Shipping containers – especially more recent ones which are of high manufactured quality – are very robust and well over-specified for use as storage. Storage is unlikely to submit a shipping container to the rigours of sea transport with cargo. A new shipping container put directly into storage use could be expected to last up to 50 years. Obviously, this depends on many factors such as the type of use they are put to or if the original structure or paint work has been disturbed as a result of modifications. A used container will last less time because it will already have had a life at sea and in transport but they will still give very good service and there is no reason why a good standard used container cannot last 20 years. Life expectancy of a used container will depend mainly on the condition of the doors and the roof.