Introduction

Shipping container car storage is a fantastic way to keep your valuable vehicles safe and sound. Whether you own a luxury car, a classic car, or simply a vehicle you cherish, using a shipping container for storage offers many benefits:

Protection from weather and theft
Enhanced security features
Cost-efficiency over the long term

When you choose shipping container car storage, you are not only investing in a durable and versatile storage solution but also in peace of mind.

Immediate Benefits:

Increased Insurance Coverage: Greater protection against theft and damage.
Less Risk: Shield your car from weather, dust, and theft.
Exclusivity: Your vehicle can have its own dedicated space.

Choosing the Right Shipping Container for Car Storage

When it comes to shipping container car storage, selecting the right container is crucial. The right choice ensures your vehicle is safe, secure, and well-preserved. Here are the key factors to consider:

Container Size

Size matters. The most common container sizes are 20-foot and 40-foot. The size you choose depends on the number and sizes of the vehicles you plan to store.

20-foot containers: Ideal for storing one large vehicle or two small cars. With dimensions of about 20′ L x 8′ W x 8’6″ H, they provide ample space for most passenger cars.
40-foot containers: Best for multiple vehicles or larger trucks and SUVs. These containers measure approximately 40′ L x 8′ W x 8’6″ H, offering space for two to four mid-size vehicles.

Container Condition

New vs. Used: Both new and used containers can be effective for car storage, but there are some differences to consider.

New containers: They are free from rust, dents, and other damages. While they cost more upfront, they offer better long-term value and aesthetics.
Used containers: More budget-friendly but require a thorough inspection. Look for containers listed as “wind and watertight” to ensure no holes or leaks. Inspect for rust and damage, and repair any issues immediately.

Container Types

Closed Containers: These are the most secure option for car storage. They come with double doors on one or both ends.

Double-door containers: Also known as tunnel containers, these allow you to drive the car in one end and out the other, offering flexibility.
Single-door containers: Secure and effective, these are ideal for long-term storage with minimal access needs.

Open Side Containers: These provide easier access and better ventilation but offer less protection against weather and theft. They are suitable for short-term storage in mild climates.

Additional Considerations

Foundation: Ensure the container is placed on a flat, solid surface. A concrete foundation is ideal but optional.
Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial to prevent moisture buildup. Consider adding vents or solar fans.
Security Features: Invest in high-quality locks, alarm systems, and surveillance to enhance security.

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the right shipping container to meet your car storage needs. Next, we’ll discuss how to prepare your car for storage in a shipping container.

Preparing Your Car for Storage in a Shipping Container

Cleaning

Before placing your car in a shipping container, it’s crucial to thoroughly clean it. Dirt and grime can hold moisture, which can lead to rust over time.

Exterior Cleaning: Wash the car’s exterior to remove dirt, salt, and other contaminants. Pay special attention to the undercarriage, as it often accumulates the most grime.
Interior Cleaning: Vacuum the interior and remove any trash. Clean the dashboard, seats, and other surfaces to prevent mold and mildew.

Maintenance Checks

Performing maintenance checks is essential to ensure your car stays in good condition while stored.

Tire Pressure: Inflate your tires to the recommended pressure. This helps prevent flat spots from developing during storage.
Battery: Disconnect the battery to avoid draining it. Alternatively, you can use a trickle charger to keep it charged.
Fluids: Check and top off all fluids, including oil, coolant, and brake fluid. Fresh fluids are less likely to cause corrosion.

Fluid Levels

Maintaining proper fluid levels is another key step in preparing your car for storage.

Oil: Change the oil before storing the car. Old oil can contain contaminants that may damage the engine over time.
Coolant: Ensure the coolant is at the correct level and mixed properly. This helps prevent the engine from freezing or overheating.
Fuel: Fill the gas tank and add a fuel stabilizer. A full tank prevents moisture from accumulating inside, and the stabilizer keeps the fuel from degrading.

By following these steps, you can ensure your car is well-prepared for storage in a shipping container. Up next, we’ll discuss how to securely store cars in shipping containers.

How to Securely Store Cars in Shipping Containers

Securing Your Car Inside the Container

To keep your car safe and secure inside a shipping container, you need to focus on a few key elements:

Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial to control moisture and condensation. Most containers come with small vents, but adding extra vents can significantly improve air circulation. This helps equalize temperature and reduce condensation buildup. Consider adding solar fans for even better airflow and moisture control.

Moisture Control: Moisture can cause serious damage to your car, leading to rust and mold. To combat this, use desiccants – those small packets you find in consumer goods – on a larger scale. Place desiccant bags on the floor or spray desiccant paint on the roof interior and walls. If electricity is available, a dehumidifier can also be a great addition.

Pest Prevention: Pests can be a big problem, causing damage to your car’s interior and components. Here are some steps to keep them out:
– Inspect the container for holes and seal them.
– Keep the storage area clean and free of food particles.
– Use pest repellent products.
– Set traps as a precaution.
– Elevate the container on sturdy blocks to make it harder for pests to enter.

Securing the Car: Use ratchet straps to hold your car in place. Secure the straps to the towing eyelets on your car and the container’s anchor points. Wheel blocks can also help prevent the car from moving inside the container.

Enhancing Container Security

Keeping your car secure inside the container is just one part of the equation. You also need to ensure the container itself is secure.

Locks: Invest in a heavy-duty lock, such as a padlock or disc lock, to secure the container doors. A lockbox can also provide an extra layer of protection.

Alarm Systems and Surveillance: For added security, consider installing an alarm system or video surveillance. This can deter thieves and provide peace of mind. Some systems even send alerts to your phone if there’s a breach.

By following these tips, you can ensure your car is stored safely and securely in a shipping container. Next, we’ll discuss how to maintain your car in good condition while it’s stored.

Maintaining Your Car in Good Condition While Stored

Storing your car in a shipping container can be a great solution, but it’s important to keep it in good condition. Here are some tips to make sure your car stays in top shape while in storage.

Regular Checks

Frequent Inspections: Even though your car is stored, it’s crucial to check on it regularly. Look for any signs of moisture, rust, or pests. Catching these issues early can save you a lot of trouble later.

Fluid Levels: Ensure that all fluid levels are where they should be. This includes oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. If you notice any leaks, address them immediately.

Battery Maintenance

Disconnect the Battery: If you’re storing your car for an extended period, it’s a good idea to disconnect the battery. This will prevent it from draining. Alternatively, you can use a battery maintainer to keep it charged.

Battery Condition: Check the battery terminals for corrosion. Clean them if necessary and apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to prevent future corrosion.

Covering

Use a Car Cover: A high-quality car cover can protect your vehicle from dust and minor scratches. Make sure the cover is breathable to prevent moisture buildup underneath.

Elevate if Possible: If you can, elevate the car slightly using jack stands. This can help prevent flat spots on the tires and keep pests from easily accessing the undercarriage.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure your car remains in excellent condition while stored in a shipping container. Next, we’ll discuss how to prevent damage and ensure long-term preservation of your vehicle.

Preventing Damage and Ensuring Long-Term Preservation

Desiccants

Desiccants are a simple and cost-effective way to control moisture inside your shipping container. These materials absorb moisture from the air, helping to keep the environment dry and prevent rust and mold.

Types of Desiccants: You can use desiccant bags on the floor or apply desiccant paint to the container’s interior walls and roof.
Application: Place desiccant bags around the car, especially near areas prone to moisture buildup. For an added layer of protection, consider using a spray applicator to coat the walls with desiccant paint.

Solar Fans

Solar fans are a great addition to improve ventilation and reduce moisture. These fans use solar power to circulate air, removing hot, humid air and bringing in cooler, drier air.

Installation: Place solar fans on the roof or walls of the container. They are easy to install and require minimal maintenance.
Benefits: Solar fans help prevent mold, mildew, and rust by keeping the air moving and reducing humidity levels inside the container.

Insulation

Insulating your shipping container is crucial for maintaining a stable temperature and preventing condensation. Without insulation, temperature fluctuations can cause moisture to form, leading to rust and mold.

Materials: Use materials like spray foam, SupaLoft, or Therma Fleece. These materials help keep the interior temperature above the dew point, reducing the risk of condensation.
Application: Spray foam is particularly effective as it expands to fill gaps and create a seamless barrier. Apply a layer of spray foam followed by R-12 pink batt insulation for added thermal protection.

Dehumidifiers

If you have access to electricity, using a dehumidifier can significantly improve the conditions inside your shipping container. Dehumidifiers remove excess moisture from the air, helping to keep the environment dry.

Setup: Place a dehumidifier inside the container, ideally in a central location to maximize its effectiveness. Ensure it has a drainage solution to handle the collected water.
Benefits: Running a dehumidifier 24/7 can keep humidity levels below 40%, preventing mold, rust, and musty odors.

By using these methods, you can effectively prevent damage and ensure long-term preservation of your vehicle while stored in a shipping container. Next, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about shipping container car storage.

Frequently Asked Questions about Shipping Container Car Storage

Can multiple cars fit in one shipping container?

Yes, multiple cars can fit in one shipping container, but it depends on the container size and the car dimensions.

20-foot container: Typically fits one to two small cars.
40-foot container: Can accommodate two to four mid-size cars or larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks.

Pro Tip: To maximize space, consider parking cars closely and using wheel blocks to secure them. Be prepared to crawl out of windows if space is tight.

How do I deal with moisture and condensation issues?

Moisture and condensation can lead to rust, mold, and mildew. Here are some effective solutions:

Ventilation: Add extra vents to improve air circulation and equalize temperature. This reduces condensation buildup.
Solar Fans: These help remove hot air faster than regular vents and protect against moisture issues.
Insulation: Materials like supaloft, spray foam, and therma fleece keep the temperature above the dew point, minimizing condensation.
Desiccants: Use desiccants in bags on the floor or as paint on the interior walls to absorb moisture.
Dehumidifier: If electricity is available, a dehumidifier can maintain humidity levels below 40%.

What are the legal considerations for using a shipping container for car storage?

Before setting up a shipping container for car storage, check local regulations and zoning laws. Here are some key points to consider:

Zoning Laws: Ensure your property is zoned for container storage. Some residential areas may have restrictions.
Permits: You might need a permit to place a shipping container on your property.
HOA Rules: If you live in a community with a Homeowners Association, check their rules regarding shipping containers.
Compliance: Make sure the container complies with local building codes and safety regulations.

Tip: Always consult with local authorities to avoid fines or legal issues.

Conclusion

At Aztec Container, we pride ourselves on providing top-notch solutions for shipping container car storage. Our containers are built to last and can be customized to meet your specific needs. Whether you need extra ventilation, insulation, or security features, we’ve got you covered.

Customization Options:

One size does not fit all. That’s why we offer a range of customization options. From adding solar fans and dehumidifiers to installing extra locks and security systems, we can tailor your container to ensure your car stays safe and in pristine condition.

Fast Delivery:

Time is of the essence, and we understand that. Our streamlined process ensures that your container is delivered quickly and efficiently. With a large inventory ready to go, you won’t have to wait long to get your container. We handle all the logistics, making the process hassle-free for you.

By following these guidelines, car enthusiasts and collectors can ensure their vehicles remain in pristine condition while benefiting from the security and versatility of shipping container storage. Whether you’re looking to store a classic car, a luxury vehicle, or just need extra space, Aztec Container has the perfect solution for you.

Ready to get started? Contact us today to find the right shipping container for your car storage needs!

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How to Safely Store Cars in Shipping Containers: Tips and Tricks