While shipping containers were originally used to safely transport goods nationally and internationally, nowadays, they are being used for much more. In recent years, shipping containers have taken on a new life on land, being used in a variety of ways outside of just haulage and storage.
Although it might be difficult to believe, shipping containers only first entered the scene in 1956 when van trailers were sent on a customized ship from New Jersey to Texas by an American trucking visionary. Prior to the shipping container revolution, goods were simply stored at the port until a ship was available to transport them when goods could be brought on board and stored in crates, bags and other items. This was such an inefficient method, requiring a lot of time and many hours, that it didn’t take very long for shipping containers to catch on all over the world.
Continue reading to learn everything you need to know about shipping containers.
New, Used Or Refurbished
Shipping containers can be bought brand new, used or refurbished nowadays, and they can also be bought privately or from a dedicated company. You can hire side loader services to help you to load and unload your shipping containers for transport and make it easier for you to unpack your container once it gets to ground level. You just need to choose your container first.
Different Size Containers
There is a range of different sized shipping containers available with the two main sizes being the 20-foot container and the 40-foot container. The 20-foot container is a standard size shipping container while the 40-foot containers are a better choice for any company that is transporting bulkier goods in larger quantities. Shipping containers can be made to different sizes nowadays, depending on your needs so be sure to fully assess your requirements before you commit to a particular container size.
Other Applications For Shipping Containers
Many business owners are utilising shipping containers in unique ways nowadays, during their post-transport life. Containers can easily be modified and adapted to include doors, windows and other features. As shipping containers are already built to be durable and leak-proof, they can easily be customised for just about any situation. Many business owners have used shipping containers as pop-up cafes, onsite offices, laboratories, gyms, greenhouses, emergency medical facilities, workshops and onsite storage spaces. In fact, shipping containers have made such a big impact recently, that some homeowners are converting them into stylish houses, granny flats and even swimming pools!
Transporting A Shipping Container
Naturally, you might be a little apprehensive about how best to transport your shipping container to its new location. Luckily in Australia, there are specialist logistics and transport companies that can help you out. Shipping containers are generally transported using a truck and trailer that is specially designed to accommodate these large units. Get in touch with a company to help you with transport ahead of time so that any paperwork for transit can be organised to ensure plain sailing when the transport company takes over.
Choose The Right Container For The Needs Of Your Business
As a business owner, it’s important to fully understand your needs before you make a final decision about your trailer. Remember that once your container has been delivered, you will need to find a firm, flat surface for it to live on. You will also need to keep it well ventilated and clean and lubricate the doors regularly. With a little care and maintenance, you can be sure that your shipping container will serve you and your business well for many years to come.
