How To Scrap an Old Shipping Container
If your shipping container has seen better days, scrapping it may be the most practical option. Rust, dents, or a warped structure can make a
Article Written By: Bobby Addis
Date: 01/11/2024
The modern shipping container was invented by American transport entrepreneur Malcolm Purcell McLean, often called “The Father of Containerization.” His goal was to make cargo transport faster, safer, and more efficient — laying the foundation for today’s global logistics system.
Shipping containers are the perfect base for pop-up shops, cafes, and bars. They’re mobile, secure, and cost-effective — ideal for events, high streets, and seasonal locations.
Brands like Superdry have used container shops to create mobile retail experiences across the UK. Pop-up containers are also popular at festivals and markets, where businesses need flexibility and fast setup times. Plus, they can be repainted or rebranded for different purposes over time.
That would be the Port of Rotterdam in the Netherlands. Handling over 14.5 million TEU annually and welcoming around 30,000 vessels a year, it’s known as “The Port of the Future” and supports more than 350,000 jobs.
Shanghai, China, holds the crown as the world’s biggest container port, processing around 43 million TEU annually. Located in the Yangtze River Delta, the port dates back to 1842 and plays a vital role in connecting China’s inland provinces to the world.
Over 85% of shipping containers are manufactured in China, thanks to lower steel and labour costs. Many containers are built, loaded with a single shipment, then sold — known as ‘one trip’ containers — ideal for high-quality resale.
The title goes to Evergreen’s Ever Alot, the largest container ship in the world. It stretches a staggering 400 metres long and 61.5 metres wide, with a capacity of up to 24,000 TEU.
An incredible 95% of the world’s imports and exports are transported by container. From electronics to everyday groceries, the containerised shipping model has revolutionised the way the world trades.
Containers aren’t just for cargo. They’re also being transformed into homes, garden rooms, retail units, swimming pools, saunas, garages, and much more. Their strength, adaptability and affordability make them perfect for innovative design projects.
48,000 bananas
400 TVs
200 full-sized mattresses
2 small cars
500,000 eggs
4,000 shoeboxes
1,000 bags of 25kg cement
The largest commercially available container is 60ft long, though these are extremely rare and mainly found in the US. Due to road and transport limitations, 60ft containers are not commonly available in the UK or Europe.
At Containers 4 Sale UK, we don’t just sell containers — we help customers explore all the possibilities they offer. Whether you’re looking to buy, hire, or customise a container, our expert team is here to help.
Get in touch today to find out how a shipping container can work for your next project.
Speak to Containers 4 Sale UK today and get a same-day quotation for your project.
If your shipping container has seen better days, scrapping it may be the most practical option. Rust, dents, or a warped structure can make a
Give your shipping container a fresh new look with this simple DIY painting guide from Containers 4 Sale UK. Learn how to prepare, prime, and
Shipping containers are a popular choice for storage, site offices, and transport. While they are built with strong steel walls, thieves often target them because
