10+ Facts About Steel Shipping Containers

Steel shipping containers—also known as cargo containers, intermodal containers, freight containers, sea cans or Conex boxes—are renowned for their durability and versatility, making them an excellent choice for a wide range of applications, from storage solutions to the foundation for container cover systems.

While we don’t sell shipping containers, many of our customers inquire about their compatibility with our container cover systems. We’ll go over these common concerns about steel shipping containers in relation to container covers, including their load capacities, heavy snow, and water pooling. We’ll also provide a comprehensive overview of container sizes and the advantages of new versus used options.

Steel shipping containers are engineered to endure the rigors of international transport, including stacking and exposure to extreme weather conditions. The primary load-bearing capacity of these containers is concentrated in their corners and the steel frame, which are designed to handle substantial vertical and lateral loads. This strength makes them ideal for supporting container covers and handling significant loads, such as heavy snow, while the walls and roof provide secondary support for lighter loads.

Here are some relevant capacity statistics:

Water pooling is a common concern for owners of steel shipping containers, especially when paired with container covers. The flat tops of most shipping containers can accumulate water if drainage isn’t adequately managed. Over time, pooled water can lead to corrosion and structural issues.

To prevent these problems:

Steel Steel shipping containers are available in a range of standard sizes, ensuring that there’s an option for virtually any application. The most common sizes include:

When selecting a container for use with a container cover, ensure that the size aligns with your intended application and load requirements.

One of the first decisions when purchasing a shipping container is whether to buy new or used. Each option has distinct advantages:

When choosing between new and used containers, consider your budget, aesthetic preferences, and the intended use. Used containers can often be reconditioned with rust-proof paint and structural repairs to extend their lifespan.

Container covers are a cost-effective way to expand the utility of shipping containers. They create additional sheltered space for storage, workshops, or agricultural applications. When pairing a container cover with your shipping container, keep the following in mind:

Steel shipping containers play a crucial role as part of an engineered foundation for container covers. To ensure the stability and safety of the foundation, it’s essential that the containers are aligned, level, and securely anchored. This is critical for the foundation to withstand the forces applied by the container cover mounted on top.

Proper engineering for the foundation is a localized solution that must be addressed separately from the container cover system’s engineering, which we provide. Investing in this foundational work ensures the long-term durability and functionality of your container cover system.

Here are some external links that can provide information on industry standards or technical specifications for shipping containers:

Steel shipping containers paired with our arch or straight-wall container cover systems provide a durable and versatile solution for creating additional sheltered space. These systems leverage the strength of shipping containers to provide robust and secure coverage for a variety of applications. If you don’t already have containers, other steel building options may better suit your needs.

Our team specializes in container cover systems that maximize the utility of your existing containers. Learn more about our container covers here.

Also, check out the following blog posts:

• Container Trusses Covered Parking
• Best Shipping Container Covers For 2025
• Metal Roof for Shipping Containers – Best Invention of 2003

Contact us today to learn more about our container cover solutions and how they can work for you, or submit a quote below.