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Over the years Kijiji has been notorious for scams and, unfortunately, the shipping container industry has been a recent target for scammers to rip people off. One company in Nova Scotia has reported getting between 5-10 calls per day during high season from people who have either been defrauded by scammers using their business name or from people who were suspicious about the legitimacy of the Kijiji ad and are following up.

Scammers use legitimate shipping container business names and place ads online. When contacted by someone interested in purchasing a container these scammers  ask for an e-transfer, collect payment via seemingly professional websites they set up or by phone. Once payment is received the scammer stops responding and the container is never delivered. This impacts both the customer, whose money is lost, and the container business whose name was used and whose reputation is now tarnished.

As one of the largest shipping container suppliers in Canada we wanted to put together a guide for customers on how to purchase a container from Coast Containers while avoiding scams on the internet. 

Our advice is this:

1. Go directly to our official website to see the current cost of containers on the market  https://coastcontainers.ca/
2. Only use the contact forms and phone numbers listed on our website
3. If the price seems “too good to be true” it probably is

And here are some more tips that might help:

4. Ask the person you are in contact with if you can see the container in person before making payment. At our Coast Containers locations in Calgary, Edmonton, and Prince George we’re happy to bring customers on site to see the container before purchase. At other locations we can also make sure that you don’t just pay for something you’ll never see. We are always ready to share information on where our containers are stored and ensure you have no doubts on the legitimacy of the deal.

5. When you call is the customer service representative overly pushy? That wouldn’t be us. We take pride in our customer service. Our sales representatives will make sure that you get exactly what you need without trying to quickly sell you whatever they have at hand.

6. You can also ask other companies in the industry and/or container depots about the legitimacy of Coast Containers. We have been selling containers in Canada for many years now, and our name is well-known in the industry. We take our reputation seriously and are diligent in preventing scammers from using our name (as much as we can). 

7. Check website, Google and social media reviews. Companies with no reviews might be questionable.  

8. At Coast Containers we guarantee that our used containers are wind and water tight, but we do not offer warranties on them. No reputable company is able to offer a warranty on used containers. If you are being offered a warranty for a used container there is a good chance the seller is fraudulent.

9. If something tells you a deal doesn’t seem right, listen to that voice in the back of your head and spend more time looking into the company. 

For more information on these scams we suggest that you read this article by CBC news https://www.cbc.ca/

Looking to purchase a shipping container?

At Coast Containers we sell new and used shipping containers at great prices. Whether you need a shipping container for storage, moving, or as an office, we can find the right container for you. Not sure what size you need? We offer a range of sizes including 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft containers for sale. 

Avoid scammers by visiting our website today or calling us directly. If somebody claims to be Coast Containers representative, but you have any doubts about it, please let us know by calling our official phone number, listed below. We would be happy to eliminate any concerns and offer you the right price for a real container.

1-866-761-2444

[email protected]

201-26 Fourth Street 

New Westminster, 

BC V3L M4

Opportunities for remote employment have been on the rise for years, but now that we are amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses have had to restructure their operations and shift towards remote and telework. Many people are taking advantage of the opportunity to work in sweatpants or are putting up with their distracting family while they work at the kitchen table because they believe the situation is temporary. What they don’t know is that for many, remote and telework won’t end when the pandemic is over. In a recent survey, Statistics Canada revealed that close to one-quarter of businesses expect 10% or more of their workforce to continue working remotely once the pandemic is over.

As the reality of this new normal sets in, many people are concerned about their level of productivity and mental state as the line between home and work becomes increasingly blurred. One solution to this problem is to modify a shipping container into an office, provided you have a backyard to place it. Efficient to build and affordable, you can easily modify a shipping container into a home office that is tailored to your exact needs and design aesthetic. In this article you’ll find information on the benefits of a shipping container home office, the cost to modify a shipping container, the steps to modify a shipping container into an office and it features some inspirational examples of completed shipping container home offices.

Benefits of Converting a Shipping Container into Home Office

If you’re struggling to manage your time or optimize your work output while working from home, a shipping container home office might be the perfect option for you. A shipping container is a blank canvas, allowing you the freedom to create an idyllic work environment that you can’t get from renting a traditional office space or a makeshift workstation within your home.

Accelerated Construction Time: Choosing to modify a shipping container into a home office will have you set up and ready to work faster than any other building methods. Because the framework is already complete, the entire process can be completed in about three to four weeks.

Affordable: Whether you decided on a new or used shipping container, a shipping container into home office conversion is your best bet for cutting costs because it is already structurally sound and watertight. In addition to the money you will save on building materials, the quick building time will reduce your labor costs.

Sustainability: Environmental impact is another reason to modify a shipping container into home office as both new and used containers reduce the use of other building materials and natural resources. Converting a used shipping container into home office will further reduces the carbon imprint because the container is recycled for a second lifecycle rather than being discarded as waste.

Strength and Security: Build to protect cargo and withstand harsh weather conditions at sea, a shipping container home office ensures that your belongings inside are protected from the elements. This also makes theft and vandalism difficult with a shipping container home office.

Mobility: Shipping containers were built for transport which makes relocation easy and affordable. Moving services are readily available, making the process more efficient and less stressful than moving an alternative home office structure.

Important Steps to Modify a Shipping Container into Home Office

After you have done your research and planning, prepared your backyard location, and established your specific needs for you shipping container home office, the next steps are as follows (if you outsource your modifications, steps two through four don’t apply):

Step One: Purchasing a Shipping Container

Before you can start to modify a shipping container into an office space, you need to buy a shipping container. The biggest considerations in this process are whether to go with a new or used container, and what size is best for your shipping container home office. Choose a distributer that offers customized modifications, and both sells new and used containers. Coast Containers is a great option because they have locations all across Canada, making it easy to visit one of their locations to consult with a specialist who can help with your plans to modify a shipping container into an office. Their specialists can help you with specifications and guide you through the process until what you need is delivered. If you are unsure of how to modify a shipping container, or lack the skillset to do it, your best option may be to have your container modified before delivery. Coast Containers can cater to your specific needs and can deliver your container with complete modifications, including; Insulation, Roll-up doors, Ventilation system, Windows, Custom locks, Built-in furniture, Solar panels, Electrical, Skylights, Security bars.

Step Two: Cut Your Openings

Once you have received and positioned your container, the next step to modify a shipping container into an office is to cut out the windows, doors, skylights, or any other openings you have outlined in your plans to modify a shipping container into home office.

Step Three: Frame and Insulation

In your research on how to modify a shipping container into home office, take your location and climate into account, because it will determine what type of insulation to use for your shipping container home office. There is a variety of insulation options, but the most common are blown insulation and foam insulation. Electricity components should be considered in this step so that the framing and insulation can support it.

Step Four: Electricity Installation

The process of electricity installation when you modify a shipping container into home office is no different from any other home, it’s just on a smaller scale!

What to Know About the Cost to Modify a Shipping Container

The cost to modify a shipping container into a home office can vary depending on factors such as; the condition container (new vs. used), container size, materials used in modification the process, and the decision to DIY or outsource your modifications. For example, a used 20’ standard size container costs around $2100, while a new container of the same size can cost $4100. Like any other structure, foundation and site preparation is an expense and should be factored into your budget when you modify a shipping container into home office. Be sure to do your research and get quotes from multiple sources to determine the best way to modify a shipping container into home office.

Shipping Container Home Offices to Inspire your Own Shipping Container Modification

Canadian Architect Designed this Home Office for Himself and His Employees:

Randy Bens wanted the benefits of working from home but needing an independent space for staff and client meetings, Randy Bens opted for this 40’ x 11.5’w x 9.5’h shipping container home office. Randy provided the designs and his supplier had it delivered on site 95% complete.

German Company’s 100% Recyclable Shipping Container Home Office:

Designed and built in Germany by Diesignwerker, this 20-foot shipping container can be rented or purchased, and sent almost anywhere in the world.

Toronto Family Modifies a Shipping Container as a Space Saving Solution:

Featured on HGTV’s Backyard Builds Kristen and Joel Clayton converted this 13-foot shipping container into home office, with help from the supplier for construction and modifications.

Conclusion

There has never been a better time to start thinking about ways to modify a shipping container into an office. If the cost, construction time and sustainability benefits aren’t enough, a shipping container home office gives you the feeling of getting out of the house and going to work but keeps the convenience and comforts of home. Research and planning are critical steps in the shipping container into home office conversion process. Before you commit to a DIY shipping container modification into office, consider your skillset and timeline, you may risk damaging your container or spending more to hire different contractors for particular jobs, which could you more in the long run. Coast Containers is a great resource for your planning and construction process, which can save you a lot of time and stress.

As modified shipping containers continue to grow in popularity for their versatility and affordability, we have seen them transform into many different creative uses. With the Covid-19 pandemic we have seen many shipping containers transformed into home offices, helping people “work from home” without being in their houses. 

We have also seen incredible houses, tiny homes and cabins created out of shipping containers. People are also using shipping containers to create pop-up shop businesses. Sales offices, beauty salons, art galleries, cafes, and bars are just some of the different ways we have seen businesses convert shipping containers into pop-up shops at events and markets around the world. 

If you have considered purchasing a shipping container for your own property or worksite, it is important that you find out if you need a permit to put a shipping container on the property. Every municipality has its own building codes and regulations that will determine if you are allowed to put a shipping container on your property. With proper planning and research, you can avoid any building code violations or fines. 

The goal of this blog article is to outline some standard factors and rules that might affect your ability to get a permit to put a shipping container on the property. We will go over what factors are important in getting a permit such as if it is a temporary or permanent structure and the location where you will be putting the structure. We will also give you some helpful tips to hopefully make the permit process easier for you.

Do Property Owners Need Permission to Put A Container on Land?

Whether you’re looking for extended living space or more storage, you should find out if your local Building Division requires you to obtain permission to put a container on land, before you purchase your shipping container. The regulatory requirements to get a permit to put a shipping container on the property vary from city to city and typically require a city-certified building inspector to verify that the structure will not violate any building codes or local zoning by-laws and ensure that there are no safety or health concerns. Getting a building permit for shipping container will often consider things such as:

Ground Stability: Before you are granted permission for portable storage container construction, it must be confirmed that the ground where you want to put the container won’t collapse under the weight of your shipping container. Are you are looking to put it in your yard on dirt or on your driveway where there is concrete and a solid foundation?

Structural Strength: Getting permission for portable storage container structures will require that your structure meets requirements with wind and snow loads and has adequate structural reinforcements. Safety is definitely a priority when trying to get a permit to put a shipping container on the property. Luckily shipping containers were built to withstand extreme weather conditions at sea and are made from steel making them very strong and Wind and Water Tight. Want to learn more about wind and water-tight shipping containers (WWT)?  Read our blog post here. 

Community Presence: Permission to put a container on land in your neighbourhood may be affected by your container’s appearance. Your chances of getting a permit could be affected by the externally viewable parts of the container, such as: colour, condition of the container, and materials used for walls and roof. This will also be affected by where you want to leave your container. Can you even see the container from the street or is it on a more hidden part of your property? This may also be in important when you are deciding if you want to purchase a new shipping container or used shipping container, at Coast Containers we offer both, new and used containers. 

Neighbourhood and Location of Shipping Container: If you live in a neighbourhood that is residential or high-traffic, getting a building permit for shipping container structures may have more restrictions than if you lived in a low-traffic or rural area. In some cases, local residents may put pressure on city governments to influence their zoning laws because they are concerned with how a structure may affect their property value. 

If you are applying for a temporary permit for your shipping container you may be able to get one for the road in front of your house but this will depend on the city or municipality that you live in. 

Getting Your Permit for Portable Storage Container Construction:

Do i need a permit to put a shipping container on my property? Each city or municipality will have different rules and regulations that will determine if you are granted permission to put a portable container on the yard of your property. It can often take anywhere from ten to twenty days to get your permit to put a shipping container on the property and it is imperative that you obtain it before you begin. Generally, the building codes and permits of most developed countries are influenced by the International Building Code and the International Residential Code, which are updated every couple of years. These codes set the standards of construction to determine how residential shelters and homes are built.

Property zoning is another type of building regulation that you may encounter in the process of getting a permit for portable storage container structures. Zoning is determined by city governments and may change with rezoning laws depending on their plan for a city’s growth and development. Zoning is a process that breaks up large sections of urban land to determine what can be built there, which means that the likelihood of getting a permit for storage container construction will be dependent on the zone and neighbourhood in which your property is located.

Temporary vs. Permanent Permits for Storage Container Structures

Can you place a shipping container on the property without a permit if it is only for a short period of time? Again, this will depend on the specific rules and regulations of your city. The good news is that there is a chance you may not need one at all if it is for a short period of time, or if you do, you will likely have fewer requirements to comply with. There is lots of information available online for each city when it comes to permits for shipping containers. 

If you’re seeking permission to put a container on land permanently, you will likely need to provide evidence that your shipping container is compliant with your local zoning and building regulations. Local zoning regulations will usually want the following information:

• Location of the container
• Physical Condition of the shipping container
• Duration you want to have the container
• The primary use of the container

Whether you are looking for a temporary permit for a storage container or a permanent permit for a storage container you will have to dig deeper into the regulations for your specific city or municipality when asking the questions, do I need a building permit for a shipping container?. Make sure to give yourself enough time to get the information you need before you start the process of purchasing a shipping container.

3 Tips to Help you Get a Shipping Container Permit

Requirements for getting a shipping container permit will vary based on the municipality or city that you are in. It is important to get the specific requirements for the area that you would like to put your shipping container. Here are a few tips to help you get a permit for your shipping container:

Duration

Can I put a shipping container on my property?  This will likely depend on the amount of time that your shipping container is going to be on your property.  If it is a short-term container placement, like for moving purposes, and it won’t be a permit structure on your property, like a container home would be then you will apply for a temporary permit instead of a permit for a permanent structure, which is likely easier to get. 

Area

Depending on the location and area that you want to place your container your permit will be easier or harder to obtain. If you’re looking to place your container in a residential neighborhood with high traffic where containers are uncommon there will be stricter regulations. If you are looking to place a container on your property on a farm, you may not even need a permit. Check with your local municipality or city for more information. 

Permit Expeditor

Can I have a shipping container in my backyard? You may be able to hire a professional to assist you with getting a permit. Permit Expeditors are able to handle the shipping container zoning laws paperwork on your behalf so you don’t have to worry about it.  

Conclusion

Adding a shipping container to your property is an exciting endeavour and is a great way to make your property more functional. It’s easy to want to immediately begin planning the layout and design of your new shipping container structure, but before you begin the fun part of planning, you must find out if you will be able to get a permit to put a shipping container on the property or else you risk the chance of unknowingly violating your city’s building codes and regulations. Don’t make the mistake of starting your project without complying with the laws. This will likely end with a hefty fine and a big headache. 

Now that we have gone over the difference in a temporary vs. permanent shipping container and some tips and tricks to speed up or make the permit process easier you can start your own research based on your city. Once you have got your permit figured out it is time to look at the different types of shipping containers and if you want to purchase a new shipping container or used shipping container, or possibly renting a container instead of purchasing one if you will be using it temporarily.

At Coast Containers we have industry experts who can help you with the buying process of your new shipping container or used shipping container. Visit our “Useful Tips” page on our website or reach out to one of our helpful staff members today for more information.

Not ready to purchase a container just yet? We also have a partner company, Make Space Storage where you can rent a container for however long you need it.

Each year there are countless news stories about devastating natural disasters and emergencies that destroy property and lives, forcing entire communities out of their homes. In response to these events, many people have decided to protect themselves and their families by repurposing the dynamic, strong, and inexpensive cargo shipping container. With some modifications and proper planning, shipping containers are being converted into emergency shelters and are saving lives as a result. This article will discuss the reasons for building a shipping container emergency shelter, the different types and options available when building a shelter from a shipping container, and finally it will broadly discuss the steps involved in the process of making a shelter from a shipping container.

Why Build a Shipping Container Emergency Shelter?

In the event of an emergency or natural disaster, foresight and preparedness can be essential to preventing devastating loss of life and property. In recent years, we have seen a growing trend in disaster management: the shipping container emergency shelter.  More and more people are looking into ways they can build an emergency shelter from a shipping container because it is durable, inexpensive, and saves them from the stress of having to relocate to a gymnasium or community center during an emergency or natural disaster.

The multi-use nature of the shipping container has inspired a variety of uses over the years, from tiny homes to restaurants; but few adaptations are better suited to the anatomy of the structure than making a shelter from a shipping container. Built specifically to protect cargo from extreme weather conditions over long distances at sea, a shipping container shelter ensures that people have a safe place to wait out the storm. Using a shipping container as shelter is ideal because it is made with doors that seal to be wind and watertight, and most are made from a strong rust resistant steel alloy and coated with a rust resistant paint designed to withstand extreme weather conditions.

Options for Your Shelter from Shipping Container:

There are two main types of shipping container shelters: underground, and above ground. To bury, or not to bury? That is the most important question to ask when determining how to build a shelter from a shipping container. Container size must also be considered when constructing a shelter from a shipping container. It is important to consider what your specific needs are when making this decision as each holds its own set of advantages and challenges.

Option One: Underground

Underground shipping container bunkers are a great option for those who live in areas that are prone to tornados or typhoons, and they are the most inconspicuous option as grass and trees can be planted on top after they are installed. The challenge with underground shipping container bunkers lies in the framework of the container. Designed for stacking, shipping containers can bare an enormous amount of weight from above, but they are not built to withstand pressure from the sides. An underground shipping container emergency shelter must be reinforced prior to being buried to ensure it can withstand the pressure from the earth that surrounds it.  

Option Two: Above Ground

The greatest advantage of an above ground shipping container shelter is that it is easily transportable. Although this option doesn’t need to be reinforced in the same way as an underground shipping container bunker, there are still a number of important modifications to be made before a shipping container as a shelter is safe for occupancy above ground. Alterations to ensure storm and tornado proofing is required, and many people who are unsure of how to convert a shipping container into a shelter choose to consult experts and companies that specialize in shipping container shelters.

Shipping Container Sizes

The most popular size shipping container emergency shelter is the 20 ft standard shipping container, which stands at 8’6”. Another popular is the 20 ft high cube shipping containers, which offer more height than the standard size, standing at 9’6”. Finally, there is the 40 ft shipping container which is also in high demand because it provides ample room for storage. Use, number of occupants, and storage needs are factors that should be considered before deciding on the size of your shipping container shelter.

How to Build a Shelter of a Shipping Container

Step One: Purchase your container

The first step in making a shelter from a shipping container is purchasing your container. Depending on your budget, you may choose to purchase a new or a used shipping container. Those who are looking to customize their container or would like to use it as a shelter or home often choose a new container because it has more reliable insulation and is in overall better condition. If you have a limited budget for your shipping container shelter, a used container may be a better option for you. The company you purchase your container from is another important factor because they can be a great resource throughout the entire construction process. Consider a companies like Coast Containers because they are industry specialists and can not only help you in selecting the best container for your needs, they offer a complete list of custom modifications required when making a shelter from a shipping container.

Step Two: Foundation

Both above ground and underground shipping container shelters require a solid foundation to prevent the container from damage caused by the Earth’s natural movement.

Foundation for an Underground Shipping Container Shelter: The hole for your underground shipping container emergency shelter should be at leat be two feet deeper than your container and leveled out with 6 inches of peat gravel at the bottom. Your hole should be big enough to have a foot of airspace on the back and sides, and four feet at the front to allow room for your staircase. The foundation must include a hole to fit a 30-gallon perforated plastic barrel that will hold your sump put, which prevents your shipping container bunker from flooding. Next, the banks must be leveled and reinforced with heavy corrugated metal framework and a row of bricks that will then be filled with concrete.

Foundation for an Above Ground Shipping Container Shelter: There are several options available for your above ground shipping container shelter, making research an important part of this step, or consult an expert on which is best suited for you. The most popular foundation is the Pier Foundation because it is relatively quick to construct and inexpensive. A solid foundation is vital in above ground shipping container shelters because they are more exposed to the elements than underground shipping container bunkers.

Step Three: Modifications

Both above and underground shipping container emergency shelters require custom modifications before they are safe for human occupancy. Purchasing your container from industry experts like Coast Containers might be your best option because they specialize and cater to this type of modification; from ventilation systems and insulation to windows and custom locks. This is a popular option because it ensures that the modifications are of a high-quality standard, and the cost is comparable to DIY modification projects.

Conclusion:

If you are considering making a shelter from a shipping container, you must have a comprehensive plan that considers all the components of the building process. This includes identifying the external risks; which may vary from tornadoes and typhoons, snow and ice storms, or even to crime and political unrest. All of these external threats will influence the planning and construction of your shipping container emergency shelter. First and foremost, you want your shelter to be safe, and a poorly constructed shelter from a shipping container may put those inside in danger.

At Coast Containers we have industry experts who can build your shipping container shelter and help save you time and money in the long run. Contact one of our sales reps for more information and to get a quote today. 

Shipping containers have so many different purposes these days. People use different types of containers for their commercial needs like realtors staging houses, extra storage or even an entire modular store made from a sea can. They are also used for residential purposes when people are renovating a house or just need somewhere to store their seasonal belongings. With so many different uses, it’s important to get the right kind of sea can for your needs, size, colour, insulated or not insulated. Let’s check out the different types of shipping containers that we can offer you. 

But, before we do we go over the different types of shipping containers available at Coast Containers, it is important to know what you can fit into a 10ft, 20ft, or 40ft storage container. Below we have put together what a typical size storage container fits in terms of the contents of an apartment or house.

What Can Fit in a 10ft, 20ft and 40ft Container?

10ft Containers

10ft sea cans are a type of shipping container that works best for people who need storage but have limited space on their property. This size is large enough to be able to hold the contents of a studio or small one-bedroom apartment. Clear out your garage, storage room or workshop by storing these items right on your property for easy access. A 10ft sea can is also ideal for holding furniture and household items during a home renovation or staging. 

Renovating room to room? A 10ft sea can is great for storing one room at a time while you work on different areas of your home.

Is your house going on the market soon? Storing your extra personal items or furniture in order to stage your home can increase the value and appeal of your home to buyers. 

20ft Containers 

20ft sea cans are an industry favourite due to their size and versatility, providing our customers with endless possibilities for storage and modifications. Owning this shipping container type is great for keeping on your property as an extra storage space. A 20ft sea can is large enough to fit the contents of a one-to-two bedroom apartment. 

Think about using a sea can for seasonal storage, storing extra furniture and household items, and converting it into a workshop or yard equipment shed. Whether you need a sea can for storage or you want to modify it into a unique space, a container will keep your thing safe for years to come! 

40ft Containers

The largest full-size cargo box we offer is a 40ft sea can that can hold the contents of a two-three house with a living room, dining room, den and kitchen. 

Modifying your 40ft sea can to have double doors at each end will provide you with a quick loading and unloading process. A spacious 40ft container can be used in many different ways such as:

• Storage for your recreational vehicles and collector cars during the winter.
• Storage for your yard equipment, tools and supplies.
• Construction site storage for expensive machinery, tools, equipment and supplies. 
• Furniture and household items during a home remodel. 
• And so much more!

Now that we have a general idea of what can fit into each container, let’s look at the different types of ocean containers.

Different Types of Shipping Containers

Dry Containers

To start off this list of different types of cargo containers, we will start with dry containers. Dry containers, also known as general purpose sea cans, are the most common container type and are used for most cargo shipping of goods that don’t need to be temperature controlled. Dry storage containers are fully enclosed sea cans that help protect goods from all the weather elements. Dry storage containers are also versatile in that they can have additional adaptations added to them based on the customer’s needs. Dry storage containers are our most popular type of container for container sales and container rentals. 

Dry storage containers come in 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft, with our most popular being the 20ft and 40ft containers.

Insulated and Thermal Containers

Insulated and thermal containers are used to transport goods that need to stay at a regulated temperature like foods, pharmaceuticals and chemicals. They are fitted with temperature controls that allow the contents to stay at the desired temperature while being transported. This is an additional adaptation that can be added to a dry storage container to make it insulated. Protecting your goods from extreme weather fluctuations is ideal in places that undergo major changes in temperature. 

Insulated containers can also be modified into temporary or permanent portable office spaces and tiny homes.

Flat Rack Containers

Flat Rack storage containers come in 20ft and 40ft and have collapsible sides that can be folded down to make a flat rack. These sea cans are designed for shipping oversized, heavy cargo that may not fit inside, such as vehicles and machinery with up to 45 metric tons of cargo weight capacity.

Double Door Containers or Tunnel Containers

Double door containers, also known as tunnel containers, have doors on both sides, making it quick and easy to load and unload cargo. If you are storing heavy items in a 20ft or 40ft sea can, installing an extra door a the opposite end will make your life easier when trying to maneuver heavy objects to the back of the container. Both doors are weather-tight sealed, protecting goods from the elements. Double door containers come in 20ft and 40ft sizes and are made of iron and steel, keeping everything secure.

Open Side Containers 

Open side containers have the same benefits as a general-purpose sea can with the only difference being that the doors can open from all sides. This helps with storing larger items that don’t fit through the end side doors. This feature also makes it easier to load and unload the contents of the container. Open side sea cans are available in 20ft and 40ft.

Half-Height Containers

Half-height shipping containers are designed with a low centre of gravity so they can hold heavy loads. Because of the way they are designed, half-height shipping containers are often used for transporting heavy items such as stones and coal making them an ideal option for the mining industry. 

High Cube Containers

High cube containers are the same as dry shipping containers, except that they are about 1 ft taller. High cube shipping containers are used for items that need just a little bit more room to fit into the container. These containers generally come in 40ft and sometimes 45ft.

Open-Top Containers

Open-top shipping containers are for specialized purposes as they have a convertible top that can be removed.  Open-top sea cans are suitable for storing heavy machinery or cargo that is too tall to fit through the doors or needs to be lifted in by a crane. Open top containers have lashing rings installed inside to secure cargo.

Refrigerated ISO Containers

Refrigerated ISO container’s main purpose is transporting or storing temperature-sensitive, perishable foods. Most refrigerated sea cans rely on external power sources to maintain the container’s internal temperature. Temperatures usually range from -28°C to 21°C.

Refrigerated sea cans can provide foodbanks with additional storage for perishable food items, transportation and storage of medical supplies and pharmaceuticals, wine storage for vineyards and more. 

Tank Containers

Tank containers are cargo containers with cylindrical vessels inside a 20ft ISO standard frame. Tank containers are mainly manufactured from steel and are anti-corrosive, making them great for travelling long distances. The main purpose of a tank container is to transport or store hazardous or non-hazardous liquid materials. These liquid materials include wine, oils, food, chemicals, fuels, gases and toxic substances.

Swap Body Containers

Swap body containers are a type of freight container that is interchangeable for road and rail transportation. Swap body containers also come with a convertible top, similar to an open-top sea can. The size of a swap body container is standardized and can not be stacked. A typical characteristic to indicate it is a swap body container is its folding legs underneath. 

Swap body containers are most popular for transporting goods on railways and roads. However, a few disadvantages come with purchasing a sway body container. These containers are not stackable, making them not great for overseas travel. If your main purpose for purchasing a sea can is to ship items across the ocean, we would not recommend a swap body container.

Car Carrier Containers

This type of container is designed to transport cars overseas or for long distances. Car carriers generally come with collapsible racks and hooks that secure your cars in place during transportation. These sea cans are customizable and allow you to store/transport multiple cars with the proper car lifts. 

Conclusion

Now that we have gone through the different shipping containers types that the shipping industry can offer, you can make a more informed decision about the different shipping container types and the size of the shipping container type you are interested in. 

Coast Containers offers many different new and used shipping containers and are able to modify containers to fit the needs of our customers. Still not totally sure about the exact shipping container you need? Don’t worry, we are happy to help. Contact one of our sales representatives today for more information and to get a quote on a new or used sea can.