Finding Reliable Sellers: Where to Buy Used Shipping Containers

There are an estimated 17 million ISO containers currently circulating around the globe, and this number is only predicted to grow as shipping containers gain popularity. In addition to transporting cargo, they’re also being utilized today as houses, cafes, and even swimming pools.

Here, we discuss the benefits of buying used shipping containers, where to find them, and factors to consider when purchasing a used shipping container.

Benefits of Buying Used Shipping Containers

There are several advantages of buying a used cargo container over a new – or “one-trip” – container, which have only been used for a single trip across the ocean to the USA. It’s important to keep the following in mind when deciding which option to purchase:

• Cost: A one-trip container can cost more than twice as much as a used one. Opting for a used container is an affordable alternative that will save your business a significant amount of money, especially if you plan to buy multiple containers.
• Sustainability: Choosing to purchase a used container rather than a new one is not just great for your wallet – it also benefits the environment. Instead of being discarded and causing more waste, these containers remain in use. Used containers also lessen the need for materials to manufacture new containers, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions caused by the manufacturing process.
• Aesthetics: A container doesn’t need to be shiny and free of markings when shipping cargo. How it looks won’t impact its functionality. However, if you’re looking to make a container into a house, storage space, or something similar, its appearance and the way it was constructed might be more important.

Common Used Shipping Container Sizes

ISO containers are the most common type of used shipping containers, as they are easy to stack and can transport most normal cargo. They come in various dimensions to accommodate different types of cargo, including:

• Standard: These containers are 20 feet or 40 feet long, measuring 8.5 feet high and 8 feet wide. They’re used for transporting all kinds of goods, from vehicles and non-perishable foods to household items. Some of them have double doors for loading and unloading at both ends.
• High cube: These containers are 40 or 45 feet long, measuring 9.5 feet high and 8 feet wide. Their height allows them to transport bulkier items like construction materials and heavy machinery or equipment.

What you intend to use the container for will determine the size you choose. Make sure to consider the measurements and weights of the items that will be placed inside as well as the space you plan to put the storage container in, if applicable.

Where to Find Used Shipping Containers

You can find used shipping containers for sale through national, local, and third-party sources. Each source has pros and cons to consider:

• National suppliers often have extensive inventory and top-quality containers. An in-person inspection may not be doable if they don’t have a container lot location near you.
• Local suppliers offer quicker delivery, personalized service, and reduced transportation costs. Additionally, in-person inspections may be more feasible.
• Third-party resellers list used containers for sale on websites such as eBay and Craigslist. They typically offer the lowest prices for containers, but delivery costs can be steep. You also risk getting a low-quality container that doesn’t match the product image.

Finding the Right Seller: Purchase Considerations for Used Shipping Containers

Asking the right questions before purchasing a used container is a crucial step in the buying process. All the details matter – including pricing, quality, durability, and delivery method.

Here are some factors to consider to end up with a container that’s in good condition for the best price possible.

Pricing

Prices can vary greatly among used containers. While a low price may sound enticing at first, don’t let it come at the cost of the container’s quality. If the container is damaged or ineffective, it won’t help you save money.

Make sure you work with a seller that provides transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Both the container and delivery costs should be made clear up front.

Keep in mind that if you purchase a shipping container for business purposes, you may be able to write it off as a tax exemption.

Container Quality and Durability

Purchasing a structurally sound and high-quality used container that’s durable enough to withstand heavy use is crucial. If possible, inspect the container in person prior to purchasing to take note of its condition and uncover signs of damage, like surface rust on the steel or leaks that could harm your cargo.

Wind and watertight containers are necessary for transporting certain goods or if you plan to use the container to store items. These containers are sealed and provide protection against the elements. Test their functionality while assessing the container, ensuring that no daylight gets in when the doors are closed.

Delivery Method

Most businesses don’t have all the necessary resources to transport a used shipping container, so make sure the place you purchase from is willing to deliver. Here are two of the most common methods of delivery directly to the destination:

• Flat bed delivery: This is the most-used delivery method. The container is transported on a flatbed semi-truck and must be unloaded by forklift or crane.
• Tilt bed delivery: This method is also known as a roll-off delivery. It involves a truck that can tip its bed to slide the container off gently to the ground as it slowly drives forward.

Seller

Who you buy a used container from can make or break the entire process. The seller should be honest and reliable, or you risk getting a container that doesn’t meet your standards. There are a few factors that can help determine a seller’s reliability:

• Their online presence: See if they have a legitimate website. The website should detail what container sizes they offer, what areas they serve, and how to contact them directly. Things like typos, pop-ups that direct you to another site, and hard-to-read fonts can be red flags.
• Their reviews: Read through their customer reviews. Figure out if customers have had mostly positive or negative experiences with them, and look for details that could impact your decision. For instance, maybe an order was delivered two weeks later than guaranteed for several customers. If a delay would significantly impact your needs, that seller might not be the most reliable option.
• Their response time: If you contacted the seller, did you receive a reply to your request within a few business days, or did they follow up after several weeks? Their communication – prompt or lagging – could indicate how long the sale will take.

Find the Perfect Used Shipping Container for Your Project or Storage Needs

There are many benefits to purchasing a used shipping container, and the process can be made seamless from initial quote to delivery with the right seller.

DSL Logistics offers a wide range of used shipping containers to help accomplish your projects. Our used containers can also be employed as storage solutions. With over 5,500 satisfied customers and more than 5,000 successful deliveries, we’re the reliable logistics company you’ve been searching for.

Get a quote for competitive container pricing – contact us today!