5 Things to Consider Before Buying a Shipping Container

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Are you looking for ways to secure your company’s valued items while in transit? Do you wonder how you can go about buying a container to ship those objects in? If so, then you need to learn all that you can about buying a shipping container.

The process isn’t as complex as you might think. It’s easy to find one that’s the exact size you need without sabotaging your budget. Even better, there are ways to get access to a higher variety.

See below for an in-depth guide on the different things that you should consider before you buy a shipping container.

1. What Features Do You Need?

Sometimes, it can feel as if no two storage needs are the same. One trip, you need a covered container, the next you need one that is entirely insulated to protect perishable items inside.

The good news is that you can have your veritable pick of the litter—as long as you find a reputable resource.

Before you start your search, take the time to consider the type of shipping container that you need. Such types include:

  • Tunnel storage containers
  • Standard shipping containers
  • Refrigerated shipping containers
  • Insulated shipping containers

This ensures that you get a higher return on your investment. Your goods will arrive at their destination in the best possible condition. If you’re looking for a specific type of shipping container, then be sure to visit https://tuffshippingcontainers.com/.

2. How Much Do You Need to Carry?

As you can imagine, there are many different sizes of shipping containers that you can purchase. This will help you get the most bang for your buck.

You must take the time to consider what size of shipping container you need. If you purchase one that’s too large, then you’re wasting money on space you don’t need. Too small, and you don’t have enough room for all the items you need to ship.

You should also think about the long-term. While you might not need a big shipping container for this shipment, you will have much larger orders in the future.

See below for the common sizes of shipping containers and how much they’re capable of carrying:

  • 10-foot container: 560 cubic feet
  • 20-foot container: 1,150 cubic feet
  • 30-foot container: 1,750 cubic feet
  • 40-foot container: 2,350 cubic feet

3. What Condition Are You Looking For?

As with virtually any other object you can purchase, shipping containers are available for purchase as both new or used. This is especially important because it is crucial for the environment that storage containers be reused.

There’s even a huge movement these days for shipping containers to be repurposed. These days, people are investing in shipping containers and using them to create portable restrooms, theaters, homes, restaurants, offices, emergency hospitals, and even stores.

If you’re in the market for a shipping container (or several) then it’s advantageous to learn about the different conditions you can purchase them in.

First and foremost, you can purchase shipping containers new. Now, in the shipping world, the term “new” can have a few different meanings. Brand-new would imply it’s never been used before. However, a shipping container can still technically be considered “new” if it’s only been used one time.

This can be of great benefit to you. If you buy one brand-new to use one time, you can sell it back and get a good portion of your money back.

Next, you have Cargo Worthy (CW) shipping containers. As their name would imply, these containers meet the requirements to be loaded onto a ship or train.

You also have Wind and Water Tight (WWT) shipping containers, which means they aren’t allowed to be used for ships or trains. If you purchase a WWT, you can only ship it via a boat.

Lastly, you have an “As Is” shipping container. These used containers aren’t generally in the best condition. They are the equivalent of a “fixer-upper” in real estate. We don’t suggest you purchase these for shipping purposes.

4. How Will It Be Shipped?

If this is your first time purchasing a shipping container, you probably have one pressing question in your mind: How will it be shipped?

There are a few different methods, so be sure that you understand your seller’s preferred method before you invest.

The shipping container could be shipped to you via a tilt bed roll-off, arrive on a flatbed trailer, require you to pick it up from their location, or expect you to anchor the shipping container as it’s being unloaded. Pick the method that’s most practical for your business.

5. Is This Investment Worth It?

In short, absolutely! Shipping containers can revolutionize the way you distribute products. They can even help lower down your shipping costs via bulk shipping, as well as meet the demand of your larger clients.

All shipping containers are made of Corten steel, which is especially strong against severe weather conditions. Fitting, since they’ll need to withstand storms while they’re out at sea.

If you purchase from a reputable seller, you can also get a warranty on the container, guaranteeing that you’ll get a high return on your investment.

Find a Shipping Container for Your Needs Today

Now that you have seen an in-depth guide on the different things you need to do before buying a shipping container, be sure to use this information to your advantage.

Take the time to browse our website for more articles on how to buy a shipping container, as well as many other topics that you will find helpful.