How to Choose the Best Storage Containers in Newark, NJ
January 23, 2026
Shipping containers are everywhere, crossing oceans, stacked at ports, and transformed into homes, offices, and pop-up shops. Yet one question continues to surface among logistics professionals, builders, and curious buyers alike: what are shipping containers made of?
At first glance, they appear to be nothing more than large steel boxes. In reality, their composition, texture, dimensions, and manufacturing origins are the result of decades of engineering refinement. Understanding what shipping containers are made of helps explain why they can survive saltwater voyages, extreme weather conditions, and heavy stacking loads for decades.
In this article, we explore the materials used in shipping containers, how their size and height affect construction, where they are manufactured, and what makes their steel surface so distinctive.
When asking what shipping containers are made of, the short answer is steel, but not just any steel.
Most modern shipping containers are constructed using weathering steel, commonly referred to as Corten steel.
This alloy is specifically designed to resist corrosion by forming a protective outer layer of oxidation when exposed to moisture and air.
Unlike ordinary steel, which continues to rust and weaken, weathering steel stabilizes over time. The rust-like patina becomes a shield, preventing deeper corrosion and structural decay.
This material choice answers the core question of what shipping containers are made of in a practical sense. They are engineered to survive the harshest global transport environments.
The shipping container steel texture is one of its most recognizable features.
The textured surface results from corrugated steel rolling processes, protective primer coatings, and industrial paint layers designed for UV and salt resistance.
Texture is not polished smooth because rougher surfaces hold protective coatings better, minor scratches do not compromise structural integrity, and maintenance and repainting are easier.
For architects and designers, has become an aesthetic feature, often left exposed in container-based structures.
Beyond the walls, a container consists of several key structural elements.
Each component supports the container’s integrity while maintaining international transport standards.
While steel dominates the exterior, the flooring tells a different story.
Inside most containers, the flooring is made from heavy-duty marine plywood or bamboo laminates, reinforced by steel cross supports.
These floors are treated to resist:
Newer environmental regulations are transforming treatment practices; flooring remains a critical component in explaining shipping container construction beyond the metal shell.
Beyond steel, containers are coated with zinc-rich primers, epoxy intermediate layers, and marine-grade topcoats.
These layers protect the steel underneath and extend container life well beyond 15 years in active service.
One of the most frequently asked dimensional questions is how tall are shipping containers.
Standard container: 8 feet 6 inches (2.59 m)
High cube container: 9 feet 6 inches (2.89 m)
Height directly influences wall reinforcement, steel thickness, and overall material stress, making it an essential factor when discussing container composition.
Understanding the typical size of shipping container helps clarify why material choices are so critical.
20 foot Shipping Container:
Length: 20 ft
Width: 8 ft
Height: 8 ft 6 in
40 foot Shipping Container:
Length: 40 ft
Width: 8 ft
Height: 8 ft 6 in or 9 ft 6 in (high cube)
The longer the container, the greater the structural stress on the steel frame. This is why larger containers often feature reinforced cross members and thicker corner posts.
Smaller containers can rely on slightly lighter steel panels, while longer units require enhanced rigidity to prevent twisting during lifting and transport.
Engineers must balance:
Balance is a core reason shipping containers have remained standardized for decades.
Another important question is where are shipping containers manufactured.
Over 85 percent of new shipping containers are produced in China, with major manufacturing clusters located in:
Other countries with container production include:
China dominates production due to access to raw steel, established port infrastructure, and cost-efficient manufacturing processes.
Despite global production, all containers must meet ISO 668 standards, ensuring material consistency regardless of origin.
Factories follow strict protocols, including ultrasonic testing of steel, load-bearing simulations, and weather resistance checks.
Processes ensure that containers remain structurally sound throughout their lifespan, no matter where they are manufactured.
Modern container manufacturing is shifting toward sustainability. Bamboo flooring, low VOC paints, and reduced chemical treatments are becoming more common.
Reused containers also play a major role in reducing steel demand, lowering construction waste, and promoting modular architecture.
Shipping container material’s durability makes repurposing a viable alternative to scrapping.
Shipping containers are not disposable structures. Their steel composition, engineered structure, and standardized dimensions enable them to cross oceans repeatedly, stack safely under extreme loads, and adapt to new uses beyond shipping.
A clear understanding of their materials and construction helps buyers, builders, and logistics professionals make informed decisions for transport and design applications.
Shipping containers stand as one of the most effective examples of modern industrial design. Their materials are selected not only for appearance but also for strength, longevity, and adaptability. From weathering steel exteriors to engineered flooring and globally standardized manufacturing, every element plays a role in making containers reliable across countless applications.
If you are considering a storage solution, understanding what shipping containers are made of makes choosing the right unit far more straightforward. On-Site Storage Solutions provides durable storage containers built to handle demanding environments, heavy use, and long-term storage needs.
If your project requires on-site storage for construction, commercial operations, or temporary space, our team is ready to help you find the right fit. Call (888) 977 9085 to speak with an expert and get dependable storage delivered to your location.
Shipping container walls are usually constructed with 14-gauge steel, measuring around 0.075 inches thick. The frame, pillars, and rails of the container, on the other hand, are made of 7-gauge tubular steel, which is thicker at 0.187 inches.
Cargo containers are primarily made corten steel. The walls, roof, and floor of these containers are constructed using corrugated steel panels that provide strength and durability. The steel used is typically weather-resistant and able to withstand harsh conditions during transportation. The interior may also feature plywood or other materials for insulation and protection of the cargo.
The thickness of a shipping container wall is typically 0.075 inches. The walls are made of corrugated steel sheets that provide structural strength and durability to withstand the stresses of transportation and stacking.
The floor of a shipping container is commonly a 1-1/8 inch thick marine plywood. This particular type of plywood is specially designed to withstand the harsh conditions of marine environments, ensuring durability and strength. However, it is worth noting that certain containers may feature alternative flooring materials like bamboo, vinyl, or even steel.
Finding extra space in a busy city like Newark isn’t always easy. When you’re a business owner, contractor, or property manager, storage needs can grow
When tornado season hits, having a safe and secure place to take cover can make all the difference. While traditional underground storm shelters are effective,
When extreme weather hits, even the toughest shipping containers can be at risk if they’re not properly secured. If you’re using a shipping container for
When it comes to keeping shipping containers safe during hurricanes and tornadoes, anchoring is only the first step. Knowing how to anchor a shipping container
When space starts to run out at home or at work, having extra storage in Wildomar, CA can make a big difference. You’re renovating, moving,
Find the best cargo containers for sale with this complete 2025 guide. Compare new vs. used units, check pricing, and get expert tips on delivery and inspection. From 20-foot to high-cube containers, learn how to choose the right container for storage, transport, or projects. Trust On-Site Storage Solutions for fast, reliable delivery.
