If you’re ever down at the Auckland waterfront, it’s common to see ship liners loaded with indestructible-looking containers. Surprisingly, however, they are prone to damage and sometimes the most insignificant damage can still lead to functional issues. As with most materials – wear and tear will lead to structural problems. While the crates are built for endurance, a minor dent caused by a forklift tyne will begin the glacial process of rusting. At ContainerCo, we sell and allow the hire of regular, refrigerated and side opening containers in NZ. We maintain and repair our containers to ensure the quality isn’t compromised. The following article will outline the necessary steps to repairing a crate upon varying types of damage. Rust Can Infect Shipping Containers The older a shipping container is, the more likely it is to have been knocked around and have its preservative paintwork chipped away. For example, those 40ft containers in Auckland are hauled back and forth around the world’s waters countless times. When that paint starts to fade and water seeps in, the chemical process of rusting begins. The most common areas that are prone to rust are: Door sections Seams Welds Any dented area Many years at sea is likely to bring minor surface-level rust. When the flaky paint is no longer protecting the container, the sea mixed with the sun will catalyse the rusting process. Sandblasting is required to remove these areas and be followed up with primer and repainting. Severe rust that has manifested into holes will need more attention. These will need to be cut out and replaced with a new welded piece of steel. Alternatively, there is a patching method involving fibreglass reinforced polyester. Subsequent exposure to UV light will solidify the polyester into a metal-strength substance. Door Seal Damage Keeping the container free of water, air and any vermin is not possible without the door seal. When this seal is compromised, the items within are likely to be damaged. The door seal failing to close is one of, if not the most crucial replacement to be made. Neither costly nor difficult, this is an easy fix that can be made by a professional. Hinges are not immune to wear and tear either. When grease becomes old and dry, the hinge becomes stiff. Stripping the hinge of the old grease and applying a fresh layer of lubricative new grease will solve this problem. It’s likely that if a door seal is broken, there may be damage to the door itself. If a door is warped, even slightly, an air-tight closure is strenuous. Thus, it would be best to check the condition of the door when replacing the broken seal. Repainting the Container Aside from aesthetics, there is a functional purpose of repainting after repairs. The paint gives enough protection from corrosion and the elements to delay another repair anytime soon. The inside of the container is not exempt from damage either. An internal layer of paint would be wise as dings and scratches are inevitable with all the travel. The refrigerated container (or reefer), unlike the standard, has more areas prone to damage. The reefer has a cooling unit. When this unit fails, a refrigeration mechanic will be required to repair it – this is not a DIY fix. While not ideal, if there is a hole in a standard crate, it isn’t as detrimental as a hole in a reefer. When coolant is leaking out of the container during transit, energy inefficiencies and a higher power bill are inevitable. At ContainerCo, we have refrigerated containers for sale in NZ that are maintained and refurbished to the standard that you require. ContainerCo At ContainerCo, we pride ourselves on providing an extensive range of shipping containers for hire or purchase. Our range of 10ft, 20ft and 40ft containers can be used for various purposes, including shipment, storage or construction, to name a few. Featuring more than just containers in our product range, we also sell accessories and parts for shipping containers to ensure your container can be maintained and repaired after prolonged use. Offering specialised containers along with dry standard variations, ContainerCo’s containers include refrigerated, dangerous goods, high-ball, open-top and side-opening options. As a fully-established shipping container company, we also have the facilities to modify purchased shipping containers. Our specialised team can assist you with altering containers into workspaces, cafes, tiny homes or construction site offices. We can serve Kiwis across the country with facilities operating in Auckland, Tauranga, Christchurch, Wellington and Waikato. So next time you require a shipping container, make sure to hire or buy yours at ContainerCo today! Contact us on 0508 732 873 or request a free online quote today!