A Conex container is identified by its type as well as its size. Shipping containers are also known as ISO containers (ISO International Shipping Organization) can be one-trip containers, used containers or purpose-built containers. They can be 10 feet, 20 feet, 40 feet long and have a standard height of 8'6" or a high cube height of 9’6″. Used wind and water-tight (WWT) shipping containers are our most popular items because they provide the best value. We purchase thousands of used shipping containers that have recently been retired from international shipping. All these shipping containers are inspected to make sure they do not leak and that they are in structurally sound condition. As one of the world’s largest sellers of used shipping containers, we can provide the lowest prices on shipping containers. Many people and companies purchase our low-priced containers for storage, office containers, and custom container applications like coffee houses and restaurants. To better understand the many types of used containers, let’s take a closer look at the options.

What are used containers?

Most “Used” containers we sell were retired after transporting products internationally for up to 15 years. Used shipping containers are a great option for those that want to go the more economical route. These containers will show much greater signs of wear and tear when compared to one-trip containers because they have carried cargo around the world many times. You can expect these more economical used containers to have rough paint with shipping line decals in addition to dents, dings, minimal rust and repair patches. If the appearance of your container is important, we suggest upgrading to a new one-trip container.

It is normal for these more economical containers to have minimal rust. Shipping containers are built from a type of steel which is high in carbon steel that slows down the corrosion process significantly. Used containers will have scratched or slightly damaged floors and WWT containers may have soft spots on the floor and some wear and tear but will still be fine for walking on and securely storing your valuables. If you plan on using a forklift inside the container, we recommend upgrading to a higher quality container to ensure the floor can handle the weight of the forklift.

Grades of used shipping containers

Cargo Worthy

Used cargo-worthy containers are containers that have a better quality in the grading system. They usually have old shipping markings, some minimal surface rust, abrasions and dents. They are wind and watertight and prevent the entrance of any kind of insects or vermin. They most likely will have a few scratches on the surface but they are fully functional. They usually qualify for international shipping. They are ideal for keeping important belongings or constructing an office space or living quarters. Containers are a much more economical choice than other options.

Wind & Water Tight

The most popular grade, Wind and Watertight containers, are used shipping containers that are guaranteed not to leak. These are normally a little older than cargo worthy containers. Although they won’t leak, you can expect WWT shipping containers to have original paint, minimal surface rust, a few dents, and abrasions from heavy-duty shipping service. The external appearance might even be ugly for these containers. They are perfect for less valuable items that don’t require as many special storage precautions as other goods.

As Is

The storage containers in this grade are usually the oldest and in the worst shape. These containers have been deemed to not be repair worthy to make it wind and water tight. There will be external and internal issues with the container such as holes, broken flooring and other structural issues. Usually, we do not recommend that customers buy an As-Is container unless it will be used for some purpose where structural soundness and exterior are not required. They are usually utilized for storing things that don’t need to be kept out of the elements or away from rodents. These containers are fine for items such as building materials, automotive parts or tools that won’t rust.

IICL

A Used IICL container meets the stringent inspection requirements set by the Institute of International Container Lessors (IICL). These requirements are known as the strictest criteria for damage tolerance limits as specified in the IICL-6 Guide for Container Equipment Inspection – Sixth Edition (IICL-6). Most used IICL containers are younger than used Cargo Worthy containers. These younger containers are more expensive since they are in better condition and they have not been fully depreciated. IICL containers have limited availability since most are still “In Service” by the shipping lines.

One Trip

One-trip containers are as good as new containers but are still referred to as used containers. These boxes have been loaded with cargo one time and have made a single trip filled with cargo. Thus the name "One Trip".  They usually spend 75-90 days at sea before being retire to the container market. The lifespan of one-trip shipping containers is significantly longer than used cargo containers.