A personal inspection is the best way to ensure you purchase a good container. If that’s impossible, you should request many photos and videos to assess the condition. Buying a shipping container is more complex than it may seem. Here are some things you should consider before making a purchase:
1. Make the Purchase
Shipping containers have become popular for businesses and individuals to store things. Additionally, they have been repurposed into everything from office spaces and homes to restaurants and coffee shops. You can purchase Norcal Containers in California on websites. Be specific about the type, size, and condition you want.
2. Know Your Needs
Whether you’re looking to buy shipping containers for cargo transportation, building a container home or simply for storage, it’s important to know your needs before purchasing. It will help ensure you get the right container and avoid unnecessary costs. Once you’ve determined your needs, it’s time to shop for a container. Consider factors like location, price and condition when comparing offers.
Also, make sure that you’re buying from a reputable supplier. A reputable seller will get their containers directly from the steamship lines, eliminating intermediaries and saving money. They should also have a good reputation in the industry and be willing to work with you to meet your specific needs.
3. Decide on a Budget
Knowing how much you can afford to spend is important when buying a shipping container. There are several different sizes to choose from, and the price of a container will vary depending on the size and location. If your budget is tight, a used container may be worth considering. However, it would be wise to remember that a used container will have some deterioration symptoms from outdoor exposure.
The condition of a container will also depend on how it was used and where it was stored before it was sold. For example, a cargo container in mild climates will show less wear and tear than one exposed to harsh weather conditions.
4. Look for a Reputable Supplier
When you purchase a container, look for a reputable supplier with a great industry reputation. It will help you avoid paying inflated prices due to middleman markups and additional delivery fees. You can find a reputable supplier by asking friends and family for recommendations, looking at online reviews, or calling local container companies. Many also buy from private sellers on websites.
However, these private sellers are often commission-only sales reps and may have little experience in the container business. Once you have found a reputable seller, get multiple pictures of the containers you are interested in. Ensure that they include all four sides and both doors open. Make sure the paint looks good whether brushed, rolled, or sprayed.
5. Check the Condition of the Container
When you purchase a container, it is important to inspect the condition of the container before it is delivered. If you use it for construction, you must ensure the container is structurally sound and weathertight. It will prevent any problems that might arise during installation.
It is also important to know the type of shipping container you are buying. Hazardous materials could be left behind if used to transport chemicals or waste. It is a good idea to find out how many trips the container has made, as this will affect its condition.
One-trip containers are new and will not show significant wear and tear, whereas cargo-worthy and wind and water-tight containers can expect to see some dings, dents and patches of surface rust. It would help if you regularly inspected your container, lubricating the door hinges and cleaning it as necessary to keep it pristine.
