Not everything is suited for storage inside a shipping container. Storing the wrong items can lead to damage, safety hazards, and legal issues. While this shouldn't be considered a complete list of what not to store in a container, here’s a general idea of common items you should avoid storing in your shipping container.
1. Perishable Goods
Storing perishable goods like food, plants, or other organic materials in a shipping container is not advisable. Without proper refrigeration, these items can spoil quickly, attracting pests and leading to unpleasant odors and contamination. Even in insulated and refrigerated containers, temperature fluctuations can make it difficult to keep perishables safe.
2. Hazardous Materials
Chemicals, flammable liquids, explosives, and other hazardous materials should never be stored in a shipping container unless it’s specifically designed and approved for such use. These materials can pose significant safety risks, including fires, explosions, and toxic exposure. Additionally, storing hazardous materials improperly could probably lead to legal liability exposure.
3. Electronics
While shipping containers provide some protection against the elements, they are not ideal for long-term storage of electronics. High humidity and temperature changes inside the container can cause condensation, leading to rust and electrical failure.
4. Artwork and Antiques
Artwork, antiques, and other valuable or sensitive items can be damaged by the fluctuating conditions inside a shipping container if stored for extended periods. Changes in temperature and humidity can cause wood to warp, paint to crack, and fabrics to deteriorate.
5. Important Documents
Paper documents, books, and photos can suffer from similar issues as artwork and antiques. Moisture and temperature swings can cause paper to become brittle, ink to fade, and mold to grow. It’s better to store important documents in a more controlled environment, or at the very least, in sealed, waterproof containers within the shipping container.
6. Live Animals
It might seem obvious, but live animals should never be stored in a shipping container. Containers are not designed to provide the necessary ventilation, light, and temperature control required for living creatures. This can lead to serious harm or death of the animals.
7. Personal Valuables
Jewelry, cash, and other high-value personal items should not be stored in a shipping container, especially if the container is not being regularly monitored. Even though shipping containers are built like a tank and can be secured with heavy duty locks, containers are not invulnerable.
While shipping containers offer a great solution for many storage needs, it’s important to know their limitations. Avoiding the storage of perishable goods, hazardous materials, electronics, artwork, important documents, live animals, and personal valuables will help ensure that your items remain safe and undamaged. If you’re unsure whether an item is suitable for storage in a shipping container, consult with a GoatBin expert today or consider alternative storage options.
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