Shipping Containers Vs. Storage Trailers: Which is Right ...

Shipping Containers Vs. Storage Trailers: Which is Right for Your Business?

When considering a Philadelphia storage container rental, you might be debating whether a trailer or a container better fits your company’s needs. Though they may appear similar, significant functional differences exist between the two. To make an informed decision, it’s essential to understand the distinct advantages each option offers before choosing between 20' and 40' shipping containers.

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Mobility vs. Stationary Solutions

A key factor in deciding between a storage trailer and a container is how frequently you need to move it. For businesses that require regular transportation of products, trailers are the ideal choice due to their built-in wheels and axles, offering greater mobility. In contrast, moving containers necessitates a bed truck, flatbed, or other specialized vehicles.

If your business needs a stationary storage unit, shipping containers in 20' and 40' sizes are highly recommended. Containers open at ground level, eliminating the need for ramps or ladders, making them suitable for extended stays.

Duration of Storage Needed

The duration for which you need storage is another crucial detail. Shipping containers were originally designed to transport goods across oceans, making them robust and capable of withstanding extreme weather and disasters. This durability ensures the protection of stored products.

Similarly, storage trailers are durable, built to endure various weather conditions as they were previously used for over-the-road goods transportation. Both options provide excellent long-term storage, safeguarding your valuables from outdoor elements.

Cost and Maintenance

When deciding whether to rent or purchase a 20' or 40' shipping container, both options are similarly priced. Renting a container or trailer offers an economical storage solution for your business.

Containers generally require less maintenance compared to trailers. Owners only need to oil the doors and check for leaks to prevent water damage. In contrast, storage trailers require regular maintenance of tires, brakes, and other components if they are moved frequently.

Dimensions and Capacity

The size and shape of the storage unit can also influence your choice. If a wider storage solution is required, consider our trailers. They offer ample space for products and allow employees to use pallets within the trailers to transport goods efficiently.

While containers may not be as wide as trailers, their design offers unique benefits. Containers lack axles and wheels, facilitating easy ground-level loading and unloading.

If your business is interested in 20' and 40' shipping containers available in PA, contact AUTONE today for more information.

Transporting Modified Shipping Containers

The most common and recommended method for transporting a modified shipping container is by using a tractor-trailer. However, certain scenarios may necessitate mounting the container on a chassis (a frame on wheels that carries the container).

If your company frequently moves containers over poorly maintained roads or requires additional height on-site, a chassis might be the ideal solution.

Can You Put a Shipping Container on a Trailer?

Typically, modified shipping containers are placed directly on the ground or on a pre-poured foundation. However, they can also be securely positioned on a trailer using a specialty forklift or crane. Here are two scenarios where a chassis (or shipping container trailer) was the right solution to meet height or location challenges.

Use Case 1: Chassis Elevates Equipment Storage

One customer needed storage for emergency equipment near their warehouse with a raised loading dock. The goal was to place the container near the dock for easy access without occupying dock space, ensuring quick emergency responses.

A chassis elevated the storage container, making it level with the loading dock. This allowed employees to access equipment swiftly without using stairs. The ability to hitch and move the container around the warehouse when needed added convenience.

This setup ensured the container-based storage was flush with the warehouse loading docks, thanks to the chassis.

Use Case 2: Chassis Handles Rough Roads

Another customer required temporary housing for oil field workers at wellheads. Given the rough roads leading to oil fields, traditional travel trailers and motorhomes were unsuitable due to frequent damage.

We provided chassis-mounted container-based living spaces, offering durability and ease of transport. This solution reduced long-term costs and enhanced worker comfort by withstanding the challenging journey and harsh climate.

Transporting a Container on a Chassis

Transporting a container mounted on a chassis is straightforward. Most customers use a six-wheel chassis with 10-ply tires and a gooseneck hitch suited for a heavy-duty pickup truck.

Note: Businesses using a chassis for shipping containers usually have significant resources. For private individuals, the associated costs, time, and resources might be prohibitive. Consider all factors carefully before starting a container-based project as discussed in our blog post "Think Twice about Shipping Container Homes, Pools, and Bunkers."

Thinking a chassis trailer could make a modified shipping container more suitable for your project? We can help determine if this method meets your specific needs. Contact us at 877-704- or email us for more information.

For further insights on container semi trailers, reach out to our experienced sales team for tailored solutions.