Rise in Demand for Containers (Part II of II)

Rise in Demand for Containers (Part II of II)

In the first part of this two-part article we discussed the foundations that have built and strengthened the recent rise of containerization in the moving industry. In the final part of this article we will be discussing how containerization is shaping the moving world, and what the future holds for the world of containers.

One of the biggest assets regarding containers is the space that they provide. As noted by Jim Gaw (Vice President and General Manager of Atlas World Group International), 10 tightly-packed lift van boxes can hold roughly 12,000 lbs. (or the contents of a 4-5 bedroom home), and can additionally fit into a 40 ft. container. While more often than not, a typical residential move is much smaller, meaning that a one bedroom apartment would in turn fit in to one lift van box.

Newer container models are presently comprised of a high-density polyethylene, similar to the plastic of which is used in milk jugs and plastic bags. Whereas, the old containers were created from steel and plywood. Not only are they lighter, but they are much more efficient in terms of weatherization (meaning they can be left outside, and the inside items will remain protected from any harsh weather elements). Additionally they are also fully capable of easily being stacked in warehouses.

More companies are turning to these unique containers and are finding themselves adding varying options such as SAM (Store and Move) and PODS, to meed the demands of their customers. While many clients still choose to work closely with the customer-service based moving businesses, many more are opting to simply have their items packed into one of these containers and shipped to where they are going.

While the future may certainly be shaping up in the world of containerization, it seems suitable to say that both container companies as well as van line companies can easily utilize some booming business for both parties!