Anyone who regularly buys used shipping containers will testify to the fact that there are a few pitfalls to look out for so that your container purchase goes smoothly.

To get some insight into the best practises of buying a used shipping container I spoke with Adaptainer’s senior container buyer Paul Clark and asked him to share a few tips on buying used containers for storage or shipping.

Used 40 ft Containers

Used Containers – Standard

Tip 1: Selecting The Grade of Used Shipping Container

With more than one grade of used shipping container available to purchase deciding which type to buy will depend on the required use together with your own preferences for either standard or ‘Grade A’ quality.

Cargo Worthy Used Containers

When using a container for international shipping purposes it will be necessary to buy a box that meets the standards required by shipping linesCargo worthy used containers which include a valid CSC plate are generally priced at a premium compared to units suitable for general storage.

 

Used Storage Container – Standard Units

Standard used ex shipping containers supplied by Adaptainer are ‘wind and watertight’ units supplied in structurally sound condition. Standard used containers are suitable for general storage needs but for those that require a newer and more aesthetically pleasing used storage container a ‘Grade A’ unit may be the more suitable option.

Used ‘Grade A’

The condition of ‘Grade A’ used containers are considered superior compared to standard used units. ‘Grade A’ containers are generally several years newer so the appearance of the container will reflect this difference.

White coloured Grade A 20ft containers stacked in container depot

Example of Used Containers – Grade A

Tip 2: Compare Price vs. Quality

When selecting a used container to buy it can be easy to focus on price alone but it is certainly advisable to compare quality too. 

Buying anything used carries some degree of risk which is why it’s recommended to purchase used containers via a reputable container dealer so that you can have complete peace of mind regarding your purchase decision.

Benefits of Buying Used Containers From a Reputable Dealer

  • Quality Control: All containers stocked in Adaptainer’s depots are thoroughly checked over for any damages and repaired if required using fully qualified and coded engineers.
  • Peace of Mind: Whilst some used containers for sale in the general market place may be advertised as being ‘wind & watertight’ what would happen if the unit you were supplied with didn’t arrive at your site in this condition? Always check that whoever supplies you with the container is able to offer this guarantee and has the credibility to honour it.
  • Value for Money: Purchasing a used unit from a reputable dealer such as Adaptainer provides value for money because not only can you can expect a competitive price but also assurance regarding the structural condition of the unit

Tip 3: Hidden Structural Damage: Check The Containers History

Containers used for storage have become popular in recent years and this demand has since generated a substantial secondary market in used storage container sales, but not all used storage containers for sale are equal.

Lets say for example that the previous owner of a container had the stored the unit on wet or damp ground, in this case there would likely be rotting over time of the steel bearers on the underneath of the box.  Since the damage would only be known about if the container is lifted off the ground it could prove to be a costly purchase mistake for the unaware buyer.

It is always recommended to check how the container has been used in the past and where it has been stored. Buying from a reputable dealer rather than a private seller will offer protection against the risk of purchasing a container with hidden structural damage.

Summary

Buying a used shipping container can be an economical alternative to purchasing new but it’s important to follow some basic due diligence so that the container you buy is good value for money and serves your needs well.

By following some of the above advice hopefully you will be more informed about how to buy a used unit without having to spend unnecessary money on maintenance or even replacement. Visit our used container sales page to learn more about buying a used shipping container.

 

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