The main purpose of a steel shipping container is to transport cargo across the sea on large ships. During the journey, those containers can get dented, scraped, and scratched – not to mention exposed to the harshest of elements — all while protecting the goods enclosed inside. This durability is what has led to many home and business owners across the country purchasing shipping containers to use as ground level storage on site.

Buyer Beware

Many companies sell to customers “sight unseen.” The prices are usually low to entice the customers into buying something without seeing it first. But just like you wouldn’t buy a car, boat, house or other large purchase without inspecting its condition, you shouldn’t buy a shipping container without taking a look.

It’s strongly recommended that you inspect the container in person before signing on the dotted line. If you can’t, do business with a company that you have bought from in the past or that at least has a stellar reputation in the area for quality products and excellent customer service.

Ask to see high-quality photos of the exact container you are agreeing to buy. Many companies send pictures of similar containers, not the actual one you want. Be specific. Make sure the picture features all four sides (with doors closed) and a few of the inside, including the floor.

Price vs. Supply and Condition

There is usually a surplus of containers in the United States, which means there’s always a pretty steady supply. Prices are usually based on age and condition.

Price will vary with condition due to the following factors:

• Miles Traveled – Some containers log more mileage moving cargo, while others spend more time sitting in ports.
• Container Handling – Some containers fall victim to rougher handling by forklift and crane operators than others. Rust can develop wherever the paint has chipped.
• Container Cargo – Sometimes the cargo the container is carrying will leak or spill its contents onto the floor.
• Environment – A container that travels on ships in milder climates will show less wear and tear than one that has spent many years enduring harsh climates.
• Road Transportation – Some containers get damaged during transport via tractor trailer, due to all the road grit, elements and more.

Age

You can quickly tell how old a container generally is by looking at its:

• Doors – A container with flat doors is generally considered to be an older container. That’s because container manufacturers switched from flat to corrugated doors in the early 1990s.
• CSC Plate – This plate can be found at the left-hand door of the container, listing all the pertinent information about that specific container, including the date it was made. It’s just like a VIN (Vehicle Information Number) on a car.

What to Look Out For

When inspecting your container, there are several elements you should take a look at.

• Doors: Make sure they open and close easily. Also, make sure the locking mechanisms work, which are comprised of handles and vertical rods. If those are bent, it will make it more difficult to open and close the doors. Take a look at the hinges too. If they are rusted, the doors won’t swing open and closed smoothly.
• Roof: Check the roof of the container from the interior, looking for dents and dings where water could collect and lead to rust. At the same time, look for dents and scratches in the paint that could eventually rust through the roof. That’s not to say you should never buy a container with dents or dings. Just be sure you know what you’re buying and the level of risk that comes with it.
• Door Gaskets: Make sure the gaskets seal up tight. Look for rust where the gasket joins the door, particularly at the bottom.
• Lower Side Wall: Check the exterior side wall where it comes into contact with the flat portion of the beam at the bottom. This is a common point of water accumulation that can result in rust later on.

Delivery Options vs. Cost

If you don’t live close to your shipping container provider, you will pay less to have the container delivered to you on a flatbed truck rather than on a tilt bed truck or trailer. This is because flatbed vehicles are much more common, while tilt bed trucks and trailers are much more specialized.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

If you need more guidance in buying a shipping container in North Carolina, South Carolina or Georgia, contact us at 910-483-7828 for a free quote and assistance.

About 90 percent of the world’s cargo is being moved by ships, so you can imagine how many shipping containers are currently in circulation – each one used for a different purpose. There are many shipping container types out there. From flat rack to tank containers, each unit helps with something different. Some transport liquids, while others transport temperature-sensitive foods and pharmaceuticals.

The one you need will depend on the business you’re in. To aid in your decision, here’s a look at some of them.

1.  General Purpose Containers

Also known as a dry container, these weather proof units are fully enclosed and feature a rigid roof, floor and walls. This is the most common type of container, used to transport most kinds of standard cargo. You can add modifications such as liner bags or flexi-tanks if you need to ship liquid cargo or dry cargo in bulk.

2.  Flat Rack Containers

Featuring collapsible sides, these containers can fold down into a flat rack. The end walls are durable enough to secure cargo, so you would choose this option if you had heavy machinery, vehicles on tracks, and construction materials to transport. Some 40′ flat rack shipping containers can carry up to 45 tons of cargo!

3.  Open Top Containers

These have convertible tops that can be removed if needed, good for over-height cargo that can’t easily be loaded through the door. You would choose this option if you had tall machinery or other heavy finished products that could only be handled with a crane or rolling bridge.

4.  Double Door Containers

Just like the name implies, this type of unit has doors on both ends of the container. Also known as a tunnel container, this type of unit is ideal when you have to quickly load and unload goods through either door. Both doors have the same locks and weather tight seals for the utmost in weather protection.

5.  High Cube Containers

Similar to general purpose containers, high cube containers are taller by one foot. You will find them most commonly in size 40′ and sometimes 45′, ideal for when you need a slightly higher volume capacity.

6.  Open Side Containers

Also similar to general purpose shipping containers, these units have doors that can open on the side too. You have more room and wider access, which makes it much easier to load and unload materials.

7.  ISO Reefer Containers

These are used to ship temperature-sensitive, perishable cargo such as fruits, vegetables, meats, and even medications. They rely on external power sources to maintain a regulated temperature. They come in sizes of 20’ and 40, usually made of Corten steel.

8.  Insulated Containers

Similar to a reefer container, an insulated container features a regulated temperature control so they can withstand higher temperatures. Also known as thermal containers, they come equipped with a mechanical compressor to cool or heat the air, constructed of a vacuum flask. This makes them suitable for long-distance transport of anything from biological materials and chemicals to organs and blood.

9.  Half-Height Containers

These containers can transport heavy, dense, bulk cargo such as coal and stones. Used commonly in the mining industry, half height containers have a lower center of gravity to enable them to easier handle heavier loads than their taller container counterparts. As you can imagine, they are very durable because they can withstand rough industrial environments.

10.                Tank Containers

Also known for short as tankers, these containers are made of steel or other anti-corrosive materials to transport liquid materials. It should be at least 80 percent full so that surging of the liquids does not occur in transit. By the same token, it can’t exceed 95 percent full because that doesn’t leave room for thermal expansion.

11.                Swap Body Containers

These are exchangeable containers used for road and rail purposes, more commonly seen in Europe. They feature a convertible top, making them ideal for shipping a wide range of goods. They don’t have upper corner fittings and can’t be stacked one on top of the other, so they are only used for land-based transportation.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

No matter which type of container you need, we can hook you up with the right one for your requirements. Start off with a free quote when you contact us at 910-483-7828. Let us know what you need your container for and we can determine the best fit.

If you need to purchase or rent a shipping container for a business or personal project, you will need to find a shipping container modification provider that can help you customize your unit. It doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. All it takes is some preparation and a partnership with a reputable container modification company.

Most shipping container providers (the ones who sell you the units) will also help you customize them as well. Here’s what a container modification company will do for you:

1.  They’ll Work With Your Ideas

Everyone’s ideas are different. No two projects are the same. You want a company that will be receptive to your ideas and then help you implement them. After all, this is your business and your idea! Whether you want to open a pop-up shop or you want a mobile office, make sure the company you choose is flexible and creative.

2.  They Want to See Your Designs on Paper

As you think of them, scratch out some sketches on paper. This will be something you can bring to the modification team so they have a better idea of what you’re talking about. Even better: bring them blueprints, construction plans, drawings, and diagrams for an even more detailed look at the scope.

3.  They Can Help You Flesh Out the Main Purpose of Your Shipping Container

Before you meet with the design team, make sure you have a full understanding of what the main purpose of your container will be. Is it temporary or permanent? Do you want to rent or buy? Do you need more than one unit? Will this be for a long-term project such as a container home or office? Will you be using it for business or personal reasons? Will you be working out of it or do you plan to sell food out of it?

4.     They Can Help With Modifications

Shipping container modification companies have the resources for installing additions like skylights, windows, doors, shelving, and HVAC systems. Discuss all modifications as early as the conceptual stage. Let them know if you need modifications for an insulated or refrigerated container, as these types of units tend to lose their insulation once reconstruction has been done on the interior walls.

5.  They’ll Help You Stick to a Budget

Know your budget going in. Communicate that budget to your container company so they can determine how best to distribute funds throughout the project. Setting and sticking to a budget will help prevent overspending. But keep in mind, unexpected expenses often come up during the construction phase, so it’s wise to set aside an emergency fund in case this happens.

6.  They Adhere to Building Codes and Permits

If your project requires permission from the city or town, you need to obtain a building code or permit. Your container modification company cannot start work unless you have secured this permission. To make sure your project progresses on schedule, provide them with a permit so they can adhere to it. Find out if your city has specific rules regarding container structures.

7.  They Manufacture Each Container to Order

Most container companies mass produce 20-foot and 40-foot containers, but if you need something smaller or larger, discuss the design and size dimensions with the team. Be sure to review the sizes of each container as well as the total amount of containers before the manufacturing phase begins. Once actual work starts, it will be difficult or impossible to change the order.

8.     They Will Safely Ship Your Container

Once complete, trucks drivers will load the customized container on a flatbed and drop it off at your desired location. Prepare the space around the site so that it is level, secure and free of obstacles.

9.  They Will Work With You Through All Stages

When you work side by side with a shipping modification company, it truly becomes a collaboration between two partners. From the first phone call through design, manufacturing and delivery, your company should be in touch with you every step of the way to ensure you are completely satisfied. They will also make sure the shipping process goes seamlessly and make sure the deliverable is up to your specifications. Finally, timely delivery of your unit will complete the process.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

If you would like to work with a reputable shipping container modification company in North Carolina and surrounding states, contact us at 910-483-7828 for a free quote.

Purchasing new containers or used containers is a great idea for so many reasons, whether you use them for mobile offices and classrooms, or to use as storage in your backyard. Steel shipping containers are very durable and are designed to last for years, decades even – if they’re cared for properly.

Many people choose to make modifications to their shipping containers. However, they may not realize that those modifications can compromise the structural integrity of the container, resulting in long-term repercussions. In order to safely store items and valuables inside the container, the structural integrity must remain intact, for one thing, and for another, it must be able to accommodate safe alterations that you may make in the future.

Annual routine maintenance, particular to the roof and doors, will help to extend the life of your container. But there are many things you have to take into consideration that can negatively impact the structural integrity of the shipping container.

What Affects Structural Integrity? 3 Factors to Consider

There are three main factors that affect a shipping container’s structural integrity. They are:

Improper Stacking of Containers: Whether you’re stacking containers for storage purposes or you’re looking to build multiple container complexes, stacking is a common practice. When done right, it isn’t harmful to the containers. But when the containers are incorrectly piled on top of one another, they can result in structural damage as well as a dangerous situation for people around them. As such, you should always stack units at the corners (not diagonally), tying them with twist locks to ensure a multi-level shipping container building that is structurally sound.

Too Many Modifications: Alterations are a common undertaking among shipping container owners. Perhaps you would like to transform the unit into a garage space or workshop or maybe you want to add security upgrades to your mobile office so it’s safer at night when you’re not there. Whatever the case, changes to the original container are sometimes necessary and should be allowed to happen. However, you have to follow certain guidelines and precautions to ensure it remains structurally sound even after the modifications. For instance, you can’t cut out too large a space to accommodate more doors or cut too close to the corners, as this will lead to an uneven distribution of weight and a precarious situation. Keep in mind that every shipping container is carried via the corner castings, which are basically the four corners of the container. Let’s say you cut out a corner casting to make a desired modification design change. If you did this without consulting with a structural engineer, you could be sacrificing the container’s structural integrity. Drastic cuts to a wall, for example, are another way to compromise structure. If you were to cut out an entire wall, this would cause the roof to sag, while the floor would become almost spring-like. The walls carry a lot of weight in addition to the corner castings, and they are necessary to maintain the container’s  shape.

Frequent Sea Travel: The deterioration process is hastened with frequent travel and exposure to the ocean air and water. All that salt can cause corrosion, and objects in the water can result in dents. If buying a used container that has been in the ocean, make sure you fully inspect the unit, checking for signs of rust, wear and tear, and other damage. Keep in mind, if you buy a used container, this means it likely traveled at sea many times. You may want to take a look at “one-trip” containers, which have only traveled once across the sea. A used container that has been exposed to the ocean is more affordable and may be perfectly suited to your needs of storage. But if you need a structurally sound container to enhance into a classy mobile office, art space or yoga studio, you’ll want to go with one trip or new containers, especially when people’s safety is at stake.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

Whether you’re on the hunt for new containers or used ones, we can hook you up. Please contact us at 910-483-7828 for a free quote. For your convenience, we have offices in South Carolina and North Carolina, with representatives who can help with your request at any time.

Once you’ve bought your shipping container, now you have to move onto the next step: preparing the site for delivery. The trucks will bring the unit to you, of course, but there are some things you can do on your end that will make the delivery go smoothly.

Preparing for delivery at your site will guarantee the safety of the driver and lead to a seamless delivery process overall. If you don’t prepare well beforehand, you could be subject to fees from your shipping container provider.

Depending upon the equipment you have ordered as well as the specific site conditions, most shipping containers will be delivered with either a roll-back truck or a flat-bed truck. That’s how we do things here at Transocean.

Roll Back Truck

Most deliveries are made with a self-unloading tractor trailer that will drop off your storage shipping container on the ground right where you want it on your site. Combined, the truck and trailer measure 55 feet long. Armed with that information, you should make sure your site is accessible for the truck to maneuver without problems.

Deliveries of 40-foot shipping containers require more clearance than 20-foot storage shipping containers because they are dropped off by a larger truck.

It’s best that the ground be dry and relatively compact at the time of delivery so the truck can get in and out without becoming stuck in the sand, mud or soft ground. You can go a step further and add 4”x 4” boards, railroad ties or concrete blocks under your container to encourage air flow so it doesn’t sink into the ground.

Here at Transocean, our standard full-length truck is able to deliver one 40-foot, 45-foot or 53-foot storage shipping container or two 20-foot storage shipping containers at one time. If you simply don’t have the room on your site, we can bring a smaller 28-foot truck to deliver one 20-foot storage shipping container, but please let us know beforehand.

Flat-Bed

The cheapest method of container delivery is via flat-bed truck because you are responsible for unloading the container yourself. Keep in mind, a 20′ container weighs about 5,000 pounds, and 40′ containers weigh about 9,000 pounds. Prior to ordering a flat-bed delivery, make sure you have access to the proper equipment to offload the unit, such as cranes, fork-lifts, top-lifts or boom-trucks. These are usually best for large orders, government agencies, or industrial customers.

Considerations for Delivery

There are a few factors to keep in mind when prepping your site for delivery.

Space Requirements

Because the drop-off trucks are very large and must be able to make wide turns, you have to ensure adequate space for them to maneuver on your property, be able to cross culverts, or smoothly navigate between gates.

If your container is being delivered on a full-sized truck with trailer, you’ll need to give the drivers at least 70 feet of open space. If delivered on a small tilt bed truck, 40 feet of open space is necessary.

Clearance

While a trailer with container hits 13’6”H, it can reach as high as 16 feet when raised for offloading. Think about any overhead obstructions that could be present, such as bridges, tree branches, and wires. You don’t want to see any unfortunate accidents happen due to negligence.

Ground Type

Heavy container delivery trucks will sink in soft surface conditions such as mud and wet grass. This is why it’s imperative to select a location that features firm and level ground – not only so the trucks won’t sink but also so your container won’t sink.

Safety

Here at Transocean, our drivers are trained to deliver containers in the more precise and safe manner. Ensuring a successful delivery without damage to your surrounding property is our #1 concern. That being said, if our drivers don’t feel as though they can safely deliver your container at the given site, they will leave, but you will still be charged for the attempted delivery.

Do a sweep of the surrounding area to make sure it is open and safe. Both parties will benefit from this attention to detail in the end!

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

If you would like more detailed information on how to prepare for your specific shipping container delivery, contact us at 910-483-7828. We would be happy to inform you of the specific requirements we need you to heed before we drop off your container at the site.

The good, the bad, the ugly: not all shipping containers are created equal. Some are ugly yet still do the job. Others are in pristine condition but you’ll pay top dollar. From one-trip containers to D grade, there are many levels of containers in terms of their appearance and condition.

New/One Trip

These containers have only been used once in international shipping, and were usually built within the last two years. These containers are in excellent condition. You will pay the most for this type but this is a good investment if you need a top-notch container that will be pulling double duty for you for many years.

Cargo Worthy

Cargo worthy storage containers have been inspected and feature a seaworthy certification. If you are planning to ship goods with your container, you’re best off buying a cargo worthy storage container, which has no differences (at least in terms of condition) than a wind and watertight (WWT) container (more on that below).

But this type has the added benefit of being inspected by maritime surveyors, approved for use shipping goods and products overseas. You will pay a few hundred bucks more for this type than WWT simply because of that approval.

WWT

This is the most functional and economical solution, and is generally the most affordable cargo box out there. WWT stands for Wind and Water Tight. They range in condition and are in abundant supply. They are used, which means they vary in color, may have some surface rust, and may be dented and dinged.

But they are more affordable because they don’t have to undergo inspection by a maritime surveyor. Sometimes, they can be inspected by an experienced shop personnel at your direction and can be repaired to ensure they are indeed wind and water tight.

As-Is

As-is containers are sort of like homes being sold as-is – meaning you buy the home/container as it is right now, with no extra work being done on the part of the seller to spruce it up. You’ll likely be looking at some damage which occurred somewhere along the line in the shipping process, as well as structural problems or a lot of rust.

These containers are past the point of being considered WWT. As such, they are much cheaper to buy than cargo worthy or WWT storage containers, but you do have to contend with the damage. This may not matter to you depending on the intended usage, so you can save yourself quite a bit of money here.

Here at Transocean, we have our own system of “grading” our containers. Here’s a look at what each category means.

A Grade

These boxes are in excellent condition, with minimal, if any, rust, good condition doors and gaskets, no major dents, few patches in the roof, and floors in very good condition. Choose this if aesthetics are important to you or you plan to paint the container.

B Grade

With these, you will notice some rust spots but they are mostly superficial in nature – no more than six inches in diameter. You will get good condition doors and gaskets with little to no rust around seals or hinges. You may have to patch a couple of places in the roof or floor, but overall this is a good value as part of a good quality container. Great if you’re planning to use it for storage.

C Grade

Rust, while still superficial, is definitely noticeable yet not predominant. You could see rust spots greater than six inches in diameter. Doors may still function but you may see rust around gaskets, hinges or at the tops of doors. Multiple patches on the roof and floor are likely, with delamination of the flooring as well.

This is our most common and popular grade of shipping container. They’re kind of ugly, but still provide good structural stability.

D Grade

At this level, rust is structural and predominant. You may have a hard time opening or closing doors, and gaskets may be loosening. Severe rust could be accumulating around the seals, with loose floors and severe delamination. Sides often feature large dents or deflections in D grade containers, which can be 20 years old or older. A bit more ugly than the C grade, D grade containers are great for storing 4-wheelers and lawnmowers.

Not sure which grade or type you want? Just ask us!

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

As leaders in the shipping container industry, we can connect you with the most appropriate type of container for your needs and budget. Feel free to ask for a free quote when you contact us at 910-483-7828.

Scams are everywhere, from financial scams to coronavirus aid scams. But did you know there are some less than reputable shipping container providers out there that will try to scam you? It’s true. Don’t be a victim. Follow these tips to avoid scams when looking for a shipping container provider.

Look Into the Website’s Domain Name

Find out how long the provider’s website domain has been active. Most legitimate companies have older, established websites, as opposed to a fraudster’s site, which will be very new. That’s because they pop up and disappear frequently to avoid detection.

Check For Legitimate Company Address and Verified Google Name

If you can’t find an actual address on file for the company, this is a big red flag. An established, credible company has an actual address and a verified listing on Google Maps. Make sure the profile is verified and make sure the contact information there matches what’s on their website. Strict verification methods are put in place by Google to ensure scammers don’t abuse the platform because that damages consumer trust.

Verify a Landline Phone Number

Providers that operate with just a cell phone number may be a little sketchy. A landline number indicates a central office, and this points to professionalism. To check for a landline number, look for an area code in the region of company location. Cell phones don’t always indicate location. Make sure that phone number matches with the phone numbers on the website, social media pages, and Google Maps. When you call, take note if it is answered immediately.

Learn How Long They Have Been in Business

Check out the About Us section on their website. Is the content well written or does it look thrown together or too good to be true? Is it too much information, something that could have been copied and pasted from somewhere else? You want to see a strong About Us page that details their experience in your area.

Get Several Quotes

It’s a good idea to choose at least three different providers and call them for quotes. Rock bottom prices that seem too good to be true usually are. They often lure people in with low prices just to get you to call, then hit you with hidden fees later on, or they may require you pay all up front in cash to get such a good rate.

Check for Organic Presence on SERPs

If you only see paid advertisements for the company popping up in the search engines with no organic links, take note. If a company wants to appear in organic search results, they have to have a legitimate website that engages in SEO ranking tactics. If you know anything about SEO, you know how long it takes to build up a presence on the SERPs with organic search alone.

Visit Social Media Pages

These will give you a good idea of the character of the company. Look for a lot of reviews. If they only have a couple, this isn’t a good sign. Make sure they’re recent and positive overall. Some negative reviews are normal, but you should still see if the company reached out to the consumer to acknowledge their complaint and offered to make it right.

Buy Directly From a Container Supplier

The best way to ensure you’re buying direct is to visit the company in-person rather than relying on phone calls and online interactions alone.

Ask to See the Container On-Site

It’s never a good idea to buy or rent a shipping container sight unseen. You should be met with enthusiasm when you ask to see the container, not a NO answer. This is a red flag. Most companies want their customers to be satisfied with the quality of their products, so they should have no problem showing you the inventory.

Don’t Share Banking Information

In order for a shipping container scam to be successful, it has to rely on the ability to get funds from a naive buyer’s bank account. If the company asks you for this information right away, before you have verified all details, take this as another red flag. Banking and payment info should be the very last step in the process.

If you follow the above tips, you should be assured of choosing a reputable shipping container supplier.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

When you’re looking to partner with a proven provider of shipping containers in South and North Carolina, as well as Virginia and Georgia, contact us for a free quote to get started. We have more than 40 years of experience in the container sales and rental business for your peace of mind.

Now that you’ve made the decision to purchase a shipping container, your next question is: should you buy new or used? The answer to that question will depend on many factors, such as intended usage and budget.

In general, used storage containers are those that are retired from cargo service, so they may not look shiny and blemish-free like new ones will but you will save money. Plus, used shipping containers don’t compromise on security and weather proof qualities. If you don’t mind a few dents and some surface rust, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t buy used.

Why Buy Used?

Here are a few quick reasons why buying used is a good bet. Buy used if:

• You’re on a tight budget.
• You don’t care about appearance, i.e., you’re not using it for a tradeshow, pop-up food truck, boutique or home.
• Top-of-the-line selection isn’t important to you.
• You want the most affordable pricing.
• You want a long service life, but you’re willing to compromise on a few years.

With used, you can still have your choice of condition, color, size, and configuration, and you can add any customizations or modifications you want. There’s minimal ground prep required, and you can still choose from many sizes: 20 ft, 40 ft, 45 ft, 48 ft and 53 ft.

Considerations

When buying used, you will have to be a bit more diligent in your research on the units themselves as well as the provider.

• Supplier Reputation: Dealing with a reputable company for your used shipping container is key. Don’t make any rash decisions. Take your time to do your homework and research at least a few different companies. After all, even a used shipping container is a big investment, so you want to make sure you’re not spending a lot of money on a lemon. You want some assurances that the provider will be delivering on what they have promised. Fair prices, solid reputation and many years in business are all things to look out for.
• Container Inspection: While not always possible, it’s best to check out the container in person rather than buying it sight unseen. Look for holes in the unit – get inside the container, shut the doors and see if you notice light shining through anywhere. If so, there are holes. Next, check for properly working doors and locking mechanisms. Inspect the roof for dents that may lead to pooling water, leaks and rust spots. Eventually, these will turn into holes. Take note of anywhere you will have to do some patching.
• Delivery Costs: It takes a lot of work to load, transport, and drop off a used shipping container. The driver has to secure the container to the truck, access the site, and drop off the container safely. This all costs money. Ask what the delivery costs are up front. Is it included or is it an extra charge?
• Toxic Exposure: Many times, used containers could have been used to transport toxic products. This means you may have to provide additional treatment in order to safely reuse the container as, for instance, a living space or to transport food.
• Need for Repainting: You may want to repaint the container once you take ownership of it. First, you’ll need to make any necessary repairs, and that includes addressing rust spots before You can treat problem areas with rust converter.
• Features: Make sure the used container you are considering has all the features you’re looking for, such as:

1. Single-door entry
2. Double-door entry
3. Windows
4. Durable flooring
5. Ventilation
6. Internal locking system
7. HVAC systems
8. Shelves
9. Storage space

Buying used may mean you have fewer selections when it comes to hitting everything on your must-have list. Therefore, you may have to make some compromises. Just remember you can always add on modifications later.

In the end, the decision to buy new or used is a highly personal decision. You may not care that it doesn’t look perfect. Maybe your budget will only allow for a used model. Whatever the case, you can’t go wrong with a used shipping container. They serve a solid purpose and can still give you many years and even decades of use.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

If you’re ready to buy a used shipping container, please contact us in either our North Carolina or South Carolina offices. We would be happy to assist you in making this important decision!

When in the market for a shipping container in Atlanta GA, you likely have a lot of questions for the provider you choose. This is, after all, a big decision. The shipping container provider you choose has to be trustworthy, and the products they sell must be durable. Here are some questions to ask your Georgia shipping container provider.

Questions to Keep in Mind

How long have you been in business? The answer to this will give you an idea of how long the shipping container provider has been serving customers in your area. The longer the span of service, generally the more they can be trusted. But this isn’t the only factor that can tell you about trustworthiness. You’ll also have to take a look at reviews and testimonials to get a clearer picture.

What are your delivery options? Most providers, Transocean included, offer two options: flat-bed and roll-back. Roll-back trucks can be used when the customer doesn’t have their own off-loading equipment on site. You will need to provide a lot of clearance so the truck can get in and out. If the customer does have a fork-lift or crane they can use on site, then the container company can deliver with a flat-bed truck, which saves money.

Can you set the container directly on the ground? This isn’t usually recommended, but will depend on the type of container, condition of the landscape and purpose of the container. It’s wise to rise up the container on railroad ties, cement blocks or boards to act as a makeshift foundation. Otherwise, the container could sink unevenly into the ground over time.

How long does it take for delivery? Most providers can deliver the container within a week or less. This could take longer if you have asked for modifications, such as windows and doors, shelving, ventilation or custom paint. Your provider should be able to give you a timeline of delivery based on your specific requirements.

What modifications do you offer? Speaking of modifications, most storage container providers do offer modifications to the units they sell. Those modifications can include anything from windows and doors to shelving units and custom flooring. Keep in mind, any modifications you make will add to the price tag of your unit. The custom additions you select will depend on the intended use of the container, whether you plan to use it as a mobile office, popup food stand, school or garden shed.

How old are your containers? If you decide to buy a used shipping container, this is an important question to ask. Used shipping containers could be up to 20 years old, and they come in a variety of conditions. Age is often a big factor in how providers price their inventory. But even used shipping containers have to meet certain criteria for durability and sustainability to handle various weather conditions. You should always inspect the unit you’re interested in beforehand to ensure it meets your needs.

Can you provide references? Don’t be afraid to ask for references. Once you have that contact information, actually reach out to those previous clients to find out their satisfaction level with the shipping container company. Here are some questions you can ask:

• Did you get a new or used container, and what was the condition of the unit when it arrived?
• Did the company handle issues promptly?
• Did they go over pricing and address any budget concerns?
• Was the unit in the stated condition, or were you surprised to find damage?
• What modifications, if any, did your unit contain?
• Was it delivered on time?
• Were you surprised later on by unexpected charges?

On top of calling references, go a step further and look into the company’s reputation. Check social media, read reviews, and ask family and friends which shipping container companies they have dealt with in the past.

What are your prices? This is an obvious question to ask, and will vary greatly with the size, type and age of the unit you select. Whatever the case may be, make sure you get a detailed breakdown in writing so you’re not surprised later on with fees such as surcharges, Customs duties, terminal handling, and penalties for overweight containers or late collection. Don’t be afraid to ask for a discount, especially in off-peak seasons within the shipping industry. Also, don’t forget to ask what forms of payment they accept. Find out if they offer financing as well.

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

If you have more questions about purchasing a shipping container in Atlanta, Georgia, please contact us for a free price quote at 910-483-7828.

Shipping containers are great on their own, but they’re even better with modifications. These are things you can do to the interior or exterior of your unit to enhance its comfort, functionality, efficiency and appearance. From shelving to ventilation to some cool accessories, here are some popular shipping container modifications you can consider to suit your needs.

Branding

If you are using your container for business purposes, you can have it painted or wrapped with your brand and logo. You can incorporate anything from signage to contact information with hours. Magnetic signs are ideal in many instances, because you can change them out as needed. Branding is important for businesses that need increased visibility to promote what they sell, from real estate to food.

Interior Paint

Standard shipping containers don’t come painted on the inside. You have to add that after the fact. Many people decide to paint the interior of their container when it is being used as an office, food stand, restroom, etc. – basically for any purpose where people will be spending time on the inside and appearance of the unit is a concern, i.e., guests, customers, employees.

Flooring

Typical storage containers come with simple marine-grade moisture-resistant flooring. But you may consider upgrading the flooring if your unit will be acting as a conference room, mobile office, training room or any other professional environment. You may want to go with a fresh vinyl flooring choice with a classy wood plank design, for instance.

You may need a more durable choice if your unit will act as a mobile restroom, though, such as polyvinyl flooring that is slip-resistant and easy to clean. If you are using your container as a portable gym, you may consider installing rubber or soft mat flooring.

Mobile Office Upgrades

If you’re using your converted storage container as an office, you will need the amenities that will make your job easier, such as laminated counter tops, seating, white boards, filing cabinets and shelves.

Plumbing

If you’re running a restaurant out of your storage container, or you need it to include a bathroom or workplace kitchen, you can add a fridge, counter space for a microwave and other small appliances, full plumbing systems, sink, seating, and stove.

Lighting

For applications that require additional general and task lighting, you can add anything from recessed lights to pendant lights. You can even incorporate LED lighting for personnel doors. For added security, try motion sensors that activate the lights when motion is detected.

Rooftop Decks

Why not make good use of the space above the container? Add a rooftop deck if you need to survey your work site, for example.

Locks

If your container will house things of value, you should probably invest in a variety of locking mechanisms that will offer more security beyond the standard locks. These choices can range from cargo door locks to security swing arms to lock boxes.

Miscellaneous

There’s really no limit to the modifications you can make on your shipping container. Some more popular options include:

• Windows
• Roll-up doors
• Sky lights
• Heat and AC units
• Security bars
• Vents and fans
• Framing and insulation
• Electrical
• Partitions
• Solar panels
• Shelving

Benefits of Shipping Container Modifications

There are several benefits that come with making modifications to your shipping container. By adding custom features, the sky’s the limit when creating the ideal space for work, home or play.

Your container is:

• Completely customizable
• Affordable
• Eco-friendly
• Safe and durable
• Weather and rodent resistant
• Convenient
• Personalized
• Comfortable

A shipping container is mobile, which means it’s good for temporary uses. When done, you can pick and move to another location for the utmost in convenience. You can make your container all your own with just a few simple – or complex – changes that suit your needs and your budget.

The Many Uses of Shipping Containers

There are many reasons why you would want to modify your existing storage container. You can convert them to serve virtually any function or purpose, such as:

• Ticket booth
• Security booth
• Hydroponic container farm
• Garage
• Home
• Sports equipment locker
• Pop up café
• Pool
• Shed
• Theater
• Bistro
• Field hospital
• Studio
• Sauna
• Art gallery
• Disaster shelter
• Student housing
• Camper
• Playhouse
• Lab
• Backyard pool house
• Guest house
• Indoor garden

Contact Transocean Equipment Management

If you would like to learn more about the modifications we offer, contact us for a free price quote at 910-483-7828. We would be happy to go over the choices available to you with your new or used shipping container.