Knowing when to rent a storage container and when to buy one can save you money, time and stress. But how do you decide? You must carefully consider several key factors. 

To help, we have put together a list of pros and cons of leasing vs. buying a storage container. 

For the answers you need, keep reading and reach out to ModuGo’s team of storage container experts.

When to Lease a Storage Container: Pros and Cons

Storage container rentals offer a lot of flexibility and convenience. But they can fall short if you need long-term storage. Here are some of the pros and cons of shipping containers for rent. 

Flexible Shipping Container Rentals

Knowing when to rent a storage container is the first step. Then, you have to decide how long you want to hold onto it. The good news is that there are several types of storage container leases available. 

From full-service master leases, long-term leases, short-term and even one-way leases, you can find a shipping container rental agreement that fits your unique needs.

At ModuGo, the length of your storage container rental is in your hands because we never lock you into long term contracts. After an initial three-month minimum rental period, you can hang onto your storage container for as little or as long you’d like, paying just one flat fee every month. 

Storage Container Damage? You May Be on the Hook

Pretty much any shipping container lease you sign is going to have a provision that puts you financially on the hook for damage outside of normal wear and tear. 

If you are considering leasing vs. buying a storage container, it’s important to think about your intended use for the container. 

Do you want to be able to modify a container you own or be careful with one you rent?

Shipping Containers for Rent: The Latest and Greatest

When you buy a container, that’s the type of shipping container you are going to have until you sell it or it is too old to use anymore. But if you rent a storage container, you can choose the latest model and updated features. 

For example, you can rent a standard container for a few months and then upgrade to a rented refrigerated container. If you had purchased that standard container to begin with, you would have to buy a whole new container to get the new features you need.

Rented Containers Are Not Approved for All Uses

While flexibility is typically on the side of rental containers in the leasing vs. buying a storage container debate, there is one way in which buying a container could offer more flexibility. 

You can store anything you want in a purchased container, but storage container rental agreements typically prohibit certain items, such as hazardous materials.

Container Rentals Are Cost-Effective in the Short Term…

While storage container prices when purchasing can reach into the tens of thousands, renting one can cost less than $120 per month. 

Knowing when to lease a storage container depends on you knowing how long your business will need it. 

At ModuGo, storage container rentals start at just $115 a month and increase based on the size and type of container you decide to lease.

…But Can Be More Expensive in the Long Term

If you plan to use the container for more than a few years, the monthly cost of renting a storage container can easily become more expensive than buying the container outright. 

Renting a Shipping Container Is Like Taking a Test Drive

Do you need a 20-foot container or a 40-foot container? Standard or high cube? Do you really know what you need? 

If not, renting a storage container can be a great way to “test drive” a certain type of container before committing to a big purchase.

You Can’t Sell a Container You Didn’t Buy

Leasing a storage container is kind of like renting an apartment. While the month-to-month costs are lower than buying, you don’t build any equity or gain any real assets. 

That means what you spend on shipping container rentals is a sunk cost. Buying a container, on the other hand, can allow you to resell it and recover some value if your needs change.

Storage Container Transportation: Hassle-Free if You Rent

This is one of the key benefits of leasing vs. buying a storage container. Transporting containers takes special equipment and money. And if you own the container, you have to transport it yourself or pay someone else to do it. 

But shipping container rental companies like ModuGo will often drop off containers at your choice of location and come pick them up when you are done.

When to Buy a Storage Container: Pros and Cons

After a global shipping container shortage in 2020, many companies faced this question in a big way: should I buy or rent a storage container? Of course, just like the pros and cons listed for renting a storage container, there are pros and cons to buying a storage container.

Many of the reasons to buy a storage container are simply the flip side of the cons of leasing a storage container, but it is important to consider all sides before you make your decision. 

Here is what you need to know before you buy a storage container.

Buying a Storage Container: A Long-Term Investment

Purchasing a container is a long-term investment. It is an asset your business can own, leverage, use and sell. That helps your business build value in the long term.

But Purchasing a Container Comes with Larger Upfront Costs

However, that long-term value only comes if you are willing to pay the high upfront costs. For small or new businesses, the cost of buying a shipping container can be a barrier to entry that renting doesn’t pose.

Storage Container for Sale? You Can Store Whatever You Want

While many storage containers for lease are subject to rules about what you can store, no one can tell you what you can or can’t store in a container you own. 

Purchased Shipping Containers Degrade Over Time

Storage containers are sturdy and weather-resistant, but even steel degrades over time. Rust, humidity and moisture, bad smells and structural damage can all affect the lifespan of a storage container. 

When you buy a container, the long-term degradation is your problem. But if you lease a storage container, that’s the rental company’s issue to handle.

If You Own a Storage Container, You Can Modify It

Want to cut a standard-size doorway into your container? Need to add a window or a workbench? If you own it, you can modify your shipping container for creative uses. But rentals come with clear rules against shipping container modifications.

See how restaurants are getting creative and using containers to create shipping container drive-thrus.

Buying a Container Makes It Yours, Even if Your Needs Change

Being quick to adapt to change enables your business to weather many economic storms. If you own a fleet of standard storage containers but suddenly need to store something that’s just a little bit taller than the containers’ height, you likely will have to buy more containers. 

If you were only renting the containers, you could exchange them for high cube containers to accommodate your new container needs at a much lower cost.

Owning a Storage Container Could Give You Certain Tax Benefits

When you are considering the benefits of leasing vs. buying a storage container, your taxes might not be top of mind. But maybe they should be. 

Purchased containers are business equipment that may qualify for the equipment depreciation tax deduction. Always speak with your tax professional before making purchases with future tax benefits in mind. 

Transporting Your Own Containers Is a Hassle

Whether you are using your storage containers to store tools at job sites or move goods from one place to another, moving the containers is both labor-intensive and expensive. 

Renting, however, allows you to have the shipping containers delivered right where you need them, and it’s included in the rental cost.

Renting Out Your Containers: Another Revenue Stream

If you choose to purchase your storage containers, you might open up a potential revenue stream for your business down the road. 

If you don’t need all of the containers you own later on, you could rent them out as storage space to other businesses or individuals.

Leasing vs. Buying a Storage Container: Call an Expert for Help

Knowing when to lease a storage container and when to buy one is not easy. You have to weigh a host of pros and cons of both options — and that comes after you have determined how many containers you need and where you plan to get them from. 

ModuGo makes this process easier. Our storage container experts are standing by to answer your questions about leasing vs. buying a storage container, and can help you find the best solution for your business. 

Shop storage containers available to rent or buy from ModuGo’s inventory, or speak with our friendly, helpful team by calling (800) 880-7061 or contacting us online.

Shop ModuGo!

The post Renting vs. Buying Storage Containers – How Do You Decide? appeared first on ModuGo.

Part of achieving that goal means answering shipping container rental questions on a regular basis. 

To help you as you shop for rental storage containers, our shipping container experts here at ModuGo have put together this comprehensive list of shipping container rental FAQs. 

These are the most common shipping container rental questions we receive, so keep reading for the answers you need. 

Of course, for personalized help contact ModuGo today.

Your Shipping Container Rental Questions: Answered

Got questions about renting a shipping container? We have answers. See below.

Should I Rent a Shipping Container or Buy One? How about Rent to Own?

This is one of the most common shipping container rental questions we receive, and for good reason. The answer is complicated and depends on your situation. 

If you know you are going to need the shipping container permanently, then you probably want to buy containers or rent to own.

But if you have cost restrictions or aren’t sure how long you will need your container for, renting containers or renting to own the container may be the better option. These options allow you to get a shipping container now without putting a lot of money down upfront. 

For more information, check out our container rental guide.

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Shipping Container?

The price of a shipping container rental will vary depending on your needs. For example, some shipping container rental companies will charge more for short-term leases or newer containers.

At ModuGo, our base lease rates are as low as $115 per month. We don’t change rental rates over time, and we don’t do cumbersome long-term shipping container rental contracts. We are all about flexibility to meet your needs.

Here are ModuGo’s starting monthly rental rates for each size and type of shipping container:

• 20 ft. Wind and Watertight (WWT) container: $115
• 20 ft. Cargo Worthy (CW) container: $175
• 40 ft. WWT container: $139
• 40 ft. High Cube WWT container: $149
• 40-foot CW container: $159
• 40-foot High Cube CW container: $250

Need a shipping container at a specific site? Browse available containers on our website, using your zip code to find a shipping container for rent near you.

How Long Are Shipping Container Rental Contracts?

Shipping container rental contracts can range from months to multiple years. Some companies will allow month-to-month container rental contracts after the initial rental period is up, while others are more strict about long-term leases. 

ModuGo allows month-to-month shipping container rentals after a three-month minimum lease period. In a monthly agreement, you can hang on to the container for as long as you would like and be charged at the beginning of each month. When you’re done, we come pick it up.

Do You Need a Permit to Have a Rented Storage Container on Your Property?

This is one of the toughest shipping container rental questions to answer because it depends so heavily on local zoning laws, homeowners’ association rules and state laws. Check with your local government to see if you need a permit for keeping a shipping container on your property.

What Are the Available Sizes for Shipping Container Rentals?

The most common lengths of shipping containers for rent are 20 ft. and 40 ft. A standard container is 8 feet and six inches tall, and a high cube container is a foot taller. 

Some container leasing companies, such as ModuGo, offer additional sizes of containers. We also offer 10 ft. containers and 45 ft. containers for rent.

Can I Rent to Own a Storage Container?

YES! Rent-to-own shipping containers are available, but they are not very common. ModuGo is the industry leader in easy rent to own options. With no credit checks or cumbersome application process, you can checkout in just minutes and have a container delivered on site for the lowest possible amount.

Can I Move My Rented Storage Container from Place to Place?

While shipping and storage containers are meant to be moved with relative ease, doing so does require specialized equipment and can cause damage to the container. Most storage container rentals are meant for on-site, durable, stationary storage. 

While our shipping container rentals are not meant to be moved while on lease, we understand that moving containers is sometimes necessary. 

On a case-by-case basis, ModuGo will sometimes give approval to move a container during a lease. If this is something you are considering, contact our team to discuss it further.

How Do I Rent a Shipping Container?

Here is how renting a shipping container works with most companies: 

1. You call the supplier or meet with a representative
2. You wait for a price quote
3. You and the supplier discuss shipping container rental terms
4. Once agreed and purchased, you arrange for the delivery and pickup

At ModuGo, we like to approach the shipping container rental process a little differently. 

With ModuGo:

1. You browse our website:
   1. Find the right container rental for you
   2. Get an instant price
   3. Put it in your cart
   4. Fill out less than a minute’s worth of documentation
2. Pick your container up or have us help get it delivered to you — we will do what it takes to make the process easy and transparent for you.

Of course, if you need assistance or want help throughout the process, our team is available to guide you over the phone.

How Can I Find Shipping Containers for Rent Near Me?

Many shipping container suppliers maintain depots at ports and similar industrial areas in major cities around the world. The typical process involves contacting the closest supplier and asking what they have available.

ModuGo’s website can save a lot of time when it comes to finding a container for rent near you. 

Simply enter your ZIP code, and our online shipping container store will present results that are closest to you. 

Still on the fence about renting vs. buying a shipping container? Learn more about the advantages to renting a shipping container.

Can I Modify a Rented Shipping Container? 

You will need explicit approval to modify a rented shipping container. 

Think of your container rental like a rental car — it needs to be in standard condition for the next person who rents it, so permanent changes are usually not allowed.

Which Type of Shipping Container Should I Rent? 

Which type of shipping container you should rent again will depend on your unique needs. Think of what you need to store and then learn 20-foot shipping container capacity, 40-foot capacity and so on. Consider the height of the items you want to store to decide whether you need a standard or high cube container.

Can I Rent an Insulated Shipping Container?

Yes. Insulated shipping containers are commonly available for rent at most full-service container rental companies.

Are Shipping Container Rentals Waterproof?

Not all shipping containers are waterproof, but many of the newer rental containers that have rubber seals around the doors can withstand water exposure. 

When you are renting a shipping container that needs to be waterproof, specify that you are looking for a WWT container.

Are Shipping Containers Secure?

With sturdy steel exteriors and doors that can easily be locked, shipping containers are one of the most secure storage solutions available.

Do I Need a Shipping Container That Is ‘Cargo Worthy’?

“Cargo Worthy” (CW) is a shipping container designation certified by the International Convention for Safe Containers. 

Whether you need a CW rental container will depend on what you intend to store inside of it. These containers tend to hold up better to stacking and weather exposure.

What Are Some Hidden Fees and Costs of Renting a Shipping Container?

Outside of the monthly cost to rent the shipping container, at ModuGo, you only pay a delivery fee, pickup fee and tax upon receiving the container. Everything is disclosed ahead of time!

How Long Does Shipping Container Delivery Take?

One of the most common shipping container rental questions we get at ModuGo is about how long it will take to deliver the container. 

The answer varies from container company to container company, but the period is going to depend primarily on your location in reference to the location of the container.

When you are renting a container, we understand you want it as soon as possible. That’s why we typically deliver containers within seven to 10 business days. If you need something quicker, contact our team and we will do what we can to accommodate you.

How Are Rental Storage Containers Delivered?

Rented storage containers can be delivered to you via tilt-bed trucks, tilt-bed trailers or flatbed trucks. Which mode of shipping container delivery the container supplier uses will likely depend on the size of the container you rented.

How Do I Prepare a Site for My Rented Shipping Container?

Preparing a site for a shipping container will require different steps depending on the individual site you have chosen. Generally, you will want to follow these steps:

• Choose a hard and dry surface
• Make sure the site is level and flat
• Remove any obstacles leading up to the space that would prevent the delivery driver from reaching it

For more information, check out ModuGo’s shipping container site preparation guide.

Got More Shipping Container Rental Questions? Call ModuGo

The above questions about shipping container rentals cover the basics, but if you need more information or would like to rent a shipping container, reach out to ModuGo. Our shipping container experts are always here to help. 

Give us a call at (800) 880-7061 or fill out our online contact form.

Shop ModuGo!

The post The Most Frequently Asked Questions [And Answers] About Renting Shipping Containers appeared first on ModuGo.

Purchasing and owning that storage can be costly and some companies don’t have the margin or operational structure to buy and maintain their own storage containers. Those that find themselves with a temporary need for storage or those that want to avoid the costs of acquiring and maintaining their own containers often opt for container rentals or leasing. Container rental comes with its own set of questions and processes that can sometimes feel overwhelming.

If you are looking to rent a shipping container, we have everything you need to know right here. ModuGo has a team of professionals who work tirelessly to make this process easy for businesses and individuals alike. Our daily goal is to make renting intermodal containers as easy as possible.

To learn more about container rentals, read on or contact ModuGo today.

Why Rent a Shipping Container?

Whether you are considering shipping containers for your business or for personal use, the reasons to rent a container stack up quickly. Let’s take a look at renting vs. buying containers and how you might be able to use your unit.

Renting vs. Buying Storage Containers

If you plan to use a shipping container often, you might wonder why you should rent instead of buy. For year-round use, buying a shipping container may be your best bet. 

Most businesses, however, do not use shipping containers on a daily basis. Instead, there are selling seasons or specific use cases. Once a shipment is complete or storage is no longer needed, then what? Where does a purchased unit go? You have to move the shipping container and/or find a place to store it. Both of these tasks cost money.

There is a significantly higher cost to buying a shipping container outright compared to a container rental. For example, an 8-foot by 40-foot high cube container with a standard door can easily cost as much as $4,000 to purchase. But a rental container with the same specifications can cost as little as $115 per month. 

In this case, you would have to use your purchased container for more than 40 months to outweigh the cost benefit of renting the same container. And that does not take into account the fees tied to taxes, storage, transportation and maintenance.

Common Uses for Rented Shipping and Storage Containers

A couple of obvious uses come to mind when you think about storage or shipping containers: storage and shipping. But the versatility of rental containers goes far beyond what’s in the name. Because rentals are shorter-term and lower-cost, rented containers offer an agile solution to all kinds of business and logistics scenarios. 

The following are some common uses for rented containers:

• Construction jobsite storage
• Tool and supply storage in agriculture
• Overflow educational storage space
• Additional storage for personal use
• Small-scale, warehouse-style storage for retail businesses

Are you in construction and looking for more cases where shipping containers can come in handy? Check out these 15 reasons to rent or buy construction storage containers.

Choose Your Rental Container Size

When you start to understand how it works to rent a storage container, one of the first considerations is how large you want the container to be. Let’s take a look at some of the most common container sizes.

10 ft. Shipping Container Rentals

At 8 feet wide and 10 feet long, a 10-foot shipping container is a great option for anyone who needs to fit a lot into a small space. While 10-foot container rental prices can vary widely and depend on availability, these smaller containers can sometimes be more expensive than larger options. That’s because this is not a standard size for overseas freight, meaning the container has to be modified for storage use.

20 ft. Shipping Container Rentals

The 20-foot shipping container is one of the most popular options for renting and buying. These tend to be the most affordable and convenient option. They are the same width as the 10-foot containers (8 feet), meaning they can still pack a lot of storage space into a small spot.

Recommended Reading: How Much Can a 20 Foot Shipping Container Hold?

40 ft. Shipping Container Rentals

If you have the space for a 40-foot storage container, this can be your best option for high-volume or large item storage. While they offer double the space of the 20-foot containers, they are not double the price. And they are often the best value per cubic foot of storage space.

Recommended Reading: How Much Can a 40 Foot Shipping Container Hold?

45 ft. Shipping Container Rentals

The 45-foot shipping container tends to be the largest option available. Often called sea crates or railcar containers, these large containers are a common sight on huge sea freighters, trains, or cranes at port. That, of course, is not the only use for these containers, which offer the most storage per unit of any common container rental option.

Select a Shipping Container Style

Size is the first step, but then you have to make several decisions about the style of the container you plan to rent. 

Height

A standard shipping container is 8 feet, 6 inches tall. If you need a little extra height, you can opt for a high cube container. These containers offer an additional foot of height (at 9 feet, 6 inches). While that may not sound like much, the additional foot of headroom multiplied by the total floor space of the container adds up quickly.

High cube containers are available in almost all of the same sizes as standard storage containers. However, the 10-foot container is often only available in standard height.

Keep in mind that more space is not always better. Carefully calculate the total amount of space you have or will need to understand whether a high cube or standard container best fits your needs. And if weight is a concern, remember that the added height of the high cube adds pounds, too.

Doors

A standard shipping container will have a single door on one end of the container. That configuration is perfect for most uses, but sometimes you need multiple entry points or maybe even an entire open side. Which door style you select will depend on what you intend to use the container for.

Specialty container rentals offer plenty of alternative door options to meet your needs. When renting a container, you will likely see an option to select a single-door or double-door container, as well as a side-door container.

The double-door container offers a set of doors on each short end of the container. If you need wide access or the ability to retrieve items from various places inside the container, the side-door option offers doors along the entire length of the container.

Think this option may be right for you? Learn more about the advantages of double-door shipping containers.

Container Rental Accessories

Depending on what you would like to use your rented shipping container for, you may benefit from a couple of accessories. Purchasing shipping container accessories is most convenient as an add on at the time you pay for container rental. 

Here are two of the most common accessories for rental containers.

1. Door Handle Extenders

Newer shipping containers are usually easy to open, but older ones may have some rust and can be difficult to open. Plus, doors on shipping containers of any age or condition can be frozen shut in cold temperatures. 

Container door handle extenders can solve these problems. Attaching to the existing door handle, these handles add length — and therefore additional leverage — to the handle. That means the door will be easier to open.

2. Ramps

Getting a dolly, hand truck or even a small vehicle into a shipping container looks simple enough, but the small space between the floor of the container and the ground can create quite an obstacle. This is especially true if you are making repeated trips back and forth. 

One simple shipping container accessory solves this problem: the ramp. A good storage container ramp will go over the container’s lock to create a seamless transition from ground to container floor. Ramps often come in dual-wedge varieties to accommodate wheels and full-length wedge ramps to offer a wide range of entry options.

Renting and Shipping Container Delivery

Once you have completed the shipping container rental process, it’s time to get ready for delivery day. While the process is designed to be as simple as possible, storage container delivery is not as simple as sitting back and waiting for the truck to arrive. 

The intermodal container delivery process can differ from provider to provider, but our container rental guide outlines the basic process for delivery with ModuGo below:

• At the time of the order, you provide the delivery address, a contact phone number and the direction you would like the shipping container doors to face.
• You receive a call from a rental container logistics professional to discuss the date of delivery, the delivery site and any questions you have.
• The delivery date and time window is finalized and confirmed with a local container delivery partner.
• On delivery day, you receive a call prior to the arrival of the shipping container.
• The delivery truck driver arrives and confirms the final container site with you.
• The storage container is moved to the site.
• You inspect the container and address any concerns with the delivery driver.

For 10- and 20- foot containers, the most common delivery method is a tilt-bed truck. The beds on these vehicles can gently tilt down to lower the storage container to the desired place. An alternative option that can accommodate the larger container sizes is a truck that pulls a separate tilt bed or roll-off trailer. 

Less common is the flatbed truck. To use this method, you must have access to heavy machinery capable of lifting the shipping container off of the truck’s bed.

Site Selection and Prep for Storage Container Rentals

Another important consideration before you receive your container rental is where you will put it and how you need to prepare the site. Shipping containers are extremely heavy, and the trucks that deliver them are even heavier. That’s why you need to select a dry, hard and flat surface for your container.

Cement slabs, parking lots and compacted gravel can make excellent storage container sites. A flat surface is extremely important because irregular elevation can prevent the container doors from opening. Any moisture at the site can corrode the floor or walls of the container over time — not to mention cause the delivery truck to get stuck or damage your property.

Even if you have found a place with the perfect surface to accommodate your shipping container, you need to ensure that you have enough space for the delivery to happen. Here are the general space requirements for delivery of a shipping container:

• Between 16 and 20 feet of vertical clearance at the site.
• At least 14 feet of vertical clearance beneath anything the truck will have to drive under to reach the site.
• A total width of 12 feet at the delivery site.
• Sixty feet of straight clearance from where the back of a 20-foot container will sit and 100 feet of straight clearance from the back of a 40-foot container.

Before delivery day, clear any debris, vehicles or other obstacles that could prevent the delivery truck from getting to the site with enough clearance to deliver the container. Shipping container site preparation can speed up the container delivery process. Smooth deliveries can go as quickly as 15 minutes in some cases.

Container Rental FAQ

Even the most comprehensive container rental guide can’t cover every question you might have, but we can certainly cover the most common ones. Read on for answers to frequently asked questions about container rentals. 

How Do I Rent a Shipping Container?

Asking, “How do I rent a shipping container?” may seem like a beginner’s question, but it is a critically important question to ask. That’s because every provider’s process is different, and some are far more complicated than others. At ModuGo, our goal is to make the container rental process as easy and stress-free as possible by offering a simple and digital three-step process:

1. Enter your zip code and browse our shipping container listings to pick your container.
2. Check out on our website.
3. Sit back and relax until delivery time. We take care of the rest.

With our month-to-month rental terms, when your rented shipping container has served its purpose, you can simply login to your ModuGo account and click “pick it up.” We’ll arrange the collection while accommodating you and your needs.

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Shipping Container?

How much it costs to rent a shipping container varies. The price of a storage container rental depends on the type of container you need, how long you need it for, whether you are renting in bulk, your location and the market rate at the time. 

At ModuGo we promise two things: low cost and flexibility. We offer price match guarantee and no long term contracts, with rates starting at just $115 a month for a minimum three month rental period. 

There are no hidden costs when renting a shipping container from ModuGo. All you have to pay up front is the delivery fee, pickup fee and first month’s rent plus tax.

Customers can rest assured that they are getting the best price when they choose ModuGo.

When Can a Rented Shipping Container Be Delivered?

Delivery of a rented shipping container will differ based on the provider’s policies and your location. At ModuGo, most container rentals can be delivered within 7-10 business days. If you have additional restrictions for delivery, our team can work with you to accommodate and get your shipping container delivered. 

Can I Rent an Insulated Shipping Container?

You can’t modify a container you are renting, so if you need an insulated storage container, you will need to rent one that comes with insulation. Many companies, including ModuGo, offer insulated container rentals. Just be sure to specify that you need an insulated container before you make your purchase.

Do I Need a Permit for My Rented Storage Container?

If you plan to store your rented container somewhere, your city, state or county may have laws on the books that require you to get a permit. Shipping container permitting requirements vary by location, so you will need to do some research. Call your local government or visit their website to understand your permitting obligations. 

For details on your state’s building codes for container buildings, visit the Modular Building Institute’s Building Codes resource.

Can I Have a Shipping Container in My Backyard?

You may be interested in having a rented shipping container in your backyard or somewhere else on your property if you plan to use it for home or tool storage. Residential areas often have specific rules on whether you can keep large items like shipping containers on your property. Most municipalities will allow this without any effort, although some on the other extreme will outright ban storage containers. To find out the rules for your location, contact your local government.

ModuGo: Your Container Rental Guide

The professional team at ModuGo works tirelessly to simplify storage and shipping container rental. This container rental guide is just one step in that process, and we hope it is helpful to you.

To discuss your container rental needs or get answers to any of your questions, get in touch with our helpful team by calling (800) 880-7061 or contacting ModuGo online. If you’re ready to rent and receive your container, find the one that fits exactly what you’re looking for at the price you want in ModuGo’s available inventory.

Shop ModuGo!

The post Container Rentals: The Ultimate Guide To Renting Shipping and Storage Containers appeared first on ModuGo.

Storage needs may be temporary or ongoing. As your business grows, material needs will increase. Once a warehouse or space is full, storage containers provide a cost-efficient solution. Some businesses decide to pay for off-site storage, but that introduces an immediate barrier to accessing tools, equipment and supplies. 

Many companies in this situation rent a storage container (or rent multiple storage containers) to keep on-site. If you would like to learn more, check out the 12 key benefits of renting a storage container, shop shipping containers available to rent, and contact the shipping container experts at ModuGo. 

Benefit #1) Renting a Storage Container Is Cost-Effective

The first question most companies have is: how much does it cost to rent a storage container? It is a surprisingly modest investment. Unless you intend to expand your building or warehouse and have a permanent container storage solution, renting a shipping container may be the best financial decision. Buying a storage unit can be cost prohibitive or unnecessary in the long run. Renting a storage container can be less than $120 per month.

Are you a construction company looking for storage solutions? Check out 5 ways to enhance your construction site with jobsite storage containers.

Benefit #2) Storage Containers Save Space

How much space do storage containers take up? Again, the answer may surprise you. Compared to the footprint of expanding a building or even constructing a new warehouse, storage containers are space-conscious. A 20-foot standard storage container adds 160 square feet, while a 40-foot container nets 320. Storage units can be purchased in different sizes to exactly fit the space you have. 

Benefit #3) Reliable Security For Storage Containers

Even if your property is fenced in, items stored without the right security leave you vulnerable to loss. Securable storage containers are a reliable way to keep large or valuable items out of view. With walls of corrugated steel and a chain lock, a storage container is going to present a big challenge to even the most motivated thieves. As an added bonus, you can position your rented storage container so your security cameras can monitor if any unwanted visitors come along.

Benefit #4) Portable Storage Containers: Rent and Use As-Needed

If you buy a storage container rather than renting it, you run the risk of solving a temporary problem with a permanent solution. You may know that your storage needs fluctuate. Whether you are using a storage container for inventory or project-based equipment, it may be advisable to consider the cost/benefit of renting versus buying a storage container. 

One of the biggest benefits of renting a storage container is the flexibility it offers. You don’t have to keep it when you don’t need it. It can go back to the shipping container supplier from whom you rented it.

When renting a storage container from ModuGo, you can keep the container for as long or as little as you would like after an initial three month rental period. When your container has served its purpose, you can click “come pick it up” in your account, and ModuGo will arrange for someone to come grab it. 

Benefit #5) With a Rental Storage Container, You Can Change Your Mind

If you buy a shipping container online, you have made a sizable investment without much room to back out or return the unit. While you can perform the right measurements and work with a rep to find a storage container for the space, you may find that your needs change quickly or often. 

When deciding on renting versus buying a storage container, it’s easy to see that a rented storage container gives you more leeway. 

Benefit #6) Choose From a Variety of Storage Container Types 

Storage containers aren’t all simple steel boxes. People often use them as overflow classroom space for schools and even restaurant drive-thrus. While your storage container needs might be for static storage, you may benefit from a specialty type of container.

If you need double doors in order to store large items, you can rent a container with double doors. What about doors that open along the side of the container? There are side-door storage containers for rent, too.

Benefit #7) Portable Storage Container Rental Services

If your work involves moving from job site to job site, you know how much effort it is to pack everything up and move it. If you own your storage containers, you have to move them too, whether they’re going back to headquarters or to another location. 

Convenience is one of the most important ways to benefit from storage container rental services. If you rent a storage container only when you need extra tools or supplies, you can have the shipping container provider drop it off at the site and pick it up when you are done. Storage container delivery alleviates all the heavy lifting and gives you an easier experience.

Benefit #8) Storage Container Rentals May Come With Tax Benefits

Your situation may vary, but leasing a storage container instead of buying one may offer some tax benefits. Renting vs. buying equipment is an important strategy that directly impacts your bottom line. It may be possible to deduct lease payments as operating expenses. Discuss the tax benefits of renting vs. buying storage containers with your tax professional.

Benefit #9) Storage Container Maintenance: None Required (For Rentals)

If you buy a storage container, maintenance and upkeep are your responsibility for the life of the unit. But if you go with a storage container rental, you don’t have to worry about the wear and tear that can occur over time. For example, if rust, moisture or even bad smells creep in, that’s the storage container rental company’s problem — not yours.

Benefit #10) Should I Buy Or Rent a Storage Container? Try Before You Buy

On the fence about whether you need to buy some storage containers? Renting a container provides a low-risk, low-cost trial period. You can try out different sizes, heights, door configurations and accessories before you make a big investment in buying a storage container.

Benefit #11) You Can Stack Storage Containers

If you have the equipment to stack multiple ISO containers, you can easily double the storage space you are renting. Stack two 40-foot containers, and you have added 640 square feet of storage where an empty patch of ground used to be.

Benefit #12) Renting Shipping Storage Containers: Customer Service & Expertise

After the sale of a storage container, the transaction is finished. It may be difficult to ask questions or find a customer service rep. A storage container rental company, however, has a vested interest in getting you the right container for the job and keeping you happy so you come back again and again.

At ModuGo, we offer guidance and advice throughout the storage container rental or purchase process. To speak with our team of storage container rental experts about the benefits of renting a storage container, give our friendly team a call at (800) 880-7061 or contact ModuGo online.

Still looking to learn more about the renting process? Check out our complete Container Rental Guide.

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The post 12 Biggest Benefits of Renting a Storage Container appeared first on ModuGo.

Before you jump into your backyard shipping container project, you need to understand some vital information first. If you want to learn more about container projects and discover some imaginative shipping container backyard ideas, read on.

Whether you want to build a shipping container pool or need some extra storage space, ModuGo has the containers you need. To buy or lease a shipping container for your next project, give us a call at 800-880-7061.

Can You Put a Shipping Container in Your Backyard?

Before you start setting your heart on your new backyard project or make any plans, you need to answer some important questions. Mainly, can you put a shipping container in your backyard?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a clear-cut answer here. Whether you can or can’t put a shipping container in your backyard will depend on where you live. Additionally, zoning laws are going to vary depending on your intended use.

In most cases, you can have a shipping container in your backyard. Always check your local laws to make sure, though.

Another factor that could haunt you in the future is your neighbors. While you might love the idea of having a shipping container project in your yard, your neighbors might not be too keen on the idea. Bad blood aside, you’ll want to make sure you aren’t violating any neighborhood agreements or HOA rules.

Check Your Zoning

Zoning helps break up large parcels of land into different zones to determine what structures you can build there. Your home, for example, is in residential zoning. Your favorite coffee shop? Well, that’s commercial.

Cities use zoning laws to help plan growth and keep similar types of buildings grouped. If you have ever noticed how shops and stores tend to congregate in certain areas, you’ve noticed the effects of zoning.

If you happen to live in the United States or one of the many other countries that mandate zoning, you’re going to have to deal with zoning laws. Typically, cities will break down zones into categories like commercial or residential. However, other, more targeted categories exist in some areas.

For example, Tallahassee, Florida, uses an R-1, R-2, R-3 and R-5 residential zoning system. 

In this system, knowing which zone you are in relates to what kinds of buildings you can have on your property. If you reside in an R-1 zone, you are only allowed a single-unit residence. Zoning laws like this help regulate neighborhood spaces but can be a hurdle if you plan on using shipping containers in your yard.

Additionally, your intended use is a factor. If you plan on using that shipping container as a habitable space, the city will consider the container as an addition to your home. Without checking local guidelines beforehand, you could end up in violation of your zoning laws.

Once you have a handle on zoning, other local laws and ordinances will need to be understood before you build.

Learn Local Laws and Ordinances

The next thing you’ll want to tackle is local building codes and getting the proper permitting. In the United States, most local building codes base themselves on the International Code Council’s International Residential Code (IRC). Keep in mind that your city might have its own building codes.

Building codes set standards for plumbing, electrical work and fire safety. To get the correct permits to build your backyard shipping container project, you’ll need to satisfy these requirements.

As you have probably gathered by now, these regulations can vary quite a bit and depend heavily on your location. Finding out what these rules are before you start planning your project is an essential step. If you have any doubts, contacting a local general contractor or architect might be beneficial.

Some municipalities are working at a lightning pace to push ordinances limiting shipping container projects. In Thief River Falls, Minnesota, the city council plans to issue an ordinance banning shipping container use in residential zoning. As container projects become more common, other cities might react in a similar way.

This is why a firm understanding of local laws is paramount to the success of your project. The last thing you want to do is ignore these rules. If you do, it could mean costly fines down the road or, worse yet, the downfall of your newly built backyard shipping container project.

How to Get a Shipping Container Into Your Backyard

Now that we have answered the question of whether you can have a shipping container in your backyard, let’s get to the “how.” 

The first step is deciding what type of container you need for your project. There are many different types of shipping containers to choose from — so many choices, in fact, that making a decision may feel daunting. 

To give you an idea of which will be the perfect fit for your shipping container backyard ideas, let’s look at a quick overview of some options:

• Sizes — Choose from 10-foot shipping containers to extra spacious 40-foot containers.
• Type by condition — Shipping containers come in all types of conditions. From as-is to one-trip, cargo-worthy to wind and watertight.
• Height — A standard shipping container is 8 ft 6 in tall. If you need a bit more vertical space, high-cube containers add an extra foot for you to use.
• Door style — Shipping containers come with different doors, too. If the standard doesn’t work with your project, double-door and side-door containers might.

Once you have a good idea of which container meets your project demands, the next step is ordering your shipping container.

Ordering a Shipping Container

Now comes the easy part. Once you have an idea of what you are looking for, all you need to do now is contact the team at ModuGo.

Our experienced team is ready to walk you through your buying and leasing options.

Before you are ready to pull the trigger, you may have some questions. The first thing you might be curious about is the price. You may have already scoured the internet looking for the perfect container and found that there is quite a disparity when it comes to cost. Finding a fair price can be as frustrating as buying a used car.

Doing your homework and keeping to your budget is always a good strategy. Other considerations should be taken into account when it comes to finding a fair price. For most permanent projects, you’ll probably want to buy a shipping container outright, but if you plan to use one for temporary storage, there are great shipping and storage containers available for rent.

More questions about buying a container? Check out our Guide to Buying Shipping Containers.

Once you have ordered your shipping container, you’ll need to make sure you’ve got the perfect spot picked out and ready for delivery.

Container Site Preparation

Part of getting a shipping container into your backyard is proper site preparation. Site preparation is about more than just the delivery day. It can be an essential part of extending the lifespan of your shipping container.

Most shipping containers are too heavy to rest on soft ground. While you might get away with putting a smaller container on standard soil, there will be some side effects. Often, shipping containers placed on softer ground will start to sag to one side. This can make the inside of the container uneven, which can be a frustrating issue to handle. Additionally, when that soil gets wet, it could start to degrade the exterior of the container.

When planning out the location for your shipping container backyard project, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Check the area — You’ll want to make the area you choose free from debris and possible obstacles. This means watching out for overhead power cables, tree branches and phone lines.
• Make sure the location is compact — Depending on your soil type, you might need to pour a concrete foundation for the shipping container.
• Survey for sloping — When the rain comes, that water has to go somewhere. Properly graded sites help divert that moisture away from your container’s foundation.
• Consider accessibility for utilities — If you plan on using your shipping container as a habitable space, you’ll need to have access to utility tie-ins.
• Plan space for growth — Once your first shipping container project is a success, you might want to build more. Keep your future plans in mind to ensure there is plenty of space for your next creative idea.

Once you’ve got a plan of action and your site is prepared, it’s time for delivery.

Shipping Container Delivery

The day has arrived! You’ve got your site prepped and you are ready to go. So, what is the delivery process going to look like? Obviously, you won’t be getting your shipping container delivered like a FedEx package. But what will you need to know when your shipping container arrives?

The first thing you’ll want to do is make sure the delivery truck has ample room to make the drop-off. These aren’t small vehicles. They’ll need plenty of room to maneuver into your backyard.

Here are some tips for proper clearance:

• Have at least 100 feet of straight clearance for 40’ containers. Measure this distance from the back of where the container will rest when everything is in place.
• Measure out a space that is at least 12 feet wide for the truck and container to fit.
• You will need 14 feet of vertical clearance to make sure both the truck and the container can drive in without hitting overhead obstacles.
• You may need up to 20 feet of vertical clearance at the site itself to make sure the container can be tilted off of the truck.

Now that the truck and container are on-site, you may be wondering how that heavy container is coming off that truck bed. There are a few ways to do this:

• Tilt-bed trucks — For smaller containers, tilt-bed trucks offer a convenient way to offload your container. The bed tilts up as the container gently slides off.
• Roll-off trailer — The only difference between a roll-off trailer and a tilt-bed truck is that a truck pulls the roll-off trailer.
• Flatbed truck — ModuGo only uses flatbed trucks for large 45-foot containers. They require that you have a crane or other type of heavy machinery to unload.

Backyard Shipping Container Ideas

Now that we know how to get a shipping container into your backyard, it’s time to get those creative juices flowing. You may already have an idea of what your shipping container project might look like. If you don’t, we’ve got some truly unique takes on shipping container backyard projects for you to pine for.

Shipping Container She Sheds and Man Caves

We all want a spot to call our own. Shipping containers can make for the perfect addition to backyard spaces when you need a little “you” time.

Shipping container sheds are nothing new, but maximizing the space into a she shed or man cave can add some personal flair. What you do with the space is up to you. A reading nook, sewing room, gym space or a home office are all on the table.

As long as you can make your shipping container comfortable, you can use the space for whatever you want. Let your imagination go wild.

A Backyard Shipping Container Bar

Want to be the talk of the neighborhood? Building out your shipping container to house a backyard bar is easy to do and will certainly turn some heads.

ModuGo offers plenty of options when it comes to container customization, too. A side-door style container can open up the space and be better for entertaining groups. If you are searching for a more intimate bar experience, you can move a few comfy chairs into your container and entertain a few friends or family.

Making sure you have utility hookups means you’ve got the juice to power coolers and even ice makers. That way, you never have to take a trip inside to freshen up your beverage.

A Shipping Container Backyard Office

A popular way to use a shipping container is to outfit the space for office use. If you have an at-home business or work from home, having a separate space to work can be a godsend. Having a space for work cut off from family, children and pets is part of setting up a successful home workspace.

The shipping container office trend is on the rise, and there are some distinct advantages to using one. ModuGo even offers turnkey solutions for container offices. Containers fitted for office use feature windows and customizable workspaces.

Backyard Shipping Container Pool

If you want to transform a shipping container into something truly unique, why not install a shipping container pool? This exotic shipping container backyard idea can be a great way to beat the summer heat.

First, you’ll need to make sure you’ve got proper permitting from the city to install a pool like this. Not all municipalities will be so keen on the idea. Once you get the go-ahead, though, there are a lot of options to choose from.

Longer containers can be great if you want a pool for swimming laps. You can also easily add a heater to make your container pool into a hot tub. You can even set dividers in your container to separate areas for the kids to splash around.

Shipping Container Backyard Studio

Much like utilizing your shipping container for a man cave or she shed, you can easily transform your container into a backyard studio. If you have a creative passion, you know how important it can be to have a separate space to work.

The beauty of a shipping container is that it’s a blank canvas. Whatever you want to use the space for, you can. The easiest transformations are yoga studios and workout spaces, as they don’t need a lot of interior design.

Customizing for other applications is easy, too, but make sure you’ve got the utility hookups to make things comfortable. Ventilation will be important, especially if you plan to work out in your new studio space.

Storage Containers in Your Backyard

This might not be the creative idea you came here for, but shipping containers are perfect for storage. If you think about it, storage is the main purpose of the container in the first place.

Shipping containers offer ample space and protection from the elements. Additionally, using a container for storage usually means you won’t be making too many alterations. If this is the case, you can save money by renting instead of buying.

Bring Your Backyard Shipping Container Ideas to Life with ModuGo

Whatever creative shipping container backyard project needs, ModuGo can help. We offer plenty of options to lease or buy containers of all sizes and conditions.

Whether it’s a container office or something more exotic, our team is standing by to find the right container for your next project. Reach out today to speak with a shipping container expert.

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The post Backyard Shipping Container Projects You Have to See to Believe appeared first on ModuGo.

Utilizing shipping containers for ADU construction can simplify the process of planning and building. Shipping containers serve as an excellent foundation to develop in-law suites, granny flats, home offices and whatever else your imagination can cook up.

If you want to learn more about shipping containers and accessory dwelling units, keep reading.

The team at ModuGo provides affordable and high-quality shipping container solutions. Whether you are buying or leasing, we have containers to match any project. Reach out today at 800-880-7061.

What Is an Accessory Dwelling Unit?

When it comes to ADUs, there’s a surprising amount of confusion around what exactly they are. Most definitions include a few common factors, though:

• ADUs are independent residential dwelling units.
• ADUs are standalone, internal or attached to a larger living space.
• Some, if not all, will contain facilities like a kitchenette and a bathroom.

You have probably seen an ADU of some sort in your life. City planners often use the term ADU to describe any additional habitable space on a single-family plot. This definition encompasses all kinds of housing you might come across.

Garage apartments, basement apartments, carriage houses and tiny homes on foundations all fall under the ADU umbrella. 

Additionally, formal and informal ADUs exist — with informal meaning that the structure lacks the proper permitting. Most internal ADUs fall into the informal category, making it difficult to pinpoint an accurate estimate of the number of ADUs in the U.S.

Accessory dwelling units are a current rising trend in real estate, but these living spaces carry some cultural and historical significance as well. The idea of ADUs predates our modern perspective on housing and even the definition itself. 

Carriage houses, in particular, have long been a part of our pre-automotive past. Walk the streets of Charleston, South Carolina, or Washington, D.C., and you’ll find antique ADUs still holding strong as living spaces.

ADUs have come a long way since those humble colonial origins. Modern perspectives on the use of accessory dwelling units offer unique solutions for affordable housing, home additions and much more.

Uses for Accessory Dwelling Units

Because ADUs include a broad range of habitable structures, you can do almost anything with them. Essentially, they represent an addition to your home — a fully functioning unit packed with all the comforts of a larger living space.

Air conditioning, water access, plumbing and kitchenettes all make ADUs perfect for many different uses.

Multipurpose Small Outbuildings

A multipurpose small outbuilding is an ADU with a flexible purpose. Outbuildings can be fantastic additions to a home where space is at a premium.

Small outbuildings are useful for both urban and rural environments. Homesteaders, in particular, can find quite a lot of use in ADU outbuildings. When you need a potting shed at the beginning of the growing season, you’ve got the needed space. You can use your outbuilding to store hay, firewood or extra supplies.

Outbuildings are superior to sheds because they can function as a living space. Once you move all those fermenting beer bottles or whatever you have stored in the area out, you can house your in-laws and keep them comfortable.

After they leave, it’s easy to convert the space back into storage or whatever else you need the ADU for.

Granny Flats

Housing an aging population has been challenging. Researchers estimate only 10% of U.S. homes are up to the task of providing the elderly with safe living spaces.

To be ready for seniors, homes need:

• Step-free entryways
• Full bedroom and bathroom access on the first floor
• At least one bathroom accessibility feature

Granny flats have long been a solution to this problem. ADUs provide the long-term solutions families need to house their aging relatives. ADUs have customizable floor plans and open construction options for accessibility, and they can be a few steps away from a larger residence.

Proximity is a key factor, as elderly care is often a stressful topic for families desperately trying to find affordable and humane solutions for their aging relatives. Granny flats allow for families to be close while still offering privacy and dignity. 

Affordable Housing Solutions

In the U.S., we need to find around 7 million homes to house extremely low-income families. ADUs can provide safe, habitable and, most importantly, affordable solutions for lower-income individuals and families.

Not only do they help maximize the usability of urban land plots, but ADUs minimize material use. With the cost of building materials skyrocketing, developers need to utilize low-cost housing solutions like ADUs. 

Additionally, ADUs using shipping containers as their base structure can significantly cut costs for materials, transportation and labor.

ADUs as Additions to Your Home

You might be looking for a simple addition to your home. If this is the case, then ADUs should be on your building radar.

From housing guests to providing much-needed at-home office space, what you decide to do with your ADU is up to you. You can think of some out-of-the-box ideas that are unique to you and your home.

Do you want a space to de-stress and meditate? Are you a musician who needs a recording studio away from the family? An ADU is the answer.

Benefits of Shipping Container ADUs

Shipping containers make the perfect platform for accessory dwelling units. Their open layout, rugged construction and minimal needs for site preparation make them the optimal choice for ADU construction.

With a mixture of sizes and types, shipping containers are the solution to almost any ADU project. Whether you are pining over a granny flat for your in-laws or a small outbuilding for extra space, ModoGo has the container solutions to meet your next project’s needs.

ADUs: A Growing Housing Trend

ADUs can meet the demands of many modern housing problems. With home prices rising faster than wages in most urban areas, finding affordable housing is one challenge. The other thorn in the side of the national housing industry is the cost and availability of skilled workers and materials.

When you use shipping containers as the base for ADU construction, you can help alleviate both the costs and construction limitations. This has led to a sharp rise in the popularity of accessory dwelling units.

Environmentally Friendly Housing

When it comes to tiny living, sustainability matters. A study by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality found that a single 2,300-square-foot home was responsible for 60% more emissions than a home half that size.

The math here is pretty simple. ADUs have a smaller footprint than traditional housing. Therefore, they use less energy for heating, lighting and other utilities.

Adding shipping containers to this equation gives you even more sustainable results. Since revamping a container is itself a form of recycling, it’s a double win for the environmentally conscious. 

Renting Out an Accessory Dwelling Unit

If you are looking for a passive income stream, renting out your ADU should be on the top of your list of ideas. You’ll want to check your local laws to determine the legality, though. Make sure to set some rules for your ADU before renting and have everything locked into a sound rental agreement. 

One area that often causes trouble for ADU rentals is how you decide to handle utilities. Since some cities don’t allow for separate metering units for ADUs, you’ll have to assess how to handle utility payments. You could charge a flat rate or include the price in rent. 

Another aspect of ADU rental that potential landlords overlook is privacy. Having a tenant so close to your home can be less than suitable for some families. Think about how comfortable you’ll be living in close proximity to your new neighbor. 

Legal Considerations for ADUs

Before you start planning your shipping container ADU, you’ll want to consult your city’s zoning laws and ordinances. Because ADUs are habitable living spaces, they are subject to specific laws regulating housing.

Zoning laws can be a particularly thorny issue. City planners use zoning laws to break up parcels of land for commercial and residential use. Within those zones can be sub-zones that further delineate what you can and can’t build in specific areas.

Understanding what zone you’re in is crucial to any ADU project. Some cities might welcome your ADU, while others will have strict laws forbidding them. Additionally, your city may allow ADUs but restrict full-time living in them.

Having a firm grasp of your local laws is the first step to any project. This understanding is especially important when considering building an ADU with shipping containers. 

Shipping Container as an ADU? ModuGo Can Help

Accessory dwelling units serve many purposes. These small spaces can pack in all the necessities for comfortable living. From granny flats to small outbuildings, whatever purpose you want for your ADU, ModuGo has the shipping containers to meet your needs.

We’re on standby to help you find the right container solutions for your next project. Contact us today to learn about your options.

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The post Considering an Accessory Dwelling Unit? Try a Shipping Container appeared first on ModuGo.

Ready to learn more about shipping container bars? Here are 10 awesome reasons why bar owners and backyard mixologists alike are in love with container lounges.

Are you thinking about your own shipping container bar? ModuGo offers containers of all sizes with options to lease or buy. Give us a call today at 800-880-7061.

1. Shipping Container Pop Up Bars Can Go (Almost) Anywhere

Whatever free space you can find, chances are, you can squeeze in a container bar. One of the hallmarks of shipping container projects is their small footprint and ability to fit in virtually any space. They’re as at home outside for a festival as they are inside a convention hall for a tradeshow. 

Diversity in size and types of containers means custom bar designs made to match any environment are easy to develop.

Additionally, transportation and installation are a breeze, making shipping containers the perfect solution for temporary bar space. When the show is over and it’s time to head home, container bars break down as quickly as they pop up.

2. Your Storage Container Bar Is Environmentally Friendly

Around 87% of consumers will develop a more positive image of a business that supports environmental issues. Nurturing a sustainable brand image means more than gesturing; it means taking public action. So why not accomplish that goal and build an innovative and trendy bar space?

With storage container bars, you can get the best of both worlds. Because most countries import more than they export, there’s a massive surplus of unused shipping containers. The environmental cost to recycle these containers is staggering. 

Upcycling them into storage container bars mitigates these costs and others related to traditional construction for homes and buildings.

3. You Can Move Your Shipping Container Lounge

Once you’ve got your shipping container lounge up and running, upkeep is similar to a traditional brick and mortar space. You’ll need access to utilities, a cleaning schedule and, most importantly, refreshing beverages. But what happens when you need to pack up shop and move?

Another huge benefit to utilizing shipping containers for bar space is that they are much easier to transport and set up again. Delivery, installation and operation are all part of the process.

Containers can travel virtually anywhere and break down out of sight when they aren’t in use. Manufacturers design containers to be easy to transport. Consequently, container bars are easy to load onto a tilt-bed or flatbed truck for delivery.

4. Shipping Container Bars Are an Affordable Way to Start a Business

Shipping container bars are popping up all over the world. While their portability and customizable interior are attractive benefits, cost is yet another area where these creative projects shine.

While turnkey bar options can get pricey, costs pale in comparison to traditional bar openings that can run anywhere from $25,000 to $100,000 in startup costs alone.

For the most cost-effective solution, you can buy a container outright and outfit it yourself. In this case, ModuGo has the solutions you need for affordable containers. Buying a container can be intimidating, but with our help, you can open your container bar without breaking the bank.

5. You Can Have the Best Backyard Parties on the Block

Sometimes, you have to treat yourself. A backyard container bar can be the perfect gift to you, your family and your neighbors. Let’s face it: we all want a little attention. Be the talk of the block with a creative container bar in your backyard.

You’ll want to check with your HOA and municipal government first, but installing a container bar in your yard is a fairly painless process. Before you know it, you’ll be slinging margaritas and turning heads with your swanky backyard shipping container lounge.

6. Your Storage Container Bar Is Sturdy

Is it any surprise that container manufacturers build them to last? Look at how their past lives in transportation treat them. Cranes toss around containers like Legos, they scrape and knock each other during transit and they brave hazardous open-sea environments.

Harsh conditions require rugged construction. Manufacturers source materials that are up for the task for container construction. Corten steel makes up the majority of a container’s components and parts. And this isn’t some ordinary steel. Corten steel, known as weathering steel, can stand up to decades of environmental abuse and corrosion.

7. Define Your Brand with the Shipping Container Bar Aesthetic

Container bars can offer a modern and refined look. You can also design spaces that are warm, welcoming and more like your local sports pub. With a bit of imagination, you can create eye-catching exteriors and inviting interiors to match any aesthetic.

But container bars certainly have a “look,” and smart brands capitalize on this distinction to separate themselves from the pack.

Some businesses even include “container” right in their name. At least two bars in the U.S. call themselves “Container Bar” — one in Charleston, South Carolina, and the other in Austin, Texas. While not incredibly imaginative, the name certainly sets expectations. 

8. You Can Add AC, Lights, Refrigerators and More

Bars need more than just a few walls to operate. Access to refrigerators, tap systems, lights and TVs make container bars comfortable and inviting. You don’t want to sacrifice comfort for a cool aesthetic, so don’t.

As long as you ensure your container bar has access to utilities, you can install whatever you need to spruce up the space. Mapping out your space and making sure you’ll be able to reach critical utility tie-ins is essential to proper site preparation.

9. Shipping Container Bars Are Easy to Expand

So you’ve got the one shipping container bar. Now what? Maybe it’s time to expand. If so, you already have the perfect modular construction strategy. Shipping containers are like the Legos of the building world — you can join them together or stack them vertically.

Whatever your vision is, container construction is the perfect method for adding extra space.

10. Shipping Container Pop Up Bars Cut Construction Costs and Time

Building new bar space can be challenging. Materials have gotten more expensive, and skilled workers are becoming harder to find. All this paints a grim picture for would-be bar owners looking to open up shop on a shoestring budget.

Upfront costs and staffing shortages aside, you have to handle the downtime involved with traditional construction. If you are renovating a space, this could mean weeks of no revenue.

Shipping container pop up bars cut out a lot of these downsides. With shipping containers, material requirements are minimal and some installations can take place overnight. 

Interested in a Shipping Container Bar? Contact ModuGo

Whether you want a trendy backyard container bar or plan to build a business hauling container lounges to outdoor festivals, it all starts with the container itself. On that front, ModuGo is here to help.

We’ve got a massive inventory of steel shipping containers in all sizes available for sale or rent. Reach out today to talk with a qualified team member.

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The post Shipping Container Bars are Awesome. Here’s 10 Reasons Why appeared first on ModuGo.

Shipping container farms are becoming a popular way to add year-round growing capability to traditional farming and grow crops on a small footprint. If you are curious about how vertical growing containers work, read on!

If you are looking to add a shipping container greenhouse to your farm or getting into shipping container farming as a new business, ModuGo is here to help. Contact us today to explore your options with a qualified team member. 

How Shipping Container Greenhouses Work

Every shipping container greenhouse starts with the container itself. Options to buy or lease containers give potential indoor farmers flexibility when starting out. Different styles provide additional choices that can fit into any farm footprint.

Containers are then outfitted with some impressive technology to maintain optimum growing conditions. Container farms use controlled environment agriculture (CEA). CEA systems monitor a selection of environmental inputs to create a year-round paradise for plants.

They do this by monitoring:

• Temperature
• Humidity
• Carbon dioxide
• Light
• Nutrients

A computer system tracks these levels and adjusts them when needed. You can even control most systems remotely through a smartphone. This high-tech approach to growing food packs in plants and can fit virtually anywhere.

Indoor Farming Container Layout

When developing a layout for your shipping container farm, utilizing the vertical space is key. This advantage gives containers another edge when competing against traditional farms.

Vertical farming uses stacked layers of plant trays. Combined with CEA automation, vertical farming helps utilize growing space while providing a relatively hands-off growing experience.

This has made shipping container greenhouses alluring to entrepreneurs and seasoned farmers alike.

Stacking Vertical Growing Containers

Taking the idea of vertical even further, you can stack vertical growing containers on one another. Because manufacturers build shipping containers with vertical storage in mind, farmers can create one-of-a-kind custom farms as high as the sky.

Savvy shoppers planning a vertical growing empire might even buy in bulk to save on capital. From there, building up is all a matter of joining two containers together.

Benefits of Shipping Container Greenhouses

Shipping container greenhouse systems have some unique benefits. They offer farmers a year-round growing season and the ability to control variables for taste, and they provide hyper-local produce to communities.

Hydroponic shipping container farms can offer a lot more, too. Let’s take a look at some stand-out benefits of practicing CEA with shipping container greenhouses.

Hydroponic Shipping Containers Grow Food in Urban Areas

The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that around 23 million people in the U.S. live in food deserts. Indoor shipping containers bridge the gap between farmers and their communities, offering a much-needed source of fresh food.

In cities where space is at a premium, a thirst for sustainable agriculture has brought shipping container greenhouses to urban areas. This brings people closer to their food and removes some of the major environmental costs of traditional farming.

Your Shipping Container Greenhouse Is Earth-Friendly

Using a shipping container garden means cutting transaction costs. These are the overall costs of producing and transporting a product, including the environmental impact.

While a head of lettuce might seem benign, it could have taken a very long journey to get to your store shelf. Freight transport accounts for 7% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Shipping containers cut these environmental costs right out of the production cycle.

Additionally, most hydroponic shipping container farms operate with a closed-loop system. This means water is recycled, conserving this precious resource.

Controlled Conditions in Shipping Container Farms

A properly insulated and well-equipped shipping container greenhouse can grow fresh produce in the most extreme conditions. Combine that with sensors that feed vitals to a hydroponic system, and you have an environment that can grow food year-round.

Thanks to nutrients and proper lighting, you can reproduce almost any growing environment in a shipping container. Working with automated systems can even take out the guesswork when measuring nutrients and timing lighting cycles.

Curious about other unique uses for shipping containers? Learn Why Restaurants Are Utilizing Shipping Containers [+ 9 Container Drive-Thru Examples to Make You Envious]

Grow Your Shipping Container Garden with ModuGo

Shipping container greenhouses are here to stay. This convenient and revolutionary approach to indoor farming has become a hot trend in modern agriculture.

To get into the game, you’ll need to find the right shipping container, and ModuGo has the selection of containers you need. Give us a call at 800-880-7061 or reach out to us online to find the perfect indoor farming container.

Shop ModuGo!

The post Shipping Container Greenhouses: How They Work and Why You Should Have One appeared first on ModuGo.

That’s not the success story you want when you’re ready to get ripped or improve your level of fitness. But what if you changed the narrative? What if you could go to a totally new kind of gym?

Now you can. It’s called a shipping container gym and it could literally live in your backyard. From F45ers to yoga enthusiasts, this idea is catching on. Maybe you’re an entrepreneurially-minded fitness buff who doesn’t have the cash for a traditional gym franchise. Or perhaps you’ve gotten accustomed to home workouts during the pandemic. If you’ve never considered creating a shipping container gym, now may be the time. 

Below, we examine six benefits of storage container gyms. If you’re ready to take the next step, reach out to the container experts at ModuGo for help finding the perfect option for your own shipping container home gym.

6 Benefits of Shipping Container Gyms

Whether you’re looking for a CrossFit container box or a multi-unit commercial shipping container gym to bring in monthly revenue, you’re going to feel the benefits of going modular faster than you feel the burn on a stationary bike. 

Here are six benefits of shipping container gyms:

1. Compact
2. No membership fees
3. Personalized to your needs
4. Private
5. Portable
6. Commercial container gym possibilities

Let’s look at each benefit in more detail. 

1. Container Gyms Are Compact

You don’t need a lot of space to create a shipping container home gym that meets all of your needs. Standard shipping containers are typically 20 or 40 feet long, but they can be cut down to size to fit any space you have. You can even add a little extra head room if you go with a high cube container, which (as you probably guessed) has a higher ceiling. 

In the compact space of a storage container, you can still fit a lot. In the roughly 150 square feet a 20-foot container offers, you can fit nearly all the gym equipment you need to stay fit, as well as an air conditioner, door, windows, TV and anything else you’d like in your gym. 

2. Shipping Container Home Gym: No Membership Required

Americans pay $1.13 billion every year for gym memberships they don’t use. Don’t be a statistic. With a shipping container gym in your backyard, it’s much harder to say no to a workout. And when you do say no, you aren’t wasting money on a gym membership you’re not using. 

The initial cost of a storage container gym is higher than a monthly membership, but with increased use and durable, long-lasting materials, a container gym may be a wise move for both your wallet and your health.

3. Your Dream CrossFit Container Box

Containers are customizable. That means you can make your container gym into anything you want it to be. If you lift, add a squat rack. If you run, add a treadmill. It’s yours — make it what you want. 

And if you’re coming up with your own CrossFit regimen or wanting to become a CrossFit affiliate, a container gym may offer a low-cost, eye-catching solution.

4. Your Storage Container Gym Is Private

Not everyone likes showing off their mirror muscles and toned tummies. For some, privacy is a key component of gym motivation. With your own shipping container home gym, you get complete privacy.

You can add windows to shipping containers you purchase, but they’re totally optional. And whether you share your new gym with anyone else is up to you. It’s as personal as you want it to be.

5. A Portable Shipping Container Gym That’s Perfect for You

Shipping containers are designed to be portable. Before they move on to exciting careers as container offices or gyms, they live a life at sea aboard massive ocean freighters. Their lives of transporting goods are over by the time they reach you, but they’re still highly portable.

That’s good news if you plan to invest in a container gym for your home. Put it in your backyard or wherever you like, and if you move, you can move it with you via a flatbed truck. Simple.

6. Container Gyms Can Go Commercial

Maybe you’re not as interested in a home container gym as you are in becoming a gym owner. A commercial shipping container gym may be your answer.

Forgetting the low costs and endless customization options of containers for a moment, just consider how easy shipping containers are to stack. You can stack them high and easily connect one container to another to create your ultimate commercial container gym.

Looking to discover other ways containers can be transformed for your benefit? Learn more about the evolution of shipping container pools.

Find the Perfect Shipping Container for Your Container Gym

Whether you’re sold on storage container gyms or still need a little convincing, you can explore your options by contacting the shipping container gym experts at ModuGo. Our friendly and helpful team is ready to help you find the perfect shipping container to turn into your dream gym.

To speak with a member of our team, give us a call at (800) 880-7061. You can also contact us online.

Shop ModuGo!

The post Ever Consider Creating a Shipping Container Gym? Here’s Why You Should appeared first on ModuGo.

If you’ve got questions about your shipping container floor plans, ModuGo has the answers. Below, you’ll find some helpful information we’ve compiled to help you make an informed decision about your shipping container flooring options.

Are you considering buying or renting a shipping container? Contact the expert team at ModuGo to get the help you need. 

Can I Keep the Floor That’s Already in the Shipping Container?

When your new or used container arrives, it’s going to have a robust floor already installed. Whether you keep this floor is going to depend on your intended use and budget. 

Manufacturers design shipping containers to withstand the harsh extremes of the open ocean. Consequently, you will see marine-grade plywood as the most common material for shipping container flooring. 

Marine-grade plywood can last against years of transporting goods. Cheap tropical hardwoods like Keruing or Apitong make up the bulk of marine-grade plywood options.

While sturdy, these tropical hardwoods need harsh chemical treatment to withstand damage from insects and other critters. If you plan on using your container as a living space, insecticide fumes can be an issue. 

Possible Pesticides in Storage Container Floors

Manufacturers use a ton of nasty chemicals to treat hardwood. While potentially harmful to humans, pesticides do a great job fending off insects that would make quick work of the wood.

In a shipping container, pesticides are essential. For your container project, though, you might be using the container as a habitable space like a shed or office. In these cases, the pesticides in marine-grade plywood flooring may be a health risk. 

Before you start tearing up the old shipping container floors, there is a quick way to identify what chemicals may be in your materials.

How to Check a Container Floor for Chemicals

If you are buying your container new, you can always request non-chemical treated flooring. Many manufacturers are offering alternatives in response to customer demands and the sustainability issues tied to using tropical hardwoods.

If you choose a cargo-worthy or one-trip container, however, you may not have the option to choose your shipping container floor. A little detective work can help you find out what chemicals, if any, are part of the timber treatment.

You can find timber treatment information on the container safety convention (CSC) plate. This is one of the many labels on a shipping container. The CSC plate is usually on the container’s front door. 

On the CSC plate, there should be a section called “timber component treatment.” 

Here, you will find three bits of information:

• Immunity (IM)
• Treatment chemical
• Treatment date

Focus on the treatment chemical and treatment date. Once you have information on what pesticides you are dealing with, you can use the World Health Organization recommendations for pesticide hazards to determine how safe the chemicals are.

Keep in mind that the information on the CSC plate might not be correct. Replacing shipping container flooring is a common part of container maintenance. 

Treating a Shipping Container Floor

If you plan to keep the original flooring, there are some options to help mitigate pesticide risks. While toxic fumes from the marine plywood will dissipate over time, sealing the floors with a non-breathable material will solve the issue.

Here are a few popular choices for treating a shipping container floor:

• Epoxy — Using a solvent-free epoxy made for wood will help trap any toxic pesticide leakage.
• Non-breathable flooring underlay — You can use a non-breathable flooring underlay underneath tile or imitation wood flooring to seal in fumes.
• Concrete — A polyethylene plastic sheet is first laid down on the original flooring before you spread the concrete. This creates an airtight barrier.

Removing a Storage Container Floor

While removal of the original flooring is a simple process, it can take some time.

Here is a quick overview of the steps:

1. Using a reciprocating saw, cut the bolts connecting the flooring panels to the steel frame.
2. Next, remove each flooring panel with a pry bar.

Once this is complete, you are free to install your new shipping container flooring. But which flooring type should you choose?

Types of Shipping Container Floors

Whether you are using your shipping container for storage, an on-site office or even restaurant space, there are plenty of flooring options.

Here are some common materials that might fit into your shipping container floor plans.

Steel Container Floors

A steel floor overlay is a common addition to a shipping container for industrial applications. Manufacturers utilize ⅛” or ¼” steel sheets to create a durable surface.

Often, the original plywood floors act as a base with the steel sheet welded at the edges of the steel frame.  

Aluminum Container Floors

Another popular flooring option is aluminum. Much like steel, aluminum provides a durable surface that is airtight and waterproof. Another advantage of this flooring type is that cleaning is a breeze.

Some containers will even feature a drain so you can spray the container down for convenient cleaning.

Coin Vinyl Container Floors

Coin vinyl is an excellent material to use in containers with high foot traffic. The material is water-resistant and can stand up to repeated cleanings. Additionally, vinyl flooring protects against harsh acids, oils, dirt and other nasty substances.

Most coin vinyl flooring comes in either tan or gray and is usually rolled right over the original plywood. 

Imitation Wood Vinyl Container Floors

If you are trying for a more attractive interior design for your shipping container, imitation wood vinyl flooring can be a great choice. There are various styles and colors to choose from. Simply  install it over the existing plywood.

Epoxy-Coated Container Floors

A wood-ready and solvent-free epoxy coating can make for an excellent slip-resistant floor. Epoxy creates a sleek finish that can be great for offices and storage space alike.

Epoxy is usually poured over the existing plywood flooring, making it a cheap and efficient option.

Working on a Shipping Container Floor Plan? Call ModuGo

If you are ready to pull the trigger on your shipping container project, ModuGo is standing by to help. We can walk you through your shipping container flooring options and find the best match for your plans.

Whether you are hunting for imitation hardwood for a living space or durable steel for long-term storage, it all starts with a consultation with our experienced team. Give us a call at 800- 880-7061 or reach out online today.

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The post Shipping Container Flooring to Consider for Your Project appeared first on ModuGo.

Most businesses that set out to rent or purchase storage containers have no idea which shipping container condition they need to choose. But choosing the right container starts with deciding the condition and type that fits your needs.

The shipping container experts at ModuGo are here to help. Reach out to get the answers to your shipping container condition questions. And read on for more information.

Understanding Shipping Container Conditions

As you shop for shipping containers, you will probably encounter a bunch of terms that appear to describe the shipping container condition or level of quality. Understanding which of those terms you need to pay attention to — and which you don’t — is essential to picking the right storage container.

Here’s what you need to know:

Shipping Container Letter Grades Don’t Mean Much

You will likely run into shipping containers that companies are describing as “Grade A” or “Grade B.” These might tell you something about how the seller views the container’s quality, but they don’t provide any real, official information about the container’s condition.

These grade levels are not tied to standards set by any official organization. They are subjective and vary widely from company to company within the storage container industry.

Shipping Container Condition Doesn’t Tell You Everything

The term used to describe the condition of a shipping container is a good starting point when you are thinking about buying or renting a container. But that should never be where your investigation ends.

Within each condition category, there are a wide variety of factors that can impact the container’s usefulness for you, specifically. If possible, it’s best to inspect the shipping container yourself before buying or renting it. At the very least, call the shipping container company and ask specific questions about the container you are considering.

Almost ready to pull the trigger on renting a shipping container? Find answers to the Most Frequently Asked Questions About Renting Shipping Containers

Types of Shipping Container Conditions

While shipping container terminology can vary from company to company, these are the industry-standard shipping container conditions to look for:

• One-trip containers
• Institute of International Container Lessors (IICL) containers
• Cargo worthy containers
• Wind and watertight containers
• As-is containers

Each of these conditions describes shipping containers with different levels of quality and what uses they are best suited for. We discuss each container condition in more depth below.

One-Trip Shipping Containers

One-trip shipping containers are as close to new as you can easily get with a storage container. As the name suggests, these containers have only taken one trip aboard a container ship and are now for sale or rent. Like most shipping containers, one-trip containers are typically manufactured in China and sent from there to their current location.

Because they are like new, one-trip storage containers are ideal for buyers and renters who want the latest features and accessories and the highest level of quality. These containers are also a good choice for container offices, container apartments and similar structures.

IICL Shipping Containers

Compared to one-trip containers, IICL shipping containers are just one small rung down on the quality ladder. The IICL dictates a grading and review process to certify that these used containers are in good condition. Most often, these containers are a few years old and have little visible wear and tear, if any.

Basically, an IICL-rated container is certified for cargo use. And that should tell you about the level of quality — companies trust this rating as a guarantee that their goods will weather rough seas and long trips across the ocean. While these containers usually remain at sea while they are IICL-certified, if you can snag one, it should be ready for any dry or unrefrigerated storage use.

Cargo Worthy Shipping Containers

Cargo-worthy containers are seaworthy shipping containers, meaning they should be strong and weather-resistant enough to carry cargo aboard a container ship. Expect wear and tear including dings, dents and rust. The Cargo Worthy designation is an indication of the structural integrity and does not directly reflect the visible attractiveness of the container.

It is important to note that the designation of “Cargo Worthy” does NOT mean that the container has valid CSC plates/stickers or surveys which are required to ship them overseas. It typically means that the container is sound enough to be certified but it does not mean that it is certified. If you are shipping the container overseas you will need to inquire about having an updated CSC survey completed.

Although the cargo-worthy definition can vary a fair amount, one thing you can be relatively sure of is that these containers are strong enough to transport cargo. So, if you might have to move the container a long distance at some point — even ship it overseas — a cargo worthy container might be the right call.

Wind and Watertight Shipping Containers

Wind and Watertight containers are used containers that should be free from holes and other defects that would allow wind and water to enter the unit. These containers are generally more than 10 years old and will have visible rust, dings and dents. The price of these containers generally reflects those factors, and for people who need to use a container for general storage, a wind and watertight container might be the most cost-effective option.

You might notice a little damage to the container’s exterior including rust. But this shipping container condition holds that these containers will resist wind and water to protect your stored items. Keep in mind that wind and watertight containers do not have to undergo any formal inspection by a governing body — container sellers usually inspect and repair them for resale.

As-Is Shipping Containers

As-is shipping containers can be a huge money saver for buyers who don’t mind doing a little repair work. These containers can have a lot of rust and dents — sometimes even holes. They are the least expensive shipping container you can find.

Even with some repair work, these containers are probably only suitable for general storage of resilient items like agricultural equipment and construction materials.

Cargo Worthy vs. Wind and Watertight Containers

Wind and watertight and cargo-worthy containers are the most commonly available shipping container conditions. Before you make a purchase or sign a container lease, you need to understand the key differences between these two conditions.

Here’s how the battle of cargo worthy vs. wind and watertight containers breaks down:

• Cargo-worthy containers are deemed structurally sound enough to ship goods. 
• Wind and watertight containers are not certified. Sellers deem them to be wind- and water-resistant.
• Generally, cargo-worthy containers are somewhat more expensive than wind and watertight containers.
• Wind and watertight containers may not be a good choice for transporting items, while cargo-worthy containers are typically ideal for this use.
• BOTH Cargo worthy and wind and watertight containers WILL have some visible damage and rust.

Contact the Shipping Container Condition Experts at ModuGo

Not sure which shipping container condition you need to choose? The expert team at ModuGo has you covered. With our easy online container rental and purchase process and highly trained and friendly sales staff, we make shipping container shopping as easy as it can be.

Ready to get started? Give ModuGo a call at (800) 880-7061, contact us via our website or shop our available inventory, directly.

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The post Shipping Container Conditions: Your Quick Handbook for Choosing the Right Container appeared first on ModuGo.

People are concerned about the safety of their stored items and the longevity of their purchased or rented shipping containers.

As shipping container experts, the professionals at ModuGo make it our business to help you with all of your shipping container questions, including whether you need to add ventilation to your container.

See below for more information, and reach out to our team for help finding the perfect container for your needs.

Shipping Container Vents Are Standard, But They Might Not Be Enough

Most shipping containers you can rent or buy had a past life aboard a container ship. These massive vessels take long trans-oceanic journeys and face all manner of weather conditions at sea. To prevent the items inside the containers from becoming damaged, sea container ventilation is standard. 

Built-in shipping container vents are small and designed only to release pressure and promote air circulation inside the containers. However, that may not necessarily be enough ventilation for long-term storage needs. These small vents provide only a small amount of air circulation. 

When More Shipping Container Ventilation Might Be Necessary

Without proper cargo container ventilation, a few common problems could damage your stored items over time. 

The following are some examples of what can happen if your shipping container is not properly ventilated:

• Condensation and moisture inside the container
• Mold growing on stored items
• Rust on the interior steel walls of the container
• Bad smells from condensation
• Damage from exposure to extreme heat

To avoid these problems, consider the following situations in which it might be a good idea to add more shipping container ventilation.

Placing your container in a hot and humid environment? Learn How to Reduce Humidity in Your Shipping Container To Keep Moisture-Sensitive Items Dry

Shipping Container Ventilation for Sensitive Items

If you are in a moderate climate and storing relatively sturdy items, the built-in shipping container vents might be enough. But if you are storing items that are sensitive to heat or moisture, you may need to upgrade your ventilation.

Items like fabrics, wood, volatile chemicals, metals that can rust, packaged foods and dry goods can all be highly sensitive to condensation and heat that can occur with improper sea container ventilation.

Sea Container Ventilation for Container Offices

Shipping container offices are gaining popularity with businesses as an affordable, durable and customizable option for office space. If you plan to convert a storage container into an office of any kind, ventilation is a must. 

People are going to be working inside the container for hours each day — you don’t want them sweating or breathing in too much moisture. Improper ventilation can lead to health problems like asthma, pneumonia and other respiratory issues.

Ventilation for Shipping Container Homes

This is similar to the container office ventilation problem described above. If someone is going to live inside a shipping container home, they are not going to want to sweat it out while they sleep or breathe in mold from indoor moisture.

How to Upgrade Cargo Container Ventilation

The beauty of shipping containers is that they are infinitely customizable. That means you can easily add more shipping container vents if you need or want to. Here are a few shipping container ventilation options to consider:

Passive Vents 

Passive vents allow air to flow into and out of the container through small openings. These come standard on containers, but you can add more.

Active Vents 

Active vents use a mechanical fan to push fresh air into the container and/or draw stale air out. These may increase your utility bill, but they’re equipped to take on more extreme conditions.

Supply-Only Vents 

These vents bring fresh air into the container and work best in tandem with passive vents. You can turn them on only on hot days or keep them running all the time.

Balanced Vents 

Typically attached to ducts, these vents can bring in fresh air and push out stale air simultaneously and promote thorough air circulation throughout the unit.

Foundation Vents 

Foundation vents keep moisture from accumulating in the foundation of your container. These shipping container vents don’t work with slab foundations, but with railroad ties and concrete piers, they can keep out unwanted moisture and prevent rust.

Other Storage Container Temperature Control Options

For most climates and storage needs, some combination of shipping container ventilation options will keep stored items safe. But certain items and extreme climates may call for some heavy-duty temperature control alternatives.

Insulation for Cargo Containers

You can buy insulated shipping containers or add the insulation yourself. Insulation protects items inside storage containers from extreme heat and extreme cold. And you can use it in combination with shipping container vents.

Refrigerated Shipping Containers

Perishable foods, certain chemicals and medical products may require you to take shipping container temperature control a step further. Many shipping containers for sale come with fully installed refrigeration systems that can keep your stored items at the optimal temperature at all times.

Shipping Container Ventilation Solutions at Your Fingertips: Call ModuGo

You want to make sure your stored items are safe from moisture and extreme heat. We understand that. That is why the team of shipping container ventilation specialists at ModuGo is on call to answer your questions and help you find the perfect storage container.

For expert advice on your container ventilation options, reach out to us today. Call us at (800) 880-7061 or contact us online.

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The post Does Your Shipping Container Need Ventilation? appeared first on ModuGo.

What better way to save space than stacking shipping containers on top of one another?

It’s true — stacking cargo containers may not be a common practice, but it can be a huge space-saver for your storage. Curious? Read on to learn more. 

Considering how you could benefit from stacking shipping containers for storage? Reach out to the experts at ModuGo.

How Shipping Containers Are Stacked

The idea of stacking shipping containers is enticing to the space-conscious, but to do it safely, you have to follow a few simple rules.

Use a Crane or Forklift to Stack Storage Containers

Stacking cargo containers is going to require either a crane or an industrial forklift. Even a standard 20-foot shipping container can weigh more than two tons, so you’re going to need some heavy equipment to hoist one container on top of another.

Stack Containers with Corner Posts Aligned

Stackable shipping containers come with four corner posts designed to bear most of the weight of the containers above them. While sturdy is standard with sea cans, they can buckle near the middle when they are stacked improperly. Even the strongest steel can’t stand up to multiple tons of weight all the time.

Smaller Containers Go Under Bigger Containers

This may seem counterintuitive: You need to stack larger containers on top of smaller containers. Why? Because two smaller containers next to each other have more strong corner posts to rely on to hold the larger containers above.

For example, if you have one 40-foot container and two 20-foot containers, the 40-foot container could give way near its weakest point — its middle — if you had the two 20-footers on top. Meanwhile, the two 20-foot containers have another set of sturdy corner posts near the midpoint of the 40-foot container above, so buckling is much less likely if they’re on the bottom.

Secure Stacked Containers with Twist Locks

Once you have your containers stacked the way you want them, you need to secure them. The way you do that is with twist locks. These locks sit on the corner posts of the containers to secure the top container to the bottom one.

Stacking Cargo Containers: Which Types Are Stackable?

Learning how shipping containers stack is one thing — but can you actually stack the containers you want to rent or buy? 

Most Types of Containers Are Stackable

Stacking shipping containers may sound complicated, but because these containers are so standardized, it’s actually easier than you might think. Most types of containers are stackable shipping containers. That includes 10-foot, 20-foot, 40-foot and 45-foot standard and high cube containers.

Shipping Container Stacking: It’s All About Quality

With that said, note that quality matters when it comes to stacking shipping containers. If you have an older shipping container with a lot of rust or structural damage, it may be risky to stack any other containers on top of it.

Newer containers are more likely to be able to stand up to the weight of one or more fully loaded containers.

How High Can Shipping Containers Be Stacked?

This is one of the most common questions we get about stacking shipping containers. And it matters — stacking cargo containers too high can lead to disaster, and if you’re planning a shipping container office or home, you need to know how many floors you can safely manage. 

How high shipping containers can be stacked depends on the quality of the units and how heavily you plan to load the upper containers. Generally, you can go as high as eight or nine stacked containers. But remember that you need to check with your local government to make sure local regulations allow stacking shipping containers to the level you have in mind.

Looking for Stackable Shipping Containers? Call ModuGo

Stacking shipping containers for storage may be a great space-saving decision, but it requires some planning. For help finding the stackable shipping containers to meet your storage or structure needs, reach out to the expert team at ModuGo.

We are here to answer your questions about shipping container stacking and more. Reach out by calling us at (800) 880-7061 or contacting us online.

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The post Stacking Shipping Containers Safely for Efficient Storage appeared first on ModuGo.

Does your storage or shipping container need a foundation? The answer will depend on your unique circumstances. In this post, we explore shipping container foundations and when they are and are not necessary. 

Keep reading for the inside scoop on when a shipping container needs a foundation. 

To understand shipping container foundation requirements better based on your needs and location, reach out to the expert team at ModuGo.

When a Shipping Container Foundation Is Necessary

If you are already aware that your shipping container requires a foundation, you should also know there are major risks to skipping it. Not installing a foundation for a shipping container could lead to long-term damage. We’re talking issues with the container and your stored items, as well as a shorter life span for the container itself.

To prevent those kinds of problems, check out the following situations in which a shipping container foundation is a no-brainer.

Container Foundations in Wet Areas

If you are planning to place your storage container on ground that remains damp all the time or sees a lot of water flow during storms, you may want to consider preparing a foundation. A foundation can prevent water seepage and rust damage that happen when you keep the container somewhere wet.

Uneven Ground? Shipping Container Foundation Required

If your chosen container site is on sloping or uneven ground, consider a foundation. The pressure on the underside of the container increases exponentially if the unit is on uneven ground. This can lead to floor damage.

Multi-Container Structures Need Foundations

If you are stacking two or more containers or housing a multi-container structure or shipping container office, a foundation is most likely necessary. While solid, packed ground can typically accommodate a single container for a short period, multiple containers may be too heavy, causing them to sink into the ground over time. 

Shipping Container Foundations for Long-Term Storage

Whether you buy or rent a shipping container, you may move it from site to site. While purchased shipping containers may stay put for years, even those may see some transport.

If you plan to use your container for long-term storage, a shipping container foundation could prevent drifting and sinking.

When Shipping Container Foundation Requirements May Not Apply

Pouring a concrete foundation, placing railroad ties or driving concrete piles can be a huge time and money investment, so you want to make sure you actually need a shipping container foundation for your intended use. Here are some situations where you may not need a container foundation.

Short-Term Use? Container Foundation May Be Unnecessary

Only need the container for a few months? Plan to move it from place to place fairly often? The shipping container foundation requirement is much more flexible in these situations. 

Shorter time frames prevent some of the issues that happen when you have a container with no foundation in the same spot for years.

Dry, Level Ground Can Replace a Foundation

Ground that is dry, packed tightly and level may provide similar benefits to those of a container foundation. Even if the area you have picked out is dry at the moment, be sure to check it within a day or two of a heavy rain. Make sure the soil is draining moisture quickly and staying relatively solid.

No Shipping Container Foundation for Single Units and Light Loads

If you have a great site picked for your container and you are using a light load or moderately packed single unit, a foundation may not be necessary. While all containers without foundations sink and drift a little over time, the lighter the unit is, the better chance you have of skipping the container foundation requirement.

Beyond Shipping Container Foundations: Container Site Preparation Requirements

Selecting the right spot and deciding whether you need a foundation are the first steps to shipping container site preparation. 

Here are a few more steps to consider before your new container arrives:

• Check the area surrounding the container site for debris or obstructions, including large rocks, power lines and other buildings. Ensure that your container can be delivered easily.
• Make sure the container delivery driver will have enough clearance to maneuver the truck to the site and offload the container. 
• If possible, choose a spot that allows enough space to add more containers if your storage needs increase over time.

Check out ModuGo’s shipping container delivery guide for more information.

Need Shipping Container Help? ModuGo Is On Call

Whether you have questions about shipping container foundation requirements or simply need help finding a suitable container in the first place, ModuGo is your go-to source for assistance. To speak with a member of our team, give us a call at (800) 880-7061 or contact us online.

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The post Does Your Storage or Shipping Container Need a Foundation? appeared first on ModuGo.

If you’re unfamiliar with how to buy a shipping container and want to know where to begin, we can help! This guide has everything you need to navigate the shipping container buying process, as well as some questions you should consider before making your purchase. 

Not ready to buy? ModuGo also has shipping container rental options.

Types of Shipping Containers

One shipping container does not fit all needs. When browsing online, you can find several different types. Start with the height of the container: 

Standard Shipping Containers

Standard shipping containers commonly come in 10-, 20-, 40- and 45-foot lengths. They are 8 feet 6 inches tall.

High Cube Shipping Containers

While standard shipping containers fit most needs, you can also purchase a high cube container if you want an extra foot of height or a specialty container that offers different door configurations. Container offices are also increasing in popularity, especially in the construction industry.

How to Buy a Shipping Container That’s Right for You

Before you buy shipping containers, you should assess your options and find the best configuration for your needs and space.

Choosing the Right Size Container

While containers range from 10 feet to 53 feet long, 20-foot and 40-foot containers are the most common standard sizes.

A 20-foot standard container is essentially the size of a one-car garage, while a 40-foot container is the equivalent of a two-car garage due to the extra length. Read on for more detail about shipping container sizes.

10-Foot Containers

The 10-foot shipping container isn’t a typical intermodal container size that fits on sea freighters. Most often, these containers are modified to be smaller after their life as larger containers at sea. Making these small containers opens up a world of options to those who have storage needs and small spaces.

For between $3,000 and $4,500, you can buy a 10-foot shipping container. That gives you 563 cubic feet of interior storage volume.

20-Foot Containers

Twenty-foot containers are some of the most common shipping containers for sale. They are still small enough to fit in most storage spaces but large enough to accommodate the contents of a standard one-car garage.

With prices ranging between $1,100 and $5,000, 20-foot shipping containers are an affordable way to gain 1,170 cubic feet of storage volume to fit almost any need.

40-Foot Containers

You get 2,350 cubic feet of storage volume with a 40-foot shipping container. The large size makes these containers perfect for heavy tool and equipment storage in construction and agriculture. But these containers serve the needs of a wide variety of businesses.

Prices for 40-foot storage containers depend on the quality and type of container you buy, but expect the range to be somewhere between $1,350 and $9,800.

Choosing the Right Container Condition

Shipping containers can be broken down into two major categories: new and used. However, the analysis doesn’t stop there. 

New Containers

New containers are also called one-trip containers. These have been shipped overseas with cargo once before being available for sale. One-trip containers will be in excellent shape, have monotone paint and generally not have large logos on the side. These containers are excellent for customer-facing locations.

Used Containers

Used containers can be significantly less expensive than the new options. Used containers will all have some minor dings, dents and surface rust because they have been used in overseas freight for years. However, you may encounter several additional gradings or classifications. Those are IICL, Cargo Worthy, Wind & Watertight and As-Is.

Cargo Worthy Containers

The most common options are Cargo Worthy and Wind & Watertight. Both of these options are excellent choices for storage. Cargo Worthy containers have generally been inspected and deemed worthy of being used for shipping goods over land or sea (although they may not have valid CSC plates or documentation to be shipped internationally). 

Wind & Watertight Containers

Wind & Watertight containers have been deemed suitable for storage only but may not look that visibly different from a Cargo Worthy option. Some companies will use the terms “A-Grade” or “B-Grade,” which is a purely subjective scale that can vary from company to company but can generally be correlated to the appearance of a Wind & Watertight container.

As-Is Containers

As-Is containers are typically in rough condition and have been used heavily. They will likely have holes, damage to the floors and/or non-functioning doors.

IICL

Institute of International Container Lessors (IICL) containers are generally the nicest condition of used containers sold. They have been through a specific and detailed grading process set forth by the IICL.

Choosing Your Door Configuration – Do You Need a Specialty Container?

The final consideration for how to buy a shipping container is the door configuration. We outline the various shipping container door configurations below.

• Standard doors. Standard containers will have one set of double cargo doors on one short 8-foot end of the container. These are by far the most common option and are available in used and new/one-trip options. 
• Double doors. If a standard door container will not work for you, there are also double door containers (doors on both small ends). These create a sort of tunnel with access to your shipping container from either end.
• Open-side doors. Open-side containers have a long door along one of the sides of the container. These allow for broad access to any part of the container.
• Flat rack containers. Flat rack containers can take on wider loads because they only have walls on the two short ends of the container. While this is not technically a door, the flat rack configuration allows total access to your cargo.
• Open-top containers. As the name suggests, these containers open at the top. This allows you to load large cargo like timber via heavy machinery.

Buying vs. Renting — When Should You Buy Shipping Containers?

Learning how to buy a shipping container is only half of the battle. Deciding whether you should rent or buy shipping containers can be difficult. You want what is best for your business and wallet. And in many cases, that means you should purchase a container. 

Ask yourself these questions to determine whether you should rent or buy storage containers:

How often do you intend to use the shipping container?

Will you need a container for a year or longer? If so, buying it is likely a wise choice. You will save money in the long run by purchasing instead of renting it. However, if you need extra storage for seasonal use or temporary jobs, there is no better solution than a rental.

Do you want the freedom of ownership that comes with buying a container?

Ownership has its privileges, such as the ability to modify the container. Rented containers are generally required to stay in the same location. But you can take a container you own anywhere you like. And owning the container affords you the benefit of being able to sell it later without any of the design or modification restrictions of renting.

Do you need to store hazardous materials in your shipping container?

Renting a storage container provides huge flexibility, but one spot where you may feel somewhat restricted is in what you can store. You can store most items inside rented containers, but many shipping container rental companies place restrictions on hazardous materials, such as volatile chemicals. If you need to store items like this, buying a shipping container is probably the way to go.

Do you have a way to transport your shipping container?

When you own a shipping container, it’s yours for as long as it lasts. If you intend to place the container in a spot and let it sit there for years, that’s no problem. But if you frequently need to move the container, you need to be sure you have access to the right equipment to do so. If moving the container is going to present a big challenge, you might want to consider renting containers for shorter periods and having them delivered directly to your worksite.

Interested in renting a shipping container? Check out our Container Rental Guide.

Common Uses for Shipping and Storage Containers

The question of what you plan to use your container for is just as important as the question of how to buy a shipping container. Different industries and individuals rely on shipping containers for storage and container offices. But the uses for storage containers are nearly limitless.

Buy Storage Containers for Industry Use

Because shipping containers can be modified, they work for almost all industries. Construction might be the most common, but these containers are popping up just about anywhere you can imagine. These industries include the following:

• Construction
• Manufacturing
• Education
• Automotive
• Retail
• Agriculture/farming
• Healthcare
• Residential storage

Buy Shipping Containers for Container Homes and Businesses

Contemporary building designers all over the world are refurbishing shipping containers into everything from small, affordable living spaces to large buildings, restaurants and coffee shops — you name it. All of these designs look sleek, minimize space and have environmental benefits.

What You Should Know Before Ordering a Shipping Container

Learning how to buy a shipping container is easy with ModuGo. The following information can make it even easier:

Find the Best Shipping Container Price

When you research how to buy a shipping container, you’ll be surprised by how widely prices can vary. At ModuGo, we guarantee the lowest price on your shipping container. We shop city by city and state by state to ensure we are finding the best prices across the country. 

With our access to tens of thousands of containers, we can find exactly what you need at a great price. If you find a lower shipping container price somewhere else, just let us know. We will beat it!

Consider the Shipping Container Delivery Method

Used shipping containers for sale are normally delivered on roll-off trailers. However, you can also pick up your shipping container. If you use a website that allows you to compare shipping container prices, you can factor in the cost of delivery, as well. Remember, if you find used shipping containers for sale that’s located close to your home, the delivery cost will be lower.

Generally, 40-foot containers are delivered on a 40+ foot trailer pulled behind a truck. This can be a pickup truck or a day-cab/semi. At ModuGo, we will work with you to ensure that the truck delivering the container is the best choice for the delivery site.

By contrast, 20-foot containers are typically delivered on a tilt-bed tow truck (what they use to tow vehicles with four-wheel drive). These trucks are more maneuverable and have a smaller turning radius, allowing them to deliver the containers to tighter spots.

Prepare the Location for Shipping Container Placement

After you have learned how to buy a shipping container that fits your needs, you must prepare for the delivery and placement of the container. The trucks that deliver shipping containers can weigh up to 45,000 pounds, so they require a hard surface. If the drivers attempt to maneuver through wet grass or mud, they can get stuck. This results in added costs and hassle.

Learn more about site preparation in our Shipping Container Site Preparation Guide.

Avoid Water

When considering where your container will sit, the most important factor is avoiding a location where water can pool at the base of the container. You can use railroad ties or some other moveable foundation beneath the container to avoid water buildup. You can also lay gravel or another base that will drain water easily.

Get Help

If you do decide to use railroad ties, you should ensure that you have someone there to move them during delivery. While the delivery driver may be able to help, you should not assume that they will be able to move them for you.

Clear the Way

Finally, make sure the delivery site and path through the property are free and clear of debris to save time and energy on the day of delivery.

Ensure You Have the Necessary Clearance

Shipping container delivery trucks also need ample space at your delivery site to maneuver. Assume that you will need the following:

• A minimum of 100 feet of straight clearance for 40-foot containers and 60 feet of straight clearance for a 20-foot container (Measure the space from where the back of the container will sit.)
• A minimum of 12 feet total width for the truck to deliver the container
• A minimum of 14 feet of vertical clearance for the truck and container to drive under an obstacle safely
• A minimum of 20 feet of vertical clearance at the actual delivery site in order to safely complete the tilt-off delivery

How to Buy a Shipping Container: Team Up with ModuGo

Now you have the information you need to take the next steps. Browse the ModuGo website and buy storage containers today! If you find a similar shipping container in your area for a better price, take advantage of our price match guarantee to make sure you get the best deal possible.

ModuGo’s online store makes buying a shipping container easy. Our three-step process is as simple as:

1. Place your order online.
2. Check out.
3. Sit back and relax.

If you have more questions about how to buy a shipping container, please check out our Frequently Asked Questions page or contact us directly!

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