Nine Practical Tips To Inspect Shipping Containers Before Purchase

December 31, 2024

When buying a shipping container, it is essential to ensure you are getting a durable and reliable one for your needs. Shipping containers are used for various purposes, such as storage, transportation, and even conversion into homes. 

Before making a purchase, inspecting the container thoroughly is vital to avoid costly repairs or issues down the line. In this article, you will learn the nine practical tips that will help you inspect shipping containers before you are doing a purchase.

1. Check The Container’s Exterior

Begin with assessing the exterior of the shipping container. Check if it has any visible dents, rust, or holes. Shipping containers are quite tough and can withstand a good amount of harsh weather conditions, so significant dents or holes may easily alter the structural integrity of a container. 

Aside from that, you need to check at all the corners, the doors, and the walls for possible damage as they take the most brunt from transportation. In that way, if you ever see any significant problems, it should be better to look for another shipping container.

2. Inspect The Doors And Locking Mechanism

The doors of a shipping container are vital for security and functionality. Open and close the doors to check if the operation is smooth. Inspect the hinges and locking mechanisms for rust or difficulty in operation. The locks should fit tightly, and the doors should close securely to prevent water. However, if the doors do not close properly, it may lead to storage problems or compromise the contents.

3. Examine The Floor Condition

Take note that the floor of a shipping container is very important for making the container usable. It must be solid and free from rot or holes. Shipping containers are usually fitted with wooden floors, which can rot and become damaged over time if exposed to moist conditions.

Also, check the condition of the floor and if there are signs of water damage, or weak spots, it is not a good option. Having a weakened floor can easily lead to complications, especially when heavy objects are placed in it. For example, when purchasing shipping containers, like the Shipping Containers Hobart, ensuring the floor is sturdy is key to long-term reliability.

4. Look For Signs Of Rust And Corrosion

Always remember that rust is a common problem with shipping containers since most are exposed to the elements while being shipped. While minor rust spots are just normal, keep in mind that excessive rust can weaken the shipping container’s structure. 

Plus, search at the areas where rust tends to develop, like the corner and the area around the doors. If severe corrosion is present, especially along the support beams or structural frame, it indicates that the container has not been well maintained or is near the end of its life cycle.

5. Verify The Container’s Structural Integrity

One of the critical points to check is the overall structural integrity of the shipping container. Look for any warping or bending in the walls or floor. That is the reason why having a well-maintained shipping container should have a straight, square structure. 

However, if the container appears to be misaligned or damaged, it may have been involved in an accident or undergone some heavy stress. A distorted container might not find its way into long-term storage or transportation, since it would compromise its ability to hold goods safely.

6. Assess The Container’s Age And History

Understand that before acquiring a shipping container, the age and its history have to be determined. Generally, most shipping containers last for 10-15 years depending on usage and care. Get this information from the seller concerning the age of the shipping container as well as previous use. 

On top of that, containers used internationally may experience more wear and tear compared to those applied locally. Ask also if the shipping container has been repaired and altered. Moreover, shipping containers in good condition and used less intensively for storage shall last longer.

7. Evaluate For Ventilation

Proper ventilation is vital if you are using it to store items that either become sensitive to moisture and changes in temperature. This way, you can detect ventilation openings or air vents that can be present on the container, and there are some sealed, preventing moisture from accessing inside the container. 

In addition to that, if the shipping container lacks adequate ventilation, you might need to install some additional vents to maintain air circulation. Without proper air circulation, the condensation can cause rust or damage to the items being stored.

8. Inspect The Container’s Paint And Coating

Another form of protection against the environment is the paint and coating of a shipping container. Examine the paint work for any chips or peeling. Applying a good paint work can prevent rust and other factors affecting the container. 

Additionally, when the paint is in a poor condition, it can indicate that the container was exposed to harsh conditions or was not maintained properly. In some cases, it would be worth repainting before putting the container into operation.

9. Know The Container’s Price

While it is tempting to opt for the cheapest, a low price means the container is worn out or has other hidden problems. An overpriced container might offer no additional value. Compare prices from various sellers to get an idea of the market rate for containers of a similar age and condition. Remember that additional repair or maintenance may arise after purchase, so consider these when making a decision.

Choose A Shipping Container Built To Last!

Inspecting a shipping container before purchase is a crucial step to ensure you are getting a reliable and durable product. By thoroughly checking the exterior, doors, floor, rust levels, structural integrity, ventilation, and paint, you can avoid costly mistakes and choose the right container for your needs. 

Do not forget to ask about the container’s history, age, and pricing to make an informed decision. By following these nine practical tips, you can confidently purchase a shipping container that will meet your storage or transport requirements for years to come.

 

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Andi Perullo de Ledesma

I am Andi Perullo de Ledesma, a Chinese Medicine Doctor and Travel Photojournalist in Charlotte, NC. I am also wife to Lucas and mother to Joaquín. Follow us as we explore life and the world one beautiful adventure at a time.

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