Whether you’re shipping containers across the country or sending them an ocean away, the elements can significantly affect the overall quality of your storage containers. Steel containers can last you for years, but certain factors can bring their total lifespan down considerably if you aren’t careful. Knowing and understanding what factors can negatively affect your storage containers and their ability to function can help you figure out how to take better care of your investment and extend its lifespan for years.
What Is the Expected Lifespan of a Storage Container?
When you start looking for a storage container for sale, you want to know how long it will last before you make this kind of investment. You want a unit with an expected lifespan that can last you for a long time if taken care of properly. On average, most steel storage containers can last over 25 years before you consider getting a replacement.
However, the amount of wear and tear and element exposure they experience can significantly reduce life expectancy. Knowing how to prioritize your container’s maintenance can help protect your investment and see it continue to pay dividends for decades.
The Importance of Regular Storage Container Maintenance
Whether it’s impact damage, water infiltration, or natural wear, regular maintenance can yield a wealth of benefits for your assortment of storage containers. You can quickly identify issues ranging from trouble opening your container and leaking ceilings to any number of issues. Once identified, you can get your container the maintenance and repairs it needs to be certified for transit and protect your investments.
Here are some tips to help you better maintain your storage container for the long haul.
Inspect the Roof of Your Container
No matter what you’re transporting, one of the biggest dangers to the contents of your container remains water intrusion. Water damage can ruin your contents and even the metal of your unit if the issue goes unaddressed for extended periods. While some people believe these containers are rust-proof, that often is not the case.
Salt air environments can significantly impact the quality of your containers. While they’re designed to avoid corrosion, water, and dirt traps, that doesn’t mean they’re entirely waterproof. Taking the time to address your container’s issues can help prevent a small problem from worsening into a full-blown emergency.
Make Your Container as Pest-Proof as Possible
One of the ways that can quickly make your high cube storage containers an unexpected hazard happens when a little critter or pest finds its way into your unit. The first sign of rust, holes in the wall, or any other gap in your containers can become an entry point for pests to cause trouble for your cargo.
Your once cargo-worthy container can quickly become compromised and set you back while you’re trying to address the issue with a lasting solution. A repair professional can help address these entry points and cut off the pest’s access to your container.
Keep Your Doors in Good Shape
The doors to your shipping container are often the most crucial part of your setup. As long as they’re operating correctly, you won’t have to worry about looking for replacement shipping containers for sale just yet. However, keeping them in good condition may be more complicated than expected.
Keeping the entry free of dirt, grit, and grime on the hinges will help keep opening and closing as efficient as possible. Also, visibly inspect the locking bars and clean them with a commercial-grade cleaner.
Get Your 20 Ft. Storage Container from LGI Transport Today
Whether you’re looking for a new storage container to invest in or have multiple that you want to take better care of for the long haul, finding options that work for your needs is paramount. LGI Transport has offered the highest quality new and used storage containers for various shipping industries. We work with our customers to identify what kind of units will work best for their desired applications and get them to you in a timely manner.
Learn more about our available options and place an order for your next storage container investment today!