Common Mistakes When Using Shipping Containers on Construction Sites

Whether you are purchasing your first shipping container for a construction site or have experience buying for your business, understanding best practices is essential for making a purchase that benefits your team and organization.

In this article, we will explore the top mistakes that job site decision-makers and procurement managers make when acquiring a shipping container for construction sites.

8 Mistakes to Avoid Using Shipping Containers on Construction Sites

Mistake #1: Choosing the Wrong Container

One of the most consequential mistakes made when acquiring a container for your jobsite is choosing the wrong one. Whether it is the wrong type, condition or not the right size, this can make a significant impact on whether your container will work for your intended application.

Taking time to ensure your container is the right size, type and condition for the job is just as important the first time as it is for those who have purchased shipping containers many times.

Use our resources below to make sure you choose the right container:

10 Shipping Container Types and How to Choose the Right One

How to Choose the Right Shipping Container for a Jobsite Office

Mistake #2: Poor Site Placement

The next common mistake made when getting a shipping container for your construction site is not prepping the ground or considering the best spot on your jobsite for your container to be placed.

It's imperative to make sure that the location where you place your construction site container is a safe, secure space. Ensuring that the ground is firm, stable, and level is essential. Placing your container on uneven ground can have detrimental consequences, such as structural integrity issues and doors no longer opening due to shifting.

Container placement can also negatively affect traffic flow around the container, preventing equipment and delivery access, which can cause complications when a container is poorly placed on a jobsite.

Taking time to consider the best place to put your container on your jobsite from a workflow and usability standpoint is essential. From there, prepping the ground or installing a foundation, if needed, will ensure your container performs as intended.

What to Know Before Buying a Shipping Container for Your Jobsite

Mistake #3: Overlooking Delivery Logistics

Shipping container delivery is another important factor when getting a container for your jobsite. From logistics, timing and costs, delivery is something you don't want to overlook when purchasing a container.

For a better experience, make sure that delivery aligns with your timeline, that you understand any additional costs it adds to your container purchase and that your container placement site is easily accessible by large delivery trucks.

Find out more here: Container Delivery Basics: Tilt-Bed, Flat-Bed, or Chassis

Mistake #4: Skipping Security Measures

On a construction site, security is crucial. Not securing your shipping container can be a costly mistake. Whether you are using your container for storing equipment, materials or as a tool crib, it's imperative to use proper security such as lockboxes. Where you place your container on the jobsite also plays a role. Avoid low-visibility or isolated areas, and instead position it where it can be seen by your crew or in regularly trafficked parts of the site to help deter potential theft.

Find the Right Lock for your Shipping Container

Mistake #5: Disorganization Inside the Container

Shipping containers can make for quick and easy storage solutions on the jobsite. If your needs are immediate, it can be tempting to put equipment and materials in without much thought but taking the time to install proper shelving and storage systems can significantly increase usability and efficiency, prevent wasted space, make tools easier to access, and reduce downtime caused by a disorganized system.

Keep Tools and Equipment Secure with a Container Tool Crib

Mistake #6: Not Implementing Modifications at the Start

Related to the last mistake, not making modifications early on can lead to your construction site container not providing the best value to your team. In addition to storage solutions, it can be wise to make modifications such as adding doors, windows or electricity before you start filling your container.

Completing modifications right away ensures that your container is fully functional and tailored to your crew's needs from the start, which helps improve productivity and saves time in the long run.

5 Shipping Container Modifications for Construction Sites

Mistake #7: Overloading or Misusing the Container

Another common mistake made with containers on construction sites is not being mindful of their weight limits or improper use. Corrugated steel shipping containers are tough and durable, but not invincible. Exceeding weight limits puts stress on the structure and can lead to wrapping and damage to your container.

How Much Can I Fit Into a Shipping Container?

Mistake #8 Failing to Plan for Long-Term Use

If the job will only take a few months, you may consider renting a container, but if you have another project coming up, you could find yourself needing one again. It’s important to think through your long-term needs when it comes to a container. When purchasing for a jobsite, you’ll also want to consider where it will be stored between jobs and how it will be relocated.

Another mistake made when failing to plan for the long-term is the proper maintenance of your container. Regular maintenance and making repairs right away are essential to the longevity of your container and having it last.

Maintenance Checklist for Shipping Containers

Avoid Shipping Container Mistakes with a Trusted Supplier

At Super Cubes, we've been helping individuals and businesses find the right shipping containers for their needs for over 15 years. From planning, purchasing, delivery and modifications, our team will help you get the right container for your construction site.

Have questions on making a container work for your construction site? Reach out to our team today for expert support and guidance.

Super Cubes is a family-owned business located in Minneapolis, MN, that provides containers anywhere in the continental US. We offer personalized service for individuals and businesses, providing high-quality containers at competitive prices. With nationwide facilities, we can modify and deliver containers close to you. Contact our experienced team for your next container project.