead. They both certainly have advantages and disadvantages, to be sure, but after reading this article, you will see why shipping container sheds are the superior choice.

Shipping Containers

Why you should choose a shipping container shed:

1. They’re secure: Made from extra strength steel featuring heavy-duty doors and locks, shipping containers will keep your contents safe and secure against Mother Nature, water, pests and theft.
2. They have easy setup: Containers don’t require assembly, which means you can unload them easily from the truck and plop them right into your desired spot.

3. They’re able to endure more: Built to withstand extreme conditions, such as ocean and road transport, shipping containers make for a more durable choice. When you care for and maintain your container, it can give you up to 30 years of service. That being said, they can rust, which means you should regularly check corners, roofs and door rods often.
4. No assembly needed: Your container will arrive as is, ready to be used, unlike metal sheds that must be assembled – costing you a weekend or more putting that thing together.
5. There’s no foundation needed: Provided the area features a flat, dry, level space, a foundation is not needed, which greatly reduces your cost.
6. They can be moved: If you had to change locations, you could move your storage container easily – just try doing that with a metal shed!

1. They can be customized: It’s easy to make upgrades, modifications and customizations such as shelves, locks, electricity, and plumbing.

Why shipping container sheds may not be a good idea:

1. They can get expensive: Shipping containers cost more upfront than metal sheds. But you will get peace of mind knowing your investment will last a heck of a lot longer. FYI, storage containers typically last at least 25 years.
2. There could be zoning restrictions: Always ask your town or city if there are zoning restrictions or permits you must secure beforehand.
3. Lead times are longer than sheds: Shipping containers may take longer for delivery, especially if you specified modifications when you ordered it.

Metal Sheds

Why you should choose metal sheds:

1. They don’t cost a lot: Metal sheds are initially more affordable than shipping containers, but keep in mind they only last about 10 years.
2. They can mimic your home in style: Many people choose to paint their metal sheds to match their home’s color and style, even adding decorative windows and flower boxes. You may not want an industrial-looking shipping container on your property, but a cute little shed does add curb appeal.

3. Lead times are shorter: Delivery times are shorter for metal sheds, particularly when buying a pre-made shed or kit.

Why metal sheds may not be good for you:

1. They require foundations: Many sheds need to rest on a concrete foundation slab to provide stability and prevent pest infestation or flooding. You will have to hire a contractor or mason to do that and they don’t come cheap.
2. Flooring is typically not included: Vinyl flooring doesn’t come with the purchase price of metal sheds. You would have to pay upwards of $300 for a floor.
3. They require assembly: You can purchase a shed as-is, or you could opt to save cash and purchase it in modular pieces. However, you will have to assemble the shed, so if you don’t have the time, patience or tools, the money savings isn’t worth it.
4. Pests could invade: Sheds can have many tiny holes. And because rodents can squeeze through holes as small as ¼ inches in diameter, they can easily get into your shed and set up shop. Conversely, shipping containers are built to be wind and water tight for long-distances over the sea, so they are tightly sealed and more secure against mice and other pests.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

Have you made the decision to buy a shipping container for your yard or work site, we applaud you! To learn more about our sizes and prices, give us a call at (910) 483-7828. You may also want to check out our many modifications as well.

Check out these innovative uses of shipping containers! You can contact Transocean Equipment Management to learn more!

Shipping containers are used in the shipping industry to transport cargo, but these versatile and useful pieces of equipment can be recycled and used in many innovative ways later on. Check out these innovative ways to repurpose a shipping container.

1.  Theaters and Bistros

You can reprocess shipping containers into open theatres and bistros, a trend that is growing in urban areas. Because theaters and bistros don’t always have the longevity that other recreational businesses do, they can utilize containers as their home base for a short time frame.

2.  Schools

With overcrowding in our nation’s school systems, it becomes more and more important to find low-cost ways of adding classrooms and annexes. The cost of constructing traditional school buildings from the ground up is very costly, so by using renewable spaces like shipping containers for classrooms, districts can save a lot of money.

3.  Homes

The use of cargo containers as tiny homes is a continuing trend as more and more new home buyers are finding traditional home purchases unrealistic. Building spacious, large and expensive homes is cost prohibitive for many, which is why solar-powered shipping container houses are gaining in popularity.

4.  Workshops

When there is a lack of space within the main household for conducting work from home or hobbies, shipping containers make perfect alternative workplaces. They can be placed anywhere, such as the back yard, and provide complete privacy away from the main house.

5.  Offices

Just like constructing school buildings to accommodate overflow is cost prohibitive, so too is it building offices from the ground up. Yet space constraints still plague several industries. Modifying shipping containers into convenient and spacious office buildings is the key.

6.  Emergency Hospital

Think of this as an ambulance yet in a fixed place most of the time. Shipping containers can be made into field hospitals that can be placed in parking lots or at sites of natural disasters to accommodate patients that can’t fit inside the main building. A good example of this is how many hospitals used shipping containers as mobile COVID-19 treatment and testing sites.

7.  Portable Toilets

Movable toilets are great for construction sites, real estate developments, and traveling entertainment venues such as concerts and fairs. They can be repurposed into sanitary and hygienic bathrooms for people to use on the go, says Marine Insight.

8.  Studios and Art Galleries

Shipping containers can be converted into studio workshops that inspire creativity for all works of art. They can also be converted into mobile art galleries that showcase seasonal work by local and regional artists.

9.  Saunas

Think about it: wouldn’t it be nice to have your own personal relaxation paradise in the backyard? A shipping container makes the perfect space for such a sweat-inducing oasis.

10. Disaster Shelters

When people are forced to leave their homes during times of unrest, or when their homes are damaged or destroyed by natural disasters, they need a safe place to congregate, sleep, eat and get medical attention. Shipping containers serve the purpose of temporary shelter house very well.

11. Vacation Homes

Much less expensive than renting a hotel room, vacation homes converted from shipping containers are a versatile, trendy idea that today’s travelers love. They can be located at the beach, in the mountains, or wherever tourists love to visit!

12. Discotheques and Bars

With such a high cost of traditional buildings to house discos, pubs and clubs, it’s easier and cheaper to appeal to the bar-hopping crowd with this clever adaptation of a shipping container.

13. Student Housing

In areas where lack of space is a big concern, reprocessed containers can function as an alternative to traditional dorms. Many colleges take advantage of these alternatives to meet high demand on campus.

14. Swimming Pools

You can make one small pool using one rectangular cargo container, or a large pool by using several in a row.

15. Camper

If you love to camp, reprocess your container into a high-comfort, fully-customizable camper.

16. Malls

Containers can be used as malls and outlets to accommodate retail overflow. They’re cheap to set up and operate, and can be moved as needs change.

17. Nurseries/Indoor Gardens

Containers make perfect indoor gardens and nurseries because they can be modified for climate control very easily.

We hope you enjoyed our list of shipping container alternatives!

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

To purchase a new or old shipping container in any size, please call us today at (910) 483-7828. We also offer a variety of modifications and add-ons that can further enhance your unit.

Transocean Equipment Management explain what to know about shipping container vents. Contact us today to learn more.

Shipping containers may look like big metal boxes, but they are much more than that. Not only are they built to withstand the turbulence of the open seas, they can also handle all types of harsh weather, from wind to heat. Built to be airtight, shipping containers – as you can imagine – lack ventilation.

That’s why it’s important to ensure your unit features the right ventilation. If you don’t, you may have to contend with mold, rust, odors, pests and diseases.

Why Do Shipping Containers Need Ventilation?

Although most shipping containers have an opening small enough for getting fresh air for breathing, it’s really not meant to be functional ventilation. If water gets inside, it can’t get out. That’s the main reason why sufficient ventilation is critical, particularly when storing humidity- or moisture-sensitive items or in places where the climate changes drastically.

If you have high humidity levels, place a dehumidifier inside the shipping container.

Issues Due to Poor Ventilation

Without an adequate ventilation system, a shipping container could overheat, damaging moisture-sensitive goods. While, as we said above, most containers have built-in holes, they’re simply not big enough for most uses, especially if you will be spending any considerable amount of time in the unit.

The ventilation system you install should feature plenty of intake vents, louver vents, and even a window or two.

Here is a look at some instances where ventilation could become problematic, especially where temperature changes are concerned.

• Explosion/fire: When temperatures rise, fires or explosions can occur.
• Health risks like air poisoning and human diseases: When the unit contains toxic or hazardous chemicals such as thinners and paints, the ventilation can lead to air poisoning or fumes. This puts hardware, goods, and people at risk. Reducing temperatures may help some, but installing an air conditioning system would be even better. Many conditions can arise due to improper ventilation, such as dry eyes, nausea, asthma, respiratory diseases, and even pneumonia.
• Moisture damages goods: Plants, food, and other perishables can fall victim to mold and mildew growth due to condensation. Rust can damage your electronics, too.
• Steel containers can rust: Humidity causes a condensation buildup that results in rust, which can be expensive and time-consuming to fix. In addition, poor ventilation can cause musty, unpleasant odors.

FAQs: Container Vents

Here are a few questions you may want to ask yourself when considering shipping container ventilation.

Q: Should you get a roof vent or a side vent?

A: If you plan to use the container as a livable space, a good ventilation system is critical. Integrate both roof vents and side vents. If you can, you want to place two vents on opposite sides of the unit – one high and one low. Of course, you will need side walls in order to install side vents.

Roof vents – AKA whirly bird or turbine vents – are installed on the roof.

Q: What is the importance of a roof vent?

A: For some people, the one pre-installed vent already in the container may suffice for their purposes. These vents usually have a triple-layered screen that blocks insects from getting in. If you live in a low-humidity climate, you may not need any intake vents.

But if you’re wondering how many vents you would need, the answer would depend on your intended purposes, usage requirements, climate, type of container and size of container. You can’t go wrong adding additional shipping container vents in any case.

Q: Should I hire a professional to install the shipping container vents or do it myself?

It’s always best to hire a pro to do it, as they come equipped with the right supplies and tools, plus they have the training and experience to get the job done right the first time. If you tackle it as a DIY job, you could damage the shipping container and end up spending money anyway to fix it.

We hope these FAQs have been helpful in learning more about shipping container ventilation.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

Please call us today at (910) 483-7828 if you are interested in a free price quote on one of our many sizes of shipping containers. With offices in North Carolina and South Carolina, we can also connect you with modifications and add-ons such as ventilation systems.

Transocean Equipment Management shares maintenance tips for your shipping container. Contact us today to learn more about our containers!

Shipping containers were built to be tough, that’s for sure. After all, they were designed to make it across the ocean and back – sometimes multiple times! But even containers that withstand harsh weather conditions can still benefit from regular maintenance. This will pay off in spades, as you will get the most life out of your container.

If you fail to engage in proper maintenance, you’ll have to replace or repair your unit far earlier than you were planning to. Check out these maintenance tips for your container in general, as well as for its roof.

Maintenance Tips: In General

Looking to maximize the life of your shipping container? Here’s how to go about it.

1. Clean off the dirt and rust. Do this regularly to extend the container’s lifespan, minimizing the chance of rust. Use a hose and a commercial cleaning agent or bleach to remove most dirt and surface rust.
2. Make sure your container is stable on level ground. This will help to prevent corrosion if water collects underneath the container. It will also allow you to more easily open and close the doors. Don’t forget to set your container on some railroad ties or even concrete blocks to keep the unit stable and off the ground.
3. Lubricate hinges on doors. Doors seize up when not in use for a while. Apply grease to hinges regularly so they operate smoothly.
4. Don’t bear weight on the roof. Yes, your container’s corners are strong and durable, but the middle of the roof is weak. Take the time to brush off debris such as dirt, leaves, twigs and snow.
5. Replace worn-out rubber door seals. Rubber seals on doors keep the moisture out, but they only last about 10 years or so. When they show signs of wear, replace them – along with weather stripping and caulk.
6. Store dry goods in the unit, not moist goods. Store only dry goods in your container to prevent the buildup of condensation. While most used containers feature vents that encourage airflow and reduce condensation, you still want to use precautions. As such, don’t open the doors when it is raining out or humid. Don’t put sensitive documents or furniture against the walls. That’s because condensation forms there first.

Maintenance Tips: Shipping Container Roof

Now it’s time for some TLC for your unit’s roof. From weather threats to debris, the roof could cave in or get damaged if care is not taken. Heed these tips.

1.     Research Your Provider’s Reputation

During the buying process, do your homework on the provider as well as the unit’s quality. If you can, view the container in person to make sure the condition is what they said it would be. Your container provider should hand-pick the containers they sell to guarantee 100 percent customer satisfaction. Research the company’s reputation, experience, reviews, and years in business.

2.     Remove Debris, Water, Ice, and Snow

While the roof is resilient, it can’t take the presence of too much standing water, ice, and snow. If you continually ignore these issues, especially ponding water, rust or thinning metal can result. Always be sure to clean off debris after bad storms that can throw tree limbs and other debris on top of your container roof.

3.     Remove Dirt and Surface Rust

All you need is a standard hose and broom, commercial wetting agent, bleach, or anti-mildew solution. For all visible dirt and rust on the roof, scrub it well and rinse it. See any large dents, rusted areas, holes, or scratches? Call a repair professional to repair them before they get worse and more costly. Then, if you want, repaint the container with a fresh coat of paint.

4.     Don’t Bear Weight on the Roof

Your container’s structural integrity is bolstered by the strong corner castings (reinforced corners, not the roof). If you walk on the roof, it will bow and flex. If you know you will need to get up on the roof regularly, see if your shipping container manufacturer can reinforce the roof prior to delivery.

5.     Perform Regular Inspections

Regularly caring for your roof means it’s wise to perform regular inspections. Take notes, snap photos, and make repairs as needed. Be mindful that dents, such as on second-hand containers, will collect rain water that can result in rust spots on chipped paint. Repair dents immediately, followed by a treatment with rust-proof paint.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

Contact us today for a free quote. We have offices in North Carolina and South Carolina.

Transocean Equipment Management explains how you can convert a shipping container into a sauna

There are many things you can do with a shipping container, and a sauna is one of them. Actually, they are perfect suited to these spaces because they are the right size for the job. You can put one in your backyard or on site at your business.

Saunas are essentially small rooms that can be heated to temperatures of 150°F to 195°F. They usually have wooden interiors, benches, temperature controls, and rocks as part of the heating element responsible for absorbing and giving off heat. You can pour water onto the rocks to create steam. They are often found in gyms and fitness centers but can act as stand-alone units on private property.

People enjoy sitting in saunas for the many benefits they offer. Such spaces increase body temperature by nearly four degrees Fahrenheit, causing blood vessels to widen and ensure an easier blood flow. Plus, it triggers excessive sweating, which helps to flush out fluid from the body.

Sauna Benefits

There are many benefits associates with saunas, such as:

• Detoxification
• Increased metabolism
• Increased blood circulation
• Weight loss
• Pain reduction
• Anti-aging effects
• Skin rejuvenation
• Improved immune function
• Improved cardiovascular function
• Improved sleep
• Stress management
• Relaxation

Building a sauna in your home may sound like an expensive and extravagant purchase, but you can offset those costs by converting a shipping container with some simple modifications. Now you can unwind in the privacy of your own home or yard without the need to travel back and forth to the gym.

This convenient way to alleviate stress and lose weight has prompted more and more homeowners to use shipping containers for their at-home saunas. The biggest benefit to a shipping container sauna is that it’s self-contained and easily transportable. So even if you move in the future, you can transport your sauna with you via a flat-bed truck.

Design Considerations

Shipping container saunas are low-maintenance structures that should be planned out well from a design stand point. Think about the layout and which configuration would be best for your steam room. You can even come up with multiple design options for a layout before settling on the best one. Computer software can help you achieve this easily.

Consider where the electric outlets in your sauna should be and how you will integrate them. For example, you’ll have to include an electrical supply if you plan on having an electric sauna stove. Or, you could power your sauna by installing solar panels to generate electricity.

Modifications

It may sound difficult at first to convert a shipping container into a sauna, but with careful planning and guidance, you can easily create and enjoy your very own steam room.

You may want to add these modifications to your sauna:

• Benches
• Ventilation system
• Heaters
• Interior wood paneling
• Shower unit
• Racks for towels
• Lighting
• Bluetooth speakers
• Flooring

The features you add to your sauna will all depend on your budget and how luxurious you want to get.

Before you purchase a shipping container in the first place, make sure you look into permitting requirements in your town. You may have to get permission before setting a container on your property for use as a personal sauna.

You’ll also have to consider where you will put it. You can put it just outside your home so you can make a quick jaunt to it even in cold weather. This can be right outside a back door, or near a pool area to enhance your outdoor entertainment experience. Or, you can opt to place it inside your home, perhaps in a basement or home gym.

You will have to equip your sauna with all the right fixtures and elements, such as a non-permeable floor, proper steam ventilation and adequate room for electrical wiring.

In the end, the purpose is to enjoy your container no matter where you place it, and no matter what the purpose is (for your own enjoyment or for entertaining). Just be sure to put a good lock on the door so no one gets in when it’s not in use or being supervised.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

Contact us today in either North Carolina or South Carolina for a free quote if you would like to purchase a shipping container to use as a sauna. We can connect you with the right details and modifications to customize your unit so it can become a fully-functional, enjoy and comfortable steam room.

 

Now that you have purchased a shipping container, you may be wondering what you can do to make it more comfortable and energy efficient. The best way to do this is to insulate the inside of the container.

There is one main reason why you would want to insulate your container, and that is to guard against heat and humidity. You’ll have to consider these factors when deciding on the best way to insulate it:

• Container size
• Intended usage (storage, cabin, office, pop up)
• Climate in which you live or work (tropical vs. temperate)
• Budget
• Quality and amount of insulation desired

Wind and water tight containers are already pretty good at keeping air and moisture from making their way inside because they were originally built to make arduous ocean voyages. But you’ll still need to insulate it if you plan on spending an extensive amount of time in there, such as for a home or on-site office.

Your local climate will have a lot to do with it. You’ll need the right insulation to guard against outside weather and to maintain comfortable interior temperatures. As a general rule, your insulation needs will increase with extreme variations in temperatures. In particular, very wet and very dry climates will pose challenges due to the heat and humidity involved.

Knowing When to Insulate Your Container

First off, you need to determine whether or not insulation is needed. Usually it is, not just to guard against the effects of high and low temperatures, but to prevent condensation (this can result in rust and mold).

You will need insulation if:

• Your local climate experiences extreme temperature variations, such as freezing winters or tropical heat waves. The conduction of heat leads to moisture condensation inside the walls, which can damage any materials you are storing.
• You plan to live or work in the container. While insulating a container for storage will primarily protect materials from condensation damage, when you use the container for offices or living spaces, there’s no choice: you need insulation. Not only will it keep you more comfortable, it will reduce outside noise and reduce your heating and cooling bills.

Humidity Problems

It’s critical to control humidity inside a shipping container due to the formation of moisture condensation. You don’t necessarily have to live in an area of tropical heat; the sun that beats down on the container can cause it to get higher than 100 degrees. This temperature rise can cause the air to condense at the ceilings.

The top six inches near the ceiling is called the “sweat zone.” When water droplets collect on the ceiling, this can lead to “container sweat” or “container rain.” This moisture will then drop onto your stored items, damage them and form mold. Rust can eventually form on metal surfaces too, as well as discoloration.

A good temperature to maintain should be one that’s less than 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with a relative humidity of 50 to 60 percent.

How to Decide Which Insulation Method is Best

You should think about:

• Performance: To determine how much insulation you need, consider that extreme temperatures combined with intended usage of hours in the container at once will help determine which materials you need, such as open vs. closed cell structure.
• R-value: This is how well the insulation will prevent transmission of heat energy. Consider the degree of heat protection.
• Vapor Permeability: This is how well insulation will prevent vapor from leaking out.
• Cost: The price range on insulation is very wide. Spray foam insulation is at the high end of the price gap, while batts or fiberglass insulation are at the lower end. Recycled materials may cost even less.
• Expertise: Do you have the knowledge and tools to do it yourself or do you have to hire a pro?
• Eco-friendliness: You may want to use sustainable, environmentally friendly materials that contain natural, renewable fibers, such as cotton, wool, cotton, or cellulose insulation made out of cork or recycled paper.

There are many factors that come into play when deciding whether or not to insulate your container, as well as how much or what type of insulation you should use. It all comes down to budget, intended use and personal preference.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

Contact us today in either North Carolina or South Carolina for a free quote on the shipping container of your choice.

Shipping container doors are an important part of the container’s structure. This is why it’s critical to select the right door – not only to keep its contents safe but also to improve accessibility and ease of use. Let’s take a look at the important parts of shipping container doors, as well as the types of doors available.

Components of Shipping Container Doors

For every storage container door, there are five essential components:

1. Door Body

Generally, the body includes:

• Two vertical hollow leaves
• Two horizontal C-sections
• Frame with corrugated steel paneling
• Four steel hinges (AKA blades) that hold the body at the rear corners, allowing the door to swing 270 degrees against the wall.

2. Lockbox

This is a protective steel box that is welded right onto the door, holding a padlock. This lockbox keeps the contents inside safe from theft, break-ins and tampering.

3. Lock Rod and Handle

Each door has between two and four vertical lock rods which help to open, close, and lock the door. It features a welded cam-and-knuckle mechanism, AKA the cam keeper. When the door is opened, the handle rotates, forcing the cam out of the keeper.

4. Rubber Gaskets

Rubber gaskets bridge the door body and the container’s edges. These form a seal that prevents leakage from water.

5. Hinge Pins

Door hinges act as pivot points which allows for rotational movement.

The Best Way to Open and Close Container Doors

You may think it’s pretty simple and straightforward to open cargo container doors. But over time, those doors may stick and become more difficult to open. Sometimes the use of opening tools or extra equipment is necessary.

You can take these steps to make it easier to open container doors:

• Rotate and lift the latches on one side, which frees up the handle so you can rotate it.
• Rotate and lift the handles upward, pushing in a bit to release the handle.
• Pull the handles toward you to open the door.
• Repeat these steps for the other side.

To close the door:

• Press both handles toward the container firmly.
• Lock the hooks at the tops and bottoms of the rods into the brackets.
• Secure both handles tightly at the same time, ensuring they are parallel to the door.
• Rotate the latches above the handles to put them back in their original position.
• Further secure your container using a padlock if desired.

If you container doors keeping sticking, here’s why that may be happening:

• Improper alignment of gears
• Warped lock rods (cargo movement during transit can cause this)
• Corrosion that leads to seizing at the hinge pins and blade
• Damage or hardening of the gasket due to cold weather or frequent use
• Water infiltration between the doors
• Poor construction quality

If your door is sticking you can try:

• Lubricating the brackets, hinges, and bar guides
• Applying grease onto the locking bar cams
• Replacing the door hinges, brackets and handles if corrosion or damage is present

Types of Shipping Container Doors

There are many types of shipping containers:

Cargo Doors

These are heavy-duty free-swinging doors that you will find at end. This option is good for storing tools and machinery, but can be difficult to access in tight spaces.

Personnel Doors

This convenient option is best for portable offices, workspaces, and living areas that require frequent access.

Roll-Up Doors

Roll-up doors (AKA shutter doors) can be lifted from the bottom and roll up to nest inside the container. If you’re tight on space, this is a great option.

Sliding Glass Doors

Glass doors provide a nice aesthetic look if your container will be serving as a café, shop or exhibition. They are transparent, encouraging as much light as possible to filter into the unit. They aren’t as secure as other doors though.

Combination Doors

For large containers, you may need multiple doors for easier and faster access.

In the end, the security, accessibility, and appearance of your shipping container will all come into play when choosing your doors. Take a moment to think about your needs and which door would best fit those needs.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

Still not sure which door to choose for your container? Just ask our team; we would be happy to advise you. Contact us today for a free quote and to learn about your options.

There are two important considerations when choosing which kind of shipping container you need: appearance condition and shipping grades. Today we will go into detail about the condition grades of all our new and used shipping containers. 

Your shipping container provider should be honest and upfront with you about the condition of your desired unit. Here at Transocean Equipment Management, you can always count on our transparency!

New/One Trip

New containers were built within the last two years and at the most may have been used only once for international shipping. All parts of the container are considered to be in excellent condition. This is the best condition you can get.

A Grade

A grade containers will feature minimal rust, with doors and gaskets that are in very good condition. There will be no major dents, floors in good condition, and few (if any) patches in the roof. This is also an excellent quality container that looks aesthetically pleasing but that can still be painted if you wanted to.

B Grade

With B grade, you can expect some rust, but overall the corrosion is minor and superficial, and any areas of rust that are present won’t be bigger than six inches in diameter. There is little to no rust around doors, gaskets, hinges and seals, but there could still be a few patches on the roof and floor. Side walls may feature some deflections, but overall, this is a good quality unit, best used for general storage purposes.

C Grade

Rust is present but not overwhelming, with most of it being superficial. Areas of rust could be larger than six inches in diameter. Doors are functional but there may be some light rust on gaskets, hinges or tops of doors. There will likely be many patches in the roof and floor with delamination present on the floor. This is not the prettiest option but it’s one of the more popular grades due to its affordability and structural soundness.

D Grade

Rust will be structural and predominant, with doors that are difficult to open and close. It’s likely that the unit has loose gaskets with severe delamination occurring on the floor (which may also be loose). You will see medium to severe rust around seals. Sides could have large deflections or dents. These units are likely 20 years old or more. They’re the cheapest option and pretty ugly, but they are still wind and water tight and perfectly fine for storing four-wheelers, lawnmowers, and other similar equipment.

Overall, there are many things that will dictate which grade you choose, from budget to intended usage. You can get the best deal with used or recycle containers, which can cost you about $3000, while a new one will cost you $5,000 or more.

Checking the Condition Before Buying

Before settling on a container, always check the condition to make sure its condition has been properly presented to you by the rep. Here are some tips when searching.

Look at Photos

Photos will help you determine the container’s condition and dimensions, but don’t neglect the details. Be aware that there are scams out there, so make sure the photos add up to the one you’re seeing in reality.

Check the Exterior

Walk around the outside to check on overall condition. Pay attention to corner castings, paint, and seals. While small dents can be expected here and there, large sections of denting and rusting are a cause for concern.

Inspect the Interior

Now head inside. Do the doors show any signs of significant damage? They should be able to lock and seal correctly. Next, take a look at all door fittings, seals, locks and gaskets for damage. Do you smell mold? Musty smells may mean there’s a leak somewhere.

Ask About Delivery Fees

Find out what the terms and conditions are when it comes to your container’s delivery.

How far away does the container have to come? What circumstances would arise that would necessitate an increase in pre-purchase quote? Who is responsible for the container while it’s in transport? What if it is damaged when being dropped off by the truck?

There are all crucial questions to ask before you take ownership of the shipping container.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

To learn more about the many grades of storage container we offer and which one would be right for you, contact us today for a free quote.