When it comes to storing goods or moving products, a shipping container can be a practical choice. But whether you’re buying or leasing, it’s important to check the container properly before sealing the deal. You don’t want to end up with holes in the roof, rust on the floor, or a door that won’t shut right. In this article, you will learn the simple yet vital tips to help you inspect a shipping container the right way.
1. Check the Outside for Rust, Dents, and Damage
Start from the outside, then gently go around the entire container looking at the walls. Particularly in corners and at the bottom edges, look for dents, deep scratches, or rust; these areas suffer the most damage. Usually good, surface rust should be avoided on containers with holes or rust eaten into the metal. Better still, keep examining if the container seems deformed, tilts to one side, or does not sit flat.
2. Look at the Roof from Above
Take note that the roof absorbs a lot of water in bad weather; hence, avoid skipping an inspection. Since standing water causes rust, climb a ladder or ask to search for dents that can gather water. Ask about past leaks and repairs if there seem to be soft spots or locations that look fixed. Given water damage is one of the causes containers go bad, the roof should feel solid and have no give when squeezed.
3. Inspect the Doors and Locking Mechanism
Try opening and closing the container a few times to inspect; the doors should open and shut naturally without any effort. Repairing hinges, locking rods, or bars that seem stiff, rusted, or deformed could be necessary since these problems prevent the container from closing tightly. As these seals assist in preventing rain, also check the rubber gaskets along the doors for cracks or misalignment.
4. Step Inside and Check for Light Leaks
Walk inside once the doors are open and close them behind you so your eyes have time to adjust. Glide over the walls, roof, and corners; if any little light rays show through, they are obvious holes. Less security results from light leaks, implying water can enter or bugs could slip through. At first, these little holes may seem innocuous, but they typically cause more significant issues down the road.
5. See the Flooring
Since most container floors are constructed from thick plywood over steel beams, it’s crucial to find out if the surface is level, clean, and sturdy. Go slowly across it, noting soft areas, creaks, crunching noises, stains, and rotting wood’s indicators. Keep in mind that using older shipping containers could have chemical or oil leaks that could ruin goods, particularly if you are keeping food or delicate products.
6. Smell for Mold, Dampness, or Chemicals
As soon as you walk into a container, breathe slowly and deeply; if it smells musty or like harsh chemicals, this is a red flag. While chemical smells could indicate past spills, particularly if it contained industrial items, mold commonly shows up in containers that suffered breaches. While a neutral or slightly woody scent is acceptable, anything stronger could require a thorough clean before storage.
7. Ask About the Container’s History
SCF New Zealand recommends asking about the container’s history, like how it was used, where it’s been, how many trips it made, and if any repairs were done, before leasing from a yard or buying from a vendor. While some containers stay idle in storage yards, others travel for years across oceans. Moreover, learning the background gives a clearer picture of the wear and tear based on those factors.
Inspect Smart Today, Avoid Costly Surprises Tomorrow
Whether used for storage or a small office, a shipping container is an investment. Spending time and money on a proper inspection helps you prevent issues later on, saving you both. Examine thoroughly; listen for unusual sounds when doors move; probe the history and condition of the container. Remember these ideas and choose one that fits your situation; a cautious check now saves problems later.
