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.

Shipping containers are known as being reliable, secure, affordable and most of all, mobile. But they’re also super convenient, partly due to the versatility you have when adding doors. When choosing doors for your modified container, consider the level of accessibility you intend for the structure, asking yourself these questions:

• How will I use the container?
• How often will my employees need access to the container?
• Will I be storing over-sized items inside the container?
• Will anyone be living or working in the container?

Once you have answered these questions, you can better select from the following door options.

Cargo Doors

These are heavy-duty, weather-tight, and secure swinging doors that are usually situated at the container’s end. Using a cam and lock system, this ensures all contents remain protected against theft and the weather.

Use cargo doors if:

• You need to place large items inside the container easily, possibly by forklift.
• Immediate convenience is not a priority.

Personnel Doors

Crafted of steel, these are welded into the wall of the container so that the structure is wind- and water-resistant. The insulated core of the personnel door will keep the container cool in summer and warm in winter. These doors also come equipped with a deadbolt and steel handle for the utmost in security so you can keep important documents and valuables safe. If you need extra security, you can always add a keypad entry.

Use a personnel door if:

• The container is going to be used as a portable office building, living space, or storage space.
• The interior of the container must be accessed frequently, with the ability to walk in and out.

Roll-Up Doors

Also referred to as overhead doors, these lift from the bottom and roll up inside the container. You can easily latch them and lock them, plus they’re quite lightweight. They’re welded into the container wall, with installation possible along the side walls or at the end. You may be able to opt for an add-on rain pan that helps to keep rainwater out.

Use a roll-up door if:

• You plan on storing large equipment in the container.
• You will need to access the contents of the container frequently.

Sliding Glass Doors

The height and width of double wide personnel doors, this type of door is made of durable glass framed with vinyl. They’re available with secure locks for minimal protection but keep in mind the doors are transparent and are more inviting of theft.

Use a sliding glass door if:

• You are using the container as an office, store front or living space.
• You are looking for a stylish design and plenty of natural light.

Door Combinations

You may want to consider multiple entryways if you have a very large container or you are using it as a working or living space. In fact, extra doors are the most popular modification that people choose.

The design of any shipping container should fit your specific needs and budget. Whether you want more convenience or you want more light, there is a shipping container door out there for you.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

If you have questions about what door is right for your project, contact us for a free price quote at 910-483-7828.

The term “reefer container” is short for “refrigerated container.” They’re basically just big fridges used to transport temperature-controlled cargo such as produce, meat, fish, seafood, vegetables and dairy, as well as non-food products that must be refrigerated, such as flowers and pharmaceuticals. Such containers must maintain their temperature because they are crossing many miles and oceans before they reach their destination.

Reefer containers are able to maintain a variety of cargo at the required temperatures for the duration of the trip. They also make an ideal portable solution to short- or long-term storage and may be used to ship or truck goods on a long distance-basis. This is because they are able to be plugged into power stations on ships or feature clip-on generators.

Transocean reefers are wind and water tight, featuring secure lockable doors. Most of our specialized containers are available new or used in 20′ and 40′ lengths.

Let’s go over the benefits of reefer containers:

Broad Temperature Ranges

Reefer containers can sustain a temperature range of -30 degrees F to 80 degrees F, with the ability to keep goods warm as well as cold. Refrigerated units are designed to maintain or lower the temperature of your shipment, even under the harshest of conditions.

Versatile Airflow

To maintain the set temperature of frozen goods, air flows around, under and upwards along the sides of the goods. To maintain the temperature of chilled goods, air flows around, under and into the inside of goods.

Portability

Reefers can be easily transported, which means they’re perfect for transporting temperature-dependent cargo such as medicine or food.

Cost Efficiency

Yes, you will have to shell out money for the initial investment, but over time you will save money knowing your goods are stored in a temperature controlled environment and won’t spoil. Products are kept at the correct temperature and moisture levels, extending their shelf lives and keeping spoilage to a minimum.

Many Uses

Reefers can be used for additional purposes than just ocean transport of goods. They can be used for:

• Restaurants and hotels
• Seasonal festivals and fairs
• Pharmaceutical storage

They can be used in the following industries and for the following purposes:

• Inventory Overflow Storage Floral Industry
• Commercial Kitchen Remodels
• Farming and Agriculture Storage
• Chemical Supply and Manufacturing
• Medical and Biomedical
• Vaccines
• Meat Processing
• Seafood Wholesale
• Food and Beverage Distribution
• Produce Storage

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

If your company’s products are temperature controlled and you need to store or ship them for long periods of time, you need a refrigerated container. They’re well worth the investment, as you can’t risk losing your entire shipment due to spoilage. Contact us at 910-483-7828 to learn more about our refrigerated containers, our rates and the sizes we offer. We would be happy to give you a free price quote.

The answer to this question will depend largely on your needs, preferences and budget. But in general, there are several advantages to both.

Advantages of Buying New

In general, buying a new shipping container will cost more but you get a more durable product and a longer useful life.

Here are some benefits to buying new:

• 20’shipping containers and 40′ shipping containers are shipped with cargo just once. Translation: the storage unit you’re buying has only been exposed to the ocean environment one time and is in the best condition possible.
• You get 20 or more years of serviceability.
• New containers come in a wider selection of sizes and configurations than used containers.
  • 10′, 16′, 20′, 24′, 40′ and 45′ lengths.
  • Standard height (8.5′ high) or high-cubes (9.5′ high).
  • You can have either double doors on one end or on both ends of the containers.
• Manufactured with Corten steel corrugated panels and doors, featuring a protective layer that keeps corrosion at bay.
• Can be loaded and moved with up to 30 tons gross weight.
• Can support forklift loading and unloading.
• Created under strict guidelines and fully certified.
• Can be customized with colors or logos.

Consider new shipping containers when you want excellent condition, long life, or convenient fulfillment of shipper requirements. One-trip containers in seaworthy condition are ready to be loaded and transported, with no need for costly or time-consuming repairs.

Because of their excellent condition, new containers are perfect for your storage needs, thanks to the nearly spotless and intact condition. As a result, you get a valuable storage unit to hold your prized personal possessions or delicate items.

Advantages of Buying Used

If your budget is tight and you don’t need a top of the line selection, used is the way to go. With used, you get:

• Affordable pricing, with many years of service left to offer
• The choice of a variety of conditions, sizes, colors and configurations
• Swing doors and wooden floors
• A variety of purposes: as-is or custom modifications according to your needs
• Minimal ground preparation is needed.

• Many sizes for sale and lease: 20 ft, 40 ft, 45 ft, 48 ft and 53 ft.

Generally, used storage containers have been retired from cargo service and offer a nice cost over new containers, while still giving you long-term secure storage. Used containers are typically in very good condition but there’s no guarantee that there won’t be blemishes, dents, or surface rust.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

If you need additional help choosing between a new or used shipping container, please contact us in either our North Carolina or South Carolina offices.

When considering which type of shipping or storage container you need, you may decide you need a specialty container for your unique needs. From flat rack to open top, there are many options available to you. For instance, here at Transocean Equipment Management, we offer specialized 20′ storage containers or 40′ storage containers that can be used for both business and personal purposes. Most specialized containers are available new or used.

Specialty Container Types

There are many types of specialty containers, such as:

• Open-Top Containers: These are ideal for easy loading and unloading of the container from the top of the unit.
• Hard-Top Containers: Easy to load, with greater loading height.
• Refrigerated Containers, AKA “Reefers”: Great for storage and transportation of perishables or other temperature-sensitive cargo.
• Open-Sided Containers: These feature full side-access doors, along with end cargo doors. Both provide greater accessibility, especially with forklift use.
• Flat Rack Containers: Designed to transport over-sized items such as vehicles or heavy equipment.

Uses for Containers

Wondering what 20- and 40-foot containers can hold? Here are some suggested items you can hold in a specialty container:

• Car
• Small boat
• Jet Ski or other watercraft
• Snowmobile
• Documents
• Inventory
• Equipment
• Feed for agricultural uses
• Furniture, including appliances and mattress

Shipping containers aren’t just used for shipping items. They can have many creative uses outside of the transportation industry. From homes and offices to restaurants and hotels, the possibilities are endless. Containers can also be used as:

• Workshops
• Construction site headquarters
• Quick food service
• Pools and saunas
• Hotels
• Homes (for minimalist living)
• Studios
• Art galleries
• Fitness centers
• Home gyms
• Temporary/pop up shops
• Studio spaces
• Laboratories
• Emergency hospitals
• Disaster shelters
• Barriers
• Construction site storage
• Garden shed
• Hay/feed storage barn
• Inventory storage
• Job site offices
• Sports equipment storage
• Storm bunkers
• Firework stands

In addition to specialty shipping containers, you can also choose to add on modifications to ensure your unit is designed exactly for your needs. This can include anything from HVAC systems and windows to ventilation systems and much more.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

To learn more about the specialty containers we sell and rent here at Transocean Equipment Management, please contact us today at 910-483-7828. We would be happy to give you a free price quote on the container of your choosing to help you decide on the best product for your needs and budget.