The Top 5 Things I've Learned as a Container Newbie

About 4 months ago I had the opportunity to join the Falcon Structures team as the Digital Marketing Assistant. Before I arrived for my first day, I did my hair and makeup – typical for the first day of work –, but before I made it to the front door of the Falcon office, I found my curls blown in every direction by the swirling dirt around me. My lip gloss seemed to have dust along with my own hair stuck to it by the time I made it inside. There were no heels or suits in sight, instead, the attire consisted of hardhats and boots.

The office staff and production team gave me a warm welcome as I walked through our facility. My new coworkers led me through our shipping container office and up the spiral staircase to my very own office. I never pictured myself taking a marketing job in a container, but there I was.

I heard welding tools, hammers, and forklifts passing the office; it was exciting, always something going on. My new office was no tranquil high-rise, but it would soon become my second home and family, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Starting my first job out of college, you can imagine how overwhelming it was to enter this confusing yet intriguing world of shipping containers. It wasn’t long before I learned about the many possibilities of shipping container modifications. So, take it from me, a recent industry novice – here are the top 5 things I’ve learned that you should know too:

Efficient and effective

Container structures are built more efficiently and effectively when compared to traditional construction. Manufacturers – like Falcon – modify structures off-site which offer many benefits, including:

• Decreased costs
• Increased job site safety
• Fewer mistakes
• Faster turnaround times

More than storage and housing

Unlike what most people assume, shipping containers are used for more than just storage and basic housing. The possibilities are endless. Every day I’m surprised by the various ways our customers use modified containers. One of my favorite projects to date is an indoor greenhouse and farm that makes produce more accessible to individuals in urban areas. The architectural innovation I get to see every day is fascinating. Fortress Obetz is another one of my favorite projects. The container-based stadium is made up of 122 containers, the largest container structure in North America.

Don’t bury a container

Putting a container underground is NOT a good idea! People often ask us to modify their underground bunker but unfortunately, we advise against their plan. Placing a shipping container underground compromises its structural integrity due to the weight and pressure placed on the unit. They are simply not made to be put underground and we do not recommend it.

Containers aren’t always cheaper

Shipping containers are not nearly as simple or cheap as everyone thinks. Everything that goes into creating a quality structure – including welding, carpentry, and other modifications – can increase the price. Additionally, modifying a container isn’t a project you should take on yourself. Putting together a container structure requires more professional expertise than people think. This includes but isn’t limited to plumbers, electricians, and structural engineers. Each step in the modification process guarantees the safety of a container structure.

Impressive durability

Shipping containers are incredibly durable, so durable that first responders and the military like to use them for training facilities, with the proper modifications they can withstand fire and harsh environments. Containers have many uses, some as simple as military storage in war zones or as complex as an entire mock village for US Air Force IED training. Containers help ensure the security of vital equipment as well as the preparedness and safety of our military and first responders!

The knowledge I’ve gained from this industry feels never-ending, so I’ve only compiled a few of my favorite shipping container facts. If you’d like to learn more about modified shipping containers or Falcon Structures, take a look at our Resources page. If you’d like to get in touch with a Falcon representative, give us a call at  877-704-0177 or email us at sales@falconstructures.com.