Guide to Buying Shipping Containers in 2024: Embracing the Online Advantage

 

In recent years, shipping containers have become increasingly popular for a myriad of uses beyond their original intent. From homes and offices to storage spaces and pop-up shops, the adaptability of these sturdy steel boxes has made them a sought-after commodity. If you’re looking to buy a used shipping container in the USA, this guide will walk you through the process, focusing on the benefits and practicalities of buying online.

 

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into the world of online shopping for used shipping containers, it’s important to understand what you’re buying. A shipping container is a large steel box designed to transport goods across the ocean. They come in different sizes, with the most common being 20ft and 40ft long. When buying a used shipping container, it’s crucial to consider the grade, cost, size, and weight and it’s intended use.

Why Buy Online?

Purchasing a used shipping container online offers several advantages over traditional methods. Firstly, buyers should understand it’s not possible for customers to visit a shipping container port or depot. Ports and depots are massive storage facilities where import and export shipping container pass through. These are not to be confused with local yards operated by third party resellers. Buying online gives you direct access to the most inventory and best pricing. It also allows you to compare prices from multiple sellers in a short amount of time. Second, it provides access to a broader range of configurations, grades and sizes as you’re not limited to local supplier stocks. Lastly, buying online often means you can read reviews from previous customers, ensuring you’re dealing with a reputable seller.

Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Online

1. Research and Compare Sellers

Start by researching various online platforms that sell used shipping containers. Websites such as Conex Depot provide comprehensive buyer’s guides and advice on purchasing. Look for sellers that offer guarantees and have positive customer reviews. Reputable companies inspect shipping containers at the port or depot for signs of damage or wear and tear, which ensures you are receiving a quality container. Both of the aforementioned websites offer verifiable reviews, warranties and company registration information to ensure buyer protection.

2. Understand Pricing

While browsing different sellers, pay close attention to the pricing. Some sellers list a low upfront price but charge high delivery fees, or they add on additional depot and port costs and other hidden charges. Always check that the total cost includes ground delivery and depot/port charges, before making a decision.

3. Understanding Container Grades

When buying a new or used shipping container, it’s crucial to understand the grades. While you can’t physically inspect a container when buying online, many sellers provide detailed photos and descriptions.

New (One Trip) Shipping Containers:
All shipping containers sold in North America classified as ‘new’ have actually been used once for shipping, now more commonly called “one trip”.  A large volume of goods being exported out of China creates a constant demand for empty shipping containers, which are essentially used as a type of packaging. Since the ‘new’ container has traveled only a single trip by sea, the new Conex boxes are essentially still in flawless condition upon arrival at their destination. The exterior of the container may suffer a few minor marks, scratches and possibly some minor dents from the loading and transport process. When external appearance and durability are most important, selecting a “new” one trip container may be the best option for you. Reputable online sellers of new one trip containers sell therm with a 10 year factory warranty.

Cargo Worthy (CWO) Shipping Containers:
If you need a container to ship via cargo ship to any location outside of North America, this will require purchasing a New One Trip or Cargo Worthy grade container. Also commonly referred to as “sea worthy”, this grade of used containers are structurally sound and likely between 8 to 15 years old. In order to be approved for shipping, your container must be inspected and certified by a qualified surveyor before to being loaded. The inspection price is typically $149. If you purchase a CWO grade (or new one trip) container the container will certainly pass the surveyor’s inspection.

Wind and Water Tight (WWT) Shipping Containers:
Known in the industry as “A grade”, these used containers are for the more budget sensitive buyer who needs a used container for home storage use. These used containers are usually 12 to 15 years old and have been decommissioned by shipping companies after years of use in shipping cargo internationally.
The condition may be described as “well used” with numerous exterior scratches, dents and possibly existing surface rust. The container floor will have normal wear and tear and some containers may have had wall section repairs. The containers have been inspected at the shipping depots to ensure that they’re still wind and water tight. This basically means there are no holes in the walls or roof and the doors properly seal and prevent water entry.
While these shipping containers can no longer be certified for shipping by cargo ship, they’re ideal for repurposing as home storage, local transport or construction use. WWT containers have to have passed an inspection that approves them as structurally sound. Be aware that you may need to perform some initial maintenance on these WWT containers to ready them for your specific use.

4. Make Your Purchase

Once you’ve found a container that meets your needs and budget, it’s time to make your purchase. Most online platforms offer secure payment options. Remember to get a written agreement that outlines the terms of your purchase, including the price, delivery details, and any guarantees.

5. Prepare for Delivery

Ensure you’re prepared to receive your shipping container. This may involve clearing space, checking access routes, and being present on the delivery day. It’s crucial the site where your container will be placed is level. The four corners of the container should sit on pavers or railroad ties to elevate the container off the ground 2-3 inches. This allows air to flow under the container, preventing moisture build up and rotting of the wooden floor. Take some time to review the delivery guidelines available from the company’s website.

Things to Consider When Buying Online

While buying online offers many advantages, there are also factors to consider. For example, without physical inspection, there’s a risk of unseen damages. Therefore, buying from a reputable seller with good customer reviews is essential. Also, bear in mind that delivery can be tricky if your location is hard to reach or doesn’t have enough space for a large truck. Talking to a salesperson and sending site photos is an option to avoid issues on the day of delivery.

In conclusion, buying a used shipping container online can save you time and money. However, thorough research, understanding pricing structures, and preparing adequately for delivery are all key to a successful purchase.