Questions You Should Ask Before Buying A Shipping Container

A shipping container can be a great investment for storage, transportation, or even a unique living space. However, before making a purchase, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.

As a way of getting an understanding of how you should approach purchasing a shipping container in Auckland, Tauranga, Christchurch, Wellington and Waikato – here are ten questions you should ask. This blog will give a solid overview of the most important aspects of shipping containers and why you should try and have these questions answered before you consider a purchase at ContainerCo. 

What Is The Shipping Container’s Condition?

Shipping containers can be used for many years, and their age and condition can impact their structural integrity, durability, and overall value. You should ask the seller about the container’s history, including how long it was used for shipping, how it was stored, and if it has undergone any repairs or modifications.

These questions will also depend on the reason for your purchase. If you are looking for a shipping container for the purposes of a pop-up store or boutique cafe, then you may not be too concerned about the capacity for transport. Definitely come to talk to the ContainerCo team to see how we can be of assistance. 

What Is This Shipping Container’s Grade Or Quality?

Shipping containers come in different grades, ranging from very used to brand-new containers that have only been used once. Higher quality containers will be in better condition, but they will also be more expensive due to their low mileage – similar to a car. Consider your budget and needs when determining the grade of the container you need.

What Are The Dimensions Of A Shipping Container?

Shipping containers come in a standard size of 10, 20 or 40 feet, but there are also smaller and larger sizes available. Make sure you have a clear understanding of the dimensions of the container you’re considering so that you can determine if it will fit in the space you have available.

What Is The Weight Capacity Of A Shipping Container?

A standard 20 ft shipping container can typically hold up to ~13,600 pounds of cargo, while a 40 ft container can hold up to ~27,200 pounds. However, it’s important to keep in mind that these are very rough estimates, and the actual weight capacity may vary depending on the specific container.

It’s also important to note that shipping containers may be designed to carry heavy loads in a vertical, or upright, position. When used for purposes such as storage or as a living space, the container may be loaded with heavier weight in a horizontal position, which could potentially impact its weight capacity.

What Is The Price Of A Shipping Container?

Shipping containers can range in price from a few thousand dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the grade, condition, and size. Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price with the seller, but be sure to keep in mind the value of the container, including any delivery and setup costs.

What Is The Delivery Process Of A Shipping Container?

Delivery is an important consideration when buying a shipping container, as it can add significantly to the overall cost. Give the ContainerCo team a call or enquire about their delivery process, including our time frames, any additional fees, and our ability to deliver anywhere in New Zealand.

Can The Shipping Container Provide Any Insulation? 

If you’re planning to use the container as a living space or for storage in extreme temperatures, insulation is an important consideration. You should ask the seller what type of insulation is in the container and how well it performs in hot and cold temperatures.

Can You Modify The Shipping Container? 

Shipping container modifications are the process of altering or customizing a shipping container to meet specific needs or requirements. There are many different types of modifications that can be made to a shipping container, ranging from simple changes like adding doors or windows to more complex renovations like converting a container into a home or office.

Here are just a few common modifications that can be made to a shipping container:

Doors and Windows: Adding doors and windows to a shipping container can improve accessibility and natural light, making it more comfortable and usable.

Insulation: Insulating a shipping container can help regulate the temperature inside, making it more comfortable for use as a living space or for storage in extreme temperatures.

Electrical and Plumbing Systems: Installing electrical and plumbing systems can make a shipping container more functional and convenient, allowing for the use of lights, appliances, and plumbing fixtures.

ContainerCo

At ContainerCo, we pride ourselves on providing an extensive range of shipping containers for hire or purchase. Our range of 10ft, 20ft and 40ft containers can be used for various purposes, including shipment, storage or construction, to name a few. Featuring more than just containers in our product range, we also sell accessories and parts for shipping containers to ensure your container can be maintained and repaired after prolonged use. 

Offering specialised containers along with dry standard variations, ContainerCo’s containers include refrigerated, dangerous goods, high-ball, open-top and side-opening options. As a fully-established shipping container company, we also have the facilities to modify purchased shipping containers. In addition, our specialised team can assist you with altering containers into workspaces, cafes, tiny homes or construction site offices. 

We can serve Kiwis across the country with facilities operating in Auckland, Tauranga, Christchurch, Wellington and Waikato. So next time you require a shipping container, hire or buy yours at ContainerCo today! 
Contact us at 0508 732 873 or request a free online quote today!

Shopping Cart