Introduction
Burying shipping containers is not recommended as it can cause significant damage to the container. The soil and groundwater can corrode the metal, and the weight of the soil can crush the container. However, if you must bury a shipping container, there are some steps you can take to minimize the damage.
The Pros of Burying Shipping Containers
Shipping containers can be a great way to store things underground. They are watertight and can be buried without the worry of them leaking. They can also be easily dug up if you need to get to the things inside. Shipping containers can also be used to build homes and other structures.
It’s an Inexpensive Way to Dispose of Them
Shipping containers are made of steel, which is a very durable material. When you bury a shipping container, you’re effectively burying a piece of steel that will last for many years. This is a much cheaper way to dispose of shipping containers than sending them to a landfill.
They Make Great Bunkers
Shipping containers are made of steel, which is one of the most durable materials available. When buried, they can withstand massive amounts of pressure from the earth and any other objects that may fall on them. They are also weatherproof and will protect you from the elements, whether it be extreme heat or cold.
They’re Easy to Find
One of the benefits of using shipping containers for a home or storage unit is that they are easy to find. Many people choose to use shipping containers because they are readily available and can be found at a fraction of the cost of other types of construction materials. You can usually find shipping containers at salvage yards or online auctions.
The Cons of Burying Shipping Containers
Burying shipping containers is not a good idea for a number of reasons. First, the containers are not made to be buried and will not withstand the pressure of the earth. Second, if the container leaks, the chemicals inside could contaminate the groundwater. Third, it is difficult to retrieve a buried container. Finally, the burial site will be difficult to sell because potential buyers will know that there is a shipping container buried on the property.
They’re Not Environmentally Friendly
As shipping containers are generally made of steel, they’re not the most environmentally friendly option when it comes to burial. Steel is a natural resource that takes a significant amount of energy and resources to mine, process, and manufactures into containers.
Additionally, when steel containers rust, they release harmful toxins and chemicals into the soil and groundwater. This can contaminate drinking water sources and potentially harm plant and animal life in the surrounding area.
They’re Difficult to Dig Up
If you ever need to access the container (or anything inside of it), good luck. Because they’re made of steel, these structures are extremely difficult to dig up. Unless you have access to some heavy-duty equipment, you likely won’t be able to get them out of the ground.
Additionally, if you live in an area with high water table levels, the container could rust over time. This would make it even more difficult (and expensive) to dig up.
They May Rust
One potential issue you may face when burying a shipping container is rust. If the container wasn’t properly treated to prevent rust before it was buried, the lack of oxygen underground can cause the rust to spread quickly. This will weaken the container and may cause it to collapse.
The Bottom Line
Can shipping containers be buried? The bottom line is that while it is technically possible to bury a shipping container, it is not recommended. There are a number of reasons for this, including the fact that shipping containers are not designed to be buried, they are not structurally sound when buried, and they can leak harmful chemicals into the ground.