Most industries use a 20 foot shipping container to move their products from port to port via ship or across country via truck or rail. Today, approximately 90% of the cargo moved utilizes containers stacked on ships; often they use 20 foot containers or other sizes measured in increments of 20 feet. Annually, there are over 200 million containers shipped.
However, shipping is not the only use for a 20 feet container. There are many ways you can use them to gain more space for your small business. Keep the following in mind as you face the demands of a rapidly growing business:
1. A 20 foot container is still the best way to ship your products or receive products, especially to or from overseas.
2. Storage containers can alleviate the growing pains of a successful business by creating extra dry storage space or even being custom built to provide more office space.
3. There are many sources to find a 20 foot container for sale, which means better prices for you.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Find 20 foot shipping containers made for shipping that you can also customize
Even if you are only using your container for shipping, you may want certain features to ensure proper delivery of your goods. Find a manufacturer who can create a shipping container that will meet the needs of your small business.
I recommend: EC Plaza Network, Inc. will match you with a manufacturer such as Shanghai Shangjin P&P Products Co. Ltd. to get the container you need. Work with
NATIONWIDE CONTAINERS' design/engineering team to build a container to match your needs such as roll-up doors, skylights or side-personnel doors.
Use a 20 feet container manufacturer to custom design your unit
In addition to shipping and dry storage, there are manufacturers who specialize in custom building containers for refrigeration and mobile offices. Choose a company who can provide features such as windows and walk-through doors or who is willing to work with you to find exactly what you need.
I recommend: The
RCS Group has been serving the InterModal industry in North and Central America and the Caribbean since 1981. Join their email list for updates on special pricing and container availability.
Maloy Mobile Storage Inc. can customize your 20 foot storage container from plumbing and windows to electrical.
Look for the best deals on a 20 foot container
Buy a used 20 foot container or buy wholesale to save even more money. You may not get all the bells and whistles of a custom-made unit, but you should still be able to ship in them.
I recommend: Storage Containers 4 You offers used storage containers at wholesale prices. Join an auction website like
Trade Me Ltd to bid on 20 foot containers.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Surprisingly, some companies are using 20 foot storage containers in home building. These companies use old storage containers to put together homes for students, underprivileged and even some bigger models with three bedrooms and 2 1/2 baths.
- Consider renting your 20 foot storage container if you will only use it temporarily.
The official source of 20-Foot Containers is the 20 Foot Container page at Business.com
Related Resources from Business.com
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