Now that the purchase of your shipping container in Virginia is complete, it’s time to start preparing for the next phase of the process: delivery. This will entail some preparation on your part, so get ready to prep the area and think about where you want everything to go.

When you are preparing for delivery at the site, your first thought will be to guarantee the driver’s safety while doing the drop off. This will, in turn, ensure a seamless process that will go quickly. If you fail to prep, you may have to pay fees from your shipping container provider.

Here are some facts and suggestions regarding site prep:

The Trucks

Most containers are delivered with either a roll-back truck or a flat-bed truck. Ask about this beforehand, as the designated truck will dictate the site conditions and prep work.

Roll Back Trucks: This is the most common way to deliver a unit. They’ll put it right on the ground wherever you want it to go. Keep in mind, this truck and trailer combo measures 55 feet long. In order for your driver to maneuver without issues, you’ll have to do your part to ensure your site is accessible.

• Deliveries of 40-foot shipping containers take more clearance than 20-foot storage shipping containers. Why? They are being dropped off by a larger truck.
• The ground must be dry and compact at delivery to ensure the truck can get out in out without getting stuck in soft ground conditions such as sand or mud. To aid in the process, position 4”x 4” boards, concrete blocks or railroad ties under the unit to encourage air flow. This way, it won’t sink into the ground.
• The standard full-length truck at Transocean ensures drop off of one 40-foot, 45-foot or 53-foot storage container or two 20-foot storage shipping containers at one time. Don’t have enough room on your site? We will bring along a smaller 28-foot truck to deliver one 20-foot storage container, but we ask that you tell us beforehand.

Flat-Bed Trucks: This happens to be the cheapest method of container delivery. This entails you being responsible for unloading the container.

• A 20′ container weighs 5,000 pounds.
• A 40′ containers weighs 9,000 pounds.
• Before accepting a flat-bed delivery, you should have clear access to the proper equipment in order to offload the unit. These can include anything from cranes and fork-lifts to top-lifts and boom-trucks. You would use these for larger orders, government agencies, or industrial requirements.

Factors of Delivery

How much space you have: You need plenty of space for those large trucks, no matter which one makes the delivery. They must have enough clearance to make wide turns, maneuver once on your property, cross culverts, and get between gates.

In general:

• When the container is being delivered on a full-sized truck with trailer, drivers need at least 70 feet of space.
• When delivered on a small tilt bed truck, drivers will need 40 feet of space.

Clearance: Trailers with containers at 13’6”H, can get up to 16 feet tall when they are raised. Are there any overhead obstructions that may pose a concern? These obstructions can include tree branches, electrical wires, and bridges. It sounds like a no-brainer but you wouldn’t believe how many people are unprepared and haven’t ensured clearance!

State of the ground: You can’t set down a shipping container on mud or wet grass because it will sink. But even more importantly, the truck delivering the container will sink too and not be able to get out. You need firm and level ground to ensure this doesn’t happen.

Safety concerns: We can’t speak for others, but Transocean Equipment Management trains its drivers in precise and safe container delivery. Our drivers take the utmost care to avoid damage to your unit and the surrounding property. However, in the event the driver doesn’t feel like he or she can safely deliver the container where you have specified, they will have no choice but to leave and charge you for an unsuccessful delivery. This is why we can’t stress enough the importance of checking the surrounding area to ensure safety, clearance, and solid ground.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management in Virginia

Every container delivery is different. We would be happy to discuss the specifics of your shipping container delivery in Virginia when you contact us at 910-483-7828.

Did you know that the East Coast shipping ports are expanding operations? The ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach are still suffering from months-long delays. A huge number of companies are opting to send goods to the East Coast to avoid delays on the west coast.

Even though the cost to send goods to the East Coast ports from Asia is roughly $3,000 extra, shipping companies find this is far more cost-effective than waiting out in the Pacific for California to fix its myriad problems.

East Coast shipping port authorities have stated that their operations are more than ready for the new shippers to arrive. Places like the Port of Charleston have invested $2 billion in infrastructural improvements over the last few years. 

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best, biggest, and newest improvements to East Coast shipping ports. Let’s start by discussing why the East Coast is a viable option for goods coming from East Asia.

The Improvements to Panama Canal

The Panama Canal is a man-made watercourse that connects the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean. First ideated in the 16th century, it took until 1914 for the canal to open for business. 

Since this time, the canal has gone through various stages of improvement and expansion. The third set of locks was added and opened in 2016, making it even easier to ship goods across the Pacific and up the Atlantic seaboard.

Most recently, a third bridge was opened in 2019. Known as the Atlantic Bridge, ports across the East Coast knew that this would increase the shipment of goods around the world. 

Because of the consistent and expert expansions of the Panama Canal, east coast shipping ports have started to expand capabilities to handle the wealth of new goods entering the United States.

California’s Coastal Catastrophe

Only two ports take on upwards of 40% of America’s goods and shipping containers. The Port of Los Angeles was ranked as the #1 container port in the western hemisphere between 2000 and 2020. 

The Port of Long Beach was equally as sought-after. However, in 2021, both ports were hitting their limits thanks to increased consumer demand and poor management. Trucking companies and inland warehouses were overburdened with items and understaffed as a result of mismanagement in California’s COVID response.

Now, east coast shipping ports are becoming the go-to option for companies around the world. Shipping containers tend to fair better on the East Coast due to the latest improvements to these ports.

Shipping Ports on the East Coast

East Coast ports have seen an 8.6% increase in shipping container business from East Asia since 2017. At one time, the east coast of the United States handled the most shipping container volume in the world. 

China has certainly surpassed the East Coast shipping ports, but goods on their way to America have made up for the discrepancies. Let’s explore some of the ports and their container statistics.

New York/New Jersey Shipping Port

In terms of the market share, New York and New Jersey make up 32% of trade in container ports on the East Coast. Anyone lucky enough to live in or visit New York and New Jersey has seen the ports. It makes up a significant portion of the coastline around the famed states’ major cities like New York City.

Earlier in 2021, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey saw an overall increase in twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of 7.9%. The total import volumes in both ports have risen by roughly 11% every year.

In 2020, the ports saw a total throughput of 7.59 million TEUs. The demand for containers subsequently increased 87% between 2019 and 2020. The growth of New York and New Jersey might be short-lived as many east coast ports are starting to seriously compete.

The CMA CGM Brazil, a 15,000-container ship docked into New York in September 2020, signaling the shift to east coast operations for most of America’s shipping needs.

Savannah is Close Second

The Port of Savannah is the second busiest port on the East Coast, but the largest single-terminal container facility in the country. The Port of Savannah has exported more filled containers than any other port in America.

Oddly, the Port of Savannah is the third-fastest growing port in the nation. As the port is located within 300 miles of 37.2 million residents, major international airports, 5 other major ports, and 11 huge cities, it’s no surprise that Savannah may soon overtake New York/New Jersey for the biggest and busiest on the East Coast.

The Savannah Harbor Expansion Project expanded the port size significantly. Adding an extra 7 miles to the entrance and 18.5 miles of the outer harbor, Savannah is looking to become the top container port in the nation.

Georgia is one of the best places to buy shipping containers in the United States. However, you must ask your provider the right questions before engaging in business. Just because containers and shipping are part of the booming industry of Georgia, doesn’t mean that everyone knows what they’re doing.

Last year, Savannah handled 21.6% of the East Coast container trade. That’s 4.4 million TEUs. All told, Savannah handled 12.2% of containerized exports in 2020.

North Carolina’s Large History 

North Carolina’s State Port Authority set a record in October 2020 by welcoming the largest container ship (to date) to the Port of Wilmington. With a carrying capacity of 14,220 TEUs, the Yang Ming Warranty is the largest class vessel calling into the East Coast.

North Carolina was able to set this record thanks to a $200 million capital improvement plan to expand operations throughout the shipping port. Last year, the port opened 2,600 contiguous feet of container birth space.

Buying a shipping container in North Carolina is becoming easier. But finding the right company can be confusing. Ensure you’re looking at an organization with a variety of container options.

Why Florida is in The News

In 2021, Florida’s largest shipping container port broke local records by moving 1.4 million cargo containers. The governor of Florida has gone so far as to invite shipping containers stuck off the coast of California to Florida for easier transport.

Florida ports are open 24hours a day, 7 days a week to mitigate supply chain issues from the COVID-19 pandemic. Shipping container companies are increasingly turning to Florida as a faster option than waiting for California to get working again.

Many companies who use the shipping industry to transport goods have asked their shipping container provider to utilize east coast ports to avoid issues in California.

Along with being highly functioning, Florida ports also have huge capacities. Jacksonville Port Authority, upon hearing of the crisis in California, opened to an estimated 1,000 additional container ships per week. 

Port Everglades also accommodated the MSC Stella, with 7,000 containers. The MSC Susanna also arrived with 9,200 containers via the Suez Canal.

The governor of Florida has allocated almost a billion dollars to over 70 of Florida’s shipping port projects. In just one month, the state government provided $250,000 into seaports. 

Virginia’s Container Cargo

The Port of Virginia in Hampton Roads Harbor received 1.5 million container units in 2020. The total number of short ton and metric ton container cargo units (in thousands) reached more than 21,000 and 19,000 respectively.

The main commodities to make their way out to the rest of the world through Virginia are minerals and fuels, with fruits and seeds being a distant second. The imports through Virginia are predominant goods like homewares, but also major foods, nuclear reactors, various machinery, and more.

Virginia is expanding their port operations. The Port Authority recently signed a 20-year lease agreement with a private terminal in Portsmouth Harbor, meaning even more opportunities await in the state. With its proximity to Washington D.C. and other major U.S. hubs, Virginia is on its way to competing to the top spot in east coast shipping ports. 

Global Trade Opportunities 

While California and other parts of the west coast have boasted a majority of shipping for most of recent history, things are changing fast. The growth in the east coast shipping industry is due to proximity to the rest of the world. 

The west might be closer to Asia, but the East Coast receives trade from Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. When coupled with the expansion of the Panama Canal, the East Coast is getting busy quickly.

India is another major trade nation with the United States. The Port of Virginia exported more goods to India than any other nation. India was also the second-largest importer to the state.

Regardless of the type of shipping contain company you’re looking to work with, knowing niche details about each east coast port is essential for accurate operations. As the problems on the west coast continue, the East Coast may dominate the shipping industry by the end of 2022. 

Contact Transocean Equipment for More Shipping Management Information

To learn more about these major changes to shipping ports across the United States, get in touch with us today. For a free quote on the best shipping containers, look no further. 

Our offices are located in North Carolina and South Carolina, but we operate across the world. No matter what your shipping container needs, we’ve got you covered. 

The main purpose of a steel shipping container is to transport cargo across the sea on large ships. During the journey, those containers can get dented, scraped, and scratched – not to mention exposed to the harshest of elements — all while protecting the goods enclosed inside. This durability is what has led to many home and business owners across the country purchasing shipping containers to use as ground level storage on site.

Buyer Beware

Many companies sell to customers “sight unseen.” The prices are usually low to entice the customers into buying something without seeing it first. But just like you wouldn’t buy a car, boat, house or other large purchase without inspecting its condition, you shouldn’t buy a shipping container without taking a look.

It’s strongly recommended that you inspect the container in person before signing on the dotted line. If you can’t, do business with a company that you have bought from in the past or that at least has a stellar reputation in the area for quality products and excellent customer service.

Ask to see high-quality photos of the exact container you are agreeing to buy. Many companies send pictures of similar containers, not the actual one you want. Be specific. Make sure the picture features all four sides (with doors closed) and a few of the inside, including the floor.

Price vs. Supply and Condition

There is usually a surplus of containers in the United States, which means there’s always a pretty steady supply. Prices are usually based on age and condition.

Price will vary with condition due to the following factors:

• Miles Traveled – Some containers log more mileage moving cargo, while others spend more time sitting in ports.
• Container Handling – Some containers fall victim to rougher handling by forklift and crane operators than others. Rust can develop wherever the paint has chipped.
• Container Cargo – Sometimes the cargo the container is carrying will leak or spill its contents onto the floor.
• Environment – A container that travels on ships in milder climates will show less wear and tear than one that has spent many years enduring harsh climates.
• Road Transportation – Some containers get damaged during transport via tractor trailer, due to all the road grit, elements and more.

Age

You can quickly tell how old a container generally is by looking at its:

• Doors – A container with flat doors is generally considered to be an older container. That’s because container manufacturers switched from flat to corrugated doors in the early 1990s.
• CSC Plate – This plate can be found at the left-hand door of the container, listing all the pertinent information about that specific container, including the date it was made. It’s just like a VIN (Vehicle Information Number) on a car.

What to Look Out For

When inspecting your container, there are several elements you should take a look at.

• Doors: Make sure they open and close easily. Also, make sure the locking mechanisms work, which are comprised of handles and vertical rods. If those are bent, it will make it more difficult to open and close the doors. Take a look at the hinges too. If they are rusted, the doors won’t swing open and closed smoothly.
• Roof: Check the roof of the container from the interior, looking for dents and dings where water could collect and lead to rust. At the same time, look for dents and scratches in the paint that could eventually rust through the roof. That’s not to say you should never buy a container with dents or dings. Just be sure you know what you’re buying and the level of risk that comes with it.
• Door Gaskets: Make sure the gaskets seal up tight. Look for rust where the gasket joins the door, particularly at the bottom.
• Lower Side Wall: Check the exterior side wall where it comes into contact with the flat portion of the beam at the bottom. This is a common point of water accumulation that can result in rust later on.

Delivery Options vs. Cost

If you don’t live close to your shipping container provider, you will pay less to have the container delivered to you on a flatbed truck rather than on a tilt bed truck or trailer. This is because flatbed vehicles are much more common, while tilt bed trucks and trailers are much more specialized.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

If you need more guidance in buying a shipping container in North Carolina, South Carolina or Georgia, contact us at 910-483-7828 for a free quote and assistance.

About 90 percent of the world’s cargo is being moved by ships, so you can imagine how many shipping containers are currently in circulation – each one used for a different purpose. There are many shipping container types out there. From flat rack to tank containers, each unit helps with something different. Some transport liquids, while others transport temperature-sensitive foods and pharmaceuticals.

The one you need will depend on the business you’re in. To aid in your decision, here’s a look at some of them.

1.  General Purpose Containers

Also known as a dry container, these weather proof units are fully enclosed and feature a rigid roof, floor and walls. This is the most common type of container, used to transport most kinds of standard cargo. You can add modifications such as liner bags or flexi-tanks if you need to ship liquid cargo or dry cargo in bulk.

2.  Flat Rack Containers

Featuring collapsible sides, these containers can fold down into a flat rack. The end walls are durable enough to secure cargo, so you would choose this option if you had heavy machinery, vehicles on tracks, and construction materials to transport. Some 40′ flat rack shipping containers can carry up to 45 tons of cargo!

3.  Open Top Containers

These have convertible tops that can be removed if needed, good for over-height cargo that can’t easily be loaded through the door. You would choose this option if you had tall machinery or other heavy finished products that could only be handled with a crane or rolling bridge.

4.  Double Door Containers

Just like the name implies, this type of unit has doors on both ends of the container. Also known as a tunnel container, this type of unit is ideal when you have to quickly load and unload goods through either door. Both doors have the same locks and weather tight seals for the utmost in weather protection.

5.  High Cube Containers

Similar to general purpose containers, high cube containers are taller by one foot. You will find them most commonly in size 40′ and sometimes 45′, ideal for when you need a slightly higher volume capacity.

6.  Open Side Containers

Also similar to general purpose shipping containers, these units have doors that can open on the side too. You have more room and wider access, which makes it much easier to load and unload materials.

7.  ISO Reefer Containers

These are used to ship temperature-sensitive, perishable cargo such as fruits, vegetables, meats, and even medications. They rely on external power sources to maintain a regulated temperature. They come in sizes of 20’ and 40, usually made of Corten steel.

8.  Insulated Containers

Similar to a reefer container, an insulated container features a regulated temperature control so they can withstand higher temperatures. Also known as thermal containers, they come equipped with a mechanical compressor to cool or heat the air, constructed of a vacuum flask. This makes them suitable for long-distance transport of anything from biological materials and chemicals to organs and blood.

9.  Half-Height Containers

These containers can transport heavy, dense, bulk cargo such as coal and stones. Used commonly in the mining industry, half height containers have a lower center of gravity to enable them to easier handle heavier loads than their taller container counterparts. As you can imagine, they are very durable because they can withstand rough industrial environments.

10.                Tank Containers

Also known for short as tankers, these containers are made of steel or other anti-corrosive materials to transport liquid materials. It should be at least 80 percent full so that surging of the liquids does not occur in transit. By the same token, it can’t exceed 95 percent full because that doesn’t leave room for thermal expansion.

11.                Swap Body Containers

These are exchangeable containers used for road and rail purposes, more commonly seen in Europe. They feature a convertible top, making them ideal for shipping a wide range of goods. They don’t have upper corner fittings and can’t be stacked one on top of the other, so they are only used for land-based transportation.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

No matter which type of container you need, we can hook you up with the right one for your requirements. Start off with a free quote when you contact us at 910-483-7828. Let us know what you need your container for and we can determine the best fit.

A shipping container modification company cuts, frames, and fits out steel containers for a set use. Think doors, windows, insulation, wiring, shelves, or paint. The right partner turns a plain box into an office, shop, or safe storage unit that works on day one.

Finding one doesn’t have to be hard. All it takes is some prep work and a partner you can trust, like a reputable container modification company.

Most container dealers, the ones who sell you the units, also modify them. Buying the box and the upgrades from one company means one quote, one schedule, and one delivery.

Here’s what a good container modification company will do for you, and what to check before you sign.

1. They’ll work with your ideas

No two projects are the same. You want a company that listens to your ideas and helps you build them. After all, this is your business and your idea!

Whether you want a pop-up shop or a mobile office, pick a company that is flexible and creative.

Ask to see photos of past builds, like our shipping container gallery. Real projects tell you more than a sales pitch.

2. They want to see your designs on paper

As ideas come to you, sketch them on paper. Bring the sketches to the team so they can see what you mean. Even better, bring blueprints, plans, or diagrams that show the full scope.

Mark the spots for doors, windows, vents, and outlets. Note which way the container will face on your site. A door is easier to move on paper than in steel.

Browse our sample layouts for a mobile office for a starting point.

3. They can help you define the main purpose of your container

Before you meet with the design team, know what the main purpose of your container will be. Answer these questions first:

• Is it temporary or permanent?
• Do you want to rent or buy?
• Do you need more than one unit?
• Is it a long-term project, such as a container home or office?
• Is it for business or personal use?
• Will you work out of it, or sell food from it?

Your answers decide the size, the condition, and which upgrades make sense. Compare new and used container condition levels before you choose.

4. They can help with modifications

A modification company can install skylights, windows, doors, shelves, and HVAC. Talk through every upgrade at the start. Changes cost less before any steel is cut.

See our list of popular shipping container modifications for ideas.

Tell the team early if you want to modify an insulated or refrigerated container. Reefer walls are foam sealed between metal skins.

Cutting them for doors or windows breaks that seal. The unit may not hold its temperature as well. Learn more about reefer containers and what they are used for.

5. They’ll help you stick to a budget

Know your budget going in. Share it with your container company so they can spread funds across the project. A set budget helps you avoid overspending.

Ask for a written, line-item quote. It should list the container, each upgrade, and delivery as separate costs. That way you can drop or add items without starting over.

Surprise costs can come up once work begins, so set aside a reserve.

6. They know the building codes and permits

Permits usually depend on where the container sits and how you use it, not on the shop work. A storage unit on a farm faces fewer rules than an office, store, or home.

Check with your city or county before you order. Ask if they have rules for container structures.

A good modification company will tell you what drawings or container data your permit office may want. The 2021 International Building Code added Section 3115 for containers used as buildings. Keep the safety approval (CSC) plate on the container door, since officials may ask for its data.

In North Carolina, G.S. 87-1 requires a licensed general contractor for most building jobs that cost $40,000 or more.

The law has exceptions, so check with the state board if your site work is that large. Wiring and plumbing need their own licensed trades.

7. They help you pick the right size and quantity

Container dealers don’t build containers from scratch. Factories make them to ISO sizes, and dealers stock and modify them.

Most projects use 20-foot or 40-foot units. Transocean also offers 10-foot units, high cubes, open tops, reefers, flat racks, and 45-, 48-, and 53-foot containers.

Confirm the size, type, and number of containers before any work begins. Once cutting starts, changes are hard or impossible. See our specialized shipping containers if a standard box won’t fit your plan.

8. They will deliver your container safely

Once your container is done, the company delivers it to your site. At Transocean, most local deliveries use a self-unloading truck that sets the container on the ground.

The truck and trailer are about 55 feet long, so your site needs room to get in and out.

If space is tight, a smaller 28-foot truck can deliver one 20-foot container.

Flatbed delivery costs less, but you must unload the container yourself. A 20-foot unit weighs about 5,000 pounds and a 40-foot unit about 9,000 pounds. That takes a crane, forklift, or boom truck.

Prepare the spot before delivery day:

• Pick firm, level, dry ground.
• Clear trees, wires, fences, and vehicles from the truck’s path.
• Set 4×4 boards, railroad ties, or concrete blocks under the corners if you want airflow underneath.

Read more about shipping container delivery and preparing for shipping container delivery.

9. They will work with you through all stages

Working with a modification company should feel like a partnership. From the first call through design, build, and delivery, your company should keep you updated. They should check that the finished unit matches your specs and shows up on time.

Questions to ask a container modification company

Use this checklist before you sign a contract:

• Do you do the work in-house? Some sellers pass jobs to outside shops. Ask who cuts and welds your unit.
• What welding standards do your welders follow? The American Welding Society’s D1.1 structural steel code sets rules for how welders get tested and how welds get checked.
• How do you frame openings? Every door, window, and vent cut should get a welded steel frame.
• How do you test for leaks? Ask how they check the seals on roof and wall cuts before delivery.
• Is the quote itemized and in writing? It should list the container, each upgrade, and delivery.
• What warranty covers the work? Get the terms in writing, including what voids them.
• When will it be done? Ask for real build and delivery dates, not “a few weeks.”
• Can I see the actual container? Photos of your unit beat stock images.

Red flags when hiring a container company

Walk away or ask more questions if you see these signs:

• A price far below every other quote
• No street address, yard, or phone number you can reach
• Pressure to pay in full by wire transfer or gift card
• No written quote or contract
• Stock photos only, with no pictures of the unit you’re buying

If you buy in Georgia, our list of questions to ask your Georgia shipping container provider covers more checks.

FAQs about container modification companies

Do shipping container dealers also modify containers?

Many do. When one company sells the box and does the work, you get one price, one schedule, and one delivery.

How long does a container modification take?

It depends on the scope and how busy the shop is. A lock box or shelving job is fast. A full office build with foam and wiring takes longer.

Get the build and delivery dates in writing.

Do I need a permit for a modified container?

It depends on your location and use. Storage often needs fewer approvals than an office or home. Call your county building office before you order.

Can I modify a rented container?

Get written permission from the owner first. Cutting or welding a unit you don’t own can break your rental agreement. Read our must-ask questions when renting a storage container.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

Transocean Equipment Management sells and modifies new and used shipping containers. We serve North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Virginia.

To work with a container modification company you can trust, contact us at (910) 483-7828 or request a free quote.

Purchasing new containers or used containers is a great idea for so many reasons, whether you use them for mobile offices and classrooms, or to use as storage in your backyard. Steel shipping containers are very durable and are designed to last for years, decades even – if they’re cared for properly.

Many people choose to make modifications to their shipping containers. However, they may not realize that those modifications can compromise the structural integrity of the container, resulting in long-term repercussions. In order to safely store items and valuables inside the container, the structural integrity must remain intact, for one thing, and for another, it must be able to accommodate safe alterations that you may make in the future.

Annual routine maintenance, particular to the roof and doors, will help to extend the life of your container. But there are many things you have to take into consideration that can negatively impact the structural integrity of the shipping container.

What Affects Structural Integrity? 3 Factors to Consider

There are three main factors that affect a shipping container’s structural integrity. They are:

Improper Stacking of Containers: Whether you’re stacking containers for storage purposes or you’re looking to build multiple container complexes, stacking is a common practice. When done right, it isn’t harmful to the containers. But when the containers are incorrectly piled on top of one another, they can result in structural damage as well as a dangerous situation for people around them. As such, you should always stack units at the corners (not diagonally), tying them with twist locks to ensure a multi-level shipping container building that is structurally sound.

Too Many Modifications: Alterations are a common undertaking among shipping container owners. Perhaps you would like to transform the unit into a garage space or workshop or maybe you want to add security upgrades to your mobile office so it’s safer at night when you’re not there. Whatever the case, changes to the original container are sometimes necessary and should be allowed to happen. However, you have to follow certain guidelines and precautions to ensure it remains structurally sound even after the modifications. For instance, you can’t cut out too large a space to accommodate more doors or cut too close to the corners, as this will lead to an uneven distribution of weight and a precarious situation. Keep in mind that every shipping container is carried via the corner castings, which are basically the four corners of the container. Let’s say you cut out a corner casting to make a desired modification design change. If you did this without consulting with a structural engineer, you could be sacrificing the container’s structural integrity. Drastic cuts to a wall, for example, are another way to compromise structure. If you were to cut out an entire wall, this would cause the roof to sag, while the floor would become almost spring-like. The walls carry a lot of weight in addition to the corner castings, and they are necessary to maintain the container’s  shape.

Frequent Sea Travel: The deterioration process is hastened with frequent travel and exposure to the ocean air and water. All that salt can cause corrosion, and objects in the water can result in dents. If buying a used container that has been in the ocean, make sure you fully inspect the unit, checking for signs of rust, wear and tear, and other damage. Keep in mind, if you buy a used container, this means it likely traveled at sea many times. You may want to take a look at “one-trip” containers, which have only traveled once across the sea. A used container that has been exposed to the ocean is more affordable and may be perfectly suited to your needs of storage. But if you need a structurally sound container to enhance into a classy mobile office, art space or yoga studio, you’ll want to go with one trip or new containers, especially when people’s safety is at stake.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

Whether you’re on the hunt for new containers or used ones, we can hook you up. Please contact us at 910-483-7828 for a free quote. For your convenience, we have offices in South Carolina and North Carolina, with representatives who can help with your request at any time.

Once you’ve bought your shipping container, now you have to move onto the next step: preparing the site for delivery. The trucks will bring the unit to you, of course, but there are some things you can do on your end that will make the delivery go smoothly.

Preparing for delivery at your site will guarantee the safety of the driver and lead to a seamless delivery process overall. If you don’t prepare well beforehand, you could be subject to fees from your shipping container provider.

Depending upon the equipment you have ordered as well as the specific site conditions, most shipping containers will be delivered with either a roll-back truck or a flat-bed truck. That’s how we do things here at Transocean.

Roll Back Truck

Most deliveries are made with a self-unloading tractor trailer that will drop off your storage shipping container on the ground right where you want it on your site. Combined, the truck and trailer measure 55 feet long. Armed with that information, you should make sure your site is accessible for the truck to maneuver without problems.

Deliveries of 40-foot shipping containers require more clearance than 20-foot storage shipping containers because they are dropped off by a larger truck.

It’s best that the ground be dry and relatively compact at the time of delivery so the truck can get in and out without becoming stuck in the sand, mud or soft ground. You can go a step further and add 4”x 4” boards, railroad ties or concrete blocks under your container to encourage air flow so it doesn’t sink into the ground.

Here at Transocean, our standard full-length truck is able to deliver one 40-foot, 45-foot or 53-foot storage shipping container or two 20-foot storage shipping containers at one time. If you simply don’t have the room on your site, we can bring a smaller 28-foot truck to deliver one 20-foot storage shipping container, but please let us know beforehand.

Flat-Bed

The cheapest method of container delivery is via flat-bed truck because you are responsible for unloading the container yourself. Keep in mind, a 20′ container weighs about 5,000 pounds, and 40′ containers weigh about 9,000 pounds. Prior to ordering a flat-bed delivery, make sure you have access to the proper equipment to offload the unit, such as cranes, fork-lifts, top-lifts or boom-trucks. These are usually best for large orders, government agencies, or industrial customers.

Considerations for Delivery

There are a few factors to keep in mind when prepping your site for delivery.

Space Requirements

Because the drop-off trucks are very large and must be able to make wide turns, you have to ensure adequate space for them to maneuver on your property, be able to cross culverts, or smoothly navigate between gates.

If your container is being delivered on a full-sized truck with trailer, you’ll need to give the drivers at least 70 feet of open space. If delivered on a small tilt bed truck, 40 feet of open space is necessary.

Clearance

While a trailer with container hits 13’6”H, it can reach as high as 16 feet when raised for offloading. Think about any overhead obstructions that could be present, such as bridges, tree branches, and wires. You don’t want to see any unfortunate accidents happen due to negligence.

Ground Type

Heavy container delivery trucks will sink in soft surface conditions such as mud and wet grass. This is why it’s imperative to select a location that features firm and level ground – not only so the trucks won’t sink but also so your container won’t sink.

Safety

Here at Transocean, our drivers are trained to deliver containers in the more precise and safe manner. Ensuring a successful delivery without damage to your surrounding property is our #1 concern. That being said, if our drivers don’t feel as though they can safely deliver your container at the given site, they will leave, but you will still be charged for the attempted delivery.

Do a sweep of the surrounding area to make sure it is open and safe. Both parties will benefit from this attention to detail in the end!

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

If you would like more detailed information on how to prepare for your specific shipping container delivery, contact us at 910-483-7828. We would be happy to inform you of the specific requirements we need you to heed before we drop off your container at the site.

The good, the bad, the ugly: not all shipping containers are created equal. Some are ugly yet still do the job. Others are in pristine condition but you’ll pay top dollar. From one-trip containers to D grade, there are many levels of containers in terms of their appearance and condition.

New/One Trip

These containers have only been used once in international shipping, and were usually built within the last two years. These containers are in excellent condition. You will pay the most for this type but this is a good investment if you need a top-notch container that will be pulling double duty for you for many years.

Cargo Worthy

Cargo worthy storage containers have been inspected and feature a seaworthy certification. If you are planning to ship goods with your container, you’re best off buying a cargo worthy storage container, which has no differences (at least in terms of condition) than a wind and watertight (WWT) container (more on that below).

But this type has the added benefit of being inspected by maritime surveyors, approved for use shipping goods and products overseas. You will pay a few hundred bucks more for this type than WWT simply because of that approval.

WWT

This is the most functional and economical solution, and is generally the most affordable cargo box out there. WWT stands for Wind and Water Tight. They range in condition and are in abundant supply. They are used, which means they vary in color, may have some surface rust, and may be dented and dinged.

But they are more affordable because they don’t have to undergo inspection by a maritime surveyor. Sometimes, they can be inspected by an experienced shop personnel at your direction and can be repaired to ensure they are indeed wind and water tight.

As-Is

As-is containers are sort of like homes being sold as-is – meaning you buy the home/container as it is right now, with no extra work being done on the part of the seller to spruce it up. You’ll likely be looking at some damage which occurred somewhere along the line in the shipping process, as well as structural problems or a lot of rust.

These containers are past the point of being considered WWT. As such, they are much cheaper to buy than cargo worthy or WWT storage containers, but you do have to contend with the damage. This may not matter to you depending on the intended usage, so you can save yourself quite a bit of money here.

Here at Transocean, we have our own system of “grading” our containers. Here’s a look at what each category means.

A Grade

These boxes are in excellent condition, with minimal, if any, rust, good condition doors and gaskets, no major dents, few patches in the roof, and floors in very good condition. Choose this if aesthetics are important to you or you plan to paint the container.

B Grade

With these, you will notice some rust spots but they are mostly superficial in nature – no more than six inches in diameter. You will get good condition doors and gaskets with little to no rust around seals or hinges. You may have to patch a couple of places in the roof or floor, but overall this is a good value as part of a good quality container. Great if you’re planning to use it for storage.

C Grade

Rust, while still superficial, is definitely noticeable yet not predominant. You could see rust spots greater than six inches in diameter. Doors may still function but you may see rust around gaskets, hinges or at the tops of doors. Multiple patches on the roof and floor are likely, with delamination of the flooring as well.

This is our most common and popular grade of shipping container. They’re kind of ugly, but still provide good structural stability.

D Grade

At this level, rust is structural and predominant. You may have a hard time opening or closing doors, and gaskets may be loosening. Severe rust could be accumulating around the seals, with loose floors and severe delamination. Sides often feature large dents or deflections in D grade containers, which can be 20 years old or older. A bit more ugly than the C grade, D grade containers are great for storing 4-wheelers and lawnmowers.

Not sure which grade or type you want? Just ask us!

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

As leaders in the shipping container industry, we can connect you with the most appropriate type of container for your needs and budget. Feel free to ask for a free quote when you contact us at 910-483-7828.

Shipping container modifications are changes you make inside or outside a container to fit it to a job. Common upgrades include doors, windows, insulation, vents, lights, shelves, and paint.

A plain steel box works fine for storage. With the right upgrades, it can become an office, a shop, a food stand, or a cool, dry storage room.

Below are the most popular shipping container modifications. You’ll see what each one does and what to plan before anyone cuts steel.

Container modifications Transocean installs

Transocean Equipment Management sells and modifies new and used containers. We serve buyers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Virginia. Our standard options include:

• Insulation, vents, and HVAC
• Windows, skylights, and roll-up doors
• Lighting and electrical
• Flooring, shelving, and custom paint
• Lock boxes and smoke detectors

Some upgrades on this page, like plumbing and rooftop decks, need outside trades. Ask us about any item before you order.

Choose the right base container first

The box you start with shapes every upgrade. Pick the size and condition first.

• New (one-trip) containers have straight walls and clean paint. They are the best base for cuts, welds, and finishes people will see.
• Used containers cost less and suit storage with light upgrades. Dents and rust add prep work before paint or foam.
• High cube containers stand 9’6″ tall instead of 8’6″. The extra foot leaves room for ceiling insulation and lights.

Compare new shipping containers with used storage containers.

Still torn? Read whether to buy new or used. For exact sizes, see our container specifications.

Branding

If you use your container for business, you can paint or wrap it with your brand and logo. Add anything from signs to your phone number and hours.

Paint lasts the longest. Vinyl wraps and magnetic signs let you change the message as needed. Branding helps any business that needs to be seen, from real estate to food.

Interior paint

New containers leave the factory with a light gray coating on the inside walls. It guards the steel against rust, but it is not a finished look.

Many people repaint the inside when the unit will be an office, food stand, or restroom. That covers any use where guests, customers, or staff spend time inside.

Pick a paint made for metal. Clean the walls and prime any rusty spots first. For color and décor ideas, see our guide to decorating the interior of your shipping container.

Flooring

Most container floors are about 1.1 inches (28 mm) of marine plywood. Makers treat this wood with bug killer so containers can pass biosecurity rules in countries like Australia.

That is fine for storage. For an office, classroom, or living space, seal the plywood or cover it before you lay a new floor.

You may want a better floor if your unit will be a meeting room, mobile office, or training room. Vinyl plank with a wood look is a popular choice.

A mobile restroom needs a tougher floor. Slip-resistant vinyl is easy to clean. For a portable gym, rubber mats soak up impact and protect the plywood.

Doors and windows

Doors and windows are the cuts buyers ask for most. They change how people and gear get in, and how much light the space gets.

Personnel doors

A personnel door, or man door, lets you walk in without opening the heavy cargo doors. Offices and shops use one every day.

Most are standard 36-inch steel doors set in a welded steel frame. Read more about choosing the right exterior door for your shipping container.

Roll-up doors

Roll-up doors open a wide side or end wall for carts, mowers, ATVs, and pallet jacks. Retail stands and farms use them often. The opening needs heavy steel framing because it removes a large piece of wall.

Windows and skylights

Windows add daylight and fresh air to offices and shops. Each one sits in a steel frame welded into the wall.

Skylights bring in light without using wall space. Seal every roof opening well, since the roof is where containers leak first.

Insulation, ventilation, and HVAC

Steel moves heat fast. A bare container gets hot in a Southern summer.

In cool weather, warm inside air meets cold steel and turns to water. That moisture drips on stored goods and speeds up rust.

Insulation

Closed-cell spray foam is a common choice for containers. The Department of Energy says closed-cell foam has a higher R-value and blocks moisture and air leaks better than open-cell foam. It also costs more.

The DOE adds that foam must sit behind a fire barrier equal to half-inch drywall. Rigid foam panels and batts in stud walls cost less. Learn more in our shipping container insulation guide.

Vents and fans

Most containers have a few small factory vents. Extra louvered vents or roof vents move damp air out. They matter most for hay, feed, tools, and anything that can mold or rust.

See what to know about shipping container vents.

Heating and air conditioning

A wall AC unit or mini-split keeps an office or shop usable all year. The installer cuts and frames the opening, then seals it against weather. A licensed HVAC tech should hook up the unit.

Mobile office upgrades

If your container will be an office, add the items that make work easier. Think laminate countertops, chairs, whiteboards, file cabinets, and shelves. A shipping container partition can split one unit into an office and a storage room.

For floor plans, browse our sample layouts for your mobile office. For a step-by-step build, read how to transform a container into an office.

Plumbing

If you run a food business out of your container, or need a bathroom or break room, you can add plumbing. Options include a sink, fridge, stove, and counter space for small appliances.

Plumbing needs holes through the floor or walls, a drain plan, and a licensed plumber. Your county may require a permit and an inspection.

Lighting

For spaces that need more light, add anything from recessed lights to pendant lights. LED lights over personnel doors help at night. For security, motion sensors turn lights on when someone walks up.

Wiring for lights and outlets should be done by a licensed electrician to local code.

Rooftop decks

Why not make good use of the space above the container? A rooftop deck gives you a spot to watch over a work site or host guests.

Plan it with care. Container roofs are thin steel. They are not built to hold a deck, people, and furniture on their own.

A rooftop deck needs its own frame that carries weight down to the corner posts. Have an engineer approve the design.

Locks

If your container will hold things of value, get locks that go beyond the standard ones. Choices range from cargo door locks to security swing arms to lock boxes.

A lock box shields your padlock from bolt cutters. Compare options in our guide to shipping container locks.

Miscellaneous modifications

There is no shortage of other upgrades. More popular options include:

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

How modifications affect container strength

A container gets its strength from its frame. Corner posts, top and bottom rails, and corner castings carry the load. The ribbed walls stiffen the box.

Every cut takes away some of that steel.

• Frame every opening. A good fabricator welds a steel frame around each door, window, or vent cut.
• Leave the frame alone. The 2021 International Building Code bans cutting or notching rails, corner castings, and posts for single containers using its simplified design path (IBC Section 3115).
• Plan for ground use. Large cuts reduce how much weight the container can carry on top. A heavily modified unit stays on the ground.
• Check the steel first. Look for rust at the base rails and door frame before you pay for upgrades.

Learn what affects the structural integrity of a shipping container. Then see how to keep your storage container from rusting.

Permits and building codes for modified containers

Rules depend on how you use the container. Storage units face fewer rules than offices, shops, or homes.

The 2021 International Building Code added Section 3115 for containers used as buildings. It asks for the box’s data and a review of its strength.

South Carolina’s 2021 building code includes this section and took effect on January 1, 2023.

Keep the safety approval (CSC) plate on the door. Code officials may ask for its data.

Call your county building office before you order. Check zoning and HOA rules too. Georgia buyers can start with are container homes legal in Georgia.

What affects the cost of container modifications

Prices vary a lot from job to job. These factors drive most of the cost:

• Number and size of cuts. A roll-up door costs more than a vent because it needs more steel framing.
• Container size and condition. A 40-foot unit takes more insulation and paint than a 20-foot unit. Rust repair adds labor.
• Insulation type. Spray foam costs more than panels or batts.
• Outside trades. Wiring, plumbing, and HVAC add licensed labor and permits.
• Finish level. A storage upgrade costs far less than a finished office.
• Delivery distance. See how shipping container delivery works.

Ask for a line-item quote. It lets you add or drop upgrades to fit your budget.

Benefits of shipping container modifications

Upgrades let you build the exact space you need for work, home, or play. A modified container is:

• Customizable to your use
• Often cheaper and faster than a site-built shed or office
• A reuse of an existing steel structure
• Safe and durable
• Weather and rodent resistant when doors and seals are in good shape
• Convenient to place on your site
• Personalized
• Comfortable once insulated and ventilated

A shipping container is mobile, so it works well for short-term uses. When the job ends, you can move it to a new site.

Make your container your own with a few simple or complex changes that fit your needs and budget.

The many uses of shipping containers

People modify containers for all kinds of reasons. You can convert one for almost any use, such as:

• Ticket booth
• Security booth
• Hydroponic container farm
• Garage
• Tiny 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

Shipping container modification FAQs

How much does it cost to modify a shipping container?

It depends on the number of cuts, the insulation type, and whether you need wiring, plumbing, or HVAC. A lock box costs far less than a full office build. Ask for a line-item free quote to price your exact project.

Do modifications weaken a shipping container?

Yes, every cut removes some steel. Openings framed with welded steel keep the container sound for ground use. Never cut the corner posts or rails.

Can you modify a used shipping container?

Yes. Pick one with straight walls, a solid floor, and little rust at the base. Our container condition guide explains each grade.

How can you make a shipping container look better?

Start with fresh exterior paint in your brand colors. Add windows, a personnel door, and exterior lighting. Wood or composite trim and planters soften the steel look.

Do I need a permit to modify a shipping container?

Storage use often needs fewer approvals than an office or home. Occupied spaces may need a building permit under your state’s code. Check with your county before you order.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

Want to learn more about the upgrades we offer? Contact us for a free price quote at (910) 483-7828. We will walk you through the choices for your new or used shipping container.