Most people focus on just the size of the shipping container, but that’s not the only thing to look into. There is also the matter of the material used in the construction of the container. Maybe you want to go with metal shipping container, or maybe plastic made containers would be better. The answer will depend not on personal preference, but on the type of goods you need transported.

The shipping containers made out of metal have clear advantages when it comes to their durability and strength, making for very good storage units. While there are a lot of advantages that shipping containers have when compared with plastic ones, there is also the cost factor, which is a bit in the favor of plastic.

This type of container is preferred when heavier goods need to be transported, including most kinds of large appliances, TV’s, desks, cabinets and so on. The sizes available for these containers vary from the standard 20 or 40 ft models, to smaller ones, of just 10 ft.

The choice of metal used in the construction of the container will vary as well, with some models using aluminum, while others use steel. The aluminum costs less, doesn’t corrode and it’s lighter, so it’s the preferred choice whenever possible. When you go with steel, you get a surface that is stronger, so there are certainly cases when it makes more sense.

The vast majority of the containers are water proof, but it’s not always a guarantee, so before you choose one you should definitely ask the seller about the features of the containers they have for sale. Insulation should be present inside the container, to insure that your goods arrive at their destination in good condition.

Another big area where the metal container is preferred is when you require an electric installation inside, which allows you to control the container’s interior temperature.