Shipping containers are a cost-effective storage solution for corporations and homeowners. They have plenty of room for merchandise, supplies, and personal things. They can also store automobiles, such as vintage or seasonal vehicles. Car storage containers manufactured from shipping containers are an excellent option for people with excess vehicles that won’t fit in their garages. They give your cars a safe and secure storage alternative, protecting them from the elements and any theft. Seasonal and off-road vehicles can also be stored inside until appropriate. Following a short guide explaining the necessary changes and requirements is vital to ensuring that you purchase the suitable shipping container for your purposes.

What Shipping Container Grade Should You Choose?

containers, you will discover three grades: one-trip, cargo-worthy, and wind-and-watertight. A one-trip container is pristine and has only been used once, with no noticeable cosmetic damage. It is more expensive than the other grades but is the easiest to convert into a car storage container.

On the other hand, Cargo-worthy containers have been used for cargo transportation for several years. While still in good condition, these containers may exhibit light damage, such as dents, scratches, and rust patches. You may need to touch it up if you plan to use it as a car storage container. However, cargo-worthy containers are less costly than one-trip containers.

Wind-and-watertight containers are the final grade to consider. These containers are typically between 12-18 years old but can be older. Although they may show more wear and tear than other grades, they are still suitable for storage. They are well-sealed against the elements, ensuring that whatever you store inside remains safe and dry. Although they are usually less expensive than other grades, their appearance may require more effort and improvement.

No matter your grade, any shipping container can be used for car storage.

What Shipping Container Length Should You Choose?

If you’re looking for a shipping container to use as a car storage unit, you’ll want to consider the wind-and-watertight grade. These containers may have more wear and tear, such as dents, scratches, and rust patches, but they should still be well-sealed against the elements. They’re also more affordable than other grades, but if you want to spruce up the appearance of your container, it will require more effort and expense.

When choosing a shipping container, you’ll also need to consider the length. Standard sizes are 20 feet and 40 feet, with a 20ft container ideal for a single car and a 40ft container for two cars. If you need to store more vehicles, purchase multiple containers or convert them into a larger building with reinforced structural support. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your budget and aesthetic preferences.

What Shipping Container Height Should You Choose?

There are two container height options: standard shipping containers and high-cube containers. From the outside, standard shipping containers stand 8’6″ tall. They are 7’10” tall from the inside and have doors that are 7’5″ height. 

High-cube shipping containers stand one foot taller than standard shipping containers. They are approximately 9′ 6″ tall from the outside and 8’10” tall from the inside, with doors that are 8’5″ tall. 

So, which one should you go with? It is determined by the size of your car and the amount of ceiling space desired. If you drive a tall vehicle, a high-cube container will provide more clearance than a standard container. This should make entering and exiting the storage container easier.

What Modifications Should You Make?

You should consider making some changes to your shipping container in order to transform it into a long-term storage place for your vehicles.

Slab Foundation :

If you intend to use a shipping container for an extended period, install it on a slab foundation. Simply leaving it on the ground may cause it to shift or tilt over time. Turning and tilting might cause the container doors to deform and become challenging to open. A level cement slab base will provide long-term durability for your storage container.

Electrical Connections :

Electrical wiring can be put within a storage container. You can use this wiring to add interior/exterior lighting, security systems, and other things that require a steady power supply. It will be more than just a blue box where you park your car.

Wall Insulation :

Wall insulation will aid in condensation management within the container. Without insulation, the automobile’s interior may become moist, which is unsuitable for long-term storage. Interior walls can be insulated with rigid foam board. If you choose spray foam insulation or fibreglass batt insulation, you must engage a professional to install it.

Roll-Up Doors :

You could replace the original hinged container doors with roll-up doors. As a result, your storage container will behave more like a typical garage.

Driving Ramp :

There are no ramps built into shipping containers. Install one at the exit to make driving the automobile into and out of the container as easy as possible. 

You don’t have to start from scratch to have a place for long-term car storage. You can convert a shipping container for a fraction of the price and have plenty of space to keep your cars. Shipping containers are a good solution for car storage.