The Evolution of Shipping Containers

Since the dawn of man, there has always been a need for shipping containers. However, It wasn’t until the mid-20th century that these revolutionary methods of transport were invented. Made from durable and efficient materials, shipping containers have undoubtedly changed the transport industry – and may be on the verge of evolving several others!

As a timeline, this informative blog will examine the key developments of the shipping container. What started as a nifty method of moving goods has slowly turned into a pillar of worldwide export. ContainerCo is one of New Zealand’s largest independent shipping container depots, and we understand the vital importance that shipping containers play in our global economy.

Where Was The First Shipping Container Made?

The first shipping container was invented and patented in 1956. Business owner, Malcolm McLean, was the inventor and frequently used the resulting box as a means of transport for his trucking business. The largest trucking business in the USA at the time, McLean observed an exponential increase in productivity and efficiency.

Prior to the invention of the shipping container, McLean would typically use large wooden crates to transport items. Wood, however, is not the best material for travelling across the state or country. Why not create a shipping container that could be standardised for trucks across the country and, ultimately – the world?

Moreover, the steel material used to make shipping containers is exceptionally durable against harsh weather and external factors. When wood gets wet, it immediately loses a lot of its structural integrity and decreases the security of the packaging. Additionally, the contents of the wooden crate would now be vulnerable to water damage.

Why Have Shipping Containers Become So Popular?

After the invention of shipping containers by McLean, the rest of America, and the world, quickly followed suit. The global economy works best when everything is run efficiently. Seeing the effectiveness of these steel boxes, it should be no surprise that major companies relying on export turned to metal, element-proof shipping containers.

Meeting a range of needs for several businesses, shipping containers are now commonly seen for:

General export
Warehouse logistics
Intermodal freight
Removals
Mining
Defence

Are Shipping Containers Difficult To Maintain in the Long-Term?

The maintenance of shipping containers is no different to any other item. If regular checks and maintenance schedules are in place, you can increase the longevity of your shipping container. Shipping containers are made from a specialised material called Corten Steel, a very robust and sturdy metal. Sheets of this steel are used to construct the box shape; however, they are not indestructible.

The purpose of buying a shipping container will determine the extent of regular maintenance. Is this 20 ft shipping container going to be kept in one location, or will it be used for export? If a shipping container stays in one spot, it will require maintenance but perhaps less than one that handles rough sea conditions.

A shipping container that is hauled across New Zealand or the world is likely to experience harsh conditions from the international seas. Although a unique paint is applied to the shipping container to prevent it, rusting can still occur.

Read ‘How To Protect Your Shipping Container From Rust’ for more information on shipping container rust treatments.

What Else Are Shipping Containers Used For Today?

Although the invention of the shipping container came from one problem regarding cargo – there has grown further uses for shipping containers. As the go-to option for construction site offices, these steel boxes are now just as standard on sites as building equipment.

However, you’ll notice that these shipping containers have clearly been modified. Cutting window holes, installing doors, and even basic plumbing can allow architects, engineers or managers to have a safe and secure location on-site to conduct their business.

Furthermore, there have even been several hospitality establishments that have explored the possibility of shipping container restaurants, cafes and bars. As a way of being nifty, fun and creative, there are several places, even in New Zealand, that offer their delicious food and drink via a modified shipping container.

Read ‘Why A Shipping Container Is The Perfect Tool For Hospitality’ for more information.

ContainerCo

At ContainerCo, we pride ourselves on providing an extensive range of shipping containers for hire or purchase. Our range of 10ft, 20ft and 40ft containers can be used for various purposes, including shipment, storage or construction, to name a few. Featuring more than just containers in our product range, we also sell accessories and parts for shipping containers to ensure your container can be maintained and repaired after prolonged use.

Offering specialised containers along with dry standard variations, ContainerCo’s containers include refrigerated, dangerous goods, high-ball, open-top and side-opening options. As a fully-established shipping container company, we also have the facilities to modify purchased shipping containers. In addition, our specialised team can assist you with altering containers into workspaces, cafes, tiny homes or construction site offices.

We can serve Kiwis across the country with facilities operating in Auckland, Tauranga, Christchurch, Wellington and Waikato. So next time you require a shipping container, hire or buy yours at ContainerCo today!