Why Is Maintenance A Must For Shipping Containers?

When it comes to regular maintenance, shipping containers are no different. Yes, containers are strong and forged from the finest steel. But let’s not forget that these steel boxes traverse the high seas during which they are subjected to various weather extremes.

 

In most cases, when minor issues are ignored, they can quickly deteriorate into major problems at any point during the trip. Consider what would happen if your shipping container broke open, exposing your goods to the weather. Suppose this happened in the middle of a shipment? It’s hard to imagine the financial loss you will incur in such a situation.

 

Ask your local shipping container manufacturer, and they will suggest regular maintenance to avoid unnecessary expenses and worries. So, how often will your shipping container need a health check-up? Experts suggest that the first maintenance should be done for new containers before the completion of five years. After that, at least once every two and a half years until it is decommissioned and sold.

 

Certification is another important criterion for maritime containers. To transport a shipping box by sea or rail, your container must carry an CSC safety approval plate with the following details:

 

• Box’s specifications

• Owner’s information

• Date of construction

• Date of the last inspection

 

Without this information, your container will not be permitted to move by rail or sea. A yearly or semi-annual maintenance will ensure your boxes fulfil all international safety standards. However, you must know what to look for when inspecting your shipping container.

 

Common Container Damages & Why They Occur

 

The life of a shipping container is no walk in the park. They are loaded, unloaded, carried by cranes onto and out of ships and trucks. In the process, they undergo plenty of damages due to:

 

• Overloading

• Irregular weight distribution

• Improper use of dunnage

• Improper placement

• Uneven stacking

• Storage of wrong cargo

• Spillage and contamination of goods

• Improper temperature control

 

During its lifetime, a well-constructed, sturdy container is likely to encounter damages such as:

 

• Dents and scratches

• Broken doors and hinges

• Broken locks

• Holes in the walls and ceiling

• Punctured flooring

• Mould due to condensation

• Damaged insulation and refrigeration

• Rust and corrosion on the walls

 

Preventive maintenance is the only solution to keeping your shipping container in prime shape. In the next half of our article, we will share some excellent tips to maintain your container’s health and quality.

 

Also Read: All You Need To Know About Reefer Containers

11 Tips To Keep Shipping Containers In Top Shape

 

1. Deal with moisture condensation

 

Container condensation or container rain is a serious issue, even though containers are designed to be water-tight. Container rain occurs inside a closed shipping container. Excessive condensation is the prime culprit behind the oxidation process. To prevent condensation, you must use:

 

• Proper insulation- To reduce the humidity levels inside the container.

• Plastic sheets- To create a vapour barrier and prevent moisture diffusion.

• Desiccants- To absorb atmospheric moisture

• Air conditioners- To transport moisture-sensitive items

 

2. Provide ample ventilation

 

Ventilation is another major requirement to prevent container rain. You may need to renovate and refit your containers with extra vents for increased circulation. This is imperative, especially if your container is stored in places with extreme temperature fluctuation.

 

3. Remove and treat rust

 

Shipping containers are built to withstand rust. However, it is quite impossible to ward off rust, given the weather extremities they are subjected to. Shipping container interiors and exteriors need a thorough inspection to spot torn, scuffed and damaged areas. These areas need to be treated immediately with rust-proofing, painting, and sealing.

 

4. Check for leakage

 

Improper use of forklifts can cause holes and punctures of all sizes. Apart from allowing rainwater to seep in, these holes can also cause moisture condensation. The best way to repair these holes is to seal them shut with welding. However, you may need to replace the entire part for large tears.

 

5. Check the roof

 

Proper roof maintenance depends on proper stacking because the container is designed to bear weight on the corners. This means the middle of the container is not designed to carry such weight. Additionally, it is important to ensure that there is no excessive pressure on the middle of the roof. Rain and snow can both cause this. If you notice a gathering of weight in the middle of your roof, make sure you clear it.

 

6. Pay attention to the doors and hinges

 

What good are shipping containers with broken doors and squeaky hinges? No good at all! The doors and hinges are the only moving parts of a container that require proper lubrication. Use a commercial grade-steel cleaner to lubricate the doors and hinges. You can also use a WD-40 to remove the accumulated grime and dirt.

 

7. Replace caulk and weather stripping  

Moisture seepage is a common risk in spaces where the caulk and weather stripping have peeled off. Regular inspection, caulk replacement, and weatherstripping will curb moisture seepage around doors, windows, and vents.

 

8. Check plumbing and electricity

 

Shipping containers fitted with plumbing connections require thorough inspection because the drain lines may shift if the container isn’t properly levelled. The same risk goes for electrical connections. Loose plumbing and wiring are always extra hazardous. The best solution is to hire a certified plumber and electrician to identify and rectify any signs of damage.

 

9. Service the refrigeration units

 

Reefers and insulated containers require regular inspection and repairs to guarantee hassle-free functioning. To address any concerns with reefers and insulated containers, you need a trained professional. If there are temperature fluctuations or major repairs, your mechanic will suggest replacing the part or servicing the unit.

 

10. Deal with dents

 

Dents are a common hazard for shipping containers, given the innumerable times they are loaded and unloaded. Dents can expose the entire unit to moisture condensation and subsequent rust and corrosion. Hence, dents should not be taken lightly. They must be repaired on a war footing before they can exacerbate the damage. 

 

11. Monitor container settling

 

Did you know that if you install your container on a soft surface, it will resettle over time? To prevent your container from settling, ensure you install it on a proper foundation with support mechanisms.

 

Do’s & Dont’s For Shipping Container Maintenance

 

Before we bid adieu, here’s a quick list of things you should and should not do with shipping container maintenance.

 

Do

 

• Purchase your containers from a reputable manufacturer or seller.

• Regularly remove any accumulated debris from the roof

• Remove all visible traces of dirt and rust

• Subject the floors, ceilings, and corners to regular inspection

• Follow manufacturer’s instructions for climate control systems

• Ensure the unit is placed on a completely flat surface

 

Dont

 

• Place excessive weight on the roof

• Buy low-quality shipping containers

• Buy a container without making a thorough inspection

 

If you implement these maintenance tips that we’ve listed, your shipping containers will be as good as new and a worthwhile investment. Are you in need of maintenance advice? Please feel free to contact our team at SuperTech Industries, Dubai, UAE.