The advantages to using shipping containers is that they are strong and durable. They provide modular elements that can be incorporated into another structure. Overall labor expense is low and transportation easy. There are about 60 million shipping containers in use, so availability is high. The disadvantages to shipping containers is that they have to be well insulated than most structures. Humidity can cause them to rust and building permits for steel in residential areas are difficult to come by. Also, depending on the container’s previous haul, it can have solvents or insecticides inside which must be cleaned out before use. A person buying a shipping must keep an eye out for damage. Many containers get cracks or dents in them during shipments which must be fixed before the house can be built. Another downside is that dimensionally, the use of shipping containers can be awkward living and working space.