Shipping containers are a robust and reliable storage option for countless uses. Being constructed of corten steel, they can endure the elements of all kinds of weather and can withstand the wear and tear of frequent use on the farm. Additionally, their mobility allows for easy placement on-site at farms. Shipping containers come in various sizes that can accommodate an array of storage needs. Let's look at some of the common uses of shipping container storage on farms.
Containers are practical on a farm.
Shipping containers are ideal for keeping hay protected from moisture, pests, and weather, as secure storage is essential to ensure it stays dry and usable.
To see how much hay you can fit inside containers, here is a grid showing our 3 most common sizes: our 20’ and 40’ standards that are both 8’6” high and our 40’ high cube which is 9’6” high.
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Exterior Size |
Interior Size |
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|
Length |
Width |
Height |
Length |
Width |
Height |
|
|
20' container |
20' |
8' |
8.5' |
19' 4.5" |
7' 8.5" |
7' 9.75" |
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40' container |
40’ |
8’ |
8.5’ |
39’ 4.5” |
7' 8.5" |
7' 9.75" |
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40' high cube container |
40' |
8' |
9.5' |
39’ 4.5” |
7' 8.5" |
8' 9.75" |
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Weight (pounds) |
Door Size |
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Max. Gross |
Tare |
Net |
Width |
Height |
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20' container |
52,190 |
5,140 |
47,770 |
7' 8.25" |
7' 5.75" |
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|
40' container |
67,200 |
8,820 |
58,380 |
7' 8.25" |
7' 5.75" |
|
|
40' high cube container |
67,200 |
9,260 |
57,940 |
7' 8.25" |
8' 5.75" |
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With the container being weather-tight, you are able to leave the doors slightly open during the hot summer months or add on vents, to keep the air moving around and the hay drying out.
Venting on a container can help keep hay dry
Similar to being a storage solution for hay, shipping containers can also be used to securely store bags of grain, pellets, or other feed types, keeping them safe from rodents and spoilage.
A weather-tight shipping container provides a moisture-resistant environment, which is ideal for keeping seed stock dry and ready for planting.
Shipping Containers or Self-Storage: Which is Right For You?
Another way shipping containers can be utilized for additional storage on your farm is for storing and organizing farming equipment, tools, machinery parts, and seasonal equipment.Since containers are insect- and rodent-proof, they make a great option for keeping annoying critters away from making their homes in your equipment.
Containers can hold a wide range of equipment and supplies.
There are endless options for modifying shipping containers, and one way you can customize one to be used on your farm is by turning it into a shaded shelter or temporary housing for livestock, especially in harsh weather.
Roll-up doors can make accessing items more flexible.
Chemicals and fertilizers are commonly used on farms and must be handled properly. Shipping containers are ideal for safely storing chemicals, fertilizer, and related equipment and locking them away from livestock and other elements. If they need to be vented or heated and cooled, that can be accommodated as well.
How to Choose the Right Shipping Container
Shipping containers can be a perfect solution for a temporary storage spot for harvested crops before transport or processing. When equipped with climate control features such as vents, the container provides a controlled environment that helps preserve the quality of the crops, protecting them from environmental factors such as moisture and pests. This makes them a versatile and practical choice for farmers looking to streamline their post-harvest handling processes.
Thinking about using a shipping container to store your hay bales or other goods and equipment on your farm? Super Cubes can help you determine and source the perfect container for your specific needs. Contact us today to get started.
We have modification kits to add roll-up doors and much more on our website.
To help make our storage container to your liking, check out our DIY modification kits! If you have any questions or would like to work with us on your project, call us at (952) 283-2783 / (877) 374-5452.
This is an updated blog that was originally published in 2021.
Super Cubes is a family-owned business located in Minneapolis, MN, that provides containers anywhere in the continental US. We offer personalized service for individuals and businesses, providing high-quality containers at competitive prices. With nationwide facilities, we can modify and deliver containers close to you. Contact our experienced team for your next container project.