10 Things You Need To Know Before Buying A Shipping Container

Green Press Initiative has compiled this mini summary to assist you with the process of shopping for and purchasing a shipping container. Regardless if you are purchasing one to build into a home, guesthouse, car port, shelter or shed, the knowledge listed below will help you save cash and lots of time.

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  1. A quick search of the internet is the best place to start when seeking suppliers in your area. I suggest focusing your initial search in your general area as cost associated with moving a container to your property will most likely compound the further the item requires to be delivered. You will most likely be surprised at the volume of suppliers in your area. Just take a little time to do your due diligence buy reading reviews and reaching out to the suppliers while also applying the tips in this guide. For instance, here is an example of reputable storage container dealer in the Charlotte, NC area. You will notice the site is easy to navigate, well organized, loaded with relevant information, and has the supplier’s contact information prominently displayed throughout the website.
  2. In case you are on a tight budget, steer clear of places that supplies prefabricated containers having roll up doors built to be contractor trailers utilized on work sites. These tend to be expensive and you will then be required to modify whatever layout they have to satisfy your personal requirements anyway.
  3. Shop around for used containers. Most dealers offer used containers that are much less expensive than new shipping containers. Even if used inventory is not listed on a website, be sure to go ahead and ask the dealer if they have them in stock or are able to acquire them for you. Be cautious though and make certain that a shipping business doesn’t own the container you’re purchasing. This really is quickly confirmed by jotting down the container number and contacting the owner typically displayed on the side of the shipping container.
  4. Don’t assume all shipping containers are manufactured from the identical materials. Search for those made out of “Cor-Ten Steel”. These types of containers will survive the longest and they’ll withstand bad weather, corrosion, and rust. Keep in mind, containers are built to stay on a ship outside in the harsh ocean air for many years.
  5. Be sure to negotiate the price. Shipping containers are typically surplus items and many suppliers are eager to sell.
  6. If you require you shipping container to meet a certain standard to be effective at your intended use, be aware you can hire an inspector to look over the container before you make your purchase.
  7. Speak with your intended insurance carrier ahead of making a purchase. Inform them of your intended use and make sure they will provide the coverage you require.
  8. This is a no brainer, but if at all possible, be sure to see the container you are purchasing before hand.
  9. Ask about ‘one trip’ containers. This shipping containers often appear brand new.
  10. Read up and study you local rules and regulations. The last thing you want it to go through the expense and trouble of bringing a container to your site, only to have a local inspector require it to be removed. This little bit of effort will pay off down the road. Your local shipping container supplier may be a great resource as well in regards to gaining a little perspective into the local rules and regulations.