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An Introduction to Sea Containers

new sea container

Last Updated on February 26, 2024

Why buy a sea container?

Sea containers (also known as ‘shipping containers‘) are popular outside of the world of shipping and freight forwarding for many reasons; these strong, secure metal boxes have become extremely popular not only because of their strength, but also because of their durability. Containers are also available in a variety of sizes.

You have probably seen sea containers being re-purposed as secure storage units, sheds and garages, and even chemical stores, but in reality these are only a handful of examples of the many functions these popular steel boxes can perform.

What makes sea containers such a good investment?
Sea containers are designed to last a very long time indeed. When in use by the shipping industry containers are exposed to the elements in an extreme way. To survive the persistent attack of salt water and extremes of temperature sea containers are constructed using high tensile ‘Corten’ steel. Corten is an ‘Atmospheric Corrosion Resistant Steel’.

One of the qualities of Corten steel that makes it so robust is the material’s ability to retain integrity if damaged. If a Corten steel container is damaged to the extent that a hole is made, the elements are unable to get inside the fabric of the metal. This means that should a hole occur then rust is unable to spread, so the structural integrity and security of the container is not compromised. Because Corten steel remains stable under this type of stress it is easily repairable. Shipping containers are simple to repair by simple welding or patching.

Sea containers are designed from the ground up with longevity, sustainability and security as core features.

If you’re reading this and thinking ‘but I’ve seen rusty containers’ then you’re correct. Partially. When rust is seen on the exterior of shipping containers is only a very thin layer, usually throughout the paintwork, and does not affect the Corten itself.

Second hand sea container
Example of a Second hand sea container (approx. 12 years old)
new sea container
Example of a New (once used) sea container

Ensuring our second-hand sea containers represent excellent value for money

We calculate the value of second-hand sea containers based on the age of the container being sold, the overall condition and availability. The price of new shipping containers is based on the US dollar, Chinese labour rate and material costs.

Billie Box containers represent not only great value for money, but are also a good long-term investment. Contact us to find out more.