Scams are everywhere, from financial scams to coronavirus aid scams. But did you know there are some less than reputable shipping container providers out there that will try to scam you? It’s true. Don’t be a victim. Follow these tips to avoid scams when looking for a shipping container provider.

Look Into the Website’s Domain Name

Find out how long the provider’s website domain has been active. Most legitimate companies have older, established websites, as opposed to a fraudster’s site, which will be very new. That’s because they pop up and disappear frequently to avoid detection.

Check For Legitimate Company Address and Verified Google Name

If you can’t find an actual address on file for the company, this is a big red flag. An established, credible company has an actual address and a verified listing on Google Maps. Make sure the profile is verified and make sure the contact information there matches what’s on their website. Strict verification methods are put in place by Google to ensure scammers don’t abuse the platform because that damages consumer trust.

Verify a Landline Phone Number

Providers that operate with just a cell phone number may be a little sketchy. A landline number indicates a central office, and this points to professionalism. To check for a landline number, look for an area code in the region of company location. Cell phones don’t always indicate location. Make sure that phone number matches with the phone numbers on the website, social media pages, and Google Maps. When you call, take note if it is answered immediately.

Learn How Long They Have Been in Business

Check out the About Us section on their website. Is the content well written or does it look thrown together or too good to be true? Is it too much information, something that could have been copied and pasted from somewhere else? You want to see a strong About Us page that details their experience in your area.

Get Several Quotes

It’s a good idea to choose at least three different providers and call them for quotes. Rock bottom prices that seem too good to be true usually are. They often lure people in with low prices just to get you to call, then hit you with hidden fees later on, or they may require you pay all up front in cash to get such a good rate.

Check for Organic Presence on SERPs

If you only see paid advertisements for the company popping up in the search engines with no organic links, take note. If a company wants to appear in organic search results, they have to have a legitimate website that engages in SEO ranking tactics. If you know anything about SEO, you know how long it takes to build up a presence on the SERPs with organic search alone.

Visit Social Media Pages

These will give you a good idea of the character of the company. Look for a lot of reviews. If they only have a couple, this isn’t a good sign. Make sure they’re recent and positive overall. Some negative reviews are normal, but you should still see if the company reached out to the consumer to acknowledge their complaint and offered to make it right.

Buy Directly From a Container Supplier

The best way to ensure you’re buying direct is to visit the company in-person rather than relying on phone calls and online interactions alone.

Ask to See the Container On-Site

It’s never a good idea to buy or rent a shipping container sight unseen. You should be met with enthusiasm when you ask to see the container, not a NO answer. This is a red flag. Most companies want their customers to be satisfied with the quality of their products, so they should have no problem showing you the inventory.

Don’t Share Banking Information

In order for a shipping container scam to be successful, it has to rely on the ability to get funds from a naive buyer’s bank account. If the company asks you for this information right away, before you have verified all details, take this as another red flag. Banking and payment info should be the very last step in the process.

If you follow the above tips, you should be assured of choosing a reputable shipping container supplier.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

When you’re looking to partner with a proven provider of shipping containers in South and North Carolina, as well as Virginia and Georgia, contact us for a free quote to get started. We have more than 40 years of experience in the container sales and rental business for your peace of mind.

Now that you’ve made the decision to purchase a shipping container, your next question is: should you buy new or used? The answer to that question will depend on many factors, such as intended usage and budget.

In general, used storage containers are those that are retired from cargo service, so they may not look shiny and blemish-free like new ones will but you will save money. Plus, used shipping containers don’t compromise on security and weather proof qualities. If you don’t mind a few dents and some surface rust, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t buy used.

Why Buy Used?

Here are a few quick reasons why buying used is a good bet. Buy used if:

• You’re on a tight budget.
• You don’t care about appearance, i.e., you’re not using it for a tradeshow, pop-up food truck, boutique or home.
• Top-of-the-line selection isn’t important to you.
• You want the most affordable pricing.
• You want a long service life, but you’re willing to compromise on a few years.

With used, you can still have your choice of condition, color, size, and configuration, and you can add any customizations or modifications you want. There’s minimal ground prep required, and you can still choose from many sizes: 20 ft, 40 ft, 45 ft, 48 ft and 53 ft.

Considerations

When buying used, you will have to be a bit more diligent in your research on the units themselves as well as the provider.

• Supplier Reputation: Dealing with a reputable company for your used shipping container is key. Don’t make any rash decisions. Take your time to do your homework and research at least a few different companies. After all, even a used shipping container is a big investment, so you want to make sure you’re not spending a lot of money on a lemon. You want some assurances that the provider will be delivering on what they have promised. Fair prices, solid reputation and many years in business are all things to look out for.
• Container Inspection: While not always possible, it’s best to check out the container in person rather than buying it sight unseen. Look for holes in the unit – get inside the container, shut the doors and see if you notice light shining through anywhere. If so, there are holes. Next, check for properly working doors and locking mechanisms. Inspect the roof for dents that may lead to pooling water, leaks and rust spots. Eventually, these will turn into holes. Take note of anywhere you will have to do some patching.
• Delivery Costs: It takes a lot of work to load, transport, and drop off a used shipping container. The driver has to secure the container to the truck, access the site, and drop off the container safely. This all costs money. Ask what the delivery costs are up front. Is it included or is it an extra charge?
• Toxic Exposure: Many times, used containers could have been used to transport toxic products. This means you may have to provide additional treatment in order to safely reuse the container as, for instance, a living space or to transport food.
• Need for Repainting: You may want to repaint the container once you take ownership of it. First, you’ll need to make any necessary repairs, and that includes addressing rust spots before You can treat problem areas with rust converter.
• Features: Make sure the used container you are considering has all the features you’re looking for, such as:

1. Single-door entry
2. Double-door entry
3. Windows
4. Durable flooring
5. Ventilation
6. Internal locking system
7. HVAC systems
8. Shelves
9. Storage space

Buying used may mean you have fewer selections when it comes to hitting everything on your must-have list. Therefore, you may have to make some compromises. Just remember you can always add on modifications later.

In the end, the decision to buy new or used is a highly personal decision. You may not care that it doesn’t look perfect. Maybe your budget will only allow for a used model. Whatever the case, you can’t go wrong with a used shipping container. They serve a solid purpose and can still give you many years and even decades of use.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

If you’re ready to buy a used shipping container, please contact us in either our North Carolina or South Carolina offices. We would be happy to assist you in making this important decision!

When in the market for a shipping container in Atlanta GA, you likely have a lot of questions for the provider you choose. This is, after all, a big decision. The shipping container provider you choose has to be trustworthy, and the products they sell must be durable. Here are some questions to ask your Georgia shipping container provider.

Questions to Keep in Mind

How long have you been in business? The answer to this will give you an idea of how long the shipping container provider has been serving customers in your area. The longer the span of service, generally the more they can be trusted. But this isn’t the only factor that can tell you about trustworthiness. You’ll also have to take a look at reviews and testimonials to get a clearer picture.

What are your delivery options? Most providers, Transocean included, offer two options: flat-bed and roll-back. Roll-back trucks can be used when the customer doesn’t have their own off-loading equipment on site. You will need to provide a lot of clearance so the truck can get in and out. If the customer does have a fork-lift or crane they can use on site, then the container company can deliver with a flat-bed truck, which saves money.

Can you set the container directly on the ground? This isn’t usually recommended, but will depend on the type of container, condition of the landscape and purpose of the container. It’s wise to rise up the container on railroad ties, cement blocks or boards to act as a makeshift foundation. Otherwise, the container could sink unevenly into the ground over time.

How long does it take for delivery? Most providers can deliver the container within a week or less. This could take longer if you have asked for modifications, such as windows and doors, shelving, ventilation or custom paint. Your provider should be able to give you a timeline of delivery based on your specific requirements.

What modifications do you offer? Speaking of modifications, most storage container providers do offer modifications to the units they sell. Those modifications can include anything from windows and doors to shelving units and custom flooring. Keep in mind, any modifications you make will add to the price tag of your unit. The custom additions you select will depend on the intended use of the container, whether you plan to use it as a mobile office, popup food stand, school or garden shed.

How old are your containers? If you decide to buy a used shipping container, this is an important question to ask. Used shipping containers could be up to 20 years old, and they come in a variety of conditions. Age is often a big factor in how providers price their inventory. But even used shipping containers have to meet certain criteria for durability and sustainability to handle various weather conditions. You should always inspect the unit you’re interested in beforehand to ensure it meets your needs.

Can you provide references? Don’t be afraid to ask for references. Once you have that contact information, actually reach out to those previous clients to find out their satisfaction level with the shipping container company. Here are some questions you can ask:

• Did you get a new or used container, and what was the condition of the unit when it arrived?
• Did the company handle issues promptly?
• Did they go over pricing and address any budget concerns?
• Was the unit in the stated condition, or were you surprised to find damage?
• What modifications, if any, did your unit contain?
• Was it delivered on time?
• Were you surprised later on by unexpected charges?

On top of calling references, go a step further and look into the company’s reputation. Check social media, read reviews, and ask family and friends which shipping container companies they have dealt with in the past.

What are your prices? This is an obvious question to ask, and will vary greatly with the size, type and age of the unit you select. Whatever the case may be, make sure you get a detailed breakdown in writing so you’re not surprised later on with fees such as surcharges, Customs duties, terminal handling, and penalties for overweight containers or late collection. Don’t be afraid to ask for a discount, especially in off-peak seasons within the shipping industry. Also, don’t forget to ask what forms of payment they accept. Find out if they offer financing as well.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

If you have more questions about purchasing a shipping container in Atlanta, Georgia, please contact us for a free price quote at 910-483-7828.

Shipping containers are great on their own, but they’re even better with modifications. These are things you can do to the interior or exterior of your unit to enhance its comfort, functionality, efficiency and appearance. From shelving to ventilation to some cool accessories, here are some popular shipping container modifications you can consider to suit your needs.

Branding

If you are using your container for business purposes, you can have it painted or wrapped with your brand and logo. You can incorporate anything from signage to contact information with hours. Magnetic signs are ideal in many instances, because you can change them out as needed. Branding is important for businesses that need increased visibility to promote what they sell, from real estate to food.

Interior Paint

Standard shipping containers don’t come painted on the inside. You have to add that after the fact. Many people decide to paint the interior of their container when it is being used as an office, food stand, restroom, etc. – basically for any purpose where people will be spending time on the inside and appearance of the unit is a concern, i.e., guests, customers, employees.

Flooring

Typical storage containers come with simple marine-grade moisture-resistant flooring. But you may consider upgrading the flooring if your unit will be acting as a conference room, mobile office, training room or any other professional environment. You may want to go with a fresh vinyl flooring choice with a classy wood plank design, for instance.

You may need a more durable choice if your unit will act as a mobile restroom, though, such as polyvinyl flooring that is slip-resistant and easy to clean. If you are using your container as a portable gym, you may consider installing rubber or soft mat flooring.

Mobile Office Upgrades

If you’re using your converted storage container as an office, you will need the amenities that will make your job easier, such as laminated counter tops, seating, white boards, filing cabinets and shelves.

Plumbing

If you’re running a restaurant out of your storage container, or you need it to include a bathroom or workplace kitchen, you can add a fridge, counter space for a microwave and other small appliances, full plumbing systems, sink, seating, and stove.

Lighting

For applications that require additional general and task lighting, you can add anything from recessed lights to pendant lights. You can even incorporate LED lighting for personnel doors. For added security, try motion sensors that activate the lights when motion is detected.

Rooftop Decks

Why not make good use of the space above the container? Add a rooftop deck if you need to survey your work site, for example.

Locks

If your container will house things of value, you should probably invest in a variety of locking mechanisms that will offer more security beyond the standard locks. These choices can range from cargo door locks to security swing arms to lock boxes.

Miscellaneous

There’s really no limit to the modifications you can make on your shipping container. Some more popular options include:

• Windows
• Roll-up doors
• Sky lights
• Heat and AC units
• Security bars
• Vents and fans
• Framing and insulation
• Electrical
• Partitions
• Solar panels
• Shelving

Benefits of Shipping Container Modifications

There are several benefits that come with making modifications to your shipping container. By adding custom features, the sky’s the limit when creating the ideal space for work, home or play.

Your container is:

• Completely customizable
• Affordable
• Eco-friendly
• Safe and durable
• Weather and rodent resistant
• Convenient
• Personalized
• Comfortable

A shipping container is mobile, which means it’s good for temporary uses. When done, you can pick and move to another location for the utmost in convenience. You can make your container all your own with just a few simple – or complex – changes that suit your needs and your budget.

The Many Uses of Shipping Containers

There are many reasons why you would want to modify your existing storage container. You can convert them to serve virtually any function or purpose, such as:

• Ticket booth
• Security booth
• Hydroponic container farm
• Garage
• Home
• Sports equipment locker
• Pop up café
• Pool
• Shed
• Theater
• Bistro
• Field hospital
• Studio
• Sauna
• Art gallery
• Disaster shelter
• Student housing
• Camper
• Playhouse
• Lab
• Backyard pool house
• Guest house
• Indoor garden

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

If you would like to learn more about the modifications we offer, contact us for a free price quote at 910-483-7828. We would be happy to go over the choices available to you with your new or used shipping container.

If you think all steel storage containers are good for is to ship goods overseas, think again! They’re perfect for all sorts of applications, from homes and on-site offices to overflow classrooms and yes – non-profit organization headquarters. As a non-profit, you may not have a lot of money for extraneous purposes, which is what makes storage containers such a great option.

Here are some advantages to choosing steel containers for your non-profit organization.

Affordability

Operating your business as cost-effectively as you can is imperative in this line of work. Whether you serve the homeless or make crafts for kids in the hospital, you can achieve your goals with steel containers by protecting your bottom line. Not only are these containers affordable outright, they are relatively inexpensive to maintain and customize. You’ll certainly spend a lot less than if you were to hire a builder to construct a permanent structure for your organization. Why not try a storage container? They’re easy to move, relocate and customize.

Shared Space

Many members of non-profit organizations tend to meet in a central place, such as at a church, community center or local business. If your business has to share space, it can be a real challenge to store supplies, make sure your inventory is secure, have room for office work, and host your weekly gatherings.

This also makes it easy to hold fundraisers, community awareness events and other events. After all, these events are what fuel your organizations all year long. As a nonprofit, charity or religious organization, you likely rely on donations to operate — not just monetary donations but resource donations as well. Holding a convention not only builds community morale, it encourages donor pledges.

Steel containers make convenient, affordable storage solutions that help you do much more than hold a fundraiser. They can also literally hold equipment, materials, signs, paperwork, products, swag and more.

Flexibility

There is an inherent flexible quality to any steel container, because it can be utilized in a variety of ways. From pharmaceutical storage to Little League equipment storage to construction site offices, there’s really no limit as to what you can use your container for. Plus, you can use one container for more than one purpose, such as by partitioning it into sections. Modifications add an extra layer of functionality, as you can choose to put in plumbing, heating, windows, and AC units per your needs.

Examples of Who Can Benefit From Steel Container Units

Many non-profit organizations can take advantage of steel container units, such as:

• Churches
• Homeless shelters
• Community centers
• Satellite libraries
• Food banks
• Food pantries
• Donation drop-offs
• After school activities
• Boys and Girls Club
• Boy Scouts/Girl Scouts
• Toys for Tots
• Habitat for Humanity
• Social organizations

• Community organizations

As you can see, any non-profit can benefit from such versatile containers!

The Many Uses of Storage Containers for Non-Profits

When considering how you will gather with the other members of your organization or community, your first thought may be to rent a space in a permanent location. However, this can get very costly very fast, especially if you must conserve funds. Plus, you also have to share these spaces with other organizations, such as within libraries, schools, civic halls, and more. Why hassle with that?

There are so many varied uses of steel storage containers that you can take advantage of. You can use steel storage containers as hubs for your meetings and other gatherings, as well as a space to:

• Collect toys, books, clothes, and other items
• Store event materials like supplies, signs and equipment
• Transport items between locations
• Store important documents
• Hand out food
• Hold fundraisers, donation drives and conventions
• Mobile blood collection sites

As you can see, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re giving a sermon to 20 people and want to hand out religious paraphernalia, or you’re holding a fundraiser for the local hospital, a steel container can meet and exceed your needs. Best part is, you can rent a container if you only need a temporary space, or you can buy one if you need a permanent space throughout the years.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

If you are looking for a non-profit organization headquarters alternative, we would be happy to give you a free quote on our new or used containers when you contact us at 910-483-7828. In addition to new and used models, we offer specialty units and modifications to make your space unique.

Safety and security: these are two top concerns for any organization that plans to store valuable items in their shipping containers. To keep them safe from curious eyes and would-be thieves, it’s imperative to lock up your container offices after hours, in an effort to protect the contents contained therein. Whether your storage container is being used for storing confidential documents, expensive goods, or costly pharmaceuticals, or you’re using it as an on-site office, shipping container locks bring you great peace of mind.

Being protective of your property starts with choosing the right locks. Not all shipping containers come with locks, and even those that do may require stronger after-market locks that can meet the security needs of your company. Here are some of the common built-in locking systems of shipping containers that you should know about, as well as additional shipping container locks as modifications for keeping contents safe and secure.

Shipping Container Security

It’s critical to note that storage containers are, in general, very secure units, trusted as cargo boxes that can travel across oceans delivering valuable goods. Manufacturers of shipping containers make these products out of heavy-duty Corten steel, into box shapes that result in sturdy yet stackable units that have useful lives of more than 25 years.

As manufacturers go about repurposing used containers, turning them into a variety of structures, shipping containers still maintain their excellent security. Even with extra doors added to improve accessibility, the security of the container is not compromised. Shipping container locks and a variety of other security modifications can help to maintain the unit’s security.

Built-In Shipping Container Locks

Shipping containers are manufactured with cargo doors that comprise the whole wall at the end of the unit. This allows for easy access in order to unload and load cargo. Container cargo doors are available with mechanisms that keep everything secure over long distances.

The double doors utilize a cam-and-lock system with steel bars to ensure doors stay fastened shut. This system tightly secures the doors in place so they don’t swing open and closed during transport. Each of the doors features two handles that allow the user to not only open the doors but lock them in place as well.

You can install additional security locks on the cargo doors’ opening seams. You may even want to install a lock box that conceals the storage container lock and guards against break ins. The lock box ensures the lock can’t get cut with bolt cutters or saws.

More Shipping Container Locks

If you do not need to have operable cargo doors, you can install roll-up doors, personnel doors, or other options that provide access to the structure. These doors need their own locking systems, which vary depending on what your security priorities are.

With personnel doors, latch guards can be installed along the opening’s seam. These are flat pieces of metal that go over the locks and that are bolted from the inside. These guards are in place to act as a deterrent to thieves, making it even more difficult to break in. Plus, they’re easy to install.

You may choose to have a code-protected lock entry to keep your container secure. In that case, you can install keypad entry locks, which are considered an upgrade from a standard deadbolt lock. These are wise choices for private offices, for example. You may program the keypads with entry codes that keep unwanted visitors out.

Beyond Shipping Container Locks

Additional security modifications can be added to your storage container as necessary. Every company has different needs in terms of their security protocols. For instance, some companies want their container windows to include burglar bars, which serve to further deter intruders. As you go about designing your shipping container structure, despite its intended purpose, you will want to think about augmenting its security with the proper security modifications to suit your business.

As you can see, there are many locks on the market to choose from depending on your needs. Do your homework, ask questions, and then make an informed decision.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

Here at Transocean Equipment Management, we offer a variety of locks to keep your storage container as secure as possible. Simply contact us for a free price quote when you call either our North Carolina or South Carolina offices. Alternatively, you can fill out a free quote form on our website for a speedy response.

Since their invention in the 1960s, shipping containers spurred a revolution in how goods and cargo were transported all over the globe. Since then, there have been a variety of shipping containers emerging on the market to meet the needs of anyone who wishes to move goods.

These intriguing containers have evolved in many ways. As long as they are able to fit the footprint, you can pretty much put anything in there that will fit that space. Invented in the USA, shipping containers usually are measured in feet and inches, rather than meters.

Here’s a look at the different container types:

Standard Size Boxes

There are two standard lengths of shipping containers: 20 ft or 40 ft. You can also order them in high cube sizes. Standard containers typically have just one set of doors at one end, but you can get double door containers that feature doors at both ends.

Refrigerated Units

Also known as reefers, these containers can store goods such as food, flowers and pharmaceuticals that must be kept within an exact temperature range for transport. Some goods need to be frozen, while others simply need to be kept cold.

Insulated Containers

Similar to reefers, these units don’t have active air conditioning units within them. These are designed to prevent extreme temperatures – too low or high – from impacting the temperature within the unit.

Half Height Containers

Most storage containers are packed tightly to preserve the goods within, but there are exact weight limits for them to follow when fully laden. Therefore, for particularly heavy goods, it makes sense to pack a half height container in order to meet weight limit requirements, as well as to avoid damage from goods rattling around inside.

Open Top and Removable Hard Top

Open top containers are great for cargo that’s simply too large to fit through the door and that must be loaded via crane. They feature a removable hard top or soft top cover, which must be secured tightly. Most open tops come in standard heights.

Side Opening Containers

If the cargo in question can’t fit through the front doors, this calls for the use of side opening containers, whereby you can load them from the side via a forklift.

Bulk Containers

These are ideal for powders and aggregates which are too small by volume to be shipped via bulk cargo ship. Such containers load from the top and empty out at the other end, via a hatch at the bottom.

Tank Containers

Similar to bulk goods containers in that they can carry fluids that aren’t available in enough quantity to be justified for a tanker, they can be loaded and unloaded like a tanker truck.

Flat Rack Containers

If you plan to move a tractor or a yacht, a flat rack container can be used for shipping a vehicle that is too large to fit within a standard size container. They are loaded from the side.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

Not sure which type of cargo container you need? We can help you decide. Contact us at 910-483-7828 for a free quote.

In the last few years, the concept of tiny homes has been hitting the design and real estate world. More and more people are ditching the commitments and high prices of large mortgages and huge homes, and opting for small homes made out of storage containers.

Here’s how you can use a storage container to achieve the perfect homestead that underlines your new minimalist lifestyle!

Make Sure to Plan Ahead

If you plan to use a cargo container as the basis for your tiny house, the first step to staying within your budget is to have a plan. If you neglect having a budget and schedule, costs can get out of control quickly. All the savings you thought you’d be taking advantage of with a tiny house can evaporate without some restrictions. Be sure to map out the amount of room you will need, take detailed measurements and think about how many stories you want your tiny house to be.

Avoid Silly Mistakes

Make sure to check with your town or community about the zoning, building and planning regulations. Don’t assume just because it’s a tiny house that you won’t need to follow the rules. Many cities have strict guidelines regarding zoning issues and construction regulations. If you don’t work these out beforehand, those oversights can get expensive in the end. Do this before you even buy a cargo container and start converting it. Know where you want to put it and what your city’s rules are.

Do Your Research

Before you buy a shipping container, understand what you’re getting. This is especially true of used containers. Some have been used more than others, and this wear and tear will show up in many ways. Make sure you inspect it in person so you can make note of any damage and its current condition. Remember: once you buy it, you’re the owner. If you get it home and don’t like its condition, yet you were given a chance to inspect it, you have no recourse.

Prioritize Needs vs. Wants

When building a home of any size, your budget can get out of control quickly. Create a list of things on which you are willing to spend money, vs. those on which you can skimp. Make sure you add enough storage so your tiny house can at least accommodate your basic needs. List out the most expensive things first so you will know if you have enough padding in the budget to take on some of the extras you want.

Tiny house living is the latest trend, but this doesn’t mean you should skip all the planning and budgeting. It all starts with finding a reputable shipping container company.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

If you’re looking for an alternative living concept and are interested in getting a quote on a storage container to convert to a tiny home, contact us at 910-483-7828. We would be happy to give you a free price quote.

You may not think about it often, but the roof of your shipping container is put under a lot of stress on the daily. It takes the brunt of all kinds of weather, not to mention it accumulates debris very quickly due to its flat surface. Be sure to pay special attention to this portion of your container if you want it to last the test of time without costly, unnecessary repairs.

1.    Deal With a Reputable Source

Quality is important. There are literally thousands of shipping containers on the market for purchase at any one time, so it’s critical that you do your homework in investigating the quality of the container you select. You’ll also want to research the capabilities of the manufacturer before you commit to a sale. Check the age of the container, being on the lookout for significant damage. Here at Transocean Equipment Management, we carefully select the types of containers we sell and rent, making sure they’re of the highest quality.

2.    Keep Weight off the Roof

Another thing to consider is the structural strength of your container. This will depend greatly on the strength of the castings at each corner. These are the reinforced areas of the container, and are actually more important than the roof itself when it comes to strength. Refrain from walking across the roof or storing heavy items there. It will bow and flex under too much weight. If you require rooftop access or storage, request that the manufacturer reinforce the roof.

3.    Remove Water, Ice, Snow and Debris

Yes, shipping container roofs are very durable and resilient, but do your part by being conscious of what is accumulating on top. Regularly remove standing water, snow, and ice that can build up on the roof. Letting those elements accumulate will put undue pressure on the roof and container. Ignoring ponding water can lead to thinning metal, rust or moisture accumulation. Be sure to clear off the roof after all significant weather events.

4.    Remove Dirt and Surface Rust

Use a commercial cleaner, bleach, or anti-mildew solution to remove all rust and dirt from the roof. You can do this with a hose and broom. If there are large dents, holes, scratches or rust spots, call a professional to fix these issues or even repaint the container if the damage is significant enough.

5.    Regularly Inspect the Roof

Regularly maintaining and caring for the roof of your shipping container will ensure a longer lifespan. Second-hand containers can get dented if other containers have been stacked on top. What happens? Those dents start collecting rain water which in turn leads to corrosion or chipped paint. Make sure all dents are repaired right away, treating them with rust-proof paint to prevent corrosion from occurring.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

To learn more tips on shipping container roof maintenance, or to get a quote on our containers, please contact us at 910-483-7828.

Shipping Containers Can Be Modified For the Whole Family!

You don’t have to keep day dreaming about creating your own peaceful retreat right in your backyard. You don’t have to put on an addition to your house or sacrifice an existing room to make time for you or to focus on your hobbies. You just need some space in your backyard, a shipping container, and some ingenuity.

From granny pods to play rooms, it’s time to get inspired! Here are some ideas for modifying your shipping container.

Man Cave

This is a space just for him, where he can watch the latest game, enjoy a beer, invite buddies over, work on his bike or just enjoy some down time away from the main house. Man caves are traditionally seen in garages, sheds, or basements, but you can expand the possibilities with a storage container in the backyard. Personal space is important…you deserve it!

She Shed

The ladies also deserve a private spot to unwind, get crafty, hold book club meetings, or drink wine with friends. The female equivalent of the man cave, the she shed can be a quiet retreat for reading, sipping coffee, or even as a home office away from the hustle and bustle of the family.

Kids’ Playroom

Acting essentially as pre-made cubby houses for your kids, shipping containers are the ideal alternative to wood sheds in the backyard where maintenance and upkeep can drain any homeowner. Your kids can now have a spot to call their own – sometimes we forget they need alone time too!

Creating a kids’ playroom with a shipping container means they can store all their toys within one dedicated space, keeping clutter out of the yard or main house. It also gives them a reprieve — a shady spot in the yard where they can relax, play, and allow their imaginations to run wild.

Shipping containers can be modified in many different ways, in many different configurations, according to your kids’ needs. Safety is of paramount importance here!

Granny Flats

If you have an aging parent who still wants their independence and can largely care for themselves, yet they wish to downsize from their large home, a granny flat or granny pod is the perfect solution. There’s no need to upsize, extend or renovate your own home to accommodate them. Place a modified shipping container in the back yard and voila – they have their own personal space yet it’s close enough to you so that you can cook for them and check in on them frequently.

This is also a great solution for when Grandma and Grandpa still live in their own home far away yet want to come and visit. They have their own space without having to trip over toys as they enjoy their morning tea.

In the same vein, such pods are great for college students who come back home to roost over the holidays and during the summer. They still get their privacy and can come and go as they please, yet they’re still close enough to invade your home for home-cooked meals and laundry!

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

To get inspired with more ideas for your shipping container, contact us at one of our North or South Carolina offices.