Small shipping containers are compact yet functional, making them a smart choice for a variety of sectors, from export-import needs, project storage, to business booths.
This type of container has a variety of sizes, they are the 6’, 7’, 8’, 9’, and 10’.
Their compact size makes them suitable for use in limited spaces, while still providing maximum functionality as storage space, goods transportation, and functional buildings.
Find out the 8 benefits of using small shipping containers as storage in this article!
Contents
Benefits of Using a Small Container as a Storage
Using small shipping containers for storage comes with a range of practical and economic benefits, such as:
1. Cost-Effective Storage Solution
Purchasing or renting a small container is usually cheaper than renting equivalent space in a self-storage facility long-term.
It does not require construction, permits (in many cases), or extensive groundwork. Moreover, it only needs little to no maintenance compared to traditional storage buildings.
Having a small storage container will give you long-term savings. If you do the one-time purchase, it means you have no ongoing monthly rental fees. Even rentals are often more affordable per square foot than standard storage units, especially for businesses.
2. Durability & Security
A small shipping container’s durability and security are one of the biggest reasons people choose it. Shipping containers are made from corten steel, designed to handle extreme weather and ocean transport.
The metal structure helps prevent rodents or insects from entering. It is also tough enough to withstand heavy use on construction sites or in industrial environments.
The original shipping container doors are thick, reinforced, and lockable. To enhance security, you can also add a lockbox (a welded steel cover over the padlock) to prevent bolt-cutter access.
3. Portability
Small containers are easy to move with a forklift or small truck, perfect for temporary sites or situations where mobility is needed.
You can move them from one site to another without unloading the contents. This makes them ideal for people or businesses that need flexible, on-demand storage that travels with them.
4. Space-Saving & Compact
A small shipping container is space-saving and compact enough to make it an excellent storage solution, especially when space is limited. Its small footprint makes it easy to place in driveways, backyards, tight urban lots, and job sites with limited space
The boxy, rectangular design allows for maximum internal storage volume without wasting space. You can stack items vertically or add shelving systems to keep things organized. No weird angles or curves, every inch is usable.
The small shipping container size is compact enough to avoid being intrusive in residential areas. It will fit well in parking lots, side yards, or behind buildings for small business storage.
5. Versatile Uses
A small shipping container is incredibly versatile and can be adapted for a wide variety of storage needs. Its durability, compact size, and mobility make it useful across residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
You can customize the interior with shelves, lighting, insulation, and climate control, and turn it into:
- Tool & Equipment Storage
- Home & Personal Storage
- Business Inventory Storage
- Document & File Storage
- Mobile Workshop or Repair Station
- Recreational Gear Storage
- Cleaning & Maintenance Supply Storage
- Event & Exhibition Storage
- Jobsite Storage
- Emergency or Disaster Prep Storage
6. Quick Setup
Setting up a small container for storage can be done very quickly, often within a single day. That’s one of the biggest advantages of using small shipping containers.
Containers are pre-built, so there’s no construction required. Once delivered, you can start using it immediately.
For small containers (like 6’, 8’, or 10’), all you usually need is a flat, firm surface (concrete, gravel, or compacted soil), enough space for delivery access. No foundation or major permits required in many areas.
7. Weatherproof & Watertight
Shipping containers are weatherproof and watertight, making them excellent for secure, all-weather storage. They are originally built to endure ocean transport, and are designed to withstand rain, snow, wind, extreme temperatures, and saltwater exposure.
Moreover, they have sealed doors and welded seams to prevent leaks. Also, their heavy-duty rubber door gaskets keep them airtight and watertight.
They will keep your stored goods safe from rain, wind, and moisture. Ideal for outdoor or long-term storage needs.
8. Eco-Friendly Option
Repurposing old containers reduces the demand for newly manufactured storage sheds or buildings. The activity keeps steel containers out of landfills and gives them a second life.
Many containers are available as refurbished units. Reusing shipping containers helps reduce waste and promotes sustainable practices.
Also, a small shipping container storage can be easily moved and reused elsewhere – no need to demolish or discard if your needs change.
Mini Container Variations from Tradecorp
Read this section to get a recommendation of mini containers that are available for sale and rent!
6’ Mini Container
The 6’ Mini Container is a type of cargo container that is used to transport dry goods, such as clothing, food, machinery, and other items that do not require temperature control.
The container is made of weathering Corten steel, which offers safety and durability for the cargo inside, and is designed to be stacked, loaded, and unloaded onto ships, trucks, and trains for mobility.
The Corten steel also makes the containers resistant to corrosion and impact damage.
This unit offers the peace of mind that comes from knowing your goods are safe and secure, in addition to being affordable and reusable, reducing waste and environmental impact.
Due to their smaller size, 6-foot containers are perfect for use in confined areas like a tiny backyard, a driveway, or a parking lot.
7’ Mini Container
Tradecorp’s 7’ Mini Container is a smaller-sized container. It only measures 7’ in length, making it more compact and suitable for specific storage or transport needs where a full-size container might be too large.
Therefore, this container is used in cases where space is limited or smaller loads need to be securely stored.
8’ Mini Container
For individuals who require additional space for storage, transit, or other uses, an 8’ Mini Container is a flexible and affordable alternative.
The 8’ containers are perfect for a variety of purposes because it has more internal storage space than a 6’ dry shipping container.
The 8’ container is made to be portable and is simple to move by truck.
Hence, this container unit is a great option for people who frequently move or need to keep their possessions in several locations.
Although the size is considered small, this container is durable and secure enough to keep your goods dry and safe, while it withstands the harsh weather from the sun, rain, and wind.
However, you can also reconstruct the container into personal workspaces, small art studios, coffee shops, and many other possibilities.
9’ Mini Container
Protected with the best container security features, the 9’ Mini Container from Tradecorp shows how mini containers are supposed to be made and function in helping users.
With its high-grade Corten steel construction, the 9’ Light Ivory EOD Mini Container can protect your belongings or small cargo from all external damage.
With its modest size and ample capacity, this mini container provides homes and offices with the best mini storage platform when it is impractical to use regular 20’ and 40’ shipping containers.
10’ Standard Mini Container
10’ Mini Containers are a versatile and durable storage solution that offers a secure and weather-resistant environment for your goods.
These compact and portable containers are ideal for those who require extra storage space for their businesses, homes, or construction sites.
It is designed to meet the stringent standard set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) for shipping containers and is designed to last for many years.
10’ High Cube Mini Container
Our 10’ High Cube Mini Container provides you with 1’ extra space in height without taking up any more ground space.
It has a corten anti-corrosive steel structure, which is more durable and has better rust prevention properties that will improve the life of the container.
It can last for many years and adhere to the strict requirements imposed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) for shipping containers.
Our 10’ high cube container is not only ideal as a storage room, you can also use it for unlimited conversion projects, such as a ticket office, coffee shop, food stand, boutique/shop, private office, and many more.
10’ Half-Height Mini Container
The 10’ Half-Height Mini Container is an easier way to load and unload your cargo offshore, thanks to its open top feature. Therefore, this container is capable of holding heavy and dense bulk goods compared to taller containers.
This container has half the height of a standard container, making it more sturdy and strong to help with transporting goods with heavy weights.
You can use this in the mining industry to transport mining equipment or mining products such as sand, gravel, ore, pipes, cables, construction materials, machinery, and large raw materials.
Conclusion
Small shipping containers are great for storage with limited space, offering compact-sized space that maximizes efficiency without compromising on storage capacity. They can seamlessly fit into tight areas, making them an ideal solution for confined environments where space optimization is crucial.
If you would like to buy mini or small shipping containers, buy them at a trusted provider such as Tradecorp. Tradecorp is a reliable container sales, purchase, rental, and modification service company. Tradecorp provides modification and custom container services by adding windows, doors, walls, and roof insulation.
Our experienced staff is ready to help you arrange the shipping of your container to your requested location. Fill out our quote form to buy or rent from us!