The process is not difficult if you are buying a container for shipping, converting it for residential use, or for some other purpose.You should make sure that you are getting a good deal by purchasing from a trustworthy source.Before buying a container, make sure you get the container you want for the best price.
Step 1: Find the right grade.
The information about how the container was used before it went up for sale is provided in several grades.It depends on what you need it for."New" or "one-trip" containers are typically made in China and shipped to the United States.This is the best option if you want to convert your container into a home, as it will be weather resistant and have less damage."Cargo-worthy" containers could be used at sea again, even though they have been used a bit more.Structurally, these would still be able to handle being shipped overseas, as they will be wind and water tight."Wind and water tight" containers are those that are still able to keep out the elements, but have not been inspected in order to be declared "cargo-worthy"."As is" containers are those that may or may not be able to stand up to the elements.
Step 2: Choose between steel or aluminum.
Different containers are made of different materials.The containers used for overseas shipping are made of steel and are much stronger than their aluminum counterparts.If you want to live in a container, you will need to purchase a steel container as they are much stronger and more durable.An aluminum container would suffice if you only need it for a temporary storage solution.
Step 3: Consider the space and size.
The size of the container is the first thing you have to think about.The container needs to have enough space for the delivery truck and for you to occupy it.Your delivery will have to be secured with a maneuver and wide turns.The truck is 10' wide and requires a minimum of a foot on each side for 12' in total.20' container is 60' 40' containers are 120'.There are different sizes of containers.Depending on what you need, you may want a larger container or a smaller one.The containers can be up to 53 feet (16 meters) in length.They range in height from 6 to 9 feet.The width range is between 8 feet and 6 inches.
Step 4: Consider the outside of the container.
The logo of the company that used the containers for shipping goods can be seen on some containers.It doesn't matter if you repaint the container.If you don't plan to repaint it, you should choose a container with a color and design you like.
Step 5: Take a look at what the container was used for.
Some containers might have been used to transport goods with strong odors, such as animal hides.You could end up with a container that is contaminated by a strong odor.
Step 6: Take into account your location.
The cost and availability of used shipping containers can vary greatly depending on where you are.The cost could be more reasonable if you are near a coast or major urban center.If you live in a rural area, you could compare the cost of buying a container from an area where it is cheaper than buying it from a more urban area.If you live in an area where containers are in high demand, but not close to a big city or harbor, a locally bought container could be very expensive.You might be able to find a container in the nearest port city and have it shipped to you.If you combine the price of the container and the shipping price, it will be less expensive than buying a local container.You won't get the chance to inspect the container before buying, which is a big disadvantage.Depending on where you live, you should spend between $2,500 and $4,000 on a one-trip 20' container.A larger container will cost more.When it comes to delivery costs, you should expect to spend a lot more if you are buying a brand new container.
Step 7: Consider the costs of shipping.
You may not have to pay anything for delivery if you live close to the dealer.You will have to pay for shipping if you live farther away.This is dependent on what you are able to negotiate with the seller.The cost to ship a 20' container is estimated to be about $400.This is only one estimate.The cost of delivery should be discussed with the seller.For a container shipped internationally, you could expect to spend anywhere from $1,900 up to $23,000 for a new container that has never been used, depending on the distance shipped, and how many containers you are shipping.It won't be brand new, but it will help reduce your costs.
Step 8: There are local classified ads.
You can find classified ads in your local newspaper or online.Someone is selling one for a good price.If you want to find a shipping container for sale, you can type in the name of your town, city, or county.Before handing over money to a private seller, be sure to see the container in person.Sometimes, classified ads are not real.
Step 9: Look for companies that sell containers.
Some shipping and leasing companies will sell directly to private buyers, while some large container companies don't want to deal with buyers who only want a few containersIt's a good idea to search the internet for shipping containers for sale, but you should research the company carefully.You can search for sellers based on country, state or province.You can find classified ads for shipping container dealers.
Step 10: A list can be made.
You should make a list of the names, phone numbers, and websites that may be able to help you find what you are looking for.You can compare offers and get the best deal on a container.
Step 11: Contact the seller.
If you want to find out if they can supply a container that meets your needs, you can either email or phone them.If you have found several potential dealers, you should contact them all to see who will give you the best deal.You will get a chance to inspect the quality if you go with the one who will allow you to see the container.
Step 12: If you want to see the container, ask.
Ask the seller to let you look at the container.It may not be possible as some sellers may have thousands of containers in the depot.
Step 13: Look at the container.
If the seller will let you in, make sure you look at the container carefully.Shut the door of the container if you need it to be wind and water tight.You should look for places where light shines through, because it will be dark.It may not be possible to protect you or your things from the elements if you find a place.There are no huge dents in the container if the doors close properly.If you are looking for areas where the container is rusted through, you should look for it.
Step 14: Negotiating shipping.
You should request delivery via a tilt bed roll off truck if you need your container shipped to you.It will cost you more if you have the delivery person place it in a specific way.The price may be included, but it can be different.You need to negotiate the cost with the seller.Depending on the container size, it can weigh up to 5,000 pounds.If you want to place a shipping container in an area that doesn't have a lot of cleared space, you may need to hire a crane to lift the container into the desired position.
Step 15: An offer should be negotiated.
Most dealers in the US have many more containers than they need, so it is in their interest for you to purchase one.You have the power to negotiate the price with the dealer.If they don't budge on the price, ask for free delivery.Don't take advantage of the seller.They know the going rate, so he or she will know that you are.If they feel you are trying to take advantage of them, they will be less likely to work with you.