The lifespan of cargo containers is often a speculating subject. The average lifespan is 25-30 years without maintenance. However, shipping container manufacturers stipulate that standard containers go out of commission after 10-12 years. They can remain cargo-worthy or wind or water-tight for that long. However, that does not mean they escape the harm of constant exposure to the hardship of life in the sea. They are constantly exposed to saltwater at sea and wet weather at the port, which imposes a slow state of deterioration. Moisture foists a formation of rust that is harmful to any steel construction, even though maritime containers are made with weather-resistant steel alloy and paint at the manufacturing time.
Weather-resistant construction material indeed slows down the penetration of rust at the surface level. But, other deterrent factors like holes dents take the rust to more profound than the surface level, which shakes the structural integrity of the steel structure.
Steel structures like freight containers need to be appropriately maintained to extend their service life. How to know that your containers need maintenance?
Below are a few tell-tale signs that indicate an imminent need to give the container maintenance:
Holes
Metal shipping containers go through a life of hard toil in the logistics circle years after year. That leaves a noticeable impact meaning wholes of various shapes and sizes marring the steel structure. The holes in the units may range from improper stacking to collision to accidents.
Holes invite unwanted moisture to attack the container interior, and rust formation spreads throughout the structure, gradually weakening it. Therefore, it is essential to repair any hole at first sight to retain a healthy lifespan of cargo containers.
Moisture inside the Container
Moisture inside the unit could be due to two reasons. Firstly, moisture condensation at the ceiling due to constantly changing temperatures. It is called “container sweat” or “container rain.” “Container Sweat” is, without a doubt, an extraordinary attack on the steel structure. It causes rust on the steel body.
Secondly, sometimes traders modify HVAC systems to control the temperature inside. In case of the system malfunctions, it leaks water inside the cargo unit. One should be cautious about any sign of water leakage. It will harm the cargo inside and corrode the steel structure of the freight unit.
Treat the Rust
Rust is a firm sign that container health is at risk. It is true; there will be some rust on the exterior. Rust is an inevitable factor as the boxes are constantly exposed to moisture or saltwater during intermodal transport. But it is concerning if rust spreads all over the structure's interior, slowly corroding deeper layers of the steel body.
Always treat minor signs of rust with all due seriousness; otherwise, that may spread to create a worse condition with time.
Wears and Tears in the Rubber Sealant
The shipping container door frame is sealed with a rubber sealant to create an airtight state inside. These sealants last ten years at the most. But, undue pressure can cause untimely wear, tears, and malfunction. It is better to replace them at the slightest sign of wear, tear, or malfunction.
Malfunctioning Refrigeration Unit
Some containers, like reefer containers or refrigerated containers, come with an in-built refrigeration unit. A refrigeration unit is imperative to retain the cargo quality of temperature-sensitive goods. In case of the refrigeration unit malfunctions, it is better to get them serviced. Otherwise, they will lose their characteristic function, and the cargo inside will be easily spoilt. So keep a constant lookout to check if they are working.
How do you ensure your container’s health?
Keep a Check List: Keep a steady checklist of steel shipping container conditions before releasing them to trade. Recheck thoroughly their condition after their return and treat them instantly in case of any significant damage. Ignoring them may lead to a lot worse than you got.
Constant Inspection and Care: Even if the maritime units are not working, keep a continuous check and treat them better.
What can LOTUS Containers do for you?
Container conditions and prolonged life periods depend significantly on the quality, type, and grade. In any case, you can be sure about quality across shipping container grades and types. LOTUS Containers, one of the top shipping container providers, is there for you to provide shipping boxes of the highest quality. We will help you buy, sell, and lease containers with affordability and ease. Find us if you are looking for new shipping containers for sale in Miami, Omaha, Florida, and other parts of the USA or the world. Avail of our premium container solutions across the globe to scale your business to new heights.
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