If aesthetics are important, consider working with a company that gets their containers directly from the shipping line. It can help cut costs without sacrificing quality. You’ll also want to ensure the container you buy has either a clean history (new or one-trip containers) or has had its history wiped clean.
Know Your Purpose
Whether you’re looking for a new home, office space, or something else, knowing what you want to use the container for will broadly inform every other decision. The type of shipping container you purchase is also necessary, as different containers are best suited for specific uses. You’ll also need to consider the size of your site, as shipping containers come in various sizes. Finally, you’ll need to decide between a used or new container. While new “one-trip” containers are the most expensive, they’re also guaranteed wind and watertight.
On the other hand, used shipping containers have spent 12-18 years at sea and may have cosmetic damage (such as dents, scratches, and surface rust) but are still cargo-worthy and guaranteed wind and watertight. Beware of sellers that sell used containers without a guarantee, and avoid suppliers who won’t stand behind their products with after-sales support. A good supplier should be eager to repair damaged units, regardless of who caused the damage.
Know Your Budget
If you’re considering buying a container from a shipping container company, whether for cargo transport or to create a home or office space, there are many things to consider before you take the plunge. Like any other purchase, there are a lot of factors that influence pricing, especially with used containers.
The first thing to consider is the type of shipping container you want. There are several different kinds, and each has its price range: new containers are considered one-trip containers and, as such, are the most expensive; cargo-worthy containers that have been used for transport are slightly less costly but still meet international shipping standards, and finally, there are ” as is” containers that have some cosmetic damage and possible dents but are wind and watertight.
Other costs to think about include delivery fees. It can vary widely and is influenced by your location, as well as how far away the container you’re looking at is from its destination or starting point (if it was used for transport). Make sure you ask about these additional charges.
Know Your Options
Depending on your location and unique shipping container requirements, there may be a range of options. For example, you may find new or used containers modified for living spaces with windows, doors, insulation, and floor and wall coverings. However, you will want to be aware of additional costs like delivery that could make these containers less affordable than other options. Another factor is whether or not the container you’re considering will meet your local permitting requirements for your intended use. It is essential if you’re planning to turn the shipping container into a home or business. Seeing a container in person is best, but you should look at plenty of pictures and videos when that’s impossible. Be sure to check the condition of the container in detail for things like surface rust and holes. Minor dents are acceptable, but deeper corrosion and rust could weaken the structure over time.
Know Your Requirements
Before buying a container, consider your specific needs and goals. Homeowners and businesses use shipping containers for extended living spaces, workshops, underground emergency bunkers, etc. They’re also used as remote office spaces, showrooms, and warehouse storage. When you’re ready to purchase, look for a reliable seller who offers a fair price. A trustworthy seller will have no problem answering any questions you may have. They will also be able to provide details on the container’s condition.
When inspecting the condition of a container, pay attention to the paint job and any signs of corrosion. Dents and rust are typical, but significant cuts should not change the shape of the container. Also, check that the cargo doors open and close quickly. The cargo doors spend much of their time locked, so a little rust and sticky lock rods are to be expected. But if the doors are easy to open, it could be a sign of good artistry or damage.
