In the face of escalating housing crises, innovative solutions are emerging to address the pressing need for affordable and sustainable living spaces. One such solution gaining momentum is the transformation of shipping containers into bespoke homes, a practice exemplified by Mākhers Studio, a woman- and veteran-run business based in Atlanta, Georgia.

Founded in 2017 by landscape architect and urban designer Wanona Satcher, Mākhers Studio repurposes recycled shipping containers to create "Plug-In-Pods." These modular units serve as on-demand, permanent, and pop-up affordable housing, as well as entrepreneurial and community spaces. The studio's approach not only addresses housing shortages but also promotes environmental sustainability by recycling approximately four tons of steel per 40-foot container and reducing landfill waste by an estimated 50% compared to traditional construction methods.

Collaborating with her husband, Kevin Hamak—a Marine Corps veteran and fellow architect—Satcher leads a diverse team of engineers, architects, and craftspeople, many of whom are local veterans, LGBTQ+ community members, and women. Together, they design and construct custom units, veteran housing, classrooms, and modular health clinics using shipping containers sourced from localized supply chains. Their current projects include developing housing for veterans in Durham, North Carolina, featuring communal courtyard spaces to foster restorative health and rehabilitation.

At W&K Container, Inc., we are inspired by and proud to support such transformative initiatives. As a leading supplier of new and used ISO shipping containers, we recognize the potential these robust structures hold in revolutionizing affordable housing. Our diverse range of container options, from standard 20' and 40' units to specialized containers, provides the perfect foundation for innovative housing solutions.

By repurposing shipping containers, we can collectively address critical housing shortages, support vulnerable populations—including homeless veterans—and contribute to sustainable development goals. We invite architects, developers, and community leaders to explore the versatile applications of our shipping containers in creating affordable, eco-friendly housing solutions.
 
Together, let's build a future where everyone has access to a safe, sustainable, and affordable place to call home.
 
#AffordableHousing #SustainableLiving #ShippingContainerHomes #VeteranSupport #InnovativeDesign #ModularHousing #CommunityDevelopment #EcoFriendlyConstruction #W&KContainer

Read the full article here.

​The recent agreement by Hong Kong's CK Hutchison Holdings to sell 80% of its port operations, including significant assets at both ends of the Panama Canal, to a consortium led by BlackRock for $22.8 billion marks a pivotal shift in global port ownership. This transaction not only alters the landscape of international maritime logistics but also carries substantial implications for the United States.​

Strategic Reorientation of Port Assets
CK Hutchison's decision to divest a majority stake in its global port operations, encompassing 43 ports across 23 countries, reflects a strategic reorientation amidst escalating geopolitical tensions. The inclusion of the Balboa and Cristobal ports, situated at the Pacific and Atlantic entrances of the Panama Canal respectively, underscores the strategic value of this deal. These ports are critical junctures in global shipping routes, facilitating the transit of approximately 40 million container ships annually. ​

Implications for U.S. Geopolitical Interests
For the United States, the transfer of control over these pivotal ports to an American-led consortium signifies a strategic realignment in the region. President Donald Trump has lauded the acquisition as a significant move to curtail Chinese influence over the Panama Canal, a vital artery for international maritime trade. This aligns with broader U.S. efforts to reassert influence over critical global infrastructure and ensure the security of essential supply chains.​

Economic and Operational Considerations
The acquisition by BlackRock and its partners is anticipated to bring substantial investments into the modernization and expansion of these port facilities. Such developments could enhance the efficiency and capacity of the Panama Canal, benefiting global trade flows and, by extension, U.S. importers and exporters. Improved port infrastructure may lead to reduced transit times and costs, bolstering the competitiveness of U.S. businesses engaged in international trade.​

Potential Challenges and Considerations
Despite the potential benefits, the transaction has elicited criticism from Chinese authorities, who perceive the sale as a capitulation to U.S. pressure and a threat to their strategic interests in the region. This geopolitical friction underscores the complexities inherent in global infrastructure investments and the necessity for diplomatic navigation to mitigate tensions.
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Conclusion
The sale of CK Hutchison's port assets to a BlackRock-led consortium represents a significant shift in the control of critical maritime infrastructure. For the United States, this development offers an opportunity to strengthen its strategic position in global trade routes, particularly concerning the Panama Canal. However, it also necessitates careful consideration of the broader geopolitical dynamics at play and the importance of maintaining stable international relations to ensure the continued smooth operation of global supply chains.​

Transporting supercars to international racing events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans or the ITM Taupō Super 440 is a complex logistical endeavor that requires meticulous planning and execution. Teams employ a combination of sea freight and air freight to ensure their vehicles and equipment arrive safely and on time.​

Sea Freight: Cost-Effective and Sustainable

Sea freight is often the preferred method for transporting supercars over long distances due to its cost-effectiveness and lower environmental impact compared to air freight. For instance, the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) utilizes sea freight to move race cars and associated equipment globally. This approach not only helps control budgets but also reduces carbon emissions, as sea freight emits significantly fewer greenhouse gases than air freight.

Similarly, Goodyear, a prominent tire supplier for racing events, opts for sea freight to ship tires worldwide, citing its environmental benefits. The company notes that sea freight emits 47 times fewer greenhouse gases per ton-mile compared to air freight, making it a more sustainable choice for long-haul races. ​

Air Freight: Speed and Efficiency

Despite the higher costs, air freight is utilized when speed is of the essence. Formula 1 (F1) teams, for example, rely on major cargo airlines to transport cars and equipment swiftly between international venues. This method ensures that teams can adhere to tight schedules, especially during back-to-back race weekends.

Case Study: Supercars Championship's Shift to Sea Freight

In 2025, the Supercars Championship made a strategic shift from air to sea freight for their event in Taupō, New Zealand. Teams meticulously packed two cars, along with essential equipment, into 40-foot containers. This transition required extensive planning to ensure compliance with New Zealand's strict biosecurity regulations. Team 18's Manager, Mitch Croke, highlighted the importance of thorough cleaning and documentation to meet these standards.

Logistical Coordination and Challenges

The logistics of transporting supercars involve coordinating multiple modes of transportation and adhering to various international regulations. For events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans, teams must synchronize schedules to ensure timely deliveries. This includes managing the shipment of cars, spare parts, and equipment, often requiring months of advance planning. ​

Conclusion
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The transportation of supercars to international racing events is a multifaceted process that balances cost, speed, and environmental considerations. While sea freight offers a more sustainable and economical option, air freight provides the necessary speed for tight schedules. Teams must navigate these logistics carefully to ensure their vehicles arrive ready to compete on the global stage.

Plymouth City Council has announced the installation of three converted shipping containers as temporary bus shelters along the north side of Royal Parade. This initiative not only addresses immediate public transportation needs but also exemplifies the versatility and sustainability of shipping containers in urban design.
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The decision to repurpose shipping containers for public use aligns with global trends in sustainable architecture. By utilizing these robust structures, cities can quickly deploy functional spaces while minimizing environmental impact. This approach underscores a commitment to resource efficiency and adaptability in urban planning.
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At W&K Container, Inc., we recognize the immense potential of shipping containers beyond their traditional roles. Our expertise in providing high-quality containers has supported various projects, from pop-up shops to emergency housing solutions. The Plymouth bus shelter project serves as a testament to the endless possibilities that arise when innovative thinking meets practical solutions.
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As urban areas continue to seek sustainable and cost-effective infrastructure solutions, the adaptability of shipping containers offers a promising avenue. W&K Container, Inc. remains committed to supporting such forward-thinking initiatives, providing durable and versatile containers that can be transformed to meet diverse community needs.
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We applaud Plymouth City Council's initiative and look forward to seeing more cities embrace similar sustainable practices in the future.

At W&K Container, Inc., we believe in the power of shipping containers to create lasting solutions for real-world challenges. One remarkable example of this is the work of Wholistic Transformation, a nonprofit in Tucson, Arizona, that is repurposing decommissioned shipping containers to provide stable housing for young adults aging out of the foster care system.

For many foster youth, turning 18 means losing access to essential support systems, often leaving them vulnerable to homelessness. Wholistic Transformation is addressing this urgent issue by converting 20-foot shipping containers—previously part of the Arizona-Mexico border wall—into fully functional micro-homes. Each unit offers 320 square feet of private living space, complete with a bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom, ensuring these young adults have a secure foundation as they transition into independent life.

Beyond housing, the project fosters a true sense of community. With 12 total homes—10 for residents and 2 for live-in mentors—the initiative provides guidance, resources, and a support network to help these young adults thrive. Plus, the homes are solar-powered, reinforcing a commitment to sustainability.

At W&K Container, Inc., we admire the creativity and impact of this project. It showcases how shipping containers can be more than just storage or transport—they can be a vehicle for change, stability, and opportunity.

Learn more about this inspiring initiative here.

​Ah, St. Patrick’s Day—a time for green outfits, questionable dance moves, and people suddenly discovering their great-great-great-granduncle was from Dublin. But while everyone is out searching for four-leaf clovers, here at W&K Container, Inc., we know where the real treasure is…High-quality shipping containers, built to last longer than an Irish folklore tale.

Because whether you’re shipping goods, storing equipment, or thinking about converting a container into your dream backyard pub (we fully support this idea), we’ve got the container for you.

1. The Pot of Gold (Made of Steel) at the End of the Rainbow
Leprechauns stash their gold in a tiny pot that’s way too easy to tip over. Amateurs.

If they were smart, they’d be storing their fortunes inside one of our 20-foot or 40-foot shipping containers—secure, durable, and much harder to break into than an old cauldron.

Looking to protect something valuable? Gold, tools, equipment, inventory, or a secret stash of Irish Whiskey—our containers keep it all safe (even from mischievous leprechauns).

2. Lucky You—Containers That Last Longer Than a Pint of Guinness
Some things don’t last long:

• A perfectly poured Guinness.
• The luck of someone who forgets to wear green.

At W&K Container, Inc., we don’t leave quality to chance. Our containers are built to last—weatherproof, windproof, and tougher than an Irish grandma’s grip on family secrets.

Whether you need a container for storage, resale, modification, or a unique project, we’ve got top-tier options ready to go.

3. Need a Sturdy Pub? Our Containers Have You Covered
Some people celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by turning their garage into an Irish bar for the night. But why stop there?

We’ve seen shipping containers turned into:

• Backyard pubs—Pints in a windproof fortress.
• Tool sheds—Because your power tools deserve better.
• Tiny homes—The ultimate downsizing with Irish charm.
• Pop-up businesses—Just add a counter and you’re in business.

Whatever your idea is, we’ve got the container to make it happen.

4. A St. Patrick’s Day Toast to Tough Containers and Great Customers! At W&K Container, Inc., we don’t rely on luck—we believe in quality containers, great service, and making sure you get exactly what you need.

So, as you raise a glass this St. Patrick’s Day, let’s raise one together:

“Here’s to a new container and a seasoned one. A standard container and a modified one. A quick delivery and a smooth one. Already have a container?—How ‘bout another one!”

​Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

​The shipping and logistics industry is constantly evolving to meet the demands of a growing global economy. One of the latest advancements in the U.S. supply chain network is the groundbreaking Montgomery Intermodal Container Transfer Facility (ICTF), spearheaded by the Alabama Port Authority in partnership with CSX. This state-of-the-art facility, strategically positioned near Interstate 85 and U.S. Highway 31, is set to revolutionize container transportation between the Port of Mobile and central Alabama.

A Game-Changer for Freight Mobility
With an expected throughput of 30,000 shipping containers annually, the ICTF will streamline the movement of goods, reducing transportation time and costs while improving efficiency. By providing direct rail access to the Port of Mobile, businesses throughout Alabama will benefit from an enhanced logistics network, offering more seamless connections between inland distribution centers and global shipping routes.

This development is particularly crucial in today’s supply chain environment, where congestion at major ports and rising transportation costs challenge businesses of all sizes. The Montgomery ICTF will alleviate some of these issues by providing an alternative, more efficient route for cargo movement, reducing reliance on long-haul trucking while enhancing sustainability efforts.

The Economic Ripple Effect
Beyond its impact on logistics, the new intermodal facility is expected to drive economic growth across Alabama. The project will create jobs, attract investment, and strengthen the state’s position as a logistics hub. Local businesses will have improved access to domestic and international markets, allowing for greater competitiveness and expansion opportunities.
For companies that rely on containerized cargo, this facility represents a significant step forward. Enhanced intermodal capabilities mean greater flexibility in supply chain operations, shorter transit times, and reduced costs—factors that are essential for industries ranging from manufacturing to retail and beyond.

W&K Container’s Perspective
At W&K Container, we understand the importance of efficient, reliable freight transportation. As a provider of high-quality shipping containers for commercial and government applications, we see this investment in Alabama’s logistics infrastructure as a major win for businesses seeking to optimize their supply chain operations.

The ICTF in Montgomery underscores the growing role of intermodal transport in modern logistics. With its ability to link ocean, rail, and trucking networks seamlessly, this facility will not only improve container mobility but also contribute to a more sustainable and resilient supply chain.

Looking Ahead
As the Montgomery Intermodal Container Transfer Facility progresses toward its expected operational launch in 2027, businesses should begin evaluating how they can leverage this new infrastructure to enhance their logistics strategies. Whether it’s reducing shipping costs, improving delivery timelines, or accessing new markets, the potential benefits are significant.

W&K Container is excited to see how this development will reshape freight movement in Alabama and beyond. As industry professionals, we remain committed to helping businesses adapt to these changes by providing durable, versatile container solutions that support evolving logistics needs.
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#SupplyChain #Logistics #IntermodalTransport #ShippingContainers #AlabamaPortAuthority #W&KContainer

In a recent article by The Philadelphia Citizen, Atlanta's innovative approach to affordable housing is highlighted, showcasing the transformation of 40 shipping containers into temporary homes for those in need. This project not only addresses housing shortages but also exemplifies sustainable and cost-effective construction methods.

At W&K Container, Inc., we are inspired by such forward-thinking initiatives that repurpose shipping containers to serve communities better. Our commitment to quality and innovation aligns with these efforts, and we are proud to support and supply containers for projects that make a positive impact.

As cities explore creative solutions to housing challenges, shipping containers offer a versatile and efficient option. We look forward to collaborating with partners nationwide to bring similar projects to fruition, transforming steel structures into homes and hope.

Read more about Atlanta's project here

The City of Everett, Washington, is advancing its commitment to public safety by proposing a state-of-the-art firefighting training center. Planned for a 2.3-acre site adjacent to Naval Station Everett at 2100 W. Marine View Drive, this facility aims to enhance the skills and preparedness of the city's fire department.

Central to the design is the innovative use of shipping containers to construct the training structures. This approach offers a cost-effective and flexible solution, enabling the simulation of various real-world fire scenarios. The modular nature of shipping containers allows for customizable configurations, facilitating diverse training exercises such as live fire drills and search and rescue operations.

The facility will encompass a classroom building and a garage/shop, complemented by smaller training props strategically positioned throughout the site. Currently, the area serves as a vacant parking lot with several firefighting training props and approximately a dozen 20-foot shipping containers.

The integration of shipping containers in firefighting training centers is gaining traction nationwide. For instance, the Oceanside Fire Department in California recently dedicated a new training tower, replacing an older structure constructed from stacked shipping containers. This modern facility provides firefighters with advanced training capabilities, underscoring the effectiveness of container-based designs.

W&K Container, Inc. is proud to support such forward-thinking initiatives by supplying high-quality shipping containers that serve as the foundation for these essential training facilities. Our durable and versatile containers are engineered to withstand rigorous training environments, ensuring that firefighters are well-prepared to protect and serve their communities.

​#FirefighterTraining #ShippingContainers #EmergencyPreparedness #FireSafety #TrainingFacility #PublicSafety #ModularConstruction #InnovativeDesign #EverettWA #WandKContainer #FireRescue #DisasterPreparedness #StructuralEngineering #FirstResponders #SafetyTraining

When disaster strikes, communities that have prepared in advance are the ones that endure and recover the fastest. Coastal regions worldwide face significant threats from natural disasters, including earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, and flooding. As a result, many communities are taking proactive steps to bolster their emergency preparedness.

One highly effective and increasingly popular solution is the use of shipping containers as emergency supply caches, strategically placed in high-risk areas to provide vital resources when disaster disrupts normal infrastructure.

The Role of Shipping Containers in Disaster Preparedness
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Shipping containers are emerging as a preferred solution for disaster preparedness for several key reasons:

• Durability – Constructed from heavy-duty steel, shipping containers are weather-resistant, watertight, and can withstand extreme conditions, ensuring emergency supplies remain intact and accessible.
• Security – Containers can be locked and reinforced to prevent tampering or theft, providing reliable long-term storage.
• Mobility – Unlike permanent structures, shipping containers can be transported and placed in various locations based on community needs.
• Customization – Containers can be modified with shelving, refrigeration, climate control, solar power, or even converted into emergency shelters, command centers, or mobile clinics.

Case Study: Oregon’s Coastal Preparedness Initiative
The state of Oregon, which sits along the Cascadia Subduction Zone, faces a serious risk of a major earthquake and tsunami. Recognizing that communities along the coast could be isolated for weeks or even months, many cities have taken action by establishing emergency supply caches using shipping containers.
 

• Depoe Bay – Local residents and emergency response teams have raised funds to purchase shipping containers, filling them with essentials like food, medical supplies, and water purification systems. These caches are strategically placed in high-ground areas, ensuring accessibility after a tsunami.
• Yachats – Emergency preparedness committees have stored containers with long-term food supplies, first aid kits, and emergency communication devices to support residents and first responders.
• Cannon Beach – The city’s Emergency Cache Barrel Program encourages households to store personal emergency supplies at designated evacuation sites, reducing dependence on external aid.
• Seaside – The Tsunami Supply Barrel Program ensures that key supplies remain accessible even if local infrastructure is damaged or destroyed.

To support these efforts, the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries has developed the Earthquake and Tsunami Community Disaster Cache Planning Guide, a step-by-step resource for communities looking to implement their own emergency caches.

Expanding the Model Nationwide

While Oregon has taken the lead in adopting shipping container-based emergency preparedness, similar initiatives are emerging across the United States and beyond:

• North Shore, British Columbia – The region has set up multiple disaster supply caches using shipping containers, each stocked with essential supplies like generators, fuel, and emergency communication tools.
• Hurricane-Prone Areas (Gulf & East Coast) – Florida, North Carolina, and Louisiana have begun exploring shipping containers as hurricane shelters, mobile medical stations, and emergency storage units. These pre-positioned caches ensure communities can rapidly respond to storm-related destruction.
• Western States (California, Washington, Alaska) – These states are at high risk for earthquakes and tsunamis. Implementing shipping container-based supply caches in high-ground locations can mitigate disaster impact and reduce dependence on delayed federal or state emergency aid.

How Shipping Containers Could Have Helped in Past Disasters

Several recent disasters highlight the need for improved preparedness infrastructure:
 

• North Carolina Flooding – Severe flooding submerged homes and cut off access to critical services. If pre-positioned shipping container caches had been deployed, communities could have accessed food, clean water, and medical supplies without waiting for outside assistance.
• Hurricanes on the East Coast – Shipping containers could serve as storm-proof shelters for evacuees and emergency responders, stocked with fuel, generators, and first aid supplies. After the storm passes, they can provide a base for relief efforts.
• California Wildfires – Secure storage caches filled with respiratory masks, water, and non-perishable food would have helped displaced residents and emergency crews.
• Alaskan Earthquakes – In remote areas of Alaska, pre-positioned caches would provide crucial survival supplies for isolated communities.

Building a More Resilient Future

With the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters, the need for proactive emergency preparedness has never been greater. By utilizing shipping containers as emergency supply caches, communities can:

• Ensure rapid access to life-saving resources
• Reduce dependency on delayed government assistance
• Improve survival rates in the aftermath of disasters
• Enhance resilience in high-risk coastal and remote regions

At W&K Container, Inc., we specialize in providing durable and customizable shipping containers for emergency preparedness. Whether you need a basic storage unit or a fully equipped mobile disaster response station, we are committed to helping communities prepare for the unexpected.

Is Your Community Ready?

Disasters don’t wait—preparedness starts today. If your city, organization, or homeowners’ association is interested in setting up emergency supply caches using shipping containers, let’s talk.

For more information on establishing community disaster caches, refer to the Earthquake and Tsunami Community Disaster Cache Planning Guide.
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Contact W&K Container, Inc. to learn how we can help.

#EmergencyPreparedness #DisasterRelief #ShippingContainers #CommunityResilience #WKContainer #TsunamiPreparedness #HurricaneRelief #EarthquakePreparedness