Did you know that shipping containers can do more than just carry goods across the ocean?
When these containers are not being used for ocean transportation, they are used in multiple ways to get the best out of them
Since these shipping containers are strong, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly makes them a great choice for creative projects.
Below we have listed 10 ways these used containers are being repurposed.
Why Repurpose Shipping Containers?
Shipping containers are used to transport through oceans which requires them to be super strong. This ability of a container makes them reusable while reducing waste.
Also, they are cheaper than traditional constructions. Whether you need a home, a café, office, school or anything, this old shipping container will be a perfect starting point.
Now, let’s look at how people are repurposing these containers in amazing ways.
1. Portable Offices
Portable office cabins can be easily made from old containers. They are ideal for offices especially for remote offices and construction site offices which needs large spaces or temporary projects.
Further you can customize the container with desks, chairs, air conditioning, and even a small kitchen for employees’ convenience.
It is practical and affordable solution for businesses that need flexibility.
Established in 2001, Container City is a pioneering project where shipping containers were transformed into flexible office spaces. Located in the Trinity Buoy Wharf area of London, this development showcases the versatility of shipping containers in creating affordable and adaptable workspaces.
Image Source: Wikipedia
2. Pop-Up Shops and Cafés
Have you ever seen a small shop or café in a unique location? Chances are, it was made from a shipping container. Pop-up shops are trendy and grab attention, and containers make them possible.
With some creativity, you can design a café with large windows, outdoor seating, and an eye-catching design that stands out in any urban space.
Café Infinity (Ghaziabad): Architect Rahul Jain designed Café Infinity using nine repurposed shipping containers, creating a sustainable and eye-catching structure at ITS Dental College.
Image Source: TheBetterIndia
3. Affordable Housing Solutions
Housing is a big challenge in many places, and shipping containers offer a unique solution. These old containers can be turned into desirable homes with proper plumbing, insulation and electrical work.
In fact, entire communities of container homes have been created to provide affordable housing for those in need. It’s a sustainable and cost-effective way to address the housing crisis.
Pardiwala Family’s Sustainable Home (Mumbai): The Pardiwala family reused shipping containers to build an eco-friendly and sustainable home, demonstrating an innovative approach to affordable housing.
Data and Image Source: TheBetterIndia
4. Educational Spaces
Who says learning can’t happen in a container? Schools, libraries, and study centers have been built using shipping containers, especially in areas where traditional buildings are too expensive or impractical.
These used shipping containers can be further customized with desks, bookshelves, and even computers, creating a comfortable space for learning.
This Gurugram School created developmental schools using these old cargo containers. Read how they did it below.
Safeducate’s Container Schools: Safeducate has established 25 skill development schools across India, including one in Gurugram, utilizing repurposed shipping containers to provide training to over 10,000 youngsters.
Data and Image Source: TheBetterIndia
5. Mobile Clinics and Health Centers
Access to healthcare is crucial, especially in remote or disaster-prone areas. Shipping containers can be turned into mobile clinics equipped with medical equipment, examination rooms, and waiting areas.
These clinics can be transported to places where they’re needed most, providing essential healthcare to people who might not otherwise have access.
Mohalla Clinics (Delhi): Wrecked shipping containers have been repurposed to create Mohalla Clinics, providing accessible healthcare and educational services in various neighbourhoods.
Data and Image Source: InDesignLive
6. Art Studios and Creative Spaces
For creative studios artists and freelancers need a quite space to work. A shipping container can be the perfect solution for this need.
This container can be converted into an art studio or a workshop, with complete storage for supplies or tools. With a little creativity, you can design a space that inspires you to create your best work.
Vibrant Office Building (Bangalore): This colourful office building in Bangalore has been constructed from recycled shipping containers, designed with passive ventilation and serving as a creative workspace.
Data and Image Source: InHabitat
7. Storage Units
Shipping containers can be excellent storage units due to their strong structure. They can be used by both individuals as well as businesses.
Them being weatherproof and secure will keep you stuffs secure. Stuffs like tools, equipment, inventory items or anything you want to store these use shipping containers work great as a go-to storage solution.
8. Disaster Relief Shelters
When natural disasters strike, people need shelter fast. Shipping containers can be quickly converted into temporary housing for those affected.
They provide a safe, sturdy space that can be transported to disaster areas, helping families rebuild their lives. These containers can be stacked one above another to make room for more people.
9. Data Centers
These data centers are built inside shipping containers, making them easy to move, quick to set up, and energy efficient.
They are great for areas with limited infrastructure, edge computing, or as backup solutions, offering flexibility and lower costs compared to traditional data centers.
In February 2023, Varanium Cloud, a digital tech company in India, launched a containerized edge data center in Kudal, Maharashtra. This innovative setup, housed in a standard shipping container, helps improve digital services in the region.
Data and Image Source: DataCenterDynamics
10. Vertical Farms
In India, the concept of vertical farming within repurposed shipping containers is gaining traction as an innovative solution to urban agriculture challenges. This method allows for efficient use of space and resources, making it ideal for densely populated cities.
Farm Anywhere located in Delta-British Columbia, specializes in container-based vertical farming, transforming used shipping containers into controlled, high-tech environments for growing crops.
These farms use hydroponic systems, LED lighting, and climate control to grow a variety of fresh produce like leafy greens and herbs. The containers are highly efficient, requiring 90% less water and significantly less land compared to traditional farming.
Image Source: FarmAnywhere
Benefits of Repurposing Shipping Containers
So, why are shipping containers such a great choice?
- Cost-Effective: Building with containers is often cheaper than traditional construction.
- Portable and Modular: You can move them and combine multiple containers to create larger spaces.
- Environmentally Friendly: Reusing containers reduces waste and saves resources.
Their durability and flexibility make them a practical option for almost any project you can dream up.
What to Consider Before Starting
Before you start repurposing a shipping container, here are some important things to keep in mind:
- Quality Inspection: Make sure the container is in good condition and free from rust or structural damage.
- Local Regulations: You need to have permission from the local authorities to place your shipping containers, so that you are not violating any legal laws and people around do not have any objections.
- Insulation and Ventilation: Proper customization as per the usage is obvious. Make sure to include required ventilation and insulation be it for heat, electricity or sound to avoid any future problems.
- Plumbing and Electrical Work: If your project needs water or electricity, plan for these systems early on.
To have in-depth understanding of what to consider before making a used shipping container purchase read these 20 considerations before buying a used shipping container.
Conclusion
Shipping containers are more than just steel boxes, they’re a canvas for creativity. From portable offices to vertical urban farms, the possibilities are endless. By repurposing these containers, you can save money, help the environment, and create something truly unique.
If you’re feeling inspired, why not explore how a used shipping container can meet your needs? The potential is limitless, and you’ll be contributing to a more sustainable future.
What would you create with a shipping container? Contact AscentCabin today to discuss your queries!