Shipping containers come in a variety of types and sizes and have numerous uses. Whether you are looking to store excess belongings or are creating your very own shipping container home, there are options for every project. At Secure Container Solutions, we have a selection of storage containers for many uses, and we also offer modifications if your project requires them. We’ve created a guide below to help you choose the best shipping container for your needs. We understand that every situation is unique, and what may be a good container for one person, might not work for another. Continue reading to discover some tips to make sure your shipping container sale goes as planned and you get what you are looking for, even if you’re not sure what you’re looking for!
Consider the Features and Material
When purchasing a shipping container, you can choose between steel or aluminum materials. If you are using your container as a place of residence, then you will want to choose steel as it is more durable. Aluminum shipping containers can easily be used as storage solutions because they won’t need to face different weather conditions. Depending on your project, you may also be seeking certain extra features from your shipping container. This could mean water-tight doors, special lighting, extra insulation, refrigeration, and more.
Many of these features come at an additional cost and can even be added through modifications. You may also want to choose a container that is visually appealing to you, meaning that it’s not only in good shape, but is a colour you agree with. If not, however, you can opt to paint the container to your liking. Before purchasing, it’s recommended to see the container in person and inspect it carefully.
Choosing Used or New
Depending on the use of your shipping container, you may wonder if you should buy new or used. Used is definitely more cost-effective and budget-friendly. However, if you are planning on building a shipping container home, we recommend buying new to avoid potential problems in the future. New shipping containers also have a longer lifespan and are better for long-term use. If you plan on using the container infrequently or just a few times, then buying used will be more economical as a few scratches and dents won’t really impact your use. When buying a used container, you will also want to know what the container was used for in the past. If it was exposed to dangerous chemicals or goods with a strong odour, it could pose a risk and negatively impact the quality of the container. If you are looking for short-term solutions, there are also rental options available if you don’t plan on using the container permanently.
Size of Container
One of the most important aspects of your shipping container hunt will be sizing. It’s very important to choose the right size of shipping container for your needs or else you run the risk of not having enough space when your container arrives. This will not only waste your efforts but may cost you much more in the long run. Since shipping containers are available in sizes ranging from 10 to 40 feet long, there should be a size that’s perfect for you. Most containers are around 8 feet tall, but keep in mind that modifications can be made if desired. When considering the size you need, remember that it is better to have more space than less. For example, if you are using the container for long-term storage, things tend to pile up, and you may find yourself needing space for more of your belongings as time goes on.
Budget and Pricing
Everyone starts with a budget that they have in mind. One of the first things that you should ask about is the price of the container in question. The delivery fee will usually be an additional price, depending on the distance the container needs to be shipped. Other factors that will affect the price include the size, newness, and additional features. Since you won’t be able to singlehandedly unload the container once it’s shipped, the cost for unloading it into your desired location will be extra. There may be some room for negotiation depending on the supplier, so do your research and don’t be afraid to communicate.
So now that you understand some of the basic elements for choosing your shipping container, you can feel confident about your decision and rest assured that you are doing your due diligence. If in doubt, remember that you always have the option to consult with a professional, and our team here is ready and happy to help. For more information on our shipping container sales and container modifications, please call Secure Container Solutions at 416-817-3216 or contact us here.
Leave a Reply