How to Buy a Shipping Container

Buying a container is simple once you know the four decisions that matter: size, grade, seller, and delivery. Get those right and everything else is detail. Here’s the process we walk every customer through.

1. Pick the size for the job

A 20ft container handles most home and job-site storage; a 40ft gives double the space at well under double the price; high cubes add a foot of headroom for racking or conversions. Exact numbers are in our dimensions guide — and remember the truck needs ~60ft of straight access for a 20ft, ~100ft for a 40ft.

2. Pick the grade honestly

One-trip units look nearly new and cost the most; cargo-worthy and wind- and water-tight (WWT) used units have dents and surface rust but keep contents dry for far less money; “as-is” boxes are project material. The full breakdown is in Container Grades Explained. Match the grade to the job — inventory storage doesn’t need showroom steel.

3. Vet the seller like a used-car dealer

• Delivered price in writing — the box price means nothing until freight is included. Ours is simple: the price you see includes free delivery to all 50 states.
• Condition disclosed before purchase — photos of the actual unit or a clear grade description, not stock images and vibes.
• A real phone number with a person on it.
• Clear paperwork — invoice, and a straightforward returns policy you can read first.

4. Prepare the site before it ships

Level, well-drained ground (gravel, concrete, or railroad-tie corners), overhead clearance, and room for the tilt-bed to pull straight in. Our site-prep guide covers it in five minutes.

Buying FAQ

New or used? If it’s pure storage, used WWT is the value play. If it’s a home office, pool base, or anything customers see — go one-trip.

Should I inspect first? Ask for current photos of the exact unit; condition is confirmed before purchase and every unit we ship is inspected first.

How do I pay? Pay by Bank / Wire Transfer or Credit / Debit Card — we email your bank details or a secure card link after ordering, and your order ships once payment confirms.