When choosing a new or used shipping container, understanding a few details about it can help you choose the container that best suits your needs.
If you need a new or nearly new container, you may want to choose a one-trip container. This will likely have the freshest paint and the least amount of wear and tear. Having an attractive shipping container may be important if you’re trying to impress a client.
If you need a shipping container capable of standing up to inclement weather or a long voyage, you may want to purchase a Corten steel container. This is a new variety of shipping container that is hardier than typical shipping containers.
For sea voyages, make sure that your shipping container has been labeled as cargo worthy. These containers have been inspected and are deemed capable of withstanding the rigors of a sea voyage.
If you’re buying an as-is container, be sure you know what you’re getting. As-is containers usually have been shipped around the world and used many times by many owners. As-is used shipping containers offer their buyers low prices, but they may have leaks or other damage. If you purchase an as-is container, inspect it, if you can, to make sure it will satisfy your needs.
Shipping containers typically run between $1,500 and $8,000, depending on their size, condition and the amenities they offer. The standard shipping container is the 20 foot shipping container model. As-is containers are typically the cheapest, while some high end containers have climate control, roll-up doors, vents and insulation.