What to Consider When Buying an ISO Container

Steel shipping containers are practical investments, whether you have goods to ship abroad or over long distances, storage needs or wish to explore alternative building options. Old or new, there are certain things that you should consider when shopping for ISO containers. Steel boxes may be rugged in construction, but along the way, they endure potentially damaging environments, leaving them with scratches, scrapes, and dents. Despite an exposure to these elements, the steel container you buy should still be able to protect your goods from damage. Here are some things you should look at when purchasing shipping containers, particularly, used ones:

• Miles traveled – Some containers log thousands of miles in transit, while moving cargo while others spend most of their time sitting in ports. You will find great benefits from this equipment, either way. Choose the first if you want something that has stood the test of rugged travel and the latter, if you want something that is closer to their brand new condition.

• Handling – Containers are mainly moved using forklifts. Check for dents and marks on places where the forklifts go. Many times, forklift dents are where rusting begins as paint is chipped from the container's interior or exterior.

• Environments endured – The types of environments and climates endured by the container during its stint in shipping or cargo travel also affects its overall quality and lifespan. Containers that spent time traveling in mild climates typically show less wear than those that travel through harsher weathers.

• Container age – The younger the container is, the better use you will get from it, and typically, the higher the price tag. There are quick ways to determine the age of the container. One is by looking at the CSC plate of the container and another by looking at the door style, the ones with flat doors are older (it was not until the early 90s that manufacturers switched to corrugated doors).