Container Depot Visit - Ryan Melville

Container Trip Observations

Container Trip Documentation

1. For CIMC to be the largest manufacturer of containers, I thought it odd that I didn't see more of their name (brand) on more of the containers.

 

 2.  When looking for "As-Is" containers there is quite the wide variance between used and used.  Depending on the use you are looking for you may need to pick up the "gently" used or one trippers quickly or they will be taken by another.

3.  It was impressive on how nimble the tractors were given the size and weight of the containers.  Also, how little the drivers took care in moving them around.

4.  With multiple references on how the main structural elements of the boxes were the corner posts, there were many that were not stored that way.

5.  The yards that store these boxes cover a large quantity of land.  There is a need for many acres just to keep these boxes when not in use.

6.  With modification of these containers gaining popularity, the workers on these yards are becoming very skilled in making the required modifications to meet client needs.

7.  The containers can be fitted out with all of the services needed for any purpose.  Electrical, HVAC and plumbing can be installed as you would any other type of construction, with minor accommodations.

8.  Welded connections were what was on display.  Bolted connections may be used if properly waterproofed.

9.  These containers are treated as a commodity.  Supply and demand has a dramatic effect on pricing for resale.  If purchasing a handful, this pricing change may not matter but if purchasing a large quantity like the large leasing companies do then the fluctuation may add significant cost.

10.  There is a great deal of prep work needed to refinish a box to sell to a user who is looking for a higher quality container such as sand blasting, painting, an modifications which also drives the cost of the finished product.

  11.  There are lots of stickers, placards, and nameplates affixed to the boxes.  These items are not generally desirable and their treatment must be considered.

12.  With the workers being outside during all months of the year, some create makeshift structures to create shade and comfortable areas to work.

Reasons to visit the container depots

• To see first hand how the containers are stored
• To physically see the different types up close
• To visually inspect the containers and look for the different grades of "as-is"
• Understand how they are attached together with the twistlocks
• Understand what it takes to modify them
• Get a better sense of human scale by standing in them and next to them
• See the large equipment used to transport them in action

Container Depot Field Trip Itinerary

We will begin the day at Bold City (General Transport Services) at 930a. This is about 2hr15 from Citylab. Plan to be on time (early is on time, on time is late).

Bold City Containers

120 Gun Club Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32218
https://goo.gl/maps/KKVGvYRMbtL2

We will have lunch next door at:

Junior's Seafood Restaurant and Grill
9349 N Main St., Jacksonville, FL 32218
https://goo.gl/maps/Awcp5Bz29KA2

Then we will visit Conglobal at 130p.

ConGlobal Industries Inc

8831 Moncrief Dinsmore Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32219
https://goo.gl/maps/XC5rhptDWup

Plan to leave Jacksonville at 4p. You will be back in Orlando vicinity by 6p.