How Long Do Shipping Containers Last?

Designed to protect precious cargo against extreme ocean conditions, shipping containers are built to last. But for how long?

The expected sea life of an ocean-going container is 10-15 years. On land, this lifespan can be doubled or more.

In this guide we’ll help you to understand the longevity you can expect from different container purchases, based on the unit you choose, the conditions it’s subjected to, and how you care for it.

The sea life of containers: a timeline

To understand the lifespan of a shipping container we should begin with the task they’re designed for: transporting freight across the open ocean. The sea life of a container typically plays out as follows:

• Years 0-5: When the container is manufactured it is given a CSC plate as proof of its sea-worthiness, which is valid for the first five years of its service life.
• Years 5-10: After the container’s fifth birthday it is checked by a certified inspector every 30 months. It is given a new CSC plate if it passes, and is repaired or retired if it doesn’t.
• Years 10+: Year 10 represents the tipping point at which container repairs become less economically viable. Many containers won’t need repairs until they are 15 years old, but at this point almost all major shipping lines (like Maersk or MSC) have sold units off.

When a container is retired from ocean transport, it is often sold to the secondary market for use as secure storage or the basis of a container conversion project.

These containers are given a grading that describes their condition, and hints at how much life they have left in them:

• Cargo worthy (CW): High quality, still up to the intense demands of international shipping, retired from ocean transport for economic reasons, not structural.
• Wind & watertight (WWT): Balances cost with quality. Still provides good protection, but may have wear and tear that led to its retirement from shipping.
• As-is: The cheapest option, may have major flaws or damage but can be refurbished.

The lifespan of new vs used containers

On the open ocean shipping containers are stacked high, and face huge swells, extreme weather and constant salt spray. By comparison, land-based containers have a very easy (and potentially far longer) life.

A retired 15-year-old container can last another 15+ years on land when properly repaired, prepared and maintained. If you treat a new container with the same care, you can expect it to comfortably extend beyond its 30th year on land.

Obviously these are very general guidelines, and precisely how long your container lasts will depend on the condition it arrives in, how well you maintain it, and how quickly you identify and make repairs into the future.

Factors that can reduce container lifespan

While shipping containers are incredibly durable, certain factors can cause them to degrade faster than they otherwise would. These include:

• Coastal corrosion: If you place your container within a few kilometres of the ocean, the salty air can gradually degrade even corrosion-resistant corten steel.
• Heat and humidity: Warm, wet climates, such as those in the tropical north, also tend to hasten corrosion.
• Standing water: Water pooling beneath the container or on the roof can corrode the metal. The plywood flooring is particularly susceptible to moisture, so standing water within the container can quickly become a serious issue.
• Condensation: Extreme temperature swings cause internal moisture, which can lead to interior rusting and flooring damage if the space isn’t properly ventilated.

Tips for extending the lifespan of your container

A shipping container is no small investment. You can ensure yours lasts as long as possible with these simple tips:

• Select: Choose the right grade – while older containers are cheaper, newer/higher quality containers can ultimately save you money by lasting far longer.
• Protect: When you take delivery of your container, fix any issues, reinforce weak spots, replace worn door seals, and give the container a fresh coat of paint.
• Position: Shield your container from the elements by placing it undercover or next to a windbreak. Elevate the container to avoid water pooling at the base.
• Inspect: Conduct a visual check of your container once a year, looking for signs of internal or excessive rust, holes, dents and leaking seals.
• Maintain: If you find any new issues, fix them before they develop into something serious – e.g. wire-brushing or spot painting newly developed rust, lubricating door hinges, etc.

By carefully planning your purchase and installation, preparing the container for its new role, conducting a 15-minute check every 12 months, and fixing any issues as soon as you see them, you can expect your container to last decades.

Find your perfect shipping container today

Ready to secure a shipping container with a long life ahead of it?

We’re here to help. At shipping-containers.com.au we’re a 100% independent platform that can guide you to a shipping container that will last. We assist you in identifying the ideal container for your situation, then we connect you with local, vetted suppliers and modification partners who can deliver.

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