Empty Container Storage

Empty container storage is the placement of empty shipping containers in a specially equipped terminal yard until they are needed for their next cargo. This service is essential in logistics because containers should not sit in random locations—they must be stored securely, accurately tracked, and made available for loading on time.

Who Needs Empty Container Storage?

Freight Forwarding and Logistics Companies

Freight forwarders are among the primary users of empty container storage services. Whether they operate their own fleet or lease containers, they need a secure location to keep empty containers between shipments.

Key benefits include:

● Balancing container flows by accumulating empty containers in high-demand logistics hubs.

● Reducing empty mileage by storing containers closer to loading locations instead of transporting them unnecessarily across the country.

● Managing container fleets efficiently by keeping equipment in one location for rapid allocation to customer orders.

Shipping Lines and Container Operators

Ocean carriers and rail operators manage thousands of containers across their transportation networks. Storage facilities help them:

● Rotate equipment after unloading before containers return to ports.

● Redistribute empty containers to regions experiencing shortages.

● Prepare containers for the next shipment through inspection, minor repairs, washing, seal verification, and equipment checks (especially for refrigerated containers).

Manufacturers and Exporters

Large manufacturers shipping products in containers usually operate on a continuous cycle:

Empty container → Loading → Shipment

Having stored empty containers allows businesses to:

● Maintain a reserve of containers when carriers experience delivery delays.

● Prepare for seasonal production peaks.

● Avoid demurrage and other charges caused by loading delays.

Container Traders

Companies buying and selling shipping containers as equipment also benefit from secure terminal storage.

The terminal acts as a trusted storage location until resale. Buyers can inspect and collect containers without the risks associated with unsecured yards, such as stolen doors, damaged roofs, or vandalism.

Why Proper Empty Container Storage Matters

Storing an empty shipping container on an unprepared surface is strongly discouraged.

Uneven ground may deform the container floor and frame, causing doors to stop closing properly. During rainy seasons, moisture accumulation can lead to corrosion and expensive repairs—or even cargo rejection.

A reinforced concrete storage yard combined with regular terminal inspections eliminates these risks and helps preserve the container’s condition.

Whether you need to store one empty container for a few days or an entire fleet for several months, terminal storage provides a secure and reliable solution.

We don’t simply provide storage space—we take responsibility for your equipment and maintain complete inventory control.

Advantages of Storing Containers at First Minsk Terminal

Secure Storage

24/7 Security and Video Surveillance

The terminal operates within a protected facility equipped with continuous security and CCTV monitoring, significantly reducing the risks of theft, vandalism, and unauthorized access.

Controlled Access

Vehicle entry requires advance authorization and scheduled arrival times. This controlled access improves operational safety and prevents congestion within the terminal.

Reinforced Concrete Storage Yard

All containers are placed on a professionally prepared concrete surface designed to minimize moisture exposure and protect container structures during long-term storage.

Real-Time Container Tracking with the SKAT System

SKAT is the terminal’s digital container management system.

Customers can monitor in real time:

● Container location

● Current status

● Storage history

● Duration of storage

● Operational history

Each container is photographed during every major operation:

● Arrival at the terminal

● Placement in the storage yard

● Release from storage

The photo report documents:

● Exterior condition

● Seal integrity

● Absence of visible damage

All photographs are automatically linked to the container’s electronic record within the SKAT system, creating complete transparency and minimizing disputes.

Convenient Location

We operate two container terminals.

First Minsk Terminal is located only 20 km from the railway stations:

● Kolyadichi

● Shabany

● Fanipol

Our Borisov Terminal is located 20 km from Zhodino Railway Station.

The proximity to Belarus’ major transportation hubs simplifies logistics and reduces cargo handling time.

Storage Capacity

We accept empty containers of all standard sizes, including specialized equipment:

● Open Top

● Flat Rack

● Reefer Containers

Our facilities can accommodate up to 7,000 containers, making them suitable for both large-scale operations and long-term storage projects.

Answers to questions

Can I store an empty refrigerated (reefer) container without connecting it to power?

Yes.
If temperature control is not required, we can store your reefer container on our concrete storage yard without connecting the refrigeration unit.
However, after one or two months of inactivity, we recommend performing a PTI (Pre-Trip Inspection) before loading. Since the refrigeration unit has remained idle, testing it beforehand helps prevent unexpected failures.
If you prefer the refrigeration unit to remain operational during storage, we can move the container to a powered reefer area. This service is available under a different tariff and includes continuous equipment monitoring.

I’m a private individual with only one container. Do you work with individuals or only companies?

We work with both.
Whether you have one container or one hundred, the acceptance procedure is the same.
We provide:
● A standard storage agreement
● Access to the SKAT online system
● Full container tracking and inventory management
For private customers, the initial registration may require additional documentation, such as:
● Passport or identification document
● Proof of container ownership
● Power of attorney (if acting on behalf of the owner)

I plan to store my container for a few days, but it may remain for a month. Will you recalculate the tariff afterward?

No.
Storage charges are calculated daily from the moment the container is accepted into our system.
● If you collect it earlier, you pay only for the actual number of storage days.
● If storage lasts longer, daily charges simply continue without penalties or increased rates.
For storage periods exceeding one month, switching to a monthly tariff is usually more economical.

My office is located in another city. Can I manage storage remotely?

Absolutely.
The SKAT system allows you to manage your containers online from anywhere.
Through your personal account, you can:
● View your container fleet
● Submit release requests
● Order container washing
● Request repairs
There is no need to visit the terminal for routine operations.
The only exception is the initial contract, which is signed either in person or through scanned documents followed by delivery of the original signed copies.
After that, all operations can be managed remotely.

I have empty containers from different shipping lines, including MSC, Maersk, and CMA CGM. Can you store all of them?

Yes.
There are no restrictions based on container ownership or shipping line.
Storage is provided to you as the container owner or operator.
The shipping line does not need to be informed that the container is stored at our terminal unless you choose to notify them.
Please note that if your container is leased and you violate your lease agreement with the shipping line, that responsibility remains yours. Our responsibility is to provide secure storage and accurate container management.

My container has several holes and one damaged side wall. How much does repair cost?

Typical repair prices are:
● Repair of small holes: USD 30–70
● Restoring container geometry (minor dents): USD 30–40
● Repairing major structural dents requiring specialized equipment: USD 70–90
Most repairs are completed within one business day.
This information is not a public offer.

How does container photo documentation work in the SKAT system, and what benefits does it provide?

At every major stage of handling your container at First Minsk Terminal—including arrival, movement within the storage yard, and release—the SKAT system automatically records photographs of:
● The container’s exterior condition
● Structural integrity
● Security seal condition
These images are immediately attached to the container’s electronic record.
As a result, customers can log into their personal account at any time and verify the condition and security of their container, providing complete transparency and additional protection against disputes.