Why Shipping Containers are a Good Solution for Sheds

Shipping containers are flexible, sturdy structures that are finding new uses around the world. From homes to offices and from pop-up shops to swimming pools, shipping containers offer affordable building materials for both commercial and residential applications. Designed to withstand arduous journeys on rough oceans, these steel containers offer an excellent solution for sheds. Here we look at why a shipping container shed is a workable storage solution that can suit your needs.

Can You Use A Shipping Container As A Shed?

People looking for a shipping container for sale may not initially think of using it as a shed, but yes, shipping containers make excellent sheds. The steel structure is extremely durable, while also offering a very secure building to protect your tools and equipment. They come in different sizes to suit your space while also being completely customizable.

What are the Benefits of Using a Shipping Container as a Shed?

The versatility of shipping containers makes them ideal for many uses including sheds. There are five main benefits to shipping container sheds including:

1. Construction: The containers are pre-made and ready to be fitted with shelves, organizers, lighting, windows and doors. They are constructed using Corten steel and come standard with plywood floors and sturdy cargo doors. They are also painted with high-quality industrial paint to protect the steel.
2. Durability: The 14-gauge Corten steel structure is designed to withstand extreme weather and take on the weight of other containers when stacked in transportation. As a result, they will last for decades without the worry of rot like woodsheds or rust like metal sheds.
3. Customization: As mentioned above, containers as sheds are completely customizable to suit your needs and sense of aesthetics. They can be strictly used for storage with the basics such as doors and windows, electricity, ramps, shelving, etc. or you can invest in creating a more appealing structure with a customized exterior. They can also be transformed into a “she shed” or “mancave.”
4. Secure: The container shed is secure to protect against human and critter intrusions. They are also waterproof to protect your equipment and tools from leaks. Intruders will find accessing a shed made of 14-gauge steel impossible even when using power tools. These containers are made to protect valuables unlike the common garden shed found at your local retailer.
5. Cost: The cost of using a shipping container as a garden shed may seem high at first when compared to a prefabricated or self-built garden shed. However, when you consider the cost per square foot and the other elements mentioned above, a shipping container is a better choice in the long run.

A shipping container shed is a unique solution that is versatile, affordable, and secure.

Shipping Container Sheds vs Metal and Woodsheds

Here is how shipping containers stack up against your standard wood or metal sheds:

Durability

Containers have a coating of high-quality industrial paint from top to bottom including the base. As a result, they won’t rust or rot out like wood or metal. Wood is prone to rot, cracking and splitting after a few years unless you meticulously sand and repaint the wood. It is impossible to protect the bottom of an installed metal or wood shed, which means the damp will soon start rotting or rusting out the floor.

Low Maintenance

Because containers are built to withstand up to 62,000 lbs. when stacked one on top of the other, you really won’t find a shed of wood or metal to withstand that type of weight. The floors are made of what’s known as “marine grade plywood” and special construction using “C” channel cross members. As a result, you really can store just about anything in the shed without the worry of damage including a tractor or mini excavator.

Critter Proof

Insects, mice, squirrels, raccoons, skunks and more can often make themselves at home in less sturdy wood and metal sheds. However, critters will never penetrate the fortress of steel your shipping container presents. Wood and metal sheds just can’t compare to the sturdy walls, roof and floors of the container. This protects not just your shed from invasion, but your equipment which can be severely damaged by gnawing critters.

Comfortable Size

There’s no need to hunch in a container shed that has a minimum wall height of almost 8 feet inside compared to the average shed which is just over 6. The height also offers more storage room for shelving.

Doors

The doors of the average shed also make it difficult to get certain equipment in and out. With a container shed, the door opening is much larger at an average of 7’ 8” wide by 7’ 5” high.

Pre-built

A storage container is delivered to your property with no assembly required. Sheds have to be put together either by yourself or the supplier which takes time and costs money.

Things to Consider When Buying a Shipping Container as a Shed

Although shipping containers make excellent sheds be sure you consider the following before you make your purchase:

• Do you want a new or used shipping container? This decision will affect the price you’ll pay. Shipping containers comes in different grades and conditions. Some will have more rust, dings and dents then others, while some will look brand new.
• What size will you need? Standard shipping containers are typically 8.6 feet high and come in 10, 20 and 40 foot lengths. Your needs, the space available on your property and municipal regulations will all have an impact on the length you choose.
• How much do you wish to spend on container modifications? Customization can most certainly turn your container into the shed of your dreams. If your budget is limited, make a list of desired modifications and place them in order of priority. Consider those that might be difficult to do once the container is installed, such as plumbing. Adding doors and windows may also require the use of a skilled worker since the steel that containers are made of is very strong.
• Does your city permit the use of a container on your property? It is very important to check your city’s regulations first before purchasing your container. A permit may be required, especially if you plan to add services such as electricity and plumbing.
• What type of foundation is needed based on the location of your shed? Resting your container directly on the ground can affect drainage and increase the risk of corrosion. If you are using your container as a permanent structure, it is advisable to install it on a concrete foundation or other suitable type of base that will keep it off the ground.

Who Can Benefit from a Shipping Container Shed?

Almost anyone who needs a shed can benefit from a shipping container. And you can use a new shipping container or a used shipping container, depending on your needs and budget. Here is a list of people and businesses who can benefit from using a shipping container as a shed.:

• Avid gardeners
• People with larger properties who require heavy-duty maintenance equipment such as lawnmowers, tractors, etc.
• Avid hobbyists who need storage for their specialty tools and work area
• Car enthusiasts who need to store their cars and equipment
• Outdoors enthusiasts who need to store a boat, motorcycles, camping equipment, etc.
• Collectors of antiques and other larger items
• Carpenters
• Business owners who need extra storage space for bulk products, inventory, materials, tools, samples, construction equipment, etc.
• Farmers

Converted shipping container sheds can be used not just for storage or workspace, but also as a home office, she-shed, outdoor lounge area, guest house and more.

Conterm offers new shipping containers and used shipping containers for sale to individuals and businesses wishing to convert them into sheds. From door and window choices to electrical and storage options, we can customize your container to your needs. Contact us to learn more about our shipping containers for sale and available container modifications.