About Shipping Containers

For the last number of years new shipping containers have been made of Corten steel. Corten steel is deemed one of the highest grades of steel available.  Used containers are made of heavy-duty, corrugated steel. As Corten steel containers are depreciated out of steamship line and leasing company fleets, we will begin to see a higher percentage of Corten steel in used containers. 

Shipping containers are available in various sizes, grades, and types. The most common, both new and used, are 20’, 40’, and 40’ High Cube containers. In addition, we are expecting to see used 53’ High Cube containers entering the used market in the next few years. 

Used containers come equipped with double doors, one end only; while new containers are available with double doors, one end, or double doors, both ends. Shipping containers continue to be built today with 1 1/8” laminated, marine-grade plywood floors. The industry is looking at utilizing composite material floor installations in the future. All new and used 20’ containers will have fork-lift pockets in the bottom rail.