How long does a shipping container last?

We get this question frequently: How long does a shipping container last when used for storage at my home or business?

The short answer is “around 30 years”.

The more complete answer depends upon multiple factors such as:

• Condition when you received it. Was it a new / one-trip unit or did it have a life before?
• If it was used, what was it used for? Did it sit in one place behind a store for its entire life, or was it being sent over the oceans and through dozens of ports per year? In general, international shipping is a much heavier duty cycle compared with a domestic rental container.
• What are you using it for? Are you storing landscaping equipment or is it being used for household furnishings?
• How important are cosmetics?

 

Let’s look at an example of an ‘older’ container. This 40-foot standard container was manufactured in 1991 and has been in our rental fleet from before 2004 until June 2023. Before that, I think it’s safe to guess that this unit had seen some cargo transport for at least a few years, based upon its former prefix being from a company that leases containers to oceanic cargo fleets. After we bought the container, it has been to countless job sites and stores for the past 19 years.

On first glance, it’s not the prettiest unit, with some surface rust and a few dents, but it appears to be functionally solid. There aren’t any apparent leaks and the rubber door seals appear to be intact. The seam between the upper wall and the roof looks good as well. Is this container still fit for service? For some applications, definitely. Is it one in which I would place high value items that are sensitive to environmental changes? Probably not. Being an older spec, this container isn’t equipped with the multitude of vents that newer, consumer grade containers are fitted with to help reduce the chance of interior condensation. While the dents and rust haven’t compromised the integrity of this container, it’s certainly something to watch and maybe remedy by grinding and painting to remain leak-free.

Older containers have value for plenty of applications, and even this seasoned model has some useful life. Of course, a newer, better condition container will cost more, but this has to be examined in light of what you plan to use it for, and for how long you intend to use it. If you’ll be storing lawn mowers and ATVs for a few years, then this old dog might be the perfect, economical solution. If you’re going to be storing heirloom furniture, office records, or plan on needing decades of storage, then it might be best to look at a new / newer model.

 

Whether you’re looking for a month or 30 years, contact us or give us a call at 603-622-1673 to talk with New Hampshire’s storage container experts.

Whether you’re managing a warehouse or retail space, or simply trying to declutter your garage or home, it’s important to be able to maximize every inch of available storage space you have. When using storage containers for your needs, organization is key for safety, efficiency, and protecting your belongings. One often overlooked solution that can make a real impact is using interior shelving systems. Read on to learn more about how you can maximize storage space in your storage container using interior shelving systems.

Why Efficient Storage Solutions are Important

Containers are excellent for transporting goods across the ocean or country but often lack the internal infrastructure necessary for efficient commercial or residential storage. While a great option for storage of a variety of goods and belongings, space inside can be limited, and it can impact the efficiency and safety for you and your items. This is where interior shelving systems come into play, as they are a versatile and customizable solution for optimizing your space.

Benefits of Interior Shelving Systems

1. Optimize space

Interior shelving systems allow you to maximize the use of space in your storage container to get as much in it as possible. Simply stacking boxes or containers is a sure way to damage your items and you won’t be able to take advantage of the space. Instead, vertical storage allows you to use entire height of container which can be of extra benefit when floor space is limited.

2. Enhanced organization

Shelving systems facilitate better organization because they provide designated spaces for various items. Whether you’re storing tools, retail overflow items, construction materials, or home goods, having a structured shelving system ensures everything has its place. This also enhances accessibility and efficiency, so you’ll spend less time searching for a specific item.

Tips:

• Categorize items by type or frequency of use for easy search and retrieval.
• Implement labeling systems to quickly identify what you need.

3. Customizable

Your storage needs may be different than someone else’s, which is why it’s helpful that interior shelving systems come in a variety of designs. You can customize them based on your specific requirements, including installing different sizes to ensure flexibility in your storage. This flexibility can be particularly valuable if your storage needs ever change or shift over time.

Tips:

• Choose shelves that are easy to reconfigure as your needs evolve.
• Opt for specialized shelving, like dividers, if you have specific types of items to store.

4. Secure

Keeping items organized and securely in place helps ensure they are protected from damage. This is especially crucial if you’re storing valuable or breakable items. Some shelving systems even come with locking mechanisms, providing an extra layer of security.

Tips:

• Install shelves with lips or barriers to prevent items from shifting or falling.
• Choose shelving materials that can withstand the items stored on them (like steel or heavy-duty plastic).

5. Cost and time savings

Efficiency is closely tied to time and cost savings, and when you install shelving systems that allow you to be organized, you’ll save time finding items, restocking, managing inventory, and more. It helps streamline storage processes which in fact can reduce labor costs. Plus, it minimizes the risk of damage to items, so you’ll spend less replacing them.

Considerations for Interior Shelving Systems

Whether you’re renting or buying a storage container and regardless of what you’re storing in it, there are a few considerations when it comes to installing interior shelving systems:

• Assess your storage needs: Conduct a thorough assessment of your storage needs, considering factors like the types of items to be stored, their dimensions, and frequency of access. Knowing this will help you choose the right shelving system for your needs.
• Determine which storage container size and configuration you need: Storage containers come in various sizes and configurations, so ensure the shelving system you choose is compatible with the layout of your container.
• Choose the right shelving materials and customization: It’s crucial to choose durable and resilient shelving materials like steel or heavy-duty plastic. Also make sure the shelving system you choose works for your needs, whether it be adding dividers, locks, or other customizations.
• Work with a trusted storage container expert on installation and maintenance: A storage container expert can help you choose a shelving system that’s compatible with your needs and container. They can help facilitate installment, ensuring the longevity of the system, and they can provide instruction on maintenance for both your shelving and the container itself.

Contact Page Street Storage – Your Trusted Storage Container Experts

Interior shelving systems can make a significant difference in efficiency and organization in your storage container. They can help maximize space, enhance accessibility, and are a customizable solution for both commercial and residential users. Page Street Storage has the best New England storage containers and trailers available, as well as any container features you need such as shelving systems. Contact us today for more information.

Storage trailers serve as convenient and cost-effective solutions for residential and commercial storage needs. However, without the appropriate security measures in place, your items can be vulnerable to theft, vandalism, or damage. To safeguard your belongings and have peace of mind, it’s essential to understand and implement effective storage trailer security features.

Overview of Key Security Features

Regardless of what you keep in your storage trailer, your items are valuable, both in terms of monetary and sentimental worth. Whether it’s business inventory, important documents, cherished family heirlooms, or anything in between, your stored items are important. Therefore, investing in security measures is crucial for preventing theft and damage.

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Key Security Features to Consider:

1. Block Locks
2. Cargo Door Locks
3. Security Cameras and Alarms
4. GPS Tracking Systems
5. Security Lighting
6. Security Fencing and Perimeter Protection

Let’s explore each of these security features in more detail:

Block Locks

Block locks are robust locking mechanisms designed to secure the doors of storage trailers. They are an essential first line of defense against unauthorized access.

Blocks locks are heavy-duty padlocks specifically designed for use on storage trailers. They are typically made of durable materials, such as hardened steel, and are resistant to tampering and cutting.

How Block Locks Enhance Security

• Physical Barrier: Block locks create a formidable physical barrier that deters unauthorized access to your storage trailer, acting as a first line of defense against theft.
• Resistance to Tampering: Their robust construction and materials make block locks highly resistant to tampering, ensuring that potential thieves cannot easily manipulate or bypass them.
• Protection Against Bolt Cutters: Block locks are designed to withstand common tools used by thieves, such as bolt cutters, making it exceptionally challenging for criminals to breach the lock.
• Key or Combination Control: Only those with the authorized key or combination can open the block lock, providing you with exclusive control over access to your stored items.

Proper Installation and Usage of Block Locks

To maximize the effectiveness of block locks, they should be properly installed on the trailer doors. Your storage trailer company can help with this. It’s best to regularly make sure that they are working correctly by inspecting them for signs of wear or tampering.

Cargo Door Locks

Cargo door locks are essential components for maintaining the security and integrity of your cargo during transportation or storage. These locks are engineered to prevent unauthorized access, theft, and tampering, making them a crucial investment for trailer owners.

The wide range of cargo door locks available in the market ensures that you can find the perfect solution tailored to your specific trailer’s needs, whether it’s a traditional swing door, a modern roll-up door, or any other door configuration. Choosing the right storage trailer cargo door lock is a fundamental step in safeguarding your valuable goods.

Choosing the Right Cargo Door Lock for Your Storage Trailer

The choice of cargo door lock depends on your specific trailer and security requirements. Consider factors such as:

• Type of trailer doors
• Ease of use
• Level of security
• Durability and weather resistance

Security Cameras and Alarms

In addition to being a deterrent, security cameras offer the benefit of recording footage. This can be invaluable in the event of a security breach or theft as the recorded evidence can aid law enforcement in identifying and apprehending culprits, as well as facilitating insurance claims and investigations.

Furthermore, modern technology allows for remote monitoring of security cameras, giving you the ability to check on your trailer’s security status in real-time from anywhere. This offers the benefit of peace of mind and control over your storage trailer’s protection. Combined with reliable alarm systems, these security measures create a comprehensive defense against potential threats to your valuable cargo.Top of Form

 

Types of Security Camera Systems Suitable for Trailers

Consider the following security camera options for your trailer:

• Fixed Cameras: These cameras are stationary and capture a specific area.
• PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) Cameras: These cameras can be remotely controlled to pan, tilt, and zoom for a wider view.
• Wireless Cameras: These cameras transmit footage wirelessly, making installation easier.

Integrating Alarms with Security Camera Systems

By integrating alarms with security camera systems, you can receive immediate notifications when unauthorized access is detected. This allows for a rapid response to potential threats. Establish clear protocols for monitoring security camera feeds and responding to alarms. This may involve hiring security personnel or contracting with a security service provider.

GPS Tracking Systems

GPS tracking systems offer an additional layer of security by allowing you to monitor the location of your storage trailer in real-time. These systems use satellite technology to pinpoint the exact location of your trailer.

Some systems also provide additional features, such as geofencing and tamper alerts. Geofencing enables you to set up virtual boundaries for your trailer’s location and receive alerts if the trailer moves beyond those predefined boundaries. Tamper alerts notify you if there’s any unauthorized access or tampering with the trailer, giving you immediate awareness of potential security breaches and allowing for swift response and recovery actions. This level of tracking and security can be particularly valuable when you have valuable or sensitive cargo in transit or storage.

Security Lighting

Security lighting is a critical element of trailer security, as it discourages intruders and enhances visibility. Light fixtures illuminate the area around the storage trailer, making it more challenging for potential thieves to approach undetected. Well-lit surroundings also deter criminal activity.

Types of Security Lighting Options for Storage Trailers:

• Motion-Activated Lights: These lights turn on when motion is detected, conserving energy when not needed.
• Floodlights: Powerful floodlights can cover a wide area and ensure thorough illumination.
• Solar-Powered Lights: These lights are energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.
• Timer-Controlled Lights: Timer-controlled lights can be programmed to turn on and off at specific times, providing consistent lighting during predetermined hours.

Security Fencing and Perimeter Protection

Security fencing and perimeter protection measures are essential for securing the entire storage trailer facility. A sturdy and well-designed security fence serves as the first line of defense, deterring unauthorized access and providing a physical barrier.

Types of Security Fencing and Perimeter Protection Measures

1. Chain-Link Fencing: This type of fencing provides a visible barrier around the facility.
2. Barbed Wire or Razor Wire: These additions can deter intruders from attempting to climb or breach the fence.
3. Access Control Gates: Implementing controlled access gates with electronic keycards or codes adds an extra layer of security.
4. Anti-Climb Fencing: Anti-climb fencing is designed with features that make it difficult for intruders to scale or breach, such as curved or pointed tops, making it an effective deterrent against unauthorized access.
5. Bollards: Bollards are sturdy, short posts placed strategically to prevent vehicles from ramming into the perimeter, providing protection against potential forced entry.

Work With a Storage Trailer Service

When it comes to securing your storage trailer and its contents, partnering with a professional storage trailer service can provide numerous advantages. These services offer specialized expertise and resources to ensure the safety and security of your belongings. Here’s how you can benefit from working with a storage trailer service:

• Security Expertise: Storage trailer service providers are experienced in the field of trailer security. They can assess your specific needs and recommend tailored security solutions based on the type of trailer you have, the contents you’re storing, and your location.
• Professional Maintenance: These services often include regular maintenance and inspections of your storage trailer. This ensures that locks, alarms, and other security features remain in optimal working condition.
• Security Consulting: If you have unique security requirements or concerns, storage trailer providers can offer expert advice and consultation to address your specific needs effectively.

In Conclusion

The security of your belongings in storage trailers is critical. By implementing a combination of security features, you can significantly reduce the risk of theft and damage to your stored items. Remember that a comprehensive security strategy, including locks, lighting, surveillance, alarms, and perimeter protection, is key to ensuring the highest level of protection for your stored cargo.

Trust Page Street Leasing for Your New England Storage Needs

If you’re looking for secure storage trailers in New England, Page Street Leasing is your trusted partner. With a commitment to providing top-notch security features, we ensure the safety of your belongings during their stay in our storage trailers.

For more information on how Page Street Leasing can meet your New England storage needs, please fill out our contact form or call 603-622-1673. Our team is ready to assist you in safeguarding your valuable possessions with our top-tier secure storage solutions.

Shipping containers have revolutionized the way we transport goods and store items. These versatile metal boxes have become a cornerstone of modern logistics and storage solutions. Choosing the right shipping container size and type is crucial for various applications, as it can significantly impact efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and the safety of your cargo. Read on to learn more.

Standard Container Sizes

Standard shipping containers are the backbone of global trade and logistics. The two most common sizes are the 20-foot and 40-foot containers, each designed to accommodate a wide range of goods. Here’s a breakdown of these standard sizes as offered by Page Street Leasing:

1. 10-foot Containers
   • Exterior Dimensions: 10 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 8’6” feet high
   • Interior Dimensions: 9’4” long, 7’8” wide, 7’10” high
   • Door Dimensions: 7’8” wide, 7’5” high
   • Empty Weight (approximate): 2900 lbs.
   • Cubic Capacity: Approximately 560 cubic feet
   • Common Applications: Construction storage, restrooms, break rooms, guard stations, temporary office space, event storage, concession sales
2. 20-foot Container:
   • Exterior Dimensions: 20 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 8’6” feet high
   • Interior Dimensions: 19’4” long, 7’8” wide, 7’10” high
   • Door Dimensions: 7’8” wide, 7’5” high
   • Empty Weight (approximate): 4800 lbs.
   • Cubic Capacity: Approximately 1,170 cubic feet
   • Common Applications: International shipping, storage, construction site office space, building blocks for modular structures
3. 40-foot Container:
   • Exterior Dimensions: 40 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 8’6” feet high or 9’6” feet high (high cube)
   • Interior Dimensions: 39’5” long, 7’8” wide, and 7’10” high (standard) or 8’10” (high cube)
   • Door Dimensions: 7’8” wide, 7’5” high (standard) or 8’5” (high cube)
   • Empty Weight (approximate): 7800 lbs (standard) or 8200 lbs (high cube)
   • Cubic Capacity: Approximately 2,390 cubic feet
   • Common Applications: International shipping, inventory storage, on-site office space, equipment storage, home or retail extension, event space

Custom and Modified Containers

Customization plays a crucial role in the shipping container industry, as businesses often require containers tailored to their unique needs. Here are some examples of custom and modified containers:

1. Containers with Added Doors, Windows, or Ventilation:
   • These modifications are common for storage containers used in industries like agriculture or as pop-up shops and mobile offices.
2. Containers with Reinforced Flooring:
   • For heavy machinery transport, containers can be equipped with reinforced flooring to withstand the weight and ensure safe transport.
3. Containers with Custom Paint and Branding:
   • Businesses often use shipping containers as marketing tools or for events. Custom paint and branding can turn them into eye-catching displays.
4. Containers with Insulation and Climate Control:
   • Sensitive cargo, such as electronics or pharmaceuticals, may require containers with insulation to protect against mold and environmental contamination.

High Cube Containers

High cube containers are similar to standard containers in length and width but offer increased height. They are typically 9’6” feet tall, providing an additional foot in height compared to standard containers. Here are some scenarios where high cube containers are beneficial:

1. Bulky Item Storage
   • High cube containers are ideal for storing oversized or bulky items that wouldn’t fit in standard containers.
2. Pallet Storage
   • High cube containers are better equipped to accommodate stacked pallets and the forklifts that move them due to the additional space overhead.
3. Tractor Storage
   • People looking to store tractors, skidsteers, or similar equipment usually opt for a high cube container that can fit equipment with tall cabs or roll-bars.
4. Portable Offices
   • The extra height allows for comfortable standing room, making high cube containers suitable for portable offices, pop-up shops, or housing units.
5. Retail Stores
   • Businesses looking for distinctive retail spaces often opt for high cube containers. The added height creates an open and inviting shopping environment.
6. Mobile Bars and Restaurants
   • High cube containers are transformed into mobile bars and restaurants, offering a trendy and customizable space for food and beverage businesses.
7. Construction and Renovation
   • Contractors use high cube containers as mobile workshops or tool storage units. The extra height accommodates larger equipment and provides a convenient on-site workspace.
8. Disaster Relief
   • In emergency situations, high cube containers are used as temporary shelters due to their increased height, offering more comfortable living conditions for displaced individuals.

Door Types

Shipping containers come with various door configurations to suit different cargo loading and unloading needs. Understanding these door types can help you choose the best shipping container for your needs. Here are two common door types as offered by Page Street Leasing:

Double Doors

Double door containers are designed with doors at both ends of the container, allowing for easy access to the cargo from either side. These containers are especially convenient for loading and unloading goods quickly and efficiently.

• Applications: They are commonly employed in construction, event management, and industries that require frequent access to items stored inside.
• Size Availability: You can find double door containers in both 20-foot and 40-foot sizes, making them versatile options for various cargo volumes.

Open Side Containers

Open side containers, also known as full-side access or side-opening containers, feature doors that span the entire length of one side, offering easy access to the entire width of the container. These containers are excellent for loading and unloading wide or oversized cargo.

• Applications: They are commonly used in industries dealing with construction materials, machinery, or event equipment. Open side containers are also ideal for automotive storage for easy ingress and egress. Creative uses of open side containers include mobile display cases that can be opened and closed rapidly.

• Size Availability: Page Street Leasing offers 20-foot open side containers, providing a convenient solution for businesses and individuals in need of side access. Additionally, 40-foot open side containers are available by special order, allowing for larger cargo volumes and more extensive storage options.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right shipping container size and type is essential for various industries and applications. It’s best to work with a local shipping container service to determine which unit will best suit your specific needs and budget.

Trust Page Street Leasing for Residential and Commercial Storage Container Needs

When it comes to choosing the best shipping container for your residential or commercial needs, trust Page Street Leasing. With our expertise, reputation, and range of container options, we have become a trusted partner for businesses and individuals in New England.

Whether you require standard containers for international shipping, specialized containers for unique cargo, or high cube containers for innovative solutions, we have the right container for you. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction ensures that you receive a reliable and cost-effective storage solution.

Contact Page Street Leasing today for more information or to request a quote. Our team of experts is ready to assist you in finding the perfect shipping container to meet your requirements.

Storage containers can be used for a variety of purposes, including storage, office space, retail space, and even living space as a tiny home. In addition to their versatility, there are several benefits to renting or buying a container. For example, they are often a more cost-effective option than renting and maintaining an office or storage space. They are also secure, low maintenance, and weather and pest-resistant to protect your belongings.

If you’ve decided you need a storage container, it’s critical to choose the right location to ensure long-term protection of your container, but there are several factors to keep in mind such as accessibility, stability, and more. Read on to learn more tips from the experts at Page Street Leasing.

Why It’s Important to Choose the Right Location for Your Storage Container

Choosing a location for your container means thinking about the actual location, where the container is physically located, and the site, or the ground the container sits on. This helps ensure easy delivery of the container and long-term stability and protection of the container. The right location can help prevent damage and keep the container and everything inside it accessible and secure.

What To Consider When Choosing a Storage Container Location

The top factors to consider when choosing a storage container location include space, accessibility, stability, permits and regulations, utilities, and security.

1. Space

Storage containers are typically 20 or 40 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 9 feet tall. The property and site needs to have enough clearance and space for the container and the delivery vehicle to maneuver. You will also need space for loading/unloading/whatever else you’re using the container for.

Ensure the space is clear of any fencing, trees, other buildings, and other blockages.

2. Accessibility

Your storage container needs to be brought in by a truck/trailer. The location must be free of vehicles, trees, buildings, power lines, etc. that can get in the way of delivery.

Make sure the delivery vehicle has a free and clear entrance to the site, space to place the container, and space to leave. For example, a roll-off truck with a 40’ container will need about 110 feet of straight space and 16 feet of clearance height overhead, while a tilt bed truck with a 20’ container will need about 50 feet of straight space.

It’s also important to consider what time of year the container may be picked-up, as seasonal changes, such as mud and snow buildup, may affect the ability of a truck to access the container when needed.

3. Stability

The ground must be stable to ensure long-term use of your container. Choose a flat, level, and compact surface. Containers can be placed on most surfaces, but some, like sand, are not ideal. Concrete is most preferred, but other options can include grass, gravel, and packed dirt.

The ground should be level, though if it must be placed on an incline, concrete is the best option. Soft ground sometimes allows the container to settle unevenly which introduces a torque along the structure, making the doors difficult or impossible to open and close.

You should also inspect your container to ensure there’s adequate drainage, as standing ground water could create issues with moisture seepage, mold, and mildew.

4. Permits and Regulations

Depending on your state/county and the container’s use, you may need to apply for a temporary permit or follow certain regulations. Make sure the container’s plans comply with local laws. You can contact your local government office to learn more about necessary:

• Zoning
• Building codes
• Permits
• Regulations or restrictions

5. Utilities

If your container will be connected to utilities, like water or electricity, it must be placed close enough to the system. Otherwise, you may have large expenses to run lines to connect. Keep this in mind when you choose the location. A storage container expert can help with this.

6. Security

Containers themselves are a secure place to keep items safe, but the location of the container should be secure as well. For example, it should be properly lit, have (or be able to have installed) security cameras, security fence, or other security features. Know that you can also add security features to the container like locks, lights, and cameras if necessary.

Tips For Choosing the Right Location for a Storage Container

1. Know what you need. For example, what are you using the container for? What size do you need? How long will you need it? Should you rent or buy a container? Then, choose a site that accommodates those needs with the space, security, and utilities you may need. Having a clear idea of your needs ahead of time will help you choose the best location. A container being used for storage vs. one being used as an office or living space will require different things.
2. Research (based on your needs). Follow local laws and rules (such as zoning and permits), choose a site that’s accessible for delivery, and make sure the ground is stable. The location should also have preferred security features. Even within one location, you may have multiple sites where you can place the container (like within a construction site). Know ahead of time exactly where you need the container to go.
3. Contact a professional. Working with a professional storage container service can help ensure you choose the right spot for your container. They can help you pick an accessible, secure, stable location with enough space for your needs. They can also provide tips on site preparation, ongoing maintenance, upgrades or modifications, and more.

How To Prepare a Location for Your Storage Container

1. Make sure the surface is level (remove obstructions, make soil more compact).
2. Correct any slopes and ensure proper water drainage.
3. Choose the right foundation, whether concrete blocks, pressure-treated wooden beams, or a concrete slab.
4. Remove any obstructions for delivery.
5. If you need utilities, consider running those lines and having inspections prior to placing container to ensure it will work for your needs.
6. Set up security features such as lighting, security cameras, etc. in the space.

Contact Page Street Leasing, Your Local Storage Container Expert

Homeowners and businesses have trusted Page Street for more than 20 years with all on-site storage solutions and needs throughout southern New Hampshire and beyond.  We have a variety of options that will satisfy your storage container needs (plus you can rent, buy, or get help with modifications).

Our expertise can help ensure you choose and prepare the right location for your container regardless of your needs. Contact us online today or call 603-622-1673.