At Container Technology Inc. (CTI), we spend a lot of time and effort helping people decide between the different types of shipping container | storage container – different lengths, heights, and conditions. Sometimes even to the point that we lose sight of the most important part—what's going inside the container itself! To ensure that your valuable items are properly protected, it is important to consider whether your shipping container has adequate ventilation.

A shipping container storage container is more than just the giant metal box that it appears to be. Every shipping container is constructed to withstand the rigors of shipping on the open ocean. They can handle almost anything that is thrown at them—extreme weather, harsh physical environments – with ease.

But the very design and construction that makes the shipping container ideal for storage can also cause problems for your stored items. For example, if moisture gets into the container, then it can't get out. While shipping containers | storage containers are built with small pressure vents that allow the unit to breathe, they are not sufficient to create functional ventilation inside the container.

For this reason, ensuring that you have adequate ventilation is essential. Proper ventilation becomes even more important if you are placing your container in an environment where temperatures fluctuate drastically or when you are storing temperature or moisture sensitive items.

The easiest way to ensure that your shipping container | storage container has the ventilation you require is to modify your container with a roof-top turbine vent, fixed louver vent, or exhaust fan. Just contact CTI to find out what option is best for you.

Shipping containers | storage containers have a variety of applications and we know that every client has different needs for their portable storage but if you are planning on storing any of the following items in your container, you may want to consider ventilation.

Household Items

If you are storing household items-proper ventilation is key, whether it's for a remodel, move, donation drive, or other purpose. If any moisture reaches your items and is sealed inside your container without any air circulation – your items can warp, mold, and mildew. Temperature changes-- such an extreme heat can also damage your items. Of course, proper packing of your household items can help, but they cannot guarantee protection like proper ventilation can.

Heavy Machinery & Automobiles

While heavy machinery and automobiles seem like they're designed to stand up to heavy use and abuse, properly ventilated storage helps to ensure that they will run properly.

In order to keep your machinery in top condition and operating well, it is critical to keep it at a safe temperature range and allow air circulation. Extreme temperatures can undermine the integrity of your machinery and could even cause it to be damaged beyond repair. Additionally, if moisture is introduced to the shipping container and is sealed in, rust and mold could develop.

Automobiles contain flammable liquids and are made up of materials which can suffer from exposure to heat or moisture. Vehicle parts like engines, vehicle fluids, and delicate internal systems also require ventilated storage.

Dry Goods

Ventilation is a must when storing dry goods. In a sealed or poorly ventilated container, goods can gather condensation, which damages your product and can even cause rot. Adequate ventilation preserving your valuable goods can save money in the long run by helping to keep your container dry and cool.

Certain Chemicals/Pressurized Gases

If you work in construction or other types of heavy industry, chemicals and pressurized gases are everyday tools. Some chemicals are fine in an unmodified storage unit, but you will need a ventilated shipping container if you are storing chemicals that are flammable. Check the legal requirements for each chemical you are planning on storing before placing it in your storage container. There are certain chemicals that cannot be stored in an enclosed space under any circumstance.

Like chemicals, pressurized gas containers have a lot of legal requirements for their storage. To comply with the law, pressurized gas storage must maintain a safe temperature and be well ventilated. Check on the specific restrictions of your product before you plan on utilizing a shipping container.

About Us

At Container Technology Inc., we work with customers on a daily basis to find the perfect storage solution for their needs and budget. With over 75 years of combined experience in the storage industry, we can meet almost any need. We can also modify your container with a number of different flooring, entry doors, window, ventilation, and lighting options. Contact us today at (877) 670-0229 to speak with one of our knowledgeable and friendly service representatives or get an online quote now.

Storing these Items? Consider Ventilating Your Shipping Container

Container Technology is a member of the Container Alliance Partnership offering portable storage containers for sale as well as shipping containers for rent across north America, for more information visit Container Alliance.

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