How to know it's time to replace your shipping container

Containers for shipping are made to last. They are among the strongest and safest storage options on the market, made to withstand severe maritime conditions and thousands of miles of travel. But even the most durable container has a shelf life. Natural wear and tear, severe use, and the elements can all have an adverse effect over time. Every container eventually reaches a point when minor fixes are insufficient.

It's critical to notice the warning signals that a shipping container may need to be replaced or that it may require minor maintenance in order to continue serving you for many years to come if you depend on it for storage, workplace, or conversion.

Here's how to evaluate the state of your container, decide on repairs wisely, and determine when to let go.

What Damage Can Occur to Shipping Containers

Although they are made of sturdy steel and are meant to withstand damage, shipping containers are not impervious to harm. Over time, several kinds of wear and damage can be brought on by environmental exposure, improper treatment, and continuous use:

Rust: Although steel containers are coated to keep them from rusting, this coating may eventually erode, particularly in situations that are moist or salty. Although surface rust is ubiquitous and usually innocuous, if it is not addressed, it can develop into corrosion and undermine the walls, roof, or floor of the container.

Physical Damage

Trucks, cranes, and forklifts are frequently used to move containers. The structure may be bent or dented by a poorly planned lift or by rough treatment in transit. When a container is dropped, it may develop cracks or become misaligned.

Wear and Tear

Door gaskets, hinges, and seals start to wear down after years of use. Doors may become difficult to open or close due to hinge seizing and seals drying out and cracking. Usability and weatherproofing are impacted, although the integrity of the container as a whole is typically unaffected.

Weathering

If your container is kept outside, it will inevitably be exposed to severe weather conditions for an extended period of time. While standing water or inadequate ventilation can result in condensation damage, mould growth, and interior dampness, salt-laden coastal air speeds up corrosion.

Repairing Your Container

The good news? Damage does not always indicate that your container is nearing the end of its useful life. Many common problems are easily and affordably fixed, particularly if the damage is confined and detected early.

Sanding or grinding it down, using a rust converter, and repainting with a protective coating are common methods for dealing with rust. To make minor holes or cracks watertight again, steel patches can be welded over the damaged area.

Hinges, gaskets, and seals are interchangeable components. Replacing or lubricating these fittings can significantly improve the usability and weather protection of your container doors if they are sticking or leaking.

When to Replace Your Container

Even with care and attention, a container will eventually come to the end of its use. Here are several indicators that it might be time to replace instead of fixing:

Widespread Rust or Corrosion

While surface rust is easily controlled, if you observe widespread corrosion in several places, particularly if it is flaking, severely pitted, or jeopardising the stability of the walls or roof, it might not be safe or economical to continue using the container.

Warped or Misaligned Structure

The structural integrity of the container may be jeopardised if it no longer sits level, if doors don't close properly, or if the frame has obvious bends or twists. A warped container should be replaced since it could not be safe to load, stack, or transfer.

Rotten or Unstable Flooring

Marine-grade plywood or comparable materials are commonly used to construct shipping container floors. Replacing the container might be the more sensible and long-term course of action if the floor becomes squishy, decayed, or dangerous to walk on or store things on, particularly if the damage is extensive.

How to Prevent Damage to Your Shipping Container

You can significantly increase the lifespan of your container with a little care, and prevention is always preferable to treatment. Here's how:

Frequent Inspection and Maintenance

Visually inspect the roof, doors, hinges, seals, and underbelly of your container on a frequent basis. Check for wear indicators, rust stains, dents, and water buildup. Early intervention prevents problems from getting worse.

Handle Rust Quickly

Don't overlook rust. To stop surface rust from spreading, clean the affected area as quickly as possible, use a rust treatment or converter, and then repaint with a suitable container-grade coating.

Avoid overcrowding

Although containers are sturdy, overcrowding them, particularly in the centre, might eventually cause tension on the walls and floor. Distribute weight evenly and adhere to safe load limits.