How to Clean a Shipping Container
Make sure that any dirt, dust, or other forms of detritus are removed from your shipping container., If you have access to a pressure washer, or can borrow or rent one, it will expedite the cleaning process greatly., Inspect both the inside and...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Make sure that any dirt
We suggest using a strong bristled broom and work your way from the back end of the container.
It may be dusty inside, so we also recommend that you wear a dust mask of some form. -
Step 2: or other forms of detritus are removed from your shipping container.
For safety, we recommend wearing some type of goggles or safety glasses.
You’re going to be working in a confined area and anything you spray loose may bounce around – eye protection is important.
Again, start at the back of the container and work your way towards the doors.
Pay special attention to the corners and seams.
Also, keep an eye open for any signs of excessive wear in the floor.
Once the inside dries you may want to consider repairing any potentially weak spots.
After the inside is sprayed out we recommend cleaning the outside next.
The high pressure hose will expose and possibly remove any loose paint or corrosion on your container. , If you do find any rust it can be treated with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar, a natural rust remover.
Apply the vinegar to the rust and rub it with a cloth or strong brush.
If vinegar doesn’t do the trick or isn’t fast enough for you, try rubbing the rust spots on your cargo container with aluminum foil. , Either an orbital sander or belt sander will speed up the process.
You don’t need to remove all of the paint, but we do recommend attacking any spots on your container where the paint is peeling, flaking, or showing signs of wear. , The primer coat will help give it a stronger seal and base to prevent any moisture or corrosion in the future. , Most exterior paints will work, however if there’s any question it’s best to ask a professional or sales associate at the place where you purchased the paint. -
Step 3: If you have access to a pressure washer
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Step 4: or can borrow or rent one
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Step 5: it will expedite the cleaning process greatly.
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Step 6: Inspect both the inside and outside of the shipping container for signs of rust or corrosion.
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Step 7: Once the container is completely dry
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Step 8: inside and out
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Step 9: go over the shipping container with a medium grit sandpaper.
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Step 10: After you’ve finished sanding your shipping container
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Step 11: apply a primer coat of paint.
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Step 12: Finally
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Step 13: after the primer coat is dry apply a thick
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Step 14: exterior paint to the inside and outside of your storage container.
Detailed Guide
We suggest using a strong bristled broom and work your way from the back end of the container.
It may be dusty inside, so we also recommend that you wear a dust mask of some form.
For safety, we recommend wearing some type of goggles or safety glasses.
You’re going to be working in a confined area and anything you spray loose may bounce around – eye protection is important.
Again, start at the back of the container and work your way towards the doors.
Pay special attention to the corners and seams.
Also, keep an eye open for any signs of excessive wear in the floor.
Once the inside dries you may want to consider repairing any potentially weak spots.
After the inside is sprayed out we recommend cleaning the outside next.
The high pressure hose will expose and possibly remove any loose paint or corrosion on your container. , If you do find any rust it can be treated with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar, a natural rust remover.
Apply the vinegar to the rust and rub it with a cloth or strong brush.
If vinegar doesn’t do the trick or isn’t fast enough for you, try rubbing the rust spots on your cargo container with aluminum foil. , Either an orbital sander or belt sander will speed up the process.
You don’t need to remove all of the paint, but we do recommend attacking any spots on your container where the paint is peeling, flaking, or showing signs of wear. , The primer coat will help give it a stronger seal and base to prevent any moisture or corrosion in the future. , Most exterior paints will work, however if there’s any question it’s best to ask a professional or sales associate at the place where you purchased the paint.
About the Author
Lori Bailey
Experienced content creator specializing in hobbies guides and tutorials.
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