Secondhand containers are shipping containers that have been used multiple times to ship goods around the world. Used containers can be attractive to buyers as they are cheaper than new or single-trip units. Despite this major benefit to the buyer, it is important to be vigilant when purchasing secondhand containers to ensure that the unit you are buying is fit for purpose. To help you with this S Jones has pulled together a list of important aspects to check when you are considering purchasing secondhand.
What to Check When Buying a Secondhand Container
The extent to which you need to conduct checks when buying secondhand shipping containers will depend somewhat on what you intend to do with it. If you are seeking a container for storage or conversion you may be able to utilise an older model. However, if you are looking for a secondhand container for international shipping you may need to be more vigilant owing to the harsh conditions at sea. Some major factors to check are listed below:
Is the Container at ISO Standard?
ISO standard is a particularly important check if you are planning on transporting your container. ISO standards ensure that containers fit a certain set of standard requirements making them easy to move across a range of transport types. It is important to check this if you want to move your container either to your location or in the course of transporting goods.
Is the Container Wind and Watertight?
When containers are constructed, they are made to be wind and watertight in order to protect any goods within. It is important to discuss with your secondhand container provider whether they can ensure this remains the case at the time of your purchase.
Is it Structurally Sound?
Constructed from steel, cargo units are strong and fit for the purpose of transporting goods. However, there is no guarantee that secondhand containers remain structurally sound. This is important to consider when purchasing used, as the container may not be fit for what you need it for if it is not structurally sound. When enquiring, make sure you give as much detail as possible about your needs so the supplier can recommend the best solution for you.
Do the Exteriors of the Container Look Good?
You should expect some scuffs, dents and bumps to the outside of a used shipping container; these are all just par for the course when it comes to what they are made for. What you need to avoid is any substantial peeling of paint through to the base metal and rust. Container paint offers protection from the elements so if you find substantial rust or peeled paint sections on a container it may mean it is vulnerable and in need of treatment.
Is The Interior At A Good Standard?
As well as checking the outside of the unit, it’s important the interior is suitable for use. Bear in mind that a used unit will not be at its best aesthetically as it has previously been loaded and off-loaded using forklifts, there will likely be dents and marks on the interior as well as the exterior. Although it’s likely the interior will have some dents it should not have any sharp items, such as nails, that might cause damage to goods.
The interior should be watertight with no cracks or gaps where water can leak through. It’s worth noting there may be condensation inside the unit. You can reduce this by lining your unit with a suitable material, such as plywood.
Is The Company Trustworthy?
Although cost-effective compared to new units, buying secondhand shipping containers still requires a significant amount of money, so you’ll want to be sure your supplier is reputable. One of the easiest ways to find out if a supplier is trustworthy is to check how long they’ve been trading. Companies that have been in business for many years will have the best experience and expertise. This makes it much easier to rely on their knowledge for your purchase.
You can also check online reviews of the company. Checking review platforms shows you what previous customers thought of the service. Using these platforms, you can gauge if the company is legitimate. Companies with little online presence, or lots of bad reviews, may not be the most trustworthy.
As demand rises and stock is in short supply, we are hearing from many customers who have found companies falsely advertising used shipping containers. Our best advice is if the price seems too good to be true it probably is. If in doubt, please feel free to give our sales team a call and we can let you know if we think you have been given a legitimate quotation.
Buying Secondhand From S Jones Containers
At S Jones Containers, we stock a range of secondhand shipping units. We have both standard and high cube and we can arrange delivery throughout the UK. We sell all our products in line with the high standards we have maintained over our 40 years’ experience. You can trust us to provide a solution that meets all your needs.
