Considerations When Buying New or Used Shipping Containers
Written by Susan Nalevac | August 29, 2022
Are you weighing the options of purchasing either a new or used shipping container? Let us help with our guide describing what to consider when deciding between a new or used shipping container, and the benefits each unit brings to the table.
Considerations for a New Shipping Container
Better Condition/Appearance
The primary appeal of a new container—otherwise known as a “one-trip” container—is that you’re getting a unit in its best possible condition. One consideration when buying new or used shipping containers is the appearance—do you want a shiny new unit, or is it OK if it looks a little weatherworn?
If the appearance of the steel container is as significant as its utility to you, a one-trip unit is likely your best option.
Longevity
Steel shipping containers are built to last decades under brutal conditions crisscrossing the world’s oceans. When you buy a new container, you’re getting a unit in its ideal state. You can be certain it’ll last for the long haul.
Used containers can still last for years and even decades with proper maintenance. But if long-term durability is essential for your container, one trip is the way to go.
Immediately Ready for Use
Are you on a tight schedule and need a container ready for use right now? Your best bet is a one-trip unit that’s had only a one-way loaded move from the manufacturer in China and is in ideal condition.
When a new container is delivered to you, it’s ready to go immediately with little to no maintenance or repairs needed.
Considerations for a Used Shipping Container
More Affordable
The primary benefit many owners cite for a used shipping container is that it’s more affordable than the alternative. For many, the difference in condition or appearance between a new or used container is negligible or irrelevant. Why not go easy on your budget and opt for the used unit?
If you’re searching for an affordable used shipping container in Chicago, Container Management, Inc. has you covered.
Promotes Sustainability
Do you love sustainability and making what’s old new again? You can do just that with a used shipping container! After so many years, a container may no longer be graded suitable for export transport, but it still has a lifetime of utility for storage or other purposes.
So, instead of letting a container get scrapped and thrown in a landfill, you can repurpose it for storage and ensure no resources go to waste.
Still Durable
A used container may not last as long as a one-trip unit, but it will still serve you well for storage or other purposes for years and even decades to come.
If a used container is maintained and cared for properly, there’s every reason to expect it to last at least another 30-50 years after purchase.
