Damaged Shipping Containers: How to Repair Common Types of Damage

Shipping containers are used to transport and store large, heavy loads. Therefore, damaging them is hard to avoid. But this is no big deal. In this article, you will find information about the types of damage to shipping containers, how you can preserve them, and how to fix damaged containers. Shipping container repair is essential for maintaining the integrity and functionality of containers used for storage, transportation, and various other purposes so we will help you with these matters.

5 Common Types of Shipping Container Damage

Shipping container repairs are crucial to extend the lifespan of containers and ensure they meet safety and quality standards for transportation and storage. In order to understand how to repair shipping containers, you need first to identify the type of damage. Let’s look at the most common types of shipping container damage:

Rust on the shipping container

Shipping containers are usually made from industrial-grade steel. This material makes the containers very sturdy and can withstand high loads for a long time. But the disadvantage of steel is its propensity to rust. The most common causes of rust are adverse weather conditions, moisture, and damage to the container during transportation. Most often you will notice rust on the bottom of the container, on the shipping container door, or in the seams.

Refrigerated container damages

Refrigerated containers are designed to transport medicine, food, and other perishable goods. These containers are typically well-insulated and can maintain a low temperature inside. Breakdowns in such containers are more common than in standard containers. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct refrigerated shipping container repair and maintenance regularly.

Dents, scratches, and holes

By loading or unloading large heavy items, the risk of various dents and scratches is very high. Such damage can be minor or even barely noticeable. But sometimes holes can occur anyway. These damages can cause wall or roof leaks. In this way, the container loses its protective properties and becomes unsuitable for storing and transporting items.

Accessories damage

Shipping container parts such as ventilation, heating, and safety systems can also break down over time. It is important to repair a damaged shipping container part or accessories as soon as possible. Otherwise, more serious damages can occur.

Damages to the door, floor, and windows

The door is used in the shipping container most often. That is why it is prone to various damages. Besides the door, windows and the floor can also be damaged. As a rule, such damage is the result of improper use. If the door or window is damaged, it can be difficult to open and close, and the windows and door seals become worn out and loose.

Each of these damages can easily be eliminated. You just need to find the right type of repair. In the next section, find out some useful tips on how to fix damaged shipping containers.

How to Repair Damaged Shipping Containers

Before starting to repair damaged containers, examine it thoroughly and try to find all the damaged sections. You may notice some other minor, not obvious damage, such as dents, scratches, etc. Once you’ve determined the type of damage, you can start fixing it. Here are a few recommendations on how to repair damaged containers:

Rust removal

You can get rid of rust in two ways. The method you choose depends on the level of rust damage to the surface of the container. If the rust is shallow and minor, it can be removed with sandblasting. Once the rust is removed, you can repaint the container, and it will look brand-new again.

Deeper rust can cause a hole in the container. If this happens, cut out the damaged area and patch the hole with a piece of steel.

Repairing dents, holes, and scratches

Most minor dents and scratches are very easy to fix. You might even be able to do it yourself. But if the dents are extremely large, or if the container has holes in it, you may need more serious repairs, such as the use of hole patching.

Parts replacement

If parts such as the ventilation or safety systems are damaged in the shipping container, they will most likely need to be replaced. It would be reasonable to have it done by a professional. It can be a difficult and potentially dangerous job. Also, when selecting parts for the container, you should pay attention to their compliance with certification standards.

Door & floor repair

Repairing shipping container doors is a common maintenance task to address issues like hinges, locks, or seals that may affect the container’s security. Most often, the repair of doors includes replacing door seals. It is better to entrust this work to a professional. From time to time, you should also apply grease onto the hinges of the doors so that the door will open and close smoothly.

Repairing the floor is a more complicated process. If the floor is badly damaged, you may need to replace it partially or completely. Skilled professionals can perform shipping container floor replacement, ensuring a durable and safe flooring solution for various storage or modification purposes.

As you can see, it is not that difficult to repair a damaged container. After a good repair, you can use the container for different purposes for a long time. Proper shipping container maintenance and repair are essential for preserving the longevity and functionality of these containers. And don’t be afraid to buy already used containers. If you are in doubt, our company Pelican Containers will help you choose a proper old shipping container.

How to Prevent Shipping Container Damage

Due to various damages, the container becomes unusable As a consequence, it is no longer suitable for storing and transporting any products. It can no longer protect the contents from water and temperature fluctuations.

If you know how to repair containers, you can fix almost any damage. But these problems can also be avoided. If you conduct regular inspections of the container, you will notice the slightest damage, such as a small scratch or a small spot of rust. If you fix such issues early on, you won’t have to waste a lot of time and money later on shipping containers repair. Moreover, you will avoid the unpleasant consequences when the container can no longer be repaired.

It is recommended to inspect and maintain the shipping container several times a year, depending on the season. Unlike weather conditions at different times of the year can cause various types of damage to the container. Regular shipping container maintenance is crucial to prevent issues such as corrosion, leaks, and structural damage.

For example, in the winter, snow can cause the container to rust. If the container is on the ground when the snow melts, it may immerse into the soft dirt, and therefore it may be difficult to open and close the door.

In summer, the container is at risk from condensation, which can cause more rust. In order to avoid this, you should check the ventilation of the container and regularly enable the air to circulate.

Consider Pelican Containers Your Trusted Partner

You can use a shipping container not only for transporting goods by sea, but also for many other purposes. For example, you can use them to store all sorts of things. You can equip an office or even a living room. For such purposes, it is not necessary to use a new shipping container. You can buy an old one in good condition.

Pelican Containers offers both new and used shipping containers. In our catalog, you will find containers of different sizes and shapes, containers with an open side, undermount generator set, and chassis. You can be sure that all our containers are in perfect condition.

Buying a container from us is easy:

• choose a container size;
• choose the condition of the shipping container;
• leave a request on our website.

Our employee will contact you. You can ask any questions about our containers, and then they will help you place your order.