I currently have a shelter structure built using shipping containers, that are underground. I like shipping containers, because they are inexpensive, very strong, and provide an instant place to secure goods, for survival or otherwise. There are concerns regarding the strength of shipping containers when used in an underground setting, but they are easily overcome. Shipping containers are still readily available and are starting to gain acceptance as a building material for houses and other structures. They can be stacked one upon another, and are very versatile when planning out a design, especially for multi-story and cantilevered construction. If nothing else, I think that everyone should have a shipping container stored on rural property and stocked with food and survival supplies. A bare shipping container may not be the best protection from all threats, but it would be somewhat secure and a relatively good shelter from the weather. If you cannot cover your container with concrete, either above or below ground, you should at the least clean it and paint it with a thick paint, like elastomeric. This will ensure that it does not rust while exposed to the elements. Shipping containers are made from a rust resistant type of steel, called corten steel, and while it is highly rust resistant compared to other steels, it will rust over time.
For long term survival, however, I do not recommend leaving your container exposed and uncovered. If you are worried about radiation, you will need to make sure that your container is covered with dirt or concrete. Also, if you are looking for protection from armed attackers, a container wall is not enough, although they will stop a .22 round, they will not stop a 9mm. (I have done some testing) This may not be a concern for some, but if your goal is to buy a container and use it for a bug out retreat, you need to think a lot about security. The point here is to do what you can now, and then do more over time as you are able.
Additionally, I went to my local shipping container supplier this past weekend to buy another shipping container to add to my current structure, and I was surprised by the rising cost. When I originally bought my core containers a few years ago, I paid about $1300 per container. I did purchased another container while I was there at the container yard this past weekend for $1500. The owner of the lot told me that he had a few left at that price, and then they would be going to $2100. This is due to multiple factors: the economy in general and the value of the dollar; the demand for containers; and a reduced supply due to less shipping to the United States. As the dollar continues to decline and more people catch on to the fact that shipping containers are an easy way to secure your goods, they are going to increase in price, and may become very difficult to obtain.
By the way, I am adding this latest container as a shelter overflow for family, so remember, if you have friends and family that know you are preparing, there is a good chance their plan will be to head your way when it all goes down. Make sure you are set up the way you need to be before it is too late, and get prepared to help as many others as you can. If you cannot keep your humanity during and through a disaster, there is little point in surviving it at all.
-Richard
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