Shipping Containers: An Under-appreciated Technology

Offsite Dirt published this article on Jun 27, 2021. It argues that shipping containers have uses beyond shipping and storage.

Main idea

The article encourages professionals to think more broadly about shipping containers. It presents containers as a flexible tool for new markets and new applications.

Applications

Modular building

Containers are described as a legitimate building material. The article says they can provide sustainability, structural integrity, and cost efficiencies.

• Used in residential development.
• Used in commercial development.
• Used in municipal development.
• Modern designs may use dozens of containers in one build.
• Examples include refrigerated units turned into wine cellars.
• Examples include open tops turned into pools.

Fabrication and emergency response

Containers can be quickly converted for temporary needs. The article cites drive-through testing stations and pop-up nursing stations.

• Refrigerated containers can be turned into transportable morgues.
• They are presented as useful during times of tragedy and sanitation needs.
• The article calls this a growing business opportunity.

Farming

Containers are used for storage of raw materials and heavy equipment. The article also describes agricultural and extraction uses.

• Fragrant flowers and herbs used in oils or extracts can cure well in containers.
• Some companies use reefer containers to store curing plants.
• The same containers can transport raw material and help develop products.
• The article says containers are helping shorten supply chains.

Freight forwarding

Freight forwarders often lease containers for staging and storage in ports. The article suggests buying containers instead of leasing them.

• Owned containers could be liquidated after use.
• The article presents this as a potential return on initial investment.
• It describes the approach as a long-term cost saver.