1. Durability
Although shipping container design has not changed much since they were first introduced, the materials used to manufacture them and some of their subtle design features have indeed improved. Newer shipping containers are built with CORTEN anti-corrosive steel, a material designed to be more resistant to the harsh conditions associated with sea travel and the climates across different hemispheres. Whenever damage occurs, most damages can be quickly repaired by welding in replacement panels. On the inside, containers have become even more environmentally friendly by being made with ethically sourced bamboo flooring. These types of floors are not only resistant to sea travel, but they are also designed to support various payloads.
2. Security
Shipping container security is simple. The bar handles on each set of container doors can be locked with a padlock of your choice. You have the option to opt for more intricate security designs such as welding in a protective case for the padlock (called a secure lockbox) or welding in and using a secure puck lockbox. These protective cases prevent interference from lock cutters and other break-in tools.
3. Stackable
If space is ever an issue, shipping containers have that under control. On one hand, shipping containers come in all sorts of size, ranging in length from 10ft (or smaller) to 40ft (or larger). Additionally, they come in either standard height or high cube height variations. However, their biggest advantage for both storage and transport purposes is that they are stackable. Stacking pins and bridge fittings make it possible to securely connect containers either vertically or horizontally. Logistically, this makes a ton of sense because rows upon rows of stacked containers can be transported by ship, plane or train.
4. Easy to move
Speaking of ship, plane or train, shipping containers can be moved by any of these methods, including also by truck. Corner castings and forklift pockets make it possible for cranes and forklifts to quickly load and unload off of any of the previously mentioned shipping methods. Tilt-and-load flatbed trucks can also use winches to securely load the containers for transport and very quickly unload them upon delivery.
5. Customizable
The greatest advantage of shipping containers is that they can customized for various purposes. People have turned shipping containers into custom storage lockers, job site office, popup stores, art installations, houses and garages and even swimming pools. The customization options are almost endless, limited only by your imagination. If you had the option and the means to, what would you build with your very own shipping container(s)?