How to Find the Best Used Shipping Containers for Sale

Shipping containers are popular for multiple uses beyond their traditional role in transporting goods. From secure storage to innovative building projects, conex boxes offer a quick solution. If you’re in the market for a used shipping container, here’s a guide to help you find and evaluate the best options available.

1. Determining Your Needs

Before you start searching for a used shipping container, it’s essential to determine your specific needs:

• Use/Need: Are you using it for storage, as a building material, or for another purpose?
• Size: Common container sizes include 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft, along with Highcubes which add a little more space.  We can help you choose one that fits your space and needs.
• Condition: Containers come in various conditions, from almost new to heavily used. Condition can play a major factor in the price of the container.  Talk with the Jake team if you’d like to understand pricing options of different types of containers. 

2. Where to Find Used Shipping Containers

Unfortunately, there are alot of scams in the shipping container industry. Two of the  biggest red flags are requesting credit card payment on the spot and requesting immediate delivery of the container.

Your best option is to visit a location in person.  We always have several units available for sale or rent —different sizes, different conditions, different pricing. We are always happy to send a real picture or invite a customer on-site to view our inventory. Before buying or renting a container, come see us and pick out the unit that best serves your needs and budget.

3. Inspecting the Container

Once you’ve found a shipping container to purchase, it’s crucial to inspect the container thoroughly:

• Exterior Condition: Look for any signs of structural damage, such as large dents, rust, or holes, leaks, mold or pests. Ensure the integrity of the walls and roof.
• Doors and Seals: Check that the doors open and close properly and that the seals are intact to keep the container watertight.
• Interior Condition: Inspect the flooring for damage or rot and check for any signs of leaks, mold, or pests. Ensure the interior is clean and free from hazardous materials.
• Smell: A strong, unusual smell may indicate the previous contents or poor ventilation.  

4. Types of Used Shipping Containers

Used containers come in several grades and conditions:

• One-Trip (New): These are nearly new, having made only one trip from the manufacturer.
• Cargo-Worthy (CW): Certified for shipping and still in good condition.
• Wind and Watertight (WWT): Suitable for storage but not necessarily for shipping.
• As-Is: May have significant damage or wear and is the cheapest option, often needing repairs.

5. Preparing the Site

• Prepare your site for the delivery and placement of the container:
• Foundation: Ensure a level and stable foundation, such as concrete slabs, wooden beams, or compacted ground.
• Accessibility: Make sure there is enough space for the delivery truck to maneuver and place the container.

Finding and evaluating a local shipping container requires careful research and thorough inspection. By knowing your needs up front, knowing where to look, and inspecting potential purchases in person, you can buy a used container that’s perfect for your storage needs and provides long-lasting utility.