Commercial storage container basics

Storage containers come in a variety of sizes. Most are usually 8' wide and 8'6" high, and commonly feature lengths of 20 and 40 feet (1,170 cubic feet and 3,340 cubic feet.)

Most businesses choose 20' containers since they provide easier access to items in the back. 40' models provide almost three times as much storage space, but may require additional doors on the back or side to take advantage of the larger space.

Some vendors may offer containers in other lengths, such as lengths as small as 6' or as large as 54', but these odd sizes can be hard to find. For additional clearance, "high cubes" feature internal heights of 9'6".

Storage containers are easily stackable which can be a space saver. Forklifts can easily hoist one 20' unit and place it on top of another.

Different businesses have various needs for storage containers. Here is just a sample of how certain industries use them:

Industry Portable Storage Container Uses Department stores, pharmacies, supermarkets, hospitality, food service Excess inventory, paper records storage, seasonal and holiday needs Construction, landscapers, home improvement Equipment, machinery, supplies, temporary office space Residents, property owners Tool shed, household goods storage, home furnishings, non-perishable food supplies Truckers, utility companies, financial institutions, insurance companies, film production Document storage, raw materials Medical facilities, military, government agencies, Native American reservations, academic institutions Disaster preparation supplies, temporary bunks/shelters, security offices, athletic equipment storage

Container design
Storage containers are constructed with 12- or 14-gauge corrugated steel sides, doors, and roofs. The floors are made from marine-grade plywood that is just over one inch thick and can withstand 16,000 pounds of pressure per 100 square feet. Manufacturers weld the containers together using elastic sealing compound to ensure they are air and water tight. This heavy-duty construction meets ISO construction standards and most models are both weather resistant and fireproof.

To protect contents from theft or vandalism, swing-out doors at either end of the container feature galvanized interior locking bars, similar to bank vaults. In addition, cam rods and padlock hasps secure the unit to protect the contents after hours.

While most commercial storage containers feature steel construction, another type of portable storage known as PODs (Portable on Demand) are made from wood and fiberglass. While suitable for personal use, they may not be sturdy or reliable enough for regular business use.

Installation & zoning
Average containers weigh 2,500 to 5,000 pounds and are delivered by flat tilt-bed trucks or trailers. While they can rest on any surface from rough gravel roads to smooth concrete, it's preferred that you reserve a 75 foot by 100 foot area of land that is both level and firm. The level ground prevents the container from tilting or tipping and the large area provides you with plenty of clearance to move in and out of the unit.

Be careful if you plan to use storage containers for long periods of time. Certain cities view storage containers as "dumpsters" and may require a special permit or official approval for long-term use. If you plan to keep storage containers on your premises for several months or longer, check with your local government to avoid violating any zoning laws.

It's helpful to compare offerings from multiple suppliers to find the right size and options for your storage container.

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