How to Buy a Shipping Container: Your Complete Purchasing Guide

Buying a shipping container may seem like an easy task, but there are countless factors to consider to ensure you end up with the right fit for your needs. Whether you are buying a new or used shipping container for transportation purposes or exploring other shipping container uses like building a house or business, learning the process and common tips for how to buy a shipping container is crucial before you get started.

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Steps for How to Buy a Shipping Container
What to Look for When Buying a Shipping Container
The Cheapest Way to Buy Shipping Containers
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Whether you’re seeking a shipping container for sale for efficient storage, building projects, or international export, knowing how to choose—and who to buy from—can make the difference between a solid investment and an expensive mistake.

Shipping containers (also known as conex boxes or storage containers) have become increasingly popular over the past decade—not just for storage, but for homes, offices, garages, workshops, and more. Their durable Cor-Ten steel structure makes them an ideal solution for secure, weather-resistant, long-term use.

Container Sales Group has been a trusted provider of New, Used & Specialized containers across the United States since 1998.  We make the buying process simple, transparent, and personalized.

Here’s your simple, step-by-step guide to buying a shipping container the right way:

Step 1: Determine Your Needs

Start by clarifying how you’ll use your container:

• Secure Storage– Use for on-site storage at construction sites, farms, schools, or commercial facilities.
• Building– Ideal for converting into pop-up shops, mobile offices, tiny homes, classrooms, and more.
• Export & International Shipping- Choose Cargo Worthy containers for international shipping that meet global transport standards.

Working with a reputable dealer like Container Sales Group ensures you get a quality container, honest pricing, and expert support. CALL NOW FOR A QUOTE- 888 320-5938

Step 2: Choose the Right Shipping Container

Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:

When purchasing a shipping container, one of the first decisions you’ll make is whether to choose a New (one-trip) or Used container. Next, you’ll need to determine the right size based on your cargo volume or the space needed for a container conversion project. The two most common sizes for standard containers are 20ft and 40ft, and suppliers like Container Sales Group also offer 40ft. High Cube and 45ft. High Cube containers if you need extra vertical space. 

Condition-

• New/One-Trip Containers
  • These containers have only been used once to ship cargo from overseas.
  • They’re in excellent condition with minimal wear, making them ideal if you’re planning to ship goods, modify the container (for a home, office, or retail use), or want it to look clean and professional.
• New/One-Trip Specialty Containers
  • New containers are also available in specialty formats—like open-side, double-door, and high-cube models—great for unique applications that need more access or space.
• Used/Wind & Water-Tight Containers
  • Used containers are more budget-friendly and still strong and secure.
  • They may have some dents, surface rust, or signs of age but are great for general storage or construction projects.
  • Most used containers are Wind & Watertight (WWT), which means they’re sealed from water and weather.
• Used Cargo Worthy Containers For Export
  • If you’re planning to ship goods overseas using a used container, it must be Cargo Worthy (CW). This means it’s been inspected and certified to meet international shipping standards.
  • New one-trip containers are automatically Cargo Worthy, but used containers need a formal inspection before export.

Common Shipping Container Sizes

If your cargo is unusually large, delicate, or requires easy access, a standard shipping container might not be the best fit. In these cases, specialty containers are designed to meet specific needs. Some of the most common types include:

1. Open Top Containers replace a typical solid roof with a tarp. This still keeps freight protected and dry, but provides extra flexibility for top-loading and transporting oversized or abnormally shaped cargo such as timber. 
2. Open Side Containers also called “full access containers – allow quick and easy access to cargo through the larger opening. This makes them fantastic for long-term storage where you may not want to dig through every item to get to something in the back. They are also great for restaurant or bar conversions. 
3. Double Door Containers feature doors that open on each short end of the container, providing extra flexibility for loading and unloading cargo. They also provide flexibility to partition the space to transport two different types of freight in one container.
4. Flat Rack Containers have only two short sides and no top, offering ultimate versatility for transporting items of all shapes and sizes. These shipping containers also make it easier to load and unload cargo.

Step 3: Verify Delivery Space & Prep the Ground for Delivery

Level ground is especially crucial for a 40ft shipping container so that its doors can open and close properly. For additional support, you might consider placing railroad ties or wood blocks under each of the four corner posts. Typically, this setup is handled by two people at the time the container slides off the back of the truck during delivery.

Types of Trucks Used For Shipping Container Delivery

Delivery Under 300 Miles– We will use a tilt-bed (roll-off) truck, which slides the container off the back.

Required Delivery Recommendations for Tilt-Bed (roll-off) Trucks

• 20ft shipping containers need 50ft of straight-line space
• 40ft shipping containers or 2 x 20 ft. shipping containers (moved together) need 150ft of straight-line space
• 12ft width clearance (no low-hanging wires or trees)
• 16ft height needed (at time of delivery when container slides off back of truck)
• Level, solid ground surface, gravel, asphalt, or cement

Check Permit Requirements

Before purchasing a shipping container, check if a permit is required in your area. Permit rules can vary widely by city, county, and state, especially for residential or commercial use.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Contact your local zoning or building department to ask about shipping container placement.
• Some areas may require a site plan, inspection, or fee before approval.
• Permit requirements often depend on how the container will be used (e.g., storage, office, living space).
• Failing to get the proper permit could result in fines, removal orders, or project delays.

Always verify requirements before delivery to avoid unexpected issues.

Step 4: Requesting a Quote and Invoice from Container Sales Group

Call Container Sales Group at 888-320-5938 or request a quote. Your quote will include the full container cost and delivery fee (if needed) based on your location.

We offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees—so you know exactly what to expect before placing your order.

To place your order, we’ll need:

• Your Name & Company Name
• Delivery address & Billing Address
• Delivery Contacts
• Door Direction Preference: Container facing Rear of truck (container doors slides off first) or facing Cab of truck (container doors slides off last)

Step 5: Make Payment

We offer multiple secure payment options. Payment can be via Credit Card, ACH or Check.

Step 6: Schedule Your Shipping Container Delivery or Pick-Up

• Local shipping container delivery (within 100 miles): A tilt-body (roll-off) truck will typically deliver your container within 3–7 business days.
• Long-distance container delivery (over 100 miles): A flatbed truck is used. You’ll need to have equipment on-site such as a forklift or crane to unload the container upon arrival. Delivery may take up to 4 weeks depending on your location.
• Container pick-up at depot: You’ll receive a release number after payment, which authorizes your carrier to pick-up your shipping container from the depot.

Container Sales Group | Quality Container Guarantee

At Container Sales Group, every shipping container we sell—whether New/One-Trip, Used, or Cargo Worthy—comes backed by our Quality Container Guarantee. Each unit is thoroughly inspected by experienced professionals at our depot facilities to ensure it meets our high standards for structural integrity and functionality.

As part of our commitment to honesty and transparency, we ask that customers inspect the container alongside the driver at the time of delivery to confirm its condition matches the description provided.

If any issue arises that falls under our Quality Container Guarantee, we’ll address it promptly and professionally. We stand behind every container with honest pricing, reliable service, and a guarantee you can trust.

How To Inspect A Shipping Container

Inspecting a shipping container before delivery is essential to ensure you’re getting a unit that meets your needs and expectations. Whether you’re using it for storage, export, or a custom build, a thorough inspection helps you avoid hidden damage, costly repairs, or functionality issues down the line. Here’s what to look for when inspecting a new or used shipping container.

Condition: What to Expect

New Cargo Containers (One-Trip Containers)
These may have minor dings, scratches, or dents from handling during their one-time trip overseas. Despite this, they are in excellent condition and ideal for those who need a clean, like-new unit.

Used Cargo Containers
After 10 to 15 years of transporting freight across oceans and through various climates, used cargo containers will likely show signs of wear—such as surface rust, dents, or welded patches from professional repairs. This is completely normal and part of their service history.

Exterior Cargo Container Inspection

• Sidewalls
  • Check that the Corten steel walls are structurally sound. Surface rust is typical, but there should be no rust holes
• Doors & Seals
  • Doors are critical. They should open and close smoothly. If they’re hard to operate, make sure your container is on level ground—an uneven base can twist the structure and affect door alignment.
• Hinges and Locking Bars
  • Test all hinges and locks to ensure they move freely. Apply lubricant after inspection to maintain smooth operation.
• Door Seals and Gaskets
  • Inspect cracks or missing rubber gaskets. These seals prevent moisture, dirt, and pests from entering the cargo container.
• Corner Castings
  • These reinforced corner fittings are vital for lifting, stacking, and securing the container. Make sure they’re intact and undamaged.
• Gaps and Door Alignment
  • When the doors are closed, check for gaps or warping. You shouldn’t see daylight or feel drafts coming through the sealed door edges.
• Roof
  • Climb safely or use a ladder to inspect the roof for dents or depressions where water can collect, which may lead to long-term rust issues.

Interior Cargo Container Inspection

• Doors
  • Open and close doors to ensure they close and lock.
  • Check that the locking rods, hinges, and handles are functional and not damaged.
  • Examine the rubber gaskets for cracks, and stand inside the container to see if any daylight comes through the door seals, which could indicate potential leaks.
• Flooring
  • Check for soft spots or loose panels that could affect safety or usability.
  • Most cargo containers have a marine-grade plywood floor made of 19–21 layers (plies). It is mounted over welded steel crossmembers, spaced roughly 12–16 inches apart. Some wear or delamination (layer separation) is acceptable. Delamination should not affect multiple layers or structural integrity.
• Crossmember Bars
  • Made of corrosion-resistant steel, the crossmembers underneath the floor are designed to support heavy loads. Make sure there is no rust-through or major deformation.

Smart Ways to Save on Shipping Containers

Looking to get the best possible deal on a shipping container? Follow these tips to learn how to buy shipping containers as cost-effectively as possible: 

1. Buy Direct from a Reputable Supplier – Skip the middleman and purchase from a trusted dealer like Container Sales Group for transparent, wholesale pricing.
2. Choose Used or Cargo Worthy Containers – These offer solid performance at a lower cost than brand-new units.
3. Consider Local Inventory – Buying from nearby depots can reduce or eliminate delivery fees.
4. Ask About Specials or Bulk Discounts – Some suppliers like Container Sales Group offer discounts for multiple units or seasonal promotions.
5. Avoid Scams – If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always check recent Google Reviews.
6. Pick Up the Container Yourself – If you have the right equipment or access to a hauler, arranging your own pickup can often lower the total cost.
   

Your Reliable Source for Quality Shipping Containers Since 1998

 Since 1998,  Container Sales Group has been committed to providing New, Used, and Specialty Shipping Containers across the United States. We take pride in offering honest pricing, fast response times, and exceptional customer service, ensuring our customers receive high-quality conex boxes at direct, wholesale prices.

Call us today at 888-320-5938 or request a quote to get started!