If you’re shopping for a New/ One Trip or Used shipping container, you’ve likely come across the term “Wind and Water Tight” (WWT). But what does it really mean and is it the right condition for your storage or project?
At Container Sales Group, we believe in educating our customers with real information—not just industry buzzwords. This blog breaks down what WWT means, what to expect, and how it compares to other container conditions—so you can make a confident, informed purchase.
What Does “Wind and Water Tight” Mean?
A Wind and Watertight (WWT) container is:
- Structurally sound
- Free from holes or leaks
- Capable of keeping out wind, water & pests
Think of WWT as the baseline for a container that’s safe to use for ground-level storage or building but no longer certified for International Export Shipping.
What Buyers Should Expect from a Used – WWT Container
Wind & Water Tight used containers are approximately 10 – 15 years moving cargo overseas for many years but still highly functional. Here’s what you should (and shouldn’t) expect:
What You Do Get:
- Guaranteed no holes in the steel walls, roof, or floor
- Doors that close and seal properly
- Dry interior, suitable for storing equipment, tools, inventory, or household goods or building
- Floor typically intact (may show signs of wear or patching)
- Functional locking mechanism
What Buyers Should Expect from a New/One Trip Container WWT Container
Wind & Water Tight containers New /One-Trip Containers have only been used once to transport cargo overseas from the manufacturer. Here’s what you should (and shouldn’t) expect:
- Guaranteed WWT condition – no holes, leaks
- Structurally sound and dent-free (minor handling marks may exist from shipping)
- Clean, like-new paint and floors
- Tight-sealing doors and intact rubber gaskets
- Excellent appearance with minimal to no rust or dents
- CSC-certified for international shipping (if needed)
- No prior modifications or repairs
How Is WWT Different from Other Container Grades?
| Condition | Main Use | Key Differences |
| One-Trip/New | Premium Storage/ Building | Like new, minimal wear |
| Cargo-Worthy | International shipping | Structurally certified; WWT + extra inspection |
| Wind & Water Tight (WWT) | Storage /Building | Water Tight but not certified for cargo |
| As-Is | Low-budget or repair work | May have holes, damaged floors, or twisted frames |
Common Buyer Questions (and Straight Answers)
Q: Will my WWT Container leak?
Not if it’s truly Wind and Water Tight (WWT). At Container Sales Group, every container is thoroughly inspected at our depot facilities to ensure it meets the condition we promise. You can trust that the container you receive is sealed against the elements—no leaks, no surprises.
Q: Can I purchase a Used WWT Container to ship goods overseas?
No. You’ll need a Used Cargo-Worthy container with a valid CSC plate.
Q: Can I modify a WWT Container (doors, vents, insulation)?
Yes! WWT containers are great for modifications.
Q: What if the Used WWT Container looks rough but has no holes?
That’s completely normal. Wind and Watertight (WWT) shipping containers often show signs of previous use like surface rust, dents, or faded paint but these cosmetic issues don’t affect their structural integrity or storage performance. You can always repaint or modify the container later if appearance is important for your use.
Q: Is a WWT Container Rodent-Proof?
A WWT shipping container is naturally rodent-resistant due to its solid steel construction and sealed doors. As long as the doors remain closed, most infestations happen when doors are left ajar.
For customers storage of food, fabric, or items in rodent-prone areas, we recommend you store items off the floor using shelving. Check out our website www.ContainerSalesGroup.com for shelving brackets you can install.
New Insight: Not All “WWT” Containers Are Equal
Here’s something most sellers won’t tell you:
WWT is not a formal certification—it’s an industry standard.
That means the condition of a “WWT” container can vary from one seller to another. At Container Sales Group, we apply a stricter standard and we only label a used shipping container (typically 10–15 years old) as Wind and Water Tight if it passes our detailed visual and structural inspection, which includes:
- Guaranteed no holes in the steel walls, roof, or floor
- Doors that close and seal properly
- Dry interior, suitable for storing equipment, tools, inventory, or household goods or building
- Floor typically intact (may show signs of wear or patching)
- Functional locking mechanism
New or Used, WWT Containers Are a Smart, Versatile Investment
If you’re looking for secure, on-site storage that won’t break the bank, a New or Used Wind and Watertight container is one of the best options available. It’s a one-time investment that protects your tools, inventory, or household items year-round.
At Container Sales Group, we help you:
- Understand the differences
- Pick the right condition for your needs
- Coordinate hassle-free delivery nationwide
Container Sales Group: WWT Quality, Guaranteed
What are the Guarantees for Wind & Watertight Containers
Reputable container sellers typically guarantee Wind and Water Tight (WWT) condition at the time of pickup or delivery.
Some competitors may advertise extended 1-year, 5-year, or even lifetime guarantees, but it’s important to read the fine print carefully. These warranties often come with strict limitations, exclusions, or vague language.
At Container Sales Group, we focus on clear, honest communication so you know exactly what you’re getting and what’s covered from day one.
Ready To Experience The Container Sales Group Difference?
Container Sales Group is a certified women-owned business, since 1998 with experience in selling new, used, and specialty shipping containers across the U.S.
When you work with us, you get:
- Honest, wholesale pricing
- Fast, nationwide delivery or pick up
- Expert guidance based on your use case
- Responsive service from a knowledgeable team
We’ve proudly served clients from residential customers and small businesses to Fortune 500 companies, fire departments, and universities.
Whether you’re storing lawn equipment in your backyard, securing tools on a job site, managing retail inventory, or building out a café, home, or modular workspace, we’re here to help you find the right container—reliably, affordably, and nationwide.
We believe that transparency, inspection, and support are more valuable than marketing claims.
Call us today at 888-320-5938 or request a quote to get started!
