Whether you own a 20ft shipping container or enjoy the custody of a 40ft shipping container, it is necessary for you to maintain it properly or else it will start to rust and lose its value. The containers are basically designed to survive in severe marine environments when sailing all across the globe on the back of lorries, on top of container ships, or trains. To prevent the container from rotting, the floors and fittings are made of good quality stainless steel and painted with heavy duty alkyl paint to put a stop to corrosion.
In order to keep them in good nick and prolong their life, it is necessary to inspect, repair and maintain them at regular intervals, usually after every six months at least. Here are some basic tips that you can use to extend the life of your shipping container.
Secure Your Shipping Container On A Level Surface
The first and most important thing that you need to do to keep your shipping container in good nick is to install it on an elevated, properly leveled and well-drained surface. If the surface is not flat and properly leveled, the water may start to accumulate underneath the container. If this happens, it may lead to corrosion under the container and you won’t be able to notice it. Use concrete or wood blocks to keep your shipping container elevated and properly leveled at all times.
Inspect The Roof And Perform Necessary Repairs
The top of your shipping container is as important as its bottom when it comes to keeping it in great condition. Since shipping containers are stacked on top of each other while traveling on the cargo ships and resting at a seaport in Singapore, they may end up getting some dents on their roof. If these dents are not removed or repaired properly, they can collect rainwater, which can become a source of corrosion. It is therefore important that you repair those dents and treat the repaired area with marine grade rust-proof paint to prevent damage from corrosion.
Inspect And Lubricate The Locks And Doors
Although shipping containers for sale come with heavy duty doors and locks which can last for more than 20 years, it is essential that you inspect them regularly for minor repairs and maintenance work. Make sure to pay close attention to the seals, hinges, locks. If you see any dust or rust, clean it at your earliest. Once properly cleaned, make sure to lubricate the moving parts using industrial grade lubricants.
Regularly Remove Dust
Dust is the number one enemy of your shipping container as it is the primary reason it catches rust. If you are able to clean your shipping container on regular basis, you can prolong its life for many more years.
Pay Special Attention to Modifications
If your shipping container has been modified, chances are it will have a lot of joints and welded pieces. Pay close attention to these modifications and the joints, they are prone to getting rust. Make sure to clean them and keep them dust free to prevent corrosion and rust.