Many of you already know how to buy a shipping container. However, buying it cheaply without getting scammed may require some knowledge.
You need to be careful of excessively low prices. Many sellers offer cheap containers, but their quality is not guaranteed. Some potential problems include units that are too old, rusty, or even have invisible damage.
Finding and purchasing a container presents unique challenges, even if you already know what type you want.
In this article, we’ll discuss how to select and ultimately purchase a container at the best price, along with the best shipping terms.
Contents
Challenges of Buying Cheap Containers
Buying cheap containers is indeed tempting, but there are several challenges you need to be aware of to avoid losses.
1. Container Condition That Doesn’t Meet Expectations:
Used containers often have hidden damage, such as severe rust, leaks, or structural damage that isn’t readily visible.
Containers that have been used for a long time may have degraded materials, making them less sturdy and durable.
Some containers may also have been illegally modified, which can raise legal or safety issues.
2. Unreliable Sellers
Some unscrupulous individuals commit fraud by selling counterfeit containers or containers that don’t match the description.
3. Unexpected Additional Costs
Additional costs may be added at the final stage of your container purchase. These costs can unexpectedly balloon and exceed your expectations.
Several costs, such as shipping, permit modifications, and repairs, can affect the final price of the container.
4. Fluctuating Prices
The purchase price of a container, whether cheap or expensive, can actually fluctuate depending on supply and demand in the market.
Global and domestic economic conditions can affect container prices.
5. Limited Warranty or No Return Policy
Cheap containers are often sold “as-is”, meaning no guarantees if they arrive damaged and no refunds or exchanges.
Therefore, you need to get all purchase terms in writing before paying.
6. Scams & Fraud
As mentioned earlier, ultra-cheap listings are often scams.
Common tricks that they do are using fake photos and stolen listings of non-existent containers.
To make it more realistic, they will also add phony “shipping company” emails.
Many sellers of cheap containers are non-established businesses and unreachable after purchase.
This becomes a problem if you need help with delivery, paperwork, or registration.
6 Tips for Buying Cheap Containers
Buying a used or new container can be an economical option for various purposes, from storage to residential modifications.
However, you need to be careful to avoid being scammed. Here are some tips for buying a cheap and safe container:
1. Determine Your Needs
Before buying a container, you have to know the size, type, condition, and intended use first, such as:
- Size: Determine the size of the container you need, such as a 10’, 20’, or 40’.
- Type: Choose the appropriate type, such as a dry container, reefer container, open-top container, open-side container, etc.
- Condition: Consider whether you need a new or used container. If used, determine its condition. There are several type of used containers, such as cargo-worthy, wind- and watertight, etc.
- Intended Use: Ensure the intended use of the container is clear, for example, for storage, housing, or something else.
2. Find a Trusted Seller
Conduct online and offline research to find a reputable container seller. Visit the container depot in person to see the condition of the container.
Tradecorp is a trusted provider of new and used container sales, purchase, rental, and modification services.
With years of experience, Tradecorp has met a variety of client needs, from shipping containers and portacamps to modular buildings for project or mining sites.
3. Inspect the Container’s Condition Carefully
Buying a cheap container requires you to thoroughly inspect the container’s physical condition, including the walls, floor, doors, and roof.
Look for signs of damage such as rust, holes, dents, or cracks. Some other aspects to consider include:
- Ensure the doors and hinges are functioning properly.
- Check the condition of the container’s seals, hinges, and locks.
- Ensure the container is dry and free of leaks.
- Ensure the container’s structural strength is sound.
4. Request a Certificate of Suitability
If you are purchasing a used container, ensure the seller provides a certificate of suitability (cargoworthiness) proving the container is safe for use.
5. Pay Attention to Additional Costs
Make sure you are aware of additional costs, such as shipping costs, modification fees (if any), and licensing fees.
6. Negotiate Smartly
A shipping container price can be cheaper during the off-season, like winter.
You can also ask about bulk discounts if buying more than one and inquire about free delivery within a certain radius to save hundreds of dollar.
7. Use a Written Contract
Ensure all agreements are clearly written down in a contract, including the price, container conditions, and delivery schedule.
Conclusion
Buying a cheap shipping container might seem like a smart way to save money, but it comes with several potential challenges.
After you know how to buy a shipping container, choose Tradecorp as your trusted solution for your container needs.
We offer various containers, from standard units to modified units, to custom-made containers ready for various uses.
We also provide modification and custom shipping container services by adding windows, doors, walls, and roof insulation.
Our experienced staff is ready to help you arrange the shipping of your container to your requested location. Fill out our quote form to buy or rent from us!