What is a shipping container?
A shipping container, also known as a freight container, overseas container, or ISO container, is a standardized metal box designed for transporting goods across ships, trains, and trucks. These containers are typically made from durable steel and come in various sizes, with the most common being 20 feet and 40 feet. They are built to withstand the rigors of long-distance transport, especially across oceans.
What are shipping containers used for?
Shipping containers are primarily used to transport a wide range of goods, including industrial products, food, clothing, and electronics. Their sturdy construction makes them ideal for long-distance transport, particularly by sea, enabling efficient global distribution of goods.
Where else are shipping containers used besides international logistics?
Shipping containers are increasingly used in various industries and applications beyond international logistics, both commercially and privately:
- Storage: These containers are frequently used for storing goods in warehouses, on construction sites, or in factories. Examples include:
- Storage containers: To safely store goods in warehouses or logistics centers.
- Archive containers: For the long-term storage of documents and archival materials.
- Construction site containers: For storing building materials, tools, or machinery on construction sites.
- Event/Messe containers: Used as temporary structures for events like exhibitions or festivals.
- Tire storage: Specifically designed for storing tires in workshops or retail stores.
- Technical rooms: To securely house technical equipment.
- Workshops: Used as temporary workshops on construction sites or in industrial settings.
What are the advantages of shipping containers?
Shipping containers offer several advantages, including:
- Standardization: Their uniform dimensions facilitate efficient transportation and handling across sea and land.
- Security: They are robustly constructed to protect against weather conditions, theft, and damage during transit.
- Versatility: Shipping containers can be used for various purposes, from storage to conversion into living or office spaces.
- Cost efficiency: Their reusability and efficient loading capacity contribute to cost savings in the supply chain.
What is the cost of a shipping container or storage container?
The cost of shipping and storage containers varies depending on factors such as size, condition, location, and additional features. Used 20-foot containers typically range from 1,100 to 1,500 euros, while 40-foot HC containers are priced between 1,450 and 1,900 euros. New containers are more expensive, with 20-foot units costing between 2,200 and 2,550 euros, and 40-foot HC containers priced between 3,500 and 3,900 euros. Additional costs for transport and setup may apply, depending on the distance and accessibility of the site. For precise pricing, we recommend requesting a personalized quote from us.
Should I buy or rent a shipping container?
The decision to buy or rent a shipping container depends on several factors, including your financial situation and the intended duration of use.
- Buying:
- Long-term use: Purchasing is beneficial if you need the container for an extended period. It gives you full control, allowing customization or resale as needed.
- Investment: Although buying requires a higher initial investment, it may prove more cost-effective over time.
- Renting:
- Short-term needs: Renting is ideal if you only need the container temporarily or if your needs might change in the future.
- Lower upfront costs: Renting typically involves lower initial costs, making it an attractive option for projects with limited budgets.
Carefully consider your specific needs before deciding. We are happy to assist with advice tailored to your situation.
What types and sizes of shipping and storage containers are available?
Shipping and storage containers come in various types and sizes to meet different industry needs:
- Types:
- Standard containers: The most common sizes are 20 feet and 40 feet.
- High Cube containers: Offer more cargo space due to increased height.
- Multi-door containers: Feature multiple access points for easier loading and unloading.
- Open Top containers: Ideal for transporting oversized goods that cannot fit through standard doors.
- Pallet-wide containers: These are wider to accommodate three side-by-side pallets, increasing loading efficiency.
- Flat Rack containers: Without side walls, they are perfect for transporting large machinery or vehicles.
- Refrigerated containers (Reefers): Equipped with cooling units to transport temperature-sensitive goods.
- Sizes:
- 20 feet: The standard size for international cargo transport.
- 40 feet: Offers double the cargo space of a 20-foot container.
- 10 feet: A compact option for specific storage or transport needs.
- 45 feet: Larger than a 40-foot container, ideal for bulky goods.
- 6 feet: The smallest option, suitable for very limited spaces.
- 8 feet: Slightly larger than the 6-foot container, still compact for versatile storage uses.
This list highlights some available options, with additional specialized sizes and types available depending on your requirements.
What should I consider when choosing between new and used containers?
The choice between new and used containers depends on your specific needs and budget:
- Used Containers:
- Usage: Used containers typically have 10 to 20 years of service in maritime transport.
- Condition: They may have dents, rust, and signs of wear but remain functional and inspected.
- Waterproofing: Used containers are wind and watertight, with a valid CSC plate for continued sea transport.
- Purpose: They are a cost-effective solution for storage needs.
- New Containers ("One Way"):
- Usage: These containers have been used only once for shipping and are almost new.
- Condition: They show minimal wear, such as scratches or marks, but are otherwise in near-new condition.
- Waterproofing: These containers are also wind and watertight, with a valid CSC plate.
- Purpose: Ideal if you require a more visually appealing solution with minimal wear.
Whether new or used, both options provide reliable protection for your goods. We are available to help you choose the best option for your needs.
How is the selected container delivered?
We offer a comprehensive delivery service for your container, broken down into the following steps:
- Step 1: Provide us with the delivery location's postal code to plan the best route and transport methods.
- Step 2: We calculate the optimal transport based on your location and container availability.
- Step 3: We combine various transport methods to ensure cost-effective and efficient delivery, using options such as rail and truck or barge and truck.
- Step 4: You will receive a summary of delivery options and the estimated timeline.
- Step 5: Upon your confirmation, we handle the logistics and keep you informed of your delivery's progress.
No matter where you are located, we ensure that your container is delivered safely and on time. Contact us for more information.
What unloading options are available on-site?
If you don't have suitable unloading equipment on-site, we offer the following options:
- Crane truck delivery: This truck is equipped with a crane capable of unloading containers up to 12 meters away from the truck's center.
- Side loader delivery: A side loader can unload containers next to the truck and is suitable for loaded containers. The space required for operation is approximately 17.5 x 7 meters.
- Mobile crane: For maximum flexibility, a mobile crane can be ordered to unload the container at virtually any location.
Whichever method you choose, we ensure that your container is unloaded safely and efficiently. Contact us to discuss the best option for your needs.
What kind of ground and foundation is required for placing containers?
A stable and level surface is essential for placing a container. Key considerations include:
- Access routes: The customer is responsible for ensuring that access routes for transport vehicles (approx. 25t) are available.
- Concrete slabs: A simple foundation method where the ground stability should be checked before use. Gravel or crushed stone layers may be needed.
- Point foundations: This method requires a support point every 3 meters. A 20-foot container needs 6, and a 40-foot container needs 8 points.
- Support points and ventilation: To prevent rust, support points should be used to allow adequate air circulation under the container.
These measures ensure your container's stability and longevity. Contact us for personalized advice on the best foundation for your site.
Do you offer modifications and customizations for containers?
Yes, we offer a wide range of custom modifications to adapt your container to your specific needs.
Examples of modifications:
- Event or exhibition containers: Customizations for events and exhibitions.
- Technical rooms: Adaptations for technical equipment and installations.
- Living containers: Converting containers into living spaces.
Examples of equipment:
- Personnel doors: Installation of doors for easy access.
- Windows: Adding windows for natural lighting.
- Ventilation grilles: For improved airflow within the container.
- Opening flaps: Ideal for bar containers or sales counters.
- Partitions: For dividing space within the container.
- Roller shutters: Installation of shutters for flexible access.
- Electrical package: LED lighting, sockets, and switches.
Other customizations:
- Tire racks: Installation of racks for storing tires.
- Flat bottom shelves: For use as an archive room.
- Repainting: Repainting in your desired RAL color.
- Steel floors or drip pans: Installation for specific requirements.
- Dual units: Removing side walls to create a large space from two or more containers.
- Container shortening: Adjusting the container length as needed.
- Container insulation: Improving thermal and sound insulation.
We offer flexible and customized solutions to modify your container according to your specific needs. Contact us to discuss your requirements and receive a personalized quote.
