When shopping for a shipping container, most first-time buyers find it confusing to compare quotes because sellers use a mix of grading terms- some standardized, others not. At Container Sales Group, we simplify the process. With over 25 years of experience, we clearly explain what each condition means to help you know exactly what to expect in terms of quality, appearance, and functionality. In the shipping container industry, most vendors and steamship lines use the following to describe the condition of a shipping container:
- NEW – One-Way or One-Trip
- USED – Cargo Worthy
- USED – Wind & Water Tight
- AS IS – Damaged Condition (we don’t sell this grade)
Let Container Sales Group take the confusion out the buying process. Feel free to call us at 888-320-5938 or read below for more information on the different types of containers available in the market. Once you decide on a container grade/condition, you can choose the best size of container to fit your needs: 10 ft., 20ft, 40ft, 40ft High Cube, Double Door, Open Side, Open Top and Flat Rack.
New /One-Trip Containers
New or One-Trip Containers—also known as One Way or One Use Containers—are the newest condition available on the market. These containers are manufactured overseas (typically in China) and make a single cargo trip to the United States before being placed for sale. Because they have only been used once, they offer the highest level of quality, durability, and appearance.
What You Can Expect:
- Constructed from corten steel for maximum strength and long-term weather resistance.
- Wind & Water Tight (WWT) certified, with solid doors, flooring, and seals that meet ISO standards.
- Clean and structurally sound, ideal for storage, resale, or modification.
- May show minor surface marks or small scuffs on the floor from forklift loading—normal and acceptable for a one-trip container.
When to Choose a New / One-Trip Container:
- Businesses that need clean, professional storage at job sites, retail spaces, or events.
- Homeowners planning container offices, studios, or long-term storage solutions that look like new.
These units provide the best long-term value, combining the appearance of brand-new equipment with the durability of a steel storage container built to last for decades.
Used, Wind & Water Tight Containers (WWT)
A Used Shipping Container has been previously owned and operated by major steamship lines for international cargo transport. After years of reliable service typically 10 to 15 years these containers are retired from ocean use and repurposed for secure, on-site storage or building projects.
What You Can Expect:
- Constructed from corten steel, known for its exceptional strength and weather resistance.
- Structurally sound and Wind & Water Tight (WWT)—designed to keep contents dry and protected.
- May include visible signs of use such as surface rust, dings, dents, or professionally welded patches.
- Doors and flooring are inspected to ensure solid operation and long-term durability.
When to Choose a Used WWT Container:
- Businesses needing affordable, secure, ground-level storage for tools, equipment, or inventory.
- Homeowners seeking a sturdy solution for garages, workshops, or modification projects.
Because each used container has a unique history, it’s important to review photos and specifications before purchase to make sure it meets your storage or construction goals.
Used, Cargo Worthy (CW) and IICL Containers
Cargo-Worthy containers, sometimes referred to as IICL (Institute of International Container Lessors) grade, are used containers that have passed inspection and are certified to meet international shipping standards for overseas transport.
What You Can Expect:
- Built from high-strength corten steel with reinforced corner posts and cross members.
- Structurally solid and Wind & Water Tight (WWT) with fully functional doors, seals, and flooring.
- Exterior may show visible signs of prior use, including rust spots, surface scratches, or small dents.
- Approved for international export when accompanied by a valid survey or inspection certificate.
When to Choose a Cargo-Worthy / IICL Container:
- Exporters or freight forwarders needing containers ready for overseas shipment.
- Businesses seeking a more visually consistent or structurally upgraded used container.
- Homeowners or builders who plan to repurpose a container for living space, workshops, or offices where appearance and integrity matter.
These containers provide a strong balance between quality and cost, offering dependable performance for both shipping and stationary applications.
Shipping Container Grades
Conditions
Container Condition | NEW / One-Trip | USED / Cargo Worthy | USED / Wind & Water Tight | USED / As Is (CSG never sells AS-IS Containers) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Water & Wind Tight | Yes - Guaranteed | Yes - Guaranteed | Yes - Guaranteed | Not Guaranteed |
Floors - Free of Holes | Yes - Guaranteed | Yes - Guaranteed | Yes - Guaranteed | Not Guaranteed |
Doors - Fully Functional | Yes - Guaranteed | Yes - Guaranteed | Yes - Guaranteed | Not Guaranteed |
Suitable for Storage | Yes | Yes | Yes | Not Guaranteed |
Suitable for Export | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
Suitable for Modification | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes - With Repairs |
Appearance
Container Condition | NEW / One-Trip | USED / Cargo Worthy | USED / Wind & Water Tight | USED / As Is (CSG never sells AS-IS Containers) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Paint | New, Original Factory Paint | Original Factory Paint | Original Factory Paint | Original Factory Paint |
Exterior Appearance | Minor Dents & Scratches Are Acceptable | Dents, Repairs, and Minimal Surface Rust Are Acceptable | Dents, Repairs, and Minimal Surface Rust Are Acceptable | Possible Major Dents, Repairs and Surface Rust |
Floor Appearance | Like New | Minor Delamination Acceptable | Minor Delamination Acceptable | Cracks, Holes and Missing Layers |
Guarantee | ||||
Container Sales Group Guarantee | THE BEST CONDITION AVAILABLE | GOOD CONDITION, MEETS EXPORT REQUIREMENTS | GOOD CONDITION, SUITABLE FOR STORAGE, BUILDING, MODIFICATION | NO GUARANTEES, REPAIRS NEEDED |
Container Sales Group Guarantee
Container Condition | NEW / One-Trip | USED / Cargo Worthy | USED / Wind & Water Tight | USED / As Is (CSG never sells AS-IS Containers) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Container Sales Group Guarantee | THE BEST CONDITION AVAILABLE | GOOD CONDITION, MEETS EXPORT REQUIREMENTS | GOOD CONDITION, SUITABLE FOR STORAGE, BUILDING, MODIFICATION | NO GUARANTEES, REPAIRS NEEDED |
From Our Blog
The Hidden Advantages of Buying Used Shipping Containers
Why Buy from Container Sales Group?
When it comes to buying a new or used shipping container, choosing the right supplier matters. Since 1998, Container Sales Group has been helping businesses, contractors, schools, municipalities, and homeowners nationwide find the right containers for storage, construction, and custom projects.
With decades of experience and a reputation built on honesty and service, we make the container buying process easy, secure, and worry-free — from quote to delivery.
What Makes Container Sales Group Different
- Competitive, Transparent Pricing:
Get fair, upfront pricing on new and used shipping containers—with no hidden fees. - Wind & Water Tight Guarantee:
Every used container is inspected and guaranteed to be structurally sound, windproof, and watertight. - Industry-Leading Customer Service:
Our team has been in the shipping container industry since 1998, helping customers understand their options before they buy. - Professional, On-Time Delivery:
We coordinate delivery across the U.S. using trusted carriers to ensure smooth, reliable drop-offs. - Nationwide Reach, Local Care:
With depots across the country, we deliver containers quickly—whether you’re in Chicago, Cleveland, Denver, or Dallas. - Trusted by Business and Homeowners Alike:
From Fortune 500 companies to first-time residential buyers, our customers trust Container Sales Group for quality, value, and reliability.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you’re a business owner looking for durable jobsite storage or a homeowner exploring container projects, our experts are ready to help.
We’ll walk you through grades, pricing, and delivery so you can buy with confidence.
Call Container Sales Group today at
888-320-5938 or click below to
Request a Quote.
We make it simple to find the right container—at the right price—for your project.
From Our Blog
Fabricate Or Modify Shipping Containers Yourself
Many residents and businesses are inquiring whether they can modify their own shipping containers or whom they should hire to carry out the modifications.
FAQ
Shipping container grades describe the condition and previous use of a container.
- New / One-Trip containers have only been used once and are like new.
- Used Wind & Water Tight (WWT) containers are retired from cargo service but still structurally sound and leak-free.
- Cargo-Worthy / IICL containers meet international standards for shipping and export.
Understanding these grades helps you choose the best option for your project or storage needs.
Both are used containers, but Cargo-Worthy units have been inspected and certified for international shipping, while WWT containers are suitable for domestic storage and building use.
All WWT containers sold by Container Sales Group are guaranteed leak-free and structurally sound.
With proper placement and minimal maintenance, a used container can last 15–25 years for storage or modification projects. Regular upkeep—like keeping the container level and cleaning door gaskets—helps extend its lifespan.
Yes. New / One-Trip containers have a clean appearance and consistent paint color.
Used containers may have surface rust, small dents, or faded paint, but they’re still structurally solid and watertight.
- Businesses often choose Used WWT or Cargo-Worthy containers for affordable, secure storage or jobsite use.
- Homeowners may prefer New / One-Trip containers for projects where appearance matters, such as backyard offices or retail pop-ups.
Your choice depends on budget, purpose, and desired appearance.
Yes. Every container from Container Sales Group includes a Wind & Water Tight Guarantee, ensuring that doors, flooring, and seals are in good condition at the time of delivery.
Absolutely. Many customers use Used WWT or Cargo-Worthy containers for custom builds—garages, offices, and workshops.
Their strong corten-steel construction makes them ideal for cutting, welding, and framing modifications.
We recommend inspecting your container before the driver departs.
Check that the doors open smoothly, floors are solid, and no light or leaks are visible inside.
For more details, see our New/One-Trip Guarantee & Delivery Requirements page.
Yes. Container Sales Group delivers across the United States through our trusted depot network.
We provide on-time, professional delivery whether you’re in Chicago, Denver, Cleveland, or anywhere nationwide.
Yes. Our Wind & Water Tight containers are structurally sound and secure, built from corten steel designed to withstand decades of heavy use and harsh weather.
Regulations vary by city and county so its best to check with your local city, village or municipality. Many areas don’t require permits for ground-level storage, but some municipalities have zoning or aesthetic requirements.
