Used 20ft Shipping Container (Dry): Uses, Modifications and Fit-Out Options

Why choose a used 20ft Dry shipping container?

The used 20ft Dry shipping container is a global standard for transport and storage. Its Corten steel structure, 28 mm marine plywood floor and standardised dimensions (ISO 668) make it a reliable, durable solution. Used, it retains all its structural qualities at a much lower cost than new. Versatile, it suits many uses: static storage, sea freight, technical room, or even a base for fit-out. This article explores its uses, possible modifications and the points to check to make your project a success.

Reminder of the technical characteristics of the 20ft Dry

Before considering a specific use, it is useful to recall the dimensions and capacities of this container. The values below are indicative and may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and the unit.

• External dimensions: approx. 6.058 m long, 2.438 m wide, 2.591 m high.
• Internal dimensions: approx. 5.898 m long, 2.352 m wide, 2.393 m high.
• Internal volume: approx. 33 m³.
• Tare weight: approx. 2,200 to 2,400 kg.
• Maximum payload: approx. 28,000 kg.
• Maximum gross weight (MGW): approx. 30,480 kg.
• Material: Corten steel (weathering) for the frame and walls.
• Floor: 28 mm marine plywood on metal cross members.
• Doors: double rear doors with seals and locking bars.

These characteristics make it a robust container, stackable and manoeuvrable with standard equipment (forklifts, reach stackers, cranes).

Common uses of a used 20ft Dry container

The used 20ft Dry is above all a versatile tool. Here are the most common uses.

Static storage

This is the most widespread use. Its closed, lockable design protects goods from bad weather and opportunistic theft. It stores:

• Building materials (cement, plaster, tools).
• Archives and documents sensitive to humidity.
• Palletised goods, furniture, seasonal equipment.
• Bicycles, garden equipment, agricultural tools.

For long-term storage, light ventilation can be added to limit condensation.

Shipping and export

The 20ft is the basic unit of sea transport. It is accepted by shipping lines and road carriers. To export, the container must be in good condition and often accompanied by a valid CSC certificate. It can be loaded, sealed and shipped to most destinations worldwide.

Technical room or site welfare unit

On a construction site, it serves as a tool store, a storage room for sensitive materials or a welfare unit. With minimal fit-out (insulation, electricity, ventilation), it can become a site office, changing room or break room.

Buffer stock in logistics

In a warehouse or production area, it serves as buffer stock or a picking zone. Its relative mobility allows it to be moved as needed.

Event use

In events, it can be used as a technical room, storage space for stage equipment or even as a modular stand after fit-out.

Housing or commercial premises projects

The 20ft container can serve as a base for modular housing, an office, a shop or a workshop. These projects require specific works and compliance with local planning rules. We return to this later.

Possible modifications and fit-outs

A used container can be modified to meet specific needs. Here are the most common fit-outs, with their constraints.

Thermal and acoustic insulation

For prolonged use by people, insulation is essential. Generally used are:

• Rigid panels (polyurethane, extruded polystyrene) glued or screwed to the walls.
• Spray foam, which follows the ribs and limits thermal bridges.
• Mineral or bio-based wool, protected by a vapour barrier.

The floor can be covered with a finish (PVC, laminate, epoxy paint) and insulated from below if necessary. The roof, often exposed to the sun, benefits from insulation or shading.

Electricity and lighting

Any electrical installation must comply with current standards (NF C 15-100 for domestic installations). It is recommended to use a qualified electrician. Cables can be run in conduits fixed to the walls, and the consumer unit installed near the entrance.

Ventilation and air conditioning

A closed container can become very hot in summer and damp in winter. Mechanical ventilation (MVHR) or ventilation grilles are often necessary. For optimal comfort, reversible air conditioning can be installed, but it consumes energy and requires a suitable power supply.

Openings: doors, windows, glazed bays

Adding windows or additional doors involves cutting the steel, which weakens the structure. It is essential to reinforce the openings with welded metal frames. The joinery must be adapted to the wall thickness and properly sealed.

Partitions and interior fit-out

The space can be divided with lightweight partitions (metal frame + plasterboard or particle board). This allows distinct rooms to be created (office, storage, sanitary facilities). The floor can support heavy loads, but weights must be distributed to avoid deformation.

Roof and additional protection

For prolonged outdoor use, an over-roof (steel sheet, stretched tarpaulin) protects the container from leaks and solar radiation. It also limits condensation.

Sanitary facilities and plumbing

Installing sanitary facilities requires a water supply and drainage. This can be complex if the container is not connected to the mains. Standalone solutions (tanks, dry toilets) exist.

Painting and finishes

For a neat appearance, the container can be repainted with an anti-rust paint suitable for steel. Superficial rust marks must be brushed before application. Paint also protects the structure.

Points to check before buying a used container

Not all used containers are equal. Here are the essential checks.

Watertightness

A container described as "Wind & Watertight" (WWT) has been inspected to ensure it does not let in water or wind. Check:

• The condition of the door seals (suppleness, absence of cracks).
• The absence of holes or cracks in the walls and roof.
• The flatness of the floor (no rotten or sagging wood).
• The operation of the locks and hinges.

A simple test: close the doors and see if daylight passes through. A more complete test uses a water projector.

Rust and corrosion

Corten steel develops a protective surface rust, but perforating rust is problematic. Inspect the roof, the bottom of the walls and the welds. Paint blisters can hide advanced corrosion.

CSC certificate for export

If you plan to ship the container, it must be accepted by the shipping line, which generally requires a valid CSC conformity certificate. Check its presence and expiry date.

History and previous use

A container that has carried chemicals or foodstuffs may have residual odours. Ask for the history if possible. A thorough cleaning may be necessary.

Location and transport

A container available near you reduces transport costs. The displayed price (1,350.00 EUR) generally does not include delivery. Ask for a quote including transport and handling.

Regulations and installation

The installation of a container is governed by a few rules.

Planning

A container used as a building may require a prior declaration of works or a building permit, depending on its surface area and duration of installation. Check with the town hall or the planning department.

Road transport

Transporting a loaded container must comply with the weight and dimension limits of the Highway Code. An exceptional convoy may be necessary. The CSC certificate is required for international sea transport.

Anchoring and stability

Provide a stable, flat surface (concrete or compacted gravel). A slight slope can hinder door opening. In windy areas, anchoring to the ground is advisable. Blocks or sleepers isolate the container from the ground and limit corrosion from below.

Security

A locked container is not a safe. To enhance security, add additional locks, protection bars or an alarm system. The weight of the container (approx. 2.2 to 2.4 tonnes) already deters unauthorised movement.

Maintenance of a used container

Minimal maintenance extends the container's lifespan.

• Regularly clean the roof and walls to avoid debris accumulation.
• Maintain door seals with talc or silicone lubricant.
• Grease the locks and hinges.
• Brush and paint rust areas with anti-rust paint.
• Check watertightness after each winter.

Comparison with other formats and types

The choice of container depends on volume, weight and access constraints.

20ft vs 40ft

The 40ft offers about 67 m³ (double the 20ft) for a length of 12.19 m. It is more cost-effective per cubic metre but requires wider access and suitable equipment. The 40ft High Cube adds about 30 cm in height, bringing the volume to about 76 m³.

10ft and 8ft

The 10ft (about 15-16 m³) is compact and practical for restricted spaces. The 8ft serves as mini-storage or a site office.

Special types

The reefer (refrigerated) transports temperature-controlled products; the open top has a removable roof; the flat rack has no walls or roof; the tank is a tanker. For general use, the dry remains the most versatile and economical.

New (one-trip) vs used

A one-trip is in excellent condition but more expensive. A used container like this one shows signs of wear but remains watertight and functional. The choice depends on your budget and use.

Sector-specific use cases

• Construction: tool store, cement storage, welfare unit.
• Agriculture: shelter for seeds, fertilisers, small equipment.
• Retail and logistics: buffer stock, picking zone.
• Events: technical room, equipment storage.
• Maritime and port: shipping unit.
• Individuals: storage of furniture, tools, bicycles, archives.

Optimising interior space: storage and organisation

A 33 m³ container may seem vast, but without organisation it fills up quickly. Here are some principles to make the most of every cubic metre.

Shelves and racking

Ribbed walls do not always allow shelves to be fixed easily. Self-supporting galvanised steel structures are preferred, placed on the floor or fixed to the floor cross members. Industrial upright racking is often used. For heavy loads, distribute the weight over several cross members to avoid deforming the floor.

Palletisation and aisles

If you store pallets, provide a central aisle to move with a manual or electric pallet truck. The internal width of 2.35 m allows pallets to be placed on the sides while keeping a passage. For faster access, storage can be organised as "picking" near the doors and "reserve" at the back.

Humidity management

Condensation is the number one enemy of a closed container. It forms when the outside temperature varies and the humid inside air cools on the walls. To limit this phenomenon:

• Install dehumidifiers (electric or sachet).
• Add low and high ventilation grilles to create an air flow.
• Raise goods on pallets to avoid direct contact with the floor.
• Avoid storing materials that are still damp.

Interior lighting

Without lighting, the interior of a container is dark even in daylight. LED strips powered by a battery or an electrical extension improve comfort. For professional use, fixed lighting connected to the mains is preferable.

20ft container and sustainable development

The used shipping container fits naturally into a circular economy approach. By reusing an existing unit rather than manufacturing a new one, the production of several tonnes of steel and the associated energy are avoided. The Corten steel structure is fully recyclable at end of life. Moreover, fitting out a container for office or light housing use can reduce the carbon footprint compared to traditional construction, provided insulation and ventilation are properly addressed. For companies concerned about their environmental impact, the used container is therefore a relevant alternative, provided its condition is checked and unnecessary energy-intensive modifications are avoided.

Common mistakes to avoid

Many buyers discover certain constraints too late. Here are the most common pitfalls.

• Neglecting site access: a container truck needs manoeuvring space and a load-bearing surface. Check the width of the path, the presence of low branches and the slope.
• Underestimating the weight: even empty, a 20ft weighs over 2 tonnes. The ground must support this weight without sinking.
• Forgetting orientation: a door facing due west takes driving rain; a wall facing due south accumulates heat. Orient the container according to your climate.
• Not providing ventilation: without ventilation, condensation can ruin archives or textiles in a few months.
• Ignoring local rules: some municipalities impose restrictions on container installation, even for temporary use.
• Buying without inspecting: a photo is no substitute for a visit. If you cannot travel, ask for a detailed condition report.

Conclusion

The used 20ft Dry shipping container is a robust, economical and versatile solution. Whether for storage, shipping or fit-out, it adapts to many projects. Before buying, check watertightness, structure and, if necessary, the CSC certificate. For a fit-out, comply with construction and planning standards. With minimal maintenance, it will serve you for many years. For any questions or to obtain a quote including delivery, contact our team.