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What Is the Floor of a Shipping Container Made Of?
The floor of a shipping container is engineered for strength and durability to withstand heavy loads, moisture, and harsh environments.
While a common misconception, the floor of a shipping container is not solid metal or wood, but actually 20-28 mm thick Marine Grade Plywood over Corten Steel reinforced beams. Together, these materials create a floor that’s tough, yet pliable, weather and pest resistant, and long-lasting whether your container is on land, at sea, or in your backyard.
Corten Steel is a high-strength alloy that naturally forms a rust-like protective coating, making it incredibly durable and corrosion-resistant perfect for tough environments. Marine-Grade Plywood is designed to withstand moisture, rot, and fungal growth. It’s strong enough to handle heavy cargo, insulates better than steel, and holds up even in wet conditions without warping.
Balanced and Durable Solution
When combined with Corten steel, Marine-grade Plywood flooring offers a balanced and durable solution which is highly functional and able to withstand the harsh conditions whether on land or sea.
The floor of a used shipping container will show signs of wear and tear, could be chipped, but is still guaranteed to be weatherproof. Making the flooring tough enough to walk on, load items into and bear the weight of a small John Deere or Kubota tractor without issue.
Please note that the plywood does have some give and should absorb some weight which prevents the floor from snapping under pressure. To learn more, read our blog about what shipping containers are made of, how they are constructed, and why they are the ideal tool and resource.
Frequently Asked Questions
Container floors are typically constructed with marine-grade plywood, providing durability and moisture resistance. The floor features steel cross members, wooden floor joists, and treated plywood sheets.
You can expect visible dents and rust but what is most important is that the shipping container is wind and watertight and in good condition. This means it to have no cracks or holes, the floor is in good condition and that the door seals are tight enough to keep out any wind or water. If you were to stand inside the container with the doors closed, you should not see any light.
Shipping containers are manufactured using durable steel materials. The process commences with a large sheet of steel that is subsequently cut into smaller sections. These sections are then corrugated and welded together to enhance their strength and structural integrity.
The majority of shipping containers are constructed from a type of steel known as Corten steel, also referred to as "weathering steel". Corten steel is an alloyed steel that contains other metals which react when exposed to air and water. This reaction leads to the formation of a protective layer of oxidation that prevents further corrosion of the metal.