Shipping Container in Gray Color RAL 7016
What is a Shipping Container in Gray Color RAL 7016?
Shipping container in gray color RAL 7016 is a standardized, reusable transport and storage unit made from highly durable Corten steel, equipped with a specific coating in anthracite gray shade according to the RAL 7016 system. This shade has become a symbol of modern, professional, and timeless aesthetics in the field of logistics, storage, as well as construction and architectural solutions.
RAL 7016 containers are available in variants of new (“One Way” – single journey) and used, in several standardized sizes (most commonly 20′ DV, 20′ HC, 40′ DV, 40′ HC), which allows for a wide range of uses – from goods transport through mobile warehouses to stylish pop-up bars, offices, or modular buildings.
Anatomy and Basic Characteristics of a Shipping Container
Material and Construction: COR-TEN Steel
- COR-TEN steel is a special alloyed steel with the addition of copper, chromium, nickel, and phosphorus, which when exposed to weather creates a protective patina (oxide layer). This patina significantly increases resistance to atmospheric corrosion, which is key to the long lifespan of containers.
- Corten containers have an average lifespan of 20–30 years even in extreme conditions.
Main Structural Elements
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Frame | Welded construction from profiled steel ensures high load capacity and stacking capability (up to 9 units on top of each other). |
| Corrugated Walls | Profiled (trapezoidal) walls increase rigidity and protect against impacts. |
| Double-Hinged Doors | Located on the shorter side, equipped with min. 2 locking bars, water-tightness ensured by rubber sealing. |
| Floor | Steel cross-members, plywood 28–30 mm thick, impregnated against rot, moisture, fungi, and pests. |
| Corner Blocks (Corner Castings) | Standardized handles for handling and stacking using a crane or forklift. |
Standardization and Dimensions (ISO 6346)
| Type | External Dimensions (L × W × H) mm | Internal Dimensions (L × W × H) mm | Volume (m³) | Empty Weight (kg) | Load Capacity (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20′ DV | 6,058 × 2,438 × 2,591 | 5,898 × 2,352 × 2,393 | 33.2 | approx. 2,200 | 28,000 |
| 20′ HC | 6,058 × 2,438 × 2,896 | 5,898 × 2,352 × 2,698 | 37.4 | approx. 2,350 | 28,000 |
| 40′ DV | 12,192 × 2,438 × 2,591 | 12,032 × 2,352 × 2,393 | 67.7 | approx. 3,700 | 26,000 |
| 40′ HC | 12,192 × 2,438 × 2,896 | 12,032 × 2,352 × 2,698 | 76.3 | approx. 3,900 | 26,000 |
- DV (Dry Van) = standard height 2,591 mm
- HC (High Cube) = increased height 2,891 mm, suitable for bulky or tall goods
Condition and Certification
- New (“One Way”) – manufactured in Asia, used for one transport to Europe, practically without wear, absolutely clean interior, floor without damage, valid CSC label (valid for 5 years; required for international transport).
- Used (Cargo Worthy, Wind & Watertight) – several years in operation, possible minor dents, scuffs, surface corrosion, yet still fully functional and water-tight.
Significance of Color: Why Exactly RAL 7016?
RAL System and Its Significance
- RAL is a German system for standardizing industrial colors (since 1927), used throughout Europe. Each shade has a four-digit code, which guarantees exact color match between different manufacturers, for example, during container paint repairs.
- RAL is commonly used in the automotive, construction, and container industries.
RAL 7016 – Anthracite Gray
- Dark, neutral gray shade with a subtle blue-green undertone (Anthracite Grey).
- Very popular choice for modern architecture because it appears luxurious, neutral, and at the same time timeless.
- Masks dirt, scuffs, and minor dents.
- In combination with wooden, glass, or metal elements, it creates timeless visual effects.
Practical Properties of the Coating
- Container painting is performed with a two-layer polyurethane or epoxy paint, which protects against UV radiation, salty environments, and chemicals.
- Coating in “marine grade” quality prevents corrosion and extends the lifespan of the shell even in very demanding conditions of ports or structures.
- When customized, RAL 7016 can be combined with other colors for branding or increased visibility.
Comparison with Other Colors
| RAL Code | Name | Use and Note |
|---|---|---|
| 7016 | Anthracite Grey | Modern, universal, elegant, inconspicuous, suitable for city and nature |
| 7035 | Light Grey | Light gray, often for office and residential container buildings |
| 6005 | Moss Green | Green, ideal for farms, gardens, and natural environments |
| 9005 | Jet Black | Extremely dark, dramatic appearance, increased heat accumulation |
| 9010 | Pure White | White, common for refrigerated (reefer) containers, demanding maintenance |
| 5010/5013 | Blue | Classic colors of transport companies, well visible, industrial appearance |
Applications and Uses: Modern Design and Functionality
Logistics and Storage
- Traditional use – safe transport of goods by sea, rail, and road.
- Storage of materials, machinery, equipment – containers are completely water-tight, lockable, and protected against vandalism and weather.
- Suitable as mobile warehouses on construction sites, in agriculture, at industrial enterprises, sports facilities, and municipal offices.
Pop-up Architecture, Event Use, and Business
- Pop-up containers: Quickly installable bars, cafes, bistros, sales stands, showrooms, stages at festivals and cultural events.
- Festival containers: Facilities for organizers, information points, restrooms, cash registers, or VIP zones – RAL 7016 provides a premium visual style.
- Bar containers: Most commonly 20′ DV or 20′ HC, with side opening, wooden cladding, LED lighting. Resistant to rain, vandalism, and repeated handling.
Offices, Workshops, Living Spaces
- Office containers: Insulated, with plastic windows, electrical wiring, air conditioning, WC. Ideal for construction sites, temporary company headquarters, and schools.
- Workshops and studios: Possibility of connecting multiple containers, installation of work tables, shelves, compressor, etc.
- Housing and recreation: Cottages, tiny houses, family shipping container homes; combination of RAL 7016 with wooden cladding and green roofs creates architecturally interesting, sustainable housing.
Other Uses
- Garage for personal cars, motorcycles, bicycles
- Technical facilities (substations, pumping stations)
- Emergency and crisis containers (for firefighters, military, humanitarian purposes)
- Animal shelters, stands, seasonal shops
Modifications and Product Variants
Modular and Custom Modifications
- Windows, doors, sectional gates – lighting, easier access, loading ramps
- Partition walls – division of interior space into multiple zones (warehouse + workshop, office + facilities)
- Interior insulation – mineral wool, PUR foam, sandwich panels
- Ventilation grilles, air conditioning
- Floor coverings – replacement with linoleum, tiles, poured floor for easy maintenance
- Branding – stickers, paints with company logos, advertising panels
Demountable (Flat-pack) and Modular Systems
- Flat-pack containers – foldable, easily transportable as a package of panels, assembly in 2 hours, suitable for temporary installations or where transport is complicated.
- Modular buildings – connection of several containers horizontally or vertically, creation of two-story buildings, large showrooms, sports facility facilities, etc.
Examples of Real Modifications
- 40′ HC RAL 7016 container including window, gates, and partition wall with doors – suitable as a combination warehouse/garage and office, with possibility of connection to electrical network, heating, camera system.
- Possibility of expansion with ramp, roof windows, security grilles, shelving systems.
Related Terms and Standards
- CORTEN – steel resistant to atmospheric corrosion, standard for the container industry
- ISO 6346 – standard for coding, identification, and dimensions of shipping containers
- CSC label (Container Safety Convention) – mandatory for transport, guarantees technical condition of container
- High Cube (HC) – increased height for greater volume
- One Way container – new container after one transport journey from manufacturing
- Pop-up container – temporary structure for events, quick installation, high variability
- Flat-pack – demountable container for easy transport and assembly
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does a RAL 7016 colored container last in the exterior?
Quality coating on Corten steel lasts 15–20 years without need for renovation, the steel itself then 20–30 years.
Can a RAL 7016 container be used as a foundation for a house?
Yes, containers are increasingly used as a structural element for modern family shipping container homes, studios, or recreational buildings. RAL 7016 is highly sought after in the shipping container house market due to its universality and timelessness.
What are the limits of container modifications?
Practically unlimited – from cutouts for windows and doors, to complete insulation, electrical installation, plumbing, to connecting multiple containers into one unit.
What is the price of a new 20′ RAL 7016 container?
According to current offer (2024–2025), the price of a new 20′ DV container RAL 7016 (One Way) without VAT is approx. 70–72,000 CZK, 20′ HC approx. 85,000 CZK, 40′ HC around 140–160,000 CZK. Price depends on variant, accessories, and current situation on the steel and transport market.
Is it possible to deliver a container in a custom color?
Yes, for both new and used containers, repainting to any RAL shade can be ordered, most commonly, however, customers choose RAL 7016 for its universality and practicality.
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