How to Find a Reputable Shipping Container Vendor

Purchasing a shipping container for most people is not an easy task.  One of the most important things to consider is finding a reputable shipping container vendor that will provide not only a competitive price but a quality shipping container coupled with solid customer service. 

Here are 10 ways to uncover a reputable vendor:

1. Do they have an online presence?  A website, Google My Business Profile, reviews, news coverage, etc?  

   Reputable companies selling shipping containers should be listed online and have a company website. Another big thing that most people look for is online reviews which can give you insight into the company and the types of containers they sell.

2. Are the online reviews recent or many years old?

   When researching a shipping container company, it is important to read their reviews from both companies & individuals. Also, make sure that the reviews are recent and not from years ago. Many educated buyers only buy from companies that have current Google reviews online.

3. If the vendor says they have a Wind & Water Tight Warranty for 1-5 years, ask to see the fine print

   Recently sellers of shipping containers are offering a Wind & Water Tight Warranty for multiple years but it is important to read the fine print to make sure you understand what it covers. Even though the company may cover the repair, find out if you are responsible for the delivery fee to pick up the container and drop it back off at your property.

4. What customer service do they offer?

   Research online and ask the vendor what type of customer service they offer on your purchase. Purchasing a shipping container is an investment and you will need to find a vendor that will support you from the beginning of the transaction to the end, including if there is an issue along the way. As they say, a “happy customer is a satisfied customer”.

5. Do they respond to your phone calls and emails in a timely manner? Do they only send you email responses?

   If the shipping container vendor only communicates with you via email and/or you can’t get them on the phone to answer questions, that is a huge red flag. Another thing to look out for is if they take days/weeks to get back to you with answers to your questions. Always look for a company where you can talk to their professional sales & customer support team.

6. How many years of experience do they have in the shipping container industry?

   Experience and knowledge are very important when working with companies that sell New and Used shipping containers. Check out how many years they have been in the industry selling shipping containers. If it is your first time purchasing a shipping container for sale, it is important to find a vendor who will be able to answer all of your questions to ensure a positive buying experience.

7. If they deliver, will they give you the trucking company’s name and number for delivery questions?

   When you purchase a shipping container, it is important to be given a date for delivery, and more importantly is the ability to communicate with the trucking company. The shipping container vendor should offer you upfront the name and telephone number of the trucking company so the day of delivery you have the opportunity to call the trucking company and see where you are on their schedule for delivery

8. Will you be working with one person or many individuals throughout the buying process?

   It is best to know in advance how many people you will be working with from ordering the container, paying for the container, and setting up delivery. The ideal situation would be to have one person who handles the sale & delivery. This reduces communication errors.

9. Do they explain how to inspect the container at the time of delivery?

   Any experienced and professional shipping container vendor should explain in detail how to inspect the delivered container to ensure you are getting what you ordered. Make sure to call them right away if there are issues with the container.

10. Remember shouldn’t be the only factor in selecting a shipping container vendor 

    When you are comparing vendors, price is just one thing to look at. Usually, the lowest-priced shipping container sellers do not offer the level of customer service you would expect when investing in a shipping container. To summarize, when seeking out a shipping container vendor to buy a new or used shipping container from, you should not only consider price but customer service, online reputation, years in the business, and someone that is able to answer all your questions during the process.

Container Sales Group has been selling shipping containers across the United States since 1998.  We work hard to deliver consistent, high-level customer service combined with affordable pricing on New & Used Shipping Containers.  Call Container Sales Group at (708) 639-4783 and we will help you with the purchase.