5 Questions to Ask When Buying a Shipping Container

When you consider purchasing a shipping container, there are a few important questions you need to ask before making a purchase. Here are the most important things you should know and questions you should consider before you go shopping for a high quality storage container.

How will you use it?

This is the first and most important question you should answer when thinking about buying a steel shipping container. Depending on how you intend to use it, you may be able to purchase a used container instead of buying a new one. When you think about how you will use the container, it will also affect whether you buy a container with side doors, double doors, or maybe even a refrigerated container.

Where will it be used?

Once you understand how to use a shipping container, you need to consider how big a container you want to purchase. Things you need to consider before shipping include available space and container storage space. Suppose you intend to buy several shipping containers. In this case, you need to have a significant free space, and you will have to find a way to distribute them optimally. The most popular storage container sizes are 10ft, 20ft and 40ft so you need to consider these sizes when you are thinking about where your containers will fit.

What is the condition of the container?

Unless you are planning to buy a brand new shipping container, you need to know what condition it is in after use. Some shipping containers have a very long service life, have made numerous trips abroad and have been transported on roads within the country. All this mileage can add up and affect the condition of the shipping container, so you should carefully inspect it before purchasing or speak with the company you are buying from to make sure the condition of the container meets your needs.

Containers that have only made "one trip" are a great choice for those looking for the highest level of quality, durability and aesthetics. Meanwhile, used containers can be 10-20 years old and are ideal for those who care less about aesthetics and want to bridge the gap between functionality and cost. With proper maintenance and care, used shipping containers will last for many years.

Are any modifications needed?

This will have a lot to do with the purpose you have in mind for your storage container. For example, if you are going to use it to store perishable food, you may need to modify the container to keep it cool. You may also need to install lighting, windows, or special security measures to protect it from burglars or others. Once you have decided on any necessary modifications, you should also consider whether they need to be done immediately or can be deferred to a later date.

What warranty does it cover?

In some cases, the container delivered to you may not be exactly what you expected to receive. For example, you may discover that there is a leak in the shipping container that you were not aware of. Most good suppliers offer a warranty covering the container against any damage for a certain period of time. Reputable sellers will generally ensure that the buyer gets exactly what they want because it's good for the business.