Buying a sea container: history, usage and tips for buying

The origin of the shipping container: A turning point in global trade

The modern shipping container as we know it today was built in 1956 by Malcolm McLean, an American entrepreneur, developed. His idea of using standardized containers to transport goods laid the foundation for containerization and therefore for today's logistics sector.

How containerization changed trade:

Increasing efficiency: Thanks to standardized dimensions, containers can be transported seamlessly between ships, trains and trucks (intermodal transport).
Cost reduction: The container significantly reduced loading and unloading costs.
Trade growth: Containerization has helped international trade grow exponentially.

According to a study by World Trade Organization (WTO) Does the introduction of shipping containers have transport costs reduced by up to 50%. Here are a few key factors:

Reduced loading and unloading times:
- Before containerization: Goods were sold individually and manually loaded, what time-consuming and personnel-intensive was.
- With containers: Entire quantities of goods are combined in a single container, which means Reloading processes accelerates strongly and the Reduced workload.
More efficient use of means of transport:
- Intermodal transportation: Containers can hassle-free between ships, trains and trucks reloaded without the need to repack the load. This results in seamless integration of different types of transport and optimizes the use of resources.
- Better use of space: Standardised containers make optimal use of available space on ships, allowing more goods to be transported at once.
Reducing transport damage and theft:
- Protection of goods: The robust construction of containers shields the transported goods before weathering effects and damage, resulting in fewer losses and lower insurance costs.
- Safety: Closed and lockable containers reduce the risk of theft and manipulation during transportation.
Cost reductions through standardization:
- Automation and economies of scale: The uniform size and structure of the containers have become automation The Loading and unloading processes guided. This in turn enables the use of modern technology and reduces operating costs.
- Fewer transhipments: Since containers can be transferred directly from one means of transport to the next, there is no need for multiple redeployments that previously caused additional costs.

As a result of these improvements, operational processes were not only optimized, but also significant savings in labor, handling and transportation costs were achieved.

The importance of shipping containers in international trade

Today, shipping containers account for the majority of global trade volumes: Around 80% of goods traded worldwide are transported in containers.

Data and facts:

Each year, more than 1.8 billion tons of goods moved in containers.
Most common cargo: electronics, clothing, machinery and food.
Most important trade routes: Asia-Europe (via the Suez Canal) and Pacific trade route (USA-China).

Die containerization has not only accelerated trade, but has also changed the way companies plan and optimize their supply chains.

What makes shipping containers so robust?

The unique construction of shipping containers makes them ideal for international trade and versatile use.

Corten steel — the heart of the container:

Weather-resistant: The protective layer prevents rusting, even under extreme conditions.
Durable: With proper care, a container can 20 to 30 years be used.
Sustainable: The steel is completely recyclable.

Soils: An underrated component:

wooden floors: Mostly made of plywood, they offer stability and durability.
steel or bamboo floors: For special requirements such as liquid transportation or sustainable construction projects.

Practical tips for buying shipping containers

1. New or used:

new: Ideal for long-term projects, renovations or when aesthetics play a role.
used: Budget-friendly and environmentally friendly, but watch out for damage such as rust or broken seals.

Define purpose
Set a budget
Determine container size
Check condition (for used containers)
Check the CSC sticker
Organize transportation and delivery

2. Size and usage:

Before you choose a container, you should clearly define what you need it for:

20-foot container: Perfect for storage solutions and smaller shipments.‍
40 foot container: Ideal for large shipments or projects that require a lot of storage space.

Sea container dimensions

containers

external dimensions, internal dimensions (L x W x H)

weight/ volume

20 foot sea container

6.06 m x 2.44 m x 2.59 m

5.89 m x 2.35 m x 2.39 m

‍empty weight: 2280 kg
Max. gross weight: 30480 kg
volume: 33.1 m³

20 foot side door sea container

6.06 m x 2.44 m x 2.59 m

5.89 m x 2.29 m x 2.30 m

‍empty weight: 3080 kg
Max. gross weight: 30480 kg
volume: 33.1 m³

20 foot open-top shipping container

6.06 m x 2.44 m x 2.59 m

5.89 m x 2.35 m x 2.35 m

‍empty weight: 2250 kg
Max. gross weight: 30480 kg
volume: 32.6 m³

20 foot double door sea container

6.06 m x 2.44 m x 2.59 m

5.85 m x 2.35 m x 2.28 m

‍empty weight: 2300 kg
Max. gross weight: 30480 kg
volume: 33.1 m³

20 foot high cube sea container

6.06 m x 2.44 m x 2.89 m

5.89 m x 2.35 m x 2.69 m

‍empty weight: 2150 kg
Max. gross weight: 30480 kg
volume: 37.4 m³

20 foot high cube double door sea container

6.06 m x 2.44 m x 2.89 m

5.85 m x 2.35 m x 2.69 m

‍empty weight: 2450 kg
Max. gross weight: 30480 kg
volume: 37.1 meters³

20 foot high cube side door sea container

6.06 m x 2.44 m x 2.89 m

5.89 m x 2.29 m x 2.60 m

‍empty weight: 3250 kg
Max. gross weight: 30480 kg
volume: 35.2 m³

20 foot high cube full side access sea container

6.06 m x 2.44 m x 2.89 m

5.85 m x 2.24 m x 2.60 m

‍empty weight: 4270 kg
Max. gross weight: 30480 kg
volume: 33.9 meters³

30 foot sea container

9.06 m x 2.44 m x 2.59 m

8.90 m x 2.33 m x 2.35 m

‍empty weight: 2850 kg
Max. gross weight: 30480 kg
volume: 50 meters³

30 foot high cube sea container

9.06 m x 2.44 m x 2.89 m

8.85 m x 2.33 m x 2.65 m

‍empty weight: 2900 kg
Max. gross weight: 30480 kg
volume: 50 meters³

40 foot sea container

12.19 m x 2.44 m x 2.59 m

12.03 m x 2.35 m x 2.39 m

‍empty weight: 3380 kg
Max. gross weight: 30480 kg
volume: 67.6 m³

40 foot high cube sea container

12.19 m x 2.44 m x 2.89 m

12.03 m x 2.35 m x 2.69 m

‍empty weight: 3480 kg
Max. gross weight: 30480 kg
volume: 76.3 m³

40 foot high cube double door sea container

12.19 m x 2.44 m x 2.89 m

11.98 m x 2.35 m x 2.69 m

‍empty weight: 4000 kg
Max. gross weight: 30480 kg
volume: 75.9 m³

40 foot high cube side door sea container

12.19 m x 2.44 m x 2.89 m

12.03 m x 2.29 m x 2.38 m

‍empty weight: 6480 kg
Max. gross weight: 35500 kg
volume: 68.0 m³

45 foot high cube sea container

13.71 m x 2.50 m x 2.89 m

13.56 m x 2.35 m x 2.69 m

‍empty weight: 4640 kg
Max. gross weight: 32500 kg
volume: 85.8 m³

45 foot high cube palletwide sea container

13.71 m x 2.50 m x 2.89 m

13.56 m x 2.44 m x 2.69 m

‍empty weight: 4860 kg
Max. gross weight: 34000 kg
volume: 89.2 meters³

All dimensions are subject to change. Deviations are possible.

Impact of containerization on the global economy

1. Globalization:

The shipping container has enabled the creation of global supply chains, as goods can be transported more efficiently and cost-effectively.

2. Economic growth:

Ports such as Shanghai, Rotterdam and hamburg owe their rise to the booming container trade.
Countries such as China and Vietnam have developed into global production centers thanks to containerization.

3. Challenges:

Shortages: Global supply chains are vulnerable to disruptions (e.g. blockage of the Suez Canal).
Sustainability: Old containers must be disposed of or reused in an environmentally friendly manner.

Legal frameworks and global standards

Legal requirements and international standards are an important aspect of the purchase and use of shipping containers:

International regulations:
Containers are subject to uniform standards worldwide, which are set out in international agreements. This includes, for example, the CSC sticker (Container Safety Convention), which confirms that the container meets the required safety and stability standards.
Customs and transportation regulations:
When importing and exporting containers, country-specific customs and transport regulations must be observed. These regulations not only ensure smooth processes in international trade, but also contribute to the security and sustainability of supply chains.
- German customs:
  On the official website zoll.de receive up-to-date information on import and export regulations, customs tariffs and other relevant regulations.
- European Commission — Customs and Taxation:
  The European Commission's website on the subject Taxation and customs union provides detailed insights into EU regulations that are important for international trade.
- World Trade Organization (WTO):
  Under wto.org You will find studies, reports and information on global trade regulations, which also cover customs and transportation aspects.
- International Maritime Organization (IMO):
  The IMO (imo.org) also provides information on international transport and safety standards in maritime transport.

Conclusion: The right shipping container for your needs

sea container have not only revolutionized global trade, but also offer a wide range of applications for individual projects — be it in the area of logistics, sustainable construction or creative usage concepts. With their robust design and standardized construction, they enable efficient Transport and storage solutions, reduce costs and optimize processes.

Whether you opt for a new container or choose a used container that is budget-friendly and sustainable, thorough planning is the key to success. Take into account the intended use, the appropriate size and the condition of the container. A careful review of structural integrity, tightness, and documentation (e.g. CSC sticker) is essential to purchase a safe and reliable container.

Start your project with a well-thought-out concept and benefit from the various advantages that sea containers offer.

Buying a sea container: How to make the right choice

The origin of the shipping container: A turning point in global trade

How containerization changed trade:

The importance of shipping containers in international trade

Data and facts:

What makes shipping containers so robust?

Corten steel — the heart of the container:

Practical tips for buying shipping containers

1. New or used:

2. Size and usage:

Sea container dimensions

20 foot sea container

20 foot side door sea container

20 foot open-top shipping container

20 foot double door sea container

20 foot high cube sea container

20 foot high cube double door sea container

20 foot high cube side door sea container

20 foot high cube full side access sea container

30 foot sea container

30 foot high cube sea container

40 foot sea container

40 foot high cube sea container

40 foot high cube double door sea container

40 foot high cube side door sea container

45 foot high cube sea container

45 foot high cube palletwide sea container

Impact of containerization on the global economy

Legal frameworks and global standards

Conclusion: The right shipping container for your needs

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