Shipping containers are well-known for being strong and useful in many situations. They can be used for more than just shipping; they can be stored or even used to build things. Regular upkeep is very important if you want them to last as long as possible and stay in good shape. When you buy a new or used shipping container, these tips will help you keep it in good shape so it can be used for a long time.
Importance of Taking Care of Your Shipping Container in Winter
If you take good care of shipping containers over the winter, they can last a very long. When the weather is hot in the summer, you should clean and fix up your container once a year, and then again in the winter when it’s much cooler and the container sits in rain or snow.
To ensure your shipping container is ready for everything the coming year has to offer, you should do this. Here are some tips for taking care of shipping containers in the winter.
Grease and Lubricate Doors
Ensure all the door seals are in good shape and close properly so water doesn’t get inside. To find any light sources around the seals, you can have someone inside the container while shutting the door. Water can’t get in if light can’t.
Seals on containers should last for 10 to 15 years. Ensure the hinges and locking systems on your shipping container are working right to ensure they last a long time. When you upkeep your sea cans in the winter, it’s important to clean and grease the hinges and locking mechanisms.
Ensure the Container is on a Level Surface
It is very important for shipping crates to always be on level ground, but it is even more important in the winter. Rust on the bottom of your container and problems with the floor can happen if it is not level. If you don’t level your container before it snows or when the temperature drops in the winter, it could freeze or sink into the ground when the snow melts and the ground gets softer.
Another problem that can happen if a container isn’t set level is that it might crack or twist over time, making it hard to open and close the doors. It is recommended to put your container on stone, concrete, blacktop, or wood blocks to prevent this.
Inspect, Remove, and Treat Areas with Heavier Rust
Shipping Containers are made to handle rust, and most used ones will, too. However, it is important to treat areas that are rustier than others. You will first use a wire brush and then sandpaper to remove big rust spots. Use vinegar to clean the area after the rusty part has been removed. After the area is dry, cover it with marine-grade paint.
Get Rid of Any Smells
Finally, remove any smells before putting things away in portable cases for the winter. Winter is a great time to do this because the damp weather can bring out smells you might not have noticed in the summer.
Spread coffee grounds all over the container and wait 24 to 48 hours. This is the best way to get rid of smells. The smells should be gone after you sweep out the coffee grounds.
Check Modifications if You Have a Changed Container
Upkeep is even more important in cold places if you have a modified shipping container. No matter how many holes you make in a container, water is more likely to get in. Check for leaks if the original cases have holes, like windows, doors, or air conditioning units. Make sure that all of the doors and windows are shut and locked properly.
Ensuring Longevity: Best Practices for Maintaining Robust Shipping Containers
Shipping crates are made of heavy steel to handle the roughest conditions at sea. Maintaining your shipping container correctly is the best way to ensure it stays strong for a long time, whether you use it for work or pleasure.
