Useful Shipping Container Information (2024)

FAQs

Useful Shipping Container Information? ›

Shipping containers and storage containers can come in a range of sizes, 20ft and 40ft shipping containers are the most common container lengths (externally) and 8ft in width as standard. Commonly the height of a container will be 8ft 6” and a high cube will have an additional foot to be 9ft 6”.

It's best to inspect your container in person before buying to make sure that it's free from any structural damage. Check for any holes by stepping inside the container and closing the shipping container doors - the light will shine through the holes.

Shipping containers have an average lifespan of 25 years thanks to a design that ensures their durability when traveling by sea. After manufacturers modify cargo containers and transform them into container-based structures, the container's longevity remains.

The only real difference between a Cargo Worthy (CWO) and Wind and Water Tight (WWT) container is whether it can pass a CSC Survey and be safely placed at the bottom of a stack of seven (7) loaded containers for shipment on a cargo ship. Both CWO and WWT are going to look similar: surface rust, dings and dents, etc.

Dry containers are by far the most common type of container, and as such are used to load most types of normal cargo.

When maintained properly, a shipping container can last upwards of 25 years or longer. The lifespan depends on the condition of the container and the environment in which it is kept. Although they are built to resist harsh climates, its' lifespan can be cut short by wetter, saltier climates.

Shipping containers hold both material and functional value, so they're always a good investment option. So how do you start investing in containers? In this blog, we'll walk you through the various ways in which you can go about it. The first step is buying containers at the best price, of course.

Water, salt, gas, and environmental debris can seep through to the interior of the container as well as attach to the metal of the container. this can lead to rust and irreparable damage. Regular shipping container maintenance is crucial to the longevity of your product.

In most cases, however, a container will get sent back to the depot for storage as soon as it comes off-hire. And, before it can go out again, it must undergo re-certification to ensure that it is safe for use and reliable enough to travel long distances. If necessary, it will be refurbished.

To be cargo worthy, a CWO storage container is one that can pass a CSC inspection. CWO containers are also wind and watertight. But, WWT condition containers are not cargo worthy without repair and inspection. WWT containers are generally a few years older than those in cargo worthy condition.

What does WWT mean with shipping containers? ›

WWT Stands for Wind and Watertight

In the cargo container industry, the term WWT stands for wind and watertight safe containers. This is the most basic level of container condition and simply means the storage container is structurally sound.

A container is wind and water tight if no wind or water can penetrate the container on condition that it is used the way it is supposed to. For example, a WWT container can be perfectly used as storage.

Top 8 Companies with the Most Shipping Containers RANKED

When it comes to container ownership, the company that currently owns the most shipping containers is the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), headquartered in Switzerland.

U-Pack. Though it exclusively provides its services for long-distance moves, U-Pack offers some of the cheapest prices for moving container services. In fact, we found that U-Pack can be as much as 60% cheaper than many other moving container companies.

Containers Hold their Value Well

If you take care of it, the container you buy today may be worth the same price years from now. Because they are built so tough and they are so useful, containers often hold their value.

If you need a container that is lighter and smaller, then 20-foot sea cans might be a better choice than 40-foot ones, which are heavier and larger. In addition to the weight of the container, it is crucial to remember that 40' containers are built to hold heavier and bigger items when compared to 20' ones.

Shipping containers are widely regarded as some of the most secure and impenetrable boxes. While this is absolutely true, no container is immune to damage and leaking.

Storage container prices start around $2,500 for a used storage container and can go up to $20,000 for a new shipping container. High cube containers cost more than the standard 8'6” version, and 40-foot containers cost more than 20-foot. Prices can also vary depending on the condition (for a used container).