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In the first part of this three-part miniseries about shipping containers, we took a trip down memory lane, talking about the history of shipping containers. In the second part, we described the most used types of shipping containers aand their typical use. In today’s last part, we will also focus on the use of containers. However, this time we will take it from the other end – we will have a look at the most unique uses of intermodal containers.

Although there are no official statistics, it is estimated that there are more than 14 million discarded containers and more are added each day. While the metal parts of the containers are designed to last more than 30 years, the reason why carriers discard containers is the plywood floor. That has to be in perfect condition for the carrier because they need to drive a forklift on it. However, the floor in slightly used condition does not prevent people from building various products from it. Not everyone needs to drive a multiton forklift on it.

In the past, the goods used to be shipped in the form of breakbulk. Simply put, people literally threw bags with potatoes, barrels of wine, or wooden boxes of various dimensions with guns onto a horse-drawn carriage or later onto a truck. Then they drove to the nearest train station, where they had to unload the load and load it into a railway wagon. After that, the train transported the goods to the nearest port, where the goods had to be reloaded onto a ship. After arriving at the destination port, the whole process was repeated in reverse order.

Loading a container seems like a relatively easy task. However, once you realize how many legal and safety issues there are to be followed, things get a little complicated.

First of all, you need to meet all the legal and safety requirements. Trucks have a maximum permissible load which can’t be exceeded. Not only are there maximum loads for trucks as a whole, but also each axle has its own maximum load. Even the weight difference between the left and the right side of the axle can't differ much to preserve optimal drive-ability. In case you don’t meet the legal requirements, you’re at risk of a substantial fine.

UPDATE: On June 3, 2020, HMM Algeciras became the new largest ship - more about it in this article.