Shipping containers provide a tough, durable building material strong enough to fulfill the requirements of most building codes, including those in areas prone to earthquakes.
Shipping cargo containers are built to meet International Standard ISO 1496/1 standards. 20-foot shipping containers are built to hold a maximum of 47,910 lbs. As you can imagine, this means that shipping containers are quite sturdy and durable.
The containers have a roof load test of 660 lbs. over a two foot by one foot area when applied to the center of the roof, its weakest area.
Shipping containers are also highly proof against uplift and suction forces. Because the roof is an integral part of the shipping container, it is less vulnerable to tornado damage than conventional structures. Shipping containers can blow over or lift off the ground if not properly secured to the ground by a foundation or other means. That said, blow-overs typically result in minimal damage to the shipping container.
According to industry experts, used shipping containers are suitable for earthquake areas and meet California standards for quake-resistant materials.
As you can see, a used shipping container is sturdy and ideal for a number of uses, including storage facilities, temporary office buildings, sheds, garage facilities, housing components and more. To find out whether shipping containers are allowed for use in construction in your area, consult with your local and state municipal code authorities. They can help determine whether used shipping containers are the right material for your project.