Shipping containers are a vital part of life the way we know it today. Shipping containers are used to move a wide array of product types across continents, countries, and even oceans. The containers allow large amounts of product to be moved at one time without the need for multiple times of loading and unloading. Shipping containers today are most commonly made of steel, aluminum, or a combination of the two. The design is made to be durable and long-lasting through a variety of conditions during the shipping process. While shipping containers are a great option, it’s reasonable to wonder how secure the contents inside really are. One of the most important questions that are asked is if the containers are waterproof or not, so let’s discuss!
Waterproof VS Watertight
When talking about a shipping container and water there are two terms that sound similar but have some key differences. First, a waterproof shipping container is a container that’s coated in a water-resistant material. This means that the container resists water, but the possibility of water getting into the container is still present. The container will stay in good condition, but the same can’t necessarily be said for the contents inside.
A watertight container is designed to actually prevent any water from going into or out of the storage container. Some waterproof containers may also be watertight using seals around the doors, but that’s not always the case. Unless a container is explicitly marketed as being watertight, you should assume there’s a possibility of moisture getting inside.
Causes of Moisture in Shipping Containers
The most obvious cause of moisture in shipping containers comes from the ocean water during transit, but that’s not the only cause. Other causes include:
- Exposure to cold and sunlight which encourages condensation to form on the surface of the container
- Moisture inside the container – appliances, clothes, and even mattresses can hold moisture. That moisture can turn into condensation during transit and potentially damage other items in the container.
- Human error – if the container doors are left open or partially open during wet conditions such as rain, snow, the ocean, and even inconsistent temperatures, water can make its way inside the container.
Choose Extreme Packing Solutions For Your Packing & Shipping Needs
Overall, there’s no simple yes or no response to the question about shipping containers being waterproof. If you plan to use a shipping container to move product, it’s imperative that you have a shipping container company that you trust to be transparent with the quality of their containers and the waterproof versus watertight status. Contact Extreme Packing Solutions today to learn more about choosing the right shipping container based on what you’re shipping, where you’re located, and where your product will be transported to! Give us a call at 978-232-9190 or fill out a contact form.