Wind and Watertight

In brief

Wind and Watertight, or WWT, refers to a used container that is closed and protected against wind and penetrating rainwater. The roof, walls, doors, and seals must not have any openings that would allow water to enter the interior.

WWT primarily describes the container's weather-tightness. This classification does not confirm its suitability for international freight transport, nor does it guarantee a good aesthetic condition.

Prüfbereich Anforderung bei Wind and Watertight
Dach Keine Löcher oder offenen Schadstellen, durch die Niederschlag eindringen kann.
Seitenwände Geschlossen und ohne wasserdurchlässige Risse oder Durchbrüche.
Stirnwände Keine offenen Stellen oder undichten Reparaturbereiche.
Containertüren Die Türen müssen sich vollständig schließen und verriegeln lassen.
Türdichtungen Dichtungen müssen ausreichend anliegen und vor eindringendem Regenwasser schützen.
Containerboden Keine größeren Löcher oder offenen Stellen zum Untergrund.
Lichttest Bei geschlossenem Container sollte durch Dach, Wände und Türen kein Tageslicht sichtbar sein. Lüftungsöffnungen sind davon ausgenommen.
Optischer Zustand Dellen, Lackschäden, Rostspuren, Verfärbungen und fachgerechte Reparaturen sind möglich.
Transportfähigkeit Nicht Bestandteil der WWT-Einstufung. Sie muss bei Bedarf separat geprüft werden.
CSC-Zulassung Nicht automatisch enthalten. Eine gültige CSC-Prüfung ist gesondert zu kontrollieren.
Typische Nutzung Stationäre Lagerung von Werkzeugen, Materialien, Maschinen und verpackten Waren.

When is a container considered Wind and Watertight?

For a WWT container, the components that protect the interior from the elements are specifically inspected:

  • Roof: No holes or open damage.
  • Side walls: Closed and free of water-permeable cracks.
  • Doors: Must close completely.
  • Door seals: Must fit securely and protect against rainwater.
  • Floor: No open areas or major punctures.
  • Repairs: Must be watertight and suitable for the intended use.
  • Ventilation openings: Present, but structurally protected against direct rain.

A common inspection method is the light test. This involves checking the closed container from the inside. Visible daylight can indicate holes or leaks.

What are WWT containers used for?

WWT containers are primarily suitable for stationary applications:

  • Storage of tools and machinery
  • Storage of building materials and supplies
  • Temporary storage space on construction sites
  • Additional storage area on company premises
  • Storage of furniture and packaged goods
  • Basis for simple container conversions

Whether a WWT container is suitable for sensitive goods depends on its specific condition and the requirements regarding temperature, humidity, and cleanliness.

WWT does not mean condensation-free

A wind- and watertight container can still develop moisture inside. Condensation occurs when warm, humid air meets cold steel surfaces.

For sensitive goods, additional measures may be necessary:

  • adequate ventilation
  • insulation of the container
  • moisture absorbers
  • Clearance between cargo and outer walls
  • adequate ventilation at the site
  • regular inspection of the interior

Terminology: WWT, Cargo Worthy, and IICL

  • Wind and Watertight (WWT): The container protects the interior from wind and penetrating rainwater. This classification refers primarily to weather-tightness.
  • Cargo Worthy (CW): The container is suitable for cargo transport following a technical inspection.
  • IICL: The container meets stricter condition and repair criteria and is generally in better overall condition.
  • One-Way Container: A like-new container that has typically completed only one loaded sea voyage.
  • As-is Container: The container is sold in its current condition without any guaranteed WWT or CW classification.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is a WWT container completely waterproof?

WWT means that when the container is closed, no rainwater should enter through holes, damage, or faulty seals. However, the term does not imply a pressure-tight construction.

Can a WWT container be shipped?

Not based on the WWT classification alone. For international freight transport, the container must meet technical transportability standards, pass the CSC inspection, and fulfill other requirements.

Is a WWT container automatically Cargo Worthy?

No. A container can be wind and watertight without meeting the technical requirements for cargo transport.

Is a WWT container in good visual condition?

Not necessarily. Dents, paint damage, traces of rust, discoloration, and previous repairs are possible. The decisive factor is the seal, not the appearance.

Can condensation form inside a WWT container?

Yes. WWT protects against water entering from the outside. Condensation, however, is caused by temperature differences and humidity inside the container.

Is a WWT container suitable for storage?

In many cases, yes. However, before storing items, you should check the floor, doors, seals, odor, cleanliness, and any potential moisture.

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