How to Buy Shipping Containers : Buyers Guide 2024
There are shipping containers for sale all across the United States. And you want to buy a shipping container.
But you are not familiar with how to purchase a shipping container and want to know where to start! ContainersX LLC can help you in buying shipping containers. Whether you need a storage solution, are planning a container home, or starting a container-based business.
This guide explains the key factors like shipping container conditions, sizes and much more you need to know before buying shipping containers.
Know These Risks First: Before Buying Shipping Containers
When considering the purchase of shipping containers, it’s important to be aware of the potential pitfalls that could impact your decision. Here are some risks to keep in mind to help guide your purchase and ensure that it aligns with your needs and expectations.
Market Fluctuations
The cost of shipping containers can vary significantly due to changes in the global market. Factors like international trade volumes, currency fluctuations, and changes in shipping demand can affect container availability and pricing. Staying informed about market trends can help you anticipate price changes and plan your purchase accordingly.
Condition Variability
Shipping containers come in various conditions, and choosing the right type can impact your use case. For instance, new or one-trip containers are in excellent condition but are more expensive. Used shipping containers may be more affordable, but they can come with wear and tear that might not be immediately apparent. It’s important to conduct a thorough inspection or work with a trusted supplier to verify the condition of the container before buying a shipping container.
Logistics and Transportation
The size and weight of shipping containers make transportation a significant factor to consider. Depending on your location and the container’s origin, delivery costs can be high, and logistical challenges might arise. It’s wise to assess access to your site and whether it can accommodate delivery trucks or requires special arrangements like cranes.
Legal and Regulatory Compliance
Different areas have specific regulations governing the use of shipping containers for storage or as building structures. These might include zoning laws, building codes, and permits required for container installation. Before purchasing shipping containers, confirm with local authorities what is permissible in your intended location to avoid legal complications.
Hidden Costs
Apart from the purchase price and transportation, other costs such as insurance, maintenance, and modifications can add up. If you plan to modify a container for uses such as a home or office, costs can escalate quickly. Planning your budget to include these potential expenses will help prevent surprises down the line.
By considering these risks, you can better prepare yourself to make a smart and right decision about buying shipping containers. Remember, thorough research and careful planning are your best tools in making a purchase that meets your expectations without exceeding your budget.
Key Considerations before Buying Shipping Containers
Renting vs Buying Shipping Containers: Insights for Your Decision
When approaching the decision between renting or buying shipping containers, it’s crucial to make an immediate decision to rent or buy shipping containers as they have long-term impacts of each option on your finances and operational flexibility. Here are some benefits of both renting or buying that can help you in making the decision to rent or buy a shipping container.
Benefits of Buying Shipping Containers
Cost-Effectiveness Over Time: Buying a shipping container is cost-effective for long-term usage. Once the purchase is made, there are no further rental fees, allowing for a return on investment over time, especially if the container is used consistently.
Modification Freedom: Owning a container offers the freedom to modify it to your exact specifications. This is ideal for those intending to use containers for specialized purposes such as customized storage spaces, homes, or unique business solutions. You can make any alterations from structural modifications to aesthetic enhancements.
No Duration Limitations: Buying a shipping container removes any constraints on how long you can use it. This is particularly advantageous for permanent or long-term usage scenarios, where the continuous costs of renting can add up.
Benefits of Renting Shipping Containers
Lower Initial Expense: Renting a container involves significantly lower upfront costs than purchasing. This can be advantageous for those who need a container for a short-term project or are managing budget constraints.
Adaptability: Renting allows you to adapt to changing needs without a substantial commitment. If your space requirements increase or decrease, you can adjust your rental agreement to switch container sizes or quantities more conveniently than if you owned the containers.
Maintenance and Upkeep: Renters benefit from the maintenance services provided by the rental company. If a container incurs damage or wear, it is typically the responsibility of the rental company to handle repairs or replace the container, reducing the burden on the renter.
Factors to Consider before renting or buying shipping containers
Duration of Usage: Assess how long you will require the container. Short-term needs often align better with renting, while long-term applications usually justify the initial investment of purchasing.
Available Budget: Evaluate your current financial situation. Renting may be more viable if you prefer not to allocate a lump sum for a purchase. Conversely, if you are prepared to invest upfront, buying may be more economical over time.
Security Requirements: Consider the security of your container, especially if placed in less secure or remote locations. Renters might benefit from additional security services or insurance options offered by rental companies.
Potential for Resale: If purchasing, think about the resale value of the container. Containers in good condition can often be sold, recouping some of the initial outlay and decreasing the overall cost of ownership.
Choosing the Right Condition of Shipping Containers
When buying a shipping container, choosing the right condition of a shipping container depends on your intent and requirements for what you are looking for new and used shipping containers for sale. Below is the list of shipping container conditions that will help you choose the right container as per your needs and intent.
New or One-Trip Shipping Containers
These containers have typically been used only once to transport goods to their selling location. They are likely to brand new and have minimal wear and tear. If aesthetics and longevity are your top priorities, and budget is less of a concern, new or one-trip containers could be ideal. They are perfect for building container homes or offices where a clean, uniform appearance is crucial.
Used Shipping Containers
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, used shipping containers are worth considering. They have been used multiple times for shipping and have varying levels of wear and tear. While they might have dents and surface rust, they are still suitable for storage or construction projects where appearance is less important. Before purchase, thoroughly check them for any structural issues that could affect their usability.
Cargo-worthy (CW) Containers
If you plan to use the container for shipping goods, cargo-worthy containers are necessary. These have been inspected and certified to be structurally sound and safe for transport. Buying a CW container is essential if you need to meet shipping regulations and want to ensure that your goods are protected during transit.
Wind and Water Tight (WWT) Containers
Wind and water tight containers are a step down from cargo-worthy in terms of certification, but they still offer protection from the elements. They are not certified for shipping but are ideal for static storage. WWT containers are great for storing tools, equipment, or any items that need to be kept dry and secure.
As-Is Containers
As-is containers are sold in their current condition without any guarantee of their state. They might require repairs and are typically the cheapest option available. These containers are suitable for buyers with the ability to repair them or for purposes where the container’s condition is not a critical factor.
Checklist for Container Condition
Before buying shipping containers it’s best to inspect shipping containers personally, keep the following checklist in mind to help you make the best choice:
- Structural Integrity: Check the corners, walls, and roof for significant dents or rust that could compromise the container’s strength.
- Doors and Seals: Ensure that the doors open and close properly. Check the rubber seals around the door for any cracks or tears that could let in water or pests.
- Roof: Walk inside the container and look up at the roof. Sunlight shining through tiny pinholes can indicate more serious issues.
- Floor: The flooring should be solid and intact. Be wary of excessive staining or weakened areas that might need replacing.
- Odor: Notice any unusual smells that might indicate mould or chemical contamination, which could be hard to eliminate.
Types of Shipping Containers
When you are searching online “Shipping Containers for Sale” you can find different types of shipping containers. Let’s start with the height of shipping container:
Standard Shipping Containers
The height of the standard shipping container is 8 feet and 6 inches. The most common sizes of standard shipping containers are 10 ft, 20 ft, 40 ft and 45 ft length.
High Cube Shipping Containers
The length of high cube shipping containers are the same as standard shipping containers but they come with an extra foot of height i.e. 9 feet and 6 inches. They are especially used in construction industries due to their extra height.
Choosing the Right Size Container
Before buying shipping containers you need to know about shipping container sizes. Generally shipping container sizes range from 10 feet to 53 feet long, The most commonly used standard sizes shipping containers available for sale are 20ft shipping container for sale and 40ft shipping container for sale.
Read more details about shipping container sizes which will help you to choose right container that fit to your requirement:
10-Foot Containers
The 10-foot shipping containers are ideal for limited spaces and small-scale storage such as garden tools or personal items. These containers are easy to transport and place, making them a convenient choice for tight areas.
The price for 10-foot containers ranges from $2,500 to $3,500, depending on their condition and your location.
20-Foot Containers
The most popular size, 20-foot containers offer a good balance of space and manageability. They’re versatile for both storage and conversion projects like small offices or pop-up shops.
20ft shipping containers for sale range between $1000 to $5000 depending on their grades and condition.
40-Foot Containers
40-foot Containers are best for large storage needs or extensive modifications, such as building container homes or spacious offices.
The cost of 40ft shipping containers depends on their condition and location where to deliver, But the expected cost of a 40ft shipping container for sale ranges between $1250 to $10000.
Choosing the Right Door Configuration – Can be Smart Move
When buying a shipping container, one of the critical decisions you’ll face is selecting the right type of door configuration. The choice depends largely on your intended use for the container. Here’s a breakdown of the door options available to help you make an informed decision:
Standard Doors
Standard doors are typically located at one end of the container and swing open from the middle. They are equipped with a lock rod mechanism that seals the door tightly against weather and unauthorized access. This type is ideal for general storage purposes where access is only required from one end of the container.
Double Doors
Double doors, also known as tunnel containers, feature doors at both ends of the container. This configuration provides much easier access, allowing you to load and unload goods from either side. It’s particularly useful for storing items that need to be accessed frequently or for containers that are being modified into walk-through setups for events or retail spaces.
Open-Side Doors
Open-side containers have doors that open along the entire length of one side, providing a much larger opening than standard or double doors. This feature is extremely beneficial for loading and unloading bulky items, turning the container into a pop-up shop, or modifying it into a workspace where larger equipment or fixtures are used. The side doors also allow for more natural light and ventilation if used as a working or living space.
Purpose of Buying Shipping Containers
For Industry Use: Storing equipment, materials, and supplies.
For Container Homes: A sustainable and trendy option for modern living spaces.
For Container Businesses: Pop-up shops, cafes, and offices.
Delivery Fees and Options
When buying a shipping container, it’s important to know about delivery methods and costs. Here’s some tips to avoid higher delivery cost
Factors Affecting Delivery Costs
Distance: Longer distances mean higher costs.
Container Size and Weight: Larger and heavier containers cost more to deliver.
Site Accessibility: Difficult-to-access sites may increase the delivery price.
Common Delivery Methods
Tilt-Bed Truck: Convenient for placing containers directly on the ground; tends to be more expensive.
Flatbed Truck: More affordable if you have the means to unload the container yourself.
Crane: Best for tight spaces or stacking containers; typically the most costly option.
Tips for Smooth Delivery
Ensure Access: Confirm that the delivery truck can easily access your site.
Prepare the Site: Make sure the area is clear and level.
Get Quotes: Compare prices from different providers to find the best deal.
Planning ahead and understanding these factors will help ensure a cost-effective and hassle-free delivery of your shipping container.
Permission to Place the Container
Before placing a shipping container on your property, it’s important to check local regulations:
Zoning Laws: Check with your local zoning office to see if your area allows shipping containers as permanent or temporary structures.
Building Permits: Depending on how you plan to use the container, you might need a building permit. This is common if the container will be a permanent structure or significantly modified.
Homeowners Association: If your area is governed by an HOA, review their rules to ensure container placement is allowed.
Utility and Environmental Concerns: Ensure the placement doesn’t interfere with utility lines or violate any environmental regulations, which might require checking with local utility companies or environmental agencies.
Taking these steps helps avoid legal issues and ensures a smooth setup of your shipping container.
Essential Site Preparation
Before placing your shipping container, ensure the site is properly prepared to avoid complications. Here’s how to set up your site effectively:
- Choose the Right Location
Select a spot that’s easily accessible and free from overhead obstructions like branches or power lines.
- Clear and Level the Area
Remove debris and vegetation, and make sure the ground is level to prevent the container from shifting.
- Prepare the Foundation
Consider using a concrete slab for long-term placements, or gravel for both short-term and long-term use. These materials support the weight and help maintain proper drainage.
- Ensure Good Drainage
Check that the site has good drainage to prevent water accumulation, which can cause moisture issues.
- Accessibility for Delivery
Make sure there is clear access for delivery trucks to reach the site without obstacles.
Where Should You Buy Shipping Containers?
When looking to buy a shipping container, you have several options:
Local Dealers
Local dealers allow you to inspect containers in person and often offer competitive prices with the convenience of nearby availability. This option is great for those who want to see the container before buying shipping containers and might need quick access for inspections or additional purchases.
Individual Sellers
Buying a shipping container from an individual can lead to good deals, as sellers often aim to clear space quickly. However, it’s crucial to inspect the container thoroughly and confirm the legal ownership before making a purchase. This option can require more legwork but may result in lower prices.
Shipping Containers Suppliers
Shipping container supplier like ContainersX LLC usually have a large selection of shipping containers for sale in various conditions and can provide additional services like delivery and customization. While this might come at a higher cost, the variety and convenience offered by suppliers can be beneficial for specific needs.
Each option has its merits, so consider your priorities such as cost, condition, and convenience when making your decision.
How to Buy a Shipping Container: Partner with ContainersX LLC
After learning about how to buy a shipping container, if you’re looking to purchase a shipping container, ContainersX LLC is an excellent choice. They offer new and used shipping containers for sale near you in various sizes and conditions, suitable for any need from simple storage to complex custom projects.
Easy Selection Process
Visit the ContainersX LLC website or in person to explore their inventory. Their team is on hand to help you pick the right container based on your specific requirements, including size, condition, and any necessary modifications.
Competitive Pricing and Delivery
They offer competitive pricing that doesn’t break your budget. Once you’ve bought a shipping container of your choice, ContainersX LLC will arrange for the container’s delivery and setup at your location, ensuring it’s placed exactly where you need it.
Customer Support
After your purchase, ContainersX LLC continues to offer support, helping you with any future questions or needs regarding your container.
If you need more information on buying a shipping container, feel free to visit our Frequently Asked Questions page or contact us directly at 855-202-0304!
