Shipping containers offer an excellent solution for secure, weatherproof storage. Their durable steel construction and high portability make them attractive storage options for products ranging from office supplies to farming equipment.
However, despite their toughness and versatility, not everything belongs inside a standard shipping container. Improper storage can lead to damage, safety hazards, or regulatory compliance issues. This guide to what you shouldn’t store in shipping containers will help you make informed decisions before you pack and seal your container.
Flammable and Explosive Materials
Flammable materials should never enter standard shipping containers. Gasoline, diesel fuel, propane tanks, paint thinners, and similar substances create multiple hazards in enclosed spaces. These materials release vapors that can accumulate to dangerous concentrations, especially in containers with limited ventilation.
Temperature fluctuations inside metal containers exacerbate these risks. Summer heat can cause containers to reach temperatures exceeding 140°F, increasing vapor pressure and creating explosive conditions. Even small ignition sources such as static electricity or electrical equipment can trigger devastating explosions.
To ensure safety, store flammable or explosive substances in facilities designed for hazardous materials. For example, if you work with paints and paint thinners, consider using specialized paint storage lockers.
Perishable Food and Organic Matter
Shipping containers do not provide refrigeration or temperature control unless you invest in refrigerated units. Storing perishable food, fruits, vegetables, or organic waste inside a standard container leads to rapid spoilage and decay.
Spoiled food produces unpleasant odors and promotes the growth of mold and bacteria. These conditions degrade the container’s interior and create severe health hazards. In addition, condensation inside the container can cause moisture damage to other stored items.
Corrosive Chemicals
Acids, bases, and other corrosive chemicals pose threats in shipping containers. These substances can quickly eat through standard steel walls, compromising the container’s structural integrity and creating dangerous leaks. Hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, sodium hydroxide, and industrial cleaning agents fall into this category. Strong acids can create holes in steel walls within months, allowing toxic vapors to escape and contaminating surrounding areas.
Corrosive materials also create secondary hazards when they interact with container components. Metal corrosion produces hydrogen gas, which creates explosion risks. Proper storage requires containers with specialized linings, ventilation systems, and containment features designed for chemical compatibility.
Toxic Substances
Materials classified as toxic or poisonous do not belong in standard shipping containers. These substances, which include industrial solvents and asbestos, can cause severe health problems through inhalation, skin contact, or accidental ingestion.
Vapor leakage through standard container seals can contaminate work areas and nearby buildings. Temperature extremes can increase off-gassing rates, making toxic exposures more likely even when containers appear sealed.
Radioactive Materials
Radioactive materials demand specialized containment that standard shipping containers cannot provide. These substances require shielding and constant monitoring to ensure the safety of workers and nearby communities. The steel walls of a typical shipping container offer minimal protection against radiation compared to purpose-built storage facilities designed specifically for hazardous materials.
Temperature control plays a crucial role in the safe storage of many radioactive materials. Some substances become increasingly hazardous when exposed to extreme heat or cold, while others need consistent cooling to maintain stability. Since shipping containers generally lack climate control systems, they cannot hold the necessary temperature ranges to safely store these materials.
Compressed Gases
Pressurized cylinders and compressed gas storage present unique dangers in shipping containers. Oxygen, acetylene, nitrogen, and compressed air cylinders can become projectiles if damaged or if pressure relief systems activate. Basic container storage does not protect against these hazards.
Heat buildup in shipper containers increases pressure inside gas cylinders, potentially triggering safety relief valves or catastrophic failures. Even empty cylinders often retain residual pressure that can create dangerous situations.
Electronics
Moisture, temperature extremes, and humidity fluctuations in shipping containers can destroy electronic equipment and sensitive instruments. Condensation forms when temperature differentials create dewpoint conditions, leading to corrosion and electrical failures.
Static electricity buildup in metal containers can also damage sensitive electronic components. Proper equipment storage requires climate control, humidity management, and antistatic measures.
Firearms and Ammunition
Firearms and ammunition storage involves strict legal and safety considerations. Shipping containers without security upgrades are not suitable for firearm storage. Basic containers lack the proper locking mechanisms, alarms, and environmental controls necessary to safeguard weapons. Moisture and temperature changes can also corrode metal firearm components or degrade ammunition.
Pharmaceutical Products
Medications and pharmaceutical products require precise temperature and humidity control. Temperature excursions can reduce drug effectiveness or create dangerous product degradation.
Additionally, regulatory compliance becomes impossible when you store pharmaceuticals in uncontrolled environments. Many pharmaceutical products require continuous temperature tracking with alarms to alert you of any deviations. Without these safeguards, you compromise patient safety and risk violating federal regulations.
Consequences of Improper Storage
Improperly storing prohibited materials in shipping containers exposes you to serious legal and financial consequences. Regulatory agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enforce strict rules on hazardous material storage, and violations can lead to hefty fines and penalties.
Insurance policies often exclude coverage for damages resulting from unsafe storage practices. If hazardous materials stored in standard containers cause explosions, toxic exposures, or environmental contamination, you may not be able to file a claim. Liability extends beyond immediate damages to include cleanup costs, third-party claims, and business interruption losses.
How American Hazmat Rentals Can Help
American Hazmat Rentals provides secure and compliant storage solutions for hazardous materials. When you need to safely store chemicals, flammable materials, or other regulated substances, you can rely on our properly equipped containers. Our rental options will help you meet industry standards and local regulations, so you can avoid the risks associated with improper storage.
Here’s what we offer:
- Containers designed specifically for hazardous materials
- Compliance with EPA and other regulatory body requirements
- Proper ventilation, fire suppression, and safety features
- Flexible rental terms tailored to your project needs
- Expert guidance to help you choose the right storage solution
Let this guide to what you shouldn’t store in shipping containers serve as a practical resource the next time you’re choosing storage solutions.