Construction Onsite storage for materials

5 Questions To Ask Before Buying A Shipping Container For Storage, Building Or Any Special Use

Shipping containers are incredibly versatile and can be used for much more than storage or building.  Consider pop-up shops, restaurants, offices, workshops, hydroponic or vertical farming, livestock shelters, cold storage, emergency and disaster relief clinics/hospitals, emergency housing, command centers, swimming pools, saunas, climbing or obstacle course, product showcases, libraries, or classrooms just to name a few innovative and practical ways to repurpose shipping containers. They are ideal for various business and commercial applications, whether they’re designed to be moved or remain in a fixed location. 

Here are a few questions to consider when purchasing a shipping container

What is the condition of the container?

  • Is it certified as wind and watertight (WWT) or cargo-worthy (CW) for export?
  • Is it new or used?
  • Are there any visible damages (rust, dents, or holes)?

What are the dimensions and type of the container?

  • What size is the container (e.g., 10ft, 20ft, 40ft, 40ft High Cube)?
  • Is it a standard container, or does it have special features like double doors, refrigeration, or an open-top?

What assurances does the vendor provide?

  • Does the container come with a guarantee, and what specific aspects are covered?  

What are the logistics and delivery options?

  • How will the container be delivered (e.g., flatbed, tilt-bed truck)?
  • Do I need to arrange offloading, or is it included?
  • Can I pick up the container?  Is there a fee to lift and place it on my delivery truck?  

What is the total cost, and are there hidden fees?

  • Is the price negotiable, and does it include delivery and taxes?
  • Are there extra fees for inspections, cleaning, or certifications?

Ready to purchase a shipping container? Reach out today to get a quote from the best in the industry!

Asking these questions will help you assess the container’s quality, suitability, and the seller’s reliability. For added peace of mind, consider speaking with the seller directly and reviewing their latest Google reviews to ensure they are a trustworthy vendor. Give CONTAINER SALES GROUP a call at 708-639-4783, and don’t forget to check out our recent Google reviews!

Work with the best in the shipping container business.

Container Sales Group buys containers directly from the steamship lines to offer our customers the highest quality containers at the most competitive prices. We’re a women-owned business, established in 1998, and have locations throughout the US.

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