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How are Shipping Containers Made?
Explore the step-by-step process of how shipping containers are made, from raw steel to the final durable, weather-resistant structures used for global transport.
Roughly 95% of all shipping containers are produced in China, with nearly all being produced by three manufacturers. Shipping containers, made from robust [Corten steel](https://www.eveoncontainers.com/en-US/resources/shipping-container-types-and-specifications), undergo meticulous manufacturing steps including cutting, welding, and protective measures to ensure strength and durability during transportation and storage.
Shipping containers are manufactured using durable steel materials. The process commences with a large sheet of steel that is subsequently cut into smaller sections. These sections are then corrugated and welded together to enhance their strength and structural integrity.
The majority of shipping containers are constructed from a type of steel known as [Corten steel](https://www.eveoncontainers.com/en-US/news/market-insights/what-is-a-container-made-of), also referred to as "weathering steel". Corten steel is an alloyed steel that contains other metals which react when exposed to air and water. This reaction leads to the formation of a protective layer of oxidation that prevents further corrosion of the metal.
## The Manufacturing Process of Shipping Containers
It all begins with a sizable sheet of steel, serving as the foundation for each container. This sheet is carefully cut into multiple pieces. To ensure cleanliness and eliminate any impurities, the sheets undergo sand-blasting and priming.
During the subsequent stages, the sheets are corrugated to enhance their strength, and the wall panels are expertly welded together. Additionally, square tubing is welded to the top of the walls for added reinforcement. The floors of the containers are meticulously crafted using sturdy and resilient wood that has been treated with a protective spray to prevent insect infestations. The floor panels and frame are produced separately. The door and corner post assembly follows suit. First, the doors are installed on the floor frame, followed by the attachment of the wall panels. Next, the corner posts, walls, and doors are skillfully welded in place. Finally, the roof panel is assembled and securely attached.
The concluding stages of the manufacturing process involve priming and painting the container to safeguard it against weather-related damage. The flooring panels are carefully varnished to shield the wood from potential water damage, and the floor is then installed within the frame. Rubber seals are fitted onto the doors to ensure a watertight seal, and the bottom of the container is made water-resistant.
Created to Withstand Transportation and Provide Reliable Storage Solutions
1. Raw Material Preparation
- Corten steel sheets are sourced, which are corrosion-resistant and designed for outdoor durability. - Steel sheets are cut into required sizes: sidewalls, roof, floor support, or doors.2. Corrugation & Panel Formation
- The steel sheets are corrugated to increase structural strength and reduce flexing. - Side panels, roof panels, and end walls are shaped and prepared.3. Floor Frame Construction
- The bottom frame consists of steel cross members and bottom rails. - These are welded together to form a strong base.4. Corner Posts & Sidewalls Assembly
- Four corner posts (critical for stacking and lifting) are welded to the base. - Sidewalls are welded to the bottom frame and corner posts5. Roof Panel Installation
- The roof panel is placed on top and welded securely. - Reinforcements are added for additional strength.6. Door Fabrication & Installation
- The container doors are made separately, ensuring they are watertight and durable. - Hinges, locking bars, and sealing gaskets are added. - The doors are welded to the rear frame and tested for smooth operation.7. Flooring Installation
- A [marine-grade plywood](https://www.eveoncontainers.com/en-US/what-is-a-container-made-of) (typically 28mm thick) is bolted onto the steel cross members. - The [flooring](https://www.eveoncontainers.com/en-US/news/market-insights/what-is-the-floor-of-a-shipping-container-made-of) is treated for water resistance and durability.8. Surface Treatment & Painting
- The entire container is sandblasted to remove any rust or debris. - An anti-corrosion primer coating is applied. - A final protective paint coat (often polyurethane-based) is applied in multiple layers.9. Quality Control & Testing
- The container is checked for dimensional accuracy and welding strength. - Waterproofing tests ensure no leaks in the structure. - A final door operation test ensures proper sealing.
## Built to Last: The Legacy of Containers
The journey of a shipping container—from raw steel to a durable, weather-resistant structure—is a fascinating process that ensures reliability for global transport. For more about how the containers changed the world, watch this video about truck driver Malcom McLean, who invented the shipping container.
### Find Your Perfect Container with Eveon
Whether for storage or creative repurposing, containers are built to last. If you're looking for a sustainable and cost-effective solution, consider purchasing a used shipping container from Eveon.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Shipping containers, made from robust Corten steel, undergo meticulous manufacturing steps including cutting, welding, and protective measures to ensure strength and durability during transportation and storage.
- Depending on their size, a shipping containers weight will vary. Standard [20ft shipping containers](https://www.eveoncontainers.com/en-US/used-20ft-shipping-container) have a tare weight of 4,914 lbs. Standard [40ft shipping containers](https://www.eveoncontainers.com/en-US/used-40ft-shipping-container) have a tare weight of 8,159 lbs. Standard [40ft High Cube shipping containers](https://www.eveoncontainers.com/en-US/used-40ft-high-cube-shipping-container) have a tare weight of 8,747 lbs.
- One great feature of shipping containers is that they [can be stacked](https://www.eveoncontainers.com/en-US/stacking-shipping-containers-maximizing-storage-and-onsite-real-estate) up to eight containers high, even when fully loaded. But of course, to do it safely, you have to follow a few simple rules, like stacking the containers with corner posts aligned and securing the containers with twist locks. It is advised that containers of the same size are stacked since they will be more secure. There are companies out there that have equipment to handle stacking. Please consult an expert before attempting.