In the same way that the storage needs of individuals or businesses differ, metal storage unit manufacturers work hard to design and provide a variety of different sized units for their clients. Individuals and companies alike can easily find storage units that are the exact size to fit their requirements. Custom-sized storage units are also available, which are designed and manufactured according to specifications provided by the client. Compared to standard units, custom-sized units do cost slightly more due to the customization.
If you want to get technical, safes are the smallest available metal storage units, but that doesn’t mean that all safes are small. The smallest units are designed for use in homes and by small businesses for storing cash and other valuables. Financial institutions handling large amounts of money typically make use of larger safes, and because they are specially designed to provide for fire-proofing, safes are generally very expensive.
Mid-sized metal storage units are considered the most common because they’re used in a variety of areas. They are typically designed for office and home use. While those for office use are mostly used to store files, those for home use can have a variety of different features to suit any need. While some are left open without any compartments, others feature shelves. Still others feature lockable drawers or doors for securing stored items.
When it comes to large metal storage units, they’re most often used by manufacturing companies for storing raw materials or finished goods, retail outlets for storing flammable items such as gas cylinders, and shipping companies. Any units used by shipping companies are designed to withstand the stress of transport and long shipping times. While many units don’t feature any special customization, others used for transporting perishable items feature refrigeration equipment for temperature control. These metal transportation storage units, typically referred to as “shipping containers,” are now often used as offices and stores, depending on where and how they’re utilized. The larger 40 or 80-foot units are occasionally transformed into temporary or permanent housing.
The size of metal storage units is very important because it’s a unit’s size that informs its use. In addition to size, a customer may also want to consider design, style and color. While these units are typically constructed of metal like steel or aluminum, they may also have a vinyl or other coating that can come in a variety of colors. Something else to keep in mind: larger units typically cost more. However, it’s good to note that a unit’s functionality can also determine its price, so even a smaller unit like a safe can be expensive despite its reduced size.
In order to ensure uniformity when it comes to metal storage units, size standards are in place. All manufactures are obligated to keep units of certain standardized sizes to ensure that consumers have access to similar units across the world.