Thinking of investing in a shipping container? If you’re looking for storage and shipping solutions, cargo containers are a popular fad. But how can you avoid wasting your money on the wrong container?
The sections below detail what experts look for when buying containers. When you’re ready to learn how to narrow your search and guarantee success, read on.
Aluminum Shipping Container Vs. Steel Shipping Container
Did you know that steel is stronger than aluminum? It has a stronger material strength, higher melting point, and has a lower oxidation rate. In other words, it’s tougher, stronger, and rusts slower.
That’s why, if you want to purchase shipping containers for building purposes, steel is the better choice. Aluminum containers also contain more fasteners that increase the potential for leaks. If you want a tighter seal, use steel.
How to Inspect Your Container Before You Buy
Whenever you’re buying shipping containers, check them out in person. Why? Because a savvy seller might avoid snapping pics of the damaged areas.
Instead, visit the seller in person and get your eyes on the container. Begin with the exterior and look for holes or rust damage. Rust shouldn’t be a deal-breaker unless the container is rusted all the way through.
Next, check the seals and ensure the doors open and close smoothly. Then look inside for holes, rust, and water damage. If it all looks good, the only thing left is to haggle on the price.
Consider Its Intended Use
You might use your shipping container for a variety of reasons:
- Personal storage
- Equipment management
- Commercial building projects
- Residence
- Business Office
- Food Truck/Café
- Store Business Tools
- Carnival Stand
If you plan to repurpose the container, you might just save yourself thousands of dollars. Why? Because you can use many containers that others avoid.
In other words, you can pick up damaged containers so long as the damage is in areas you intend to remove anyway. You can also help sellers unload containers taking up space in their lot. That makes for some serious bargaining power.
New Vs. Used
That’s right—you don’t need to buy your containers used. If you plan to repurpose the container, a new container might be a better choice. Most manufacturers will build you a custom container to your specifications, saving you days’ worth of labor.
New containers also last longer and ensure a waterproof seal. You can even fit them with additional ventilation and waist-high locking bars for safety and ease of use.
What Size Shipping Solutions Do You Need?
Did you know that shipping container sizes vary? And they vary widely. If you plan to use your container solely for shipping, how much cargo will you move?
Although you’ll see more for storage containers of the 40ft variety, containers also come in 8ft, 9ft, 20ft, and 53ft lengths.
What’s Next?
Now that you have insider information on the best way to choose your shipping solutions, which cargo container is right for you? What will you use it for and what size do you prefer? Now, which material do you prefer, and will you choose new or used?
For other helpful tips on moving and home improvement, zip over to our huge digital library, where you’ll have your pick from hundreds of helpful articles.
