4 Important Things to Check When Buying Used Containers
Whether you need a shipping container for storage or for a mobile office, buying new shipping containers can be overwhelming and expensive. But you can get a good deal by going for used, recycled containers, saving you hundreds, if not thousands, in the process. New shipping containers can cost up to $5,000, while used can cost up to $3,000 and below.
You just have to make sure they’re in good condition. Getting the best value from your purchase means doing your homework. Here are some things to consider before buying a used container.
Rest assured, Transocean takes pride in providing shipping and storage containers that meet our customers’ expectations. If we send you photos, you will always know if it is an unmodified representation photo or a photo of the actual container you will receive.
1. Pay Attention to the Photos
Photos of shipping containers for sale can give you a good idea of their condition and dimensions, but you have to pay special attention to the details. Be aware of scams, as sometimes photos of one container are actually made up of several containers, i.e., interior shots from a new container and exterior shots of a used one, or vice versa.
If you can, it’s always best to inspect the container in person to ensure the images match up. You have to be sure the photos are indicative of the exact container you plan to buy. Just keep in mind that providers with massive inventories cannot realistically provide pictures of every single container they sell. In those cases, the photo is a representation of the average container in your specified condition.
Pay close attention to the product description so you know what to expect. Know the product and know the steps to take if the used container you receive fails to meet your expectations.
2. Inspect the Exterior
Take a walk around the outside of the container to check its overall condition, assessing corner castings, paint, and seals around edges. Small dents here and there aren’t a big deal but if you notice large sections of corrosion and rust, this is a red flag.
3. Inspect the Interior
Check the doors first for any signs of significant damage. Make sure they lock and seal correctly. Then, check door fittings, seals, gaskets, and locking mechanisms for damage. Once you have opened the door, notice if you smell any mold or rust. For instance, musty smells could indicate leaking.
Ask if the container is watertight. You can run a quick test by closing the door during daylight and checking for indication of sunlight through the door seal or anywhere else in the shipping container.
This will also alert you to any holes. If you see any points of light in an otherwise pitch black container, the unit in question is not wind or watertight. If you ordered a WWT container, this is problematic.
4. Ask About Delivery Fees
Be sure to ask the seller about the terms and conditions involving the used container’s delivery.
How far away is the container from your location? Are there circumstances in which you would have to pay more than the pre-purchase quote? Next, ask about delivery accountability. Are you or the seller the ones held responsible for the container while in transport? What happens if it is damaged while coming off the truck?
Contact Transocean Equipment Management
Ready to make a purchase? To learn more about our used shipping containers for sale, contact us at either our North or South Carolina offices.
