When purchasing shipping containers, some hidden costs should be considered. This includes things such as delivery options, warranty duration, and the condition of the container itself. It’s important to understand that the condition of your container will determine its function. For example, new and one-trip containers have no history, while refurbished ones may have different structural specs than other refurbished units.
Size
Shipping containers come in a variety of sizes. Standard containers are typically 20 feet long, but other options like high-cube or refrigerated containers exist to meet specific needs. When selecting a container, consider the volume of cargo you’ll be storing or transporting and choose a size accordingly.
When choosing a container, it’s vital to evaluate its condition. For instance, shipping containers for sale in PA are available in new, one-trip, and used conditions. New containers offer the highest level of quality and are ideal for businesses concerned with aesthetics or needing to bridge the gap between function and cost.
When evaluating a container, look for dents, rust, and other signs of wear and tear. Additionally, be sure to inspect the locking mechanisms and rods. If bent, it can make the container difficult to open and close.
Delivery
According to Giant Lock Box, shipping containers have become popular for constructing sheds, workshops, and temporary offices or living spaces. While purchasing a container is often cheaper than building from scratch, there are some things to consider regarding transportation. Before agreeing to buy a container, check to see if any obstructions may prevent your container’s delivery. Obstructions such as low-hanging tree branches, powerlines, heavy traffic, or parked cars can delay delivery and cost you more money in the long run.
Type of Use
For several reasons, businesses might use shipping containers, including storing inventory, tools, and equipment. They are also a popular option for creating a mobile office or workspace. Some business owners purchase a container as a pop-up store at events to showcase their products and services to potential customers. Shipping containers can be outfitted with electricity, heating and cooling, and other amenities to create a comfortable and functional space.
If you’re buying a used container, it’s essential to understand its history. For example, a container used to transport food may require remediation before being used for storage since it likely was sprayed with pesticides. In addition, make sure you know the condition and grading of your container before making a final decision. A one-way container is new and has been used only once; cargo worthy is seaworthy and meets international standards; as-is containers are economical but have most damage to the roof or walls, filthy floors, and bad seals.
Warranty
Buying shipping containers is more expensive than renting them, but the cost can be worth it, depending on your needs. When you buy a container, it’s important to understand the warranty that comes with your purchase and how it will affect your project or business.
When a container is new, it typically has a limited lifetime guarantee of structural integrity. This doesn’t cover cosmetic dings and dents, which are inevitable, but it protects you against the possibility of a major problem with your container. When purchasing used, work with a company that buys directly from the steamship lines to ensure the highest quality containers at the best prices. Also, you should be prepared for delivery and have the right space for the truck to park and unload. This includes clearing the path from the street to your property and ensuring there are no holes, poles, or wires in the way that could be damaged during delivery.
