In this week's video, Channing will take you around our Container Yard to show you what to look for, and what to avoid while looking to buy or rent a shipping container!

Buying or Renting a Shipping Container What You Need to Know

Channing McCorriston, The Container Guy, walks through everything you need to know before buying or renting a shipping container. This includes delivery logistics, container types, pricing differences, condition expectations, and how to avoid common scams.

Whether you are purchasing for storage, job site use, or modification, understanding these details will save you money and frustration.

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Container Sizes and Delivery Overview

The two most common container sizes are:

• 20 foot

• 40 foot

Delivery methods vary depending on size.

For residential and smaller placements, a deck truck with a tilt bed is commonly used. The bed tilts and the truck drives forward, gently placing the container.

For 40, 45, and 53 foot containers, a self unloading trailer pulled by a semi is typically used. These require larger turning space and are better suited for commercial, industrial, or farm sites.

Important delivery considerations:

• You must specify door orientation before delivery

• Adequate space is required for tilt and maneuvering

• Containers are extremely heavy and can damage concrete or stamped driveways

• Blocking should be used to protect surfaces

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Used vs One Time Use Containers

Used Containers

Used containers are the most budget friendly option.

Common characteristics:

• Dings and dents

• Rust spots

• Shipping line decals

• Cosmetic imperfections

A 40 foot used container often provides the best value per square foot.

However, appearance may not be ideal for residential settings.

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One Time Use Containers

Often called new, these containers have made one overseas trip and are in excellent condition.

Advantages:

• Clean interior

• Minimal wear

• Wind and water tight

• Rodent proof

• Dust free

The price difference between used and one time use 20 foot containers is often small once repairs and repainting are factored in.

These are the most popular residential option.

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Double Door and Specialty Containers

Double Door Containers

Available primarily in 40 foot length.

• Doors on both ends

• Approximately 500 dollars more than single door units

• Extremely convenient for long containers

Side Door and Full Side Open Units

These specialty containers:

• Allow forklift or Bobcat access

• Have doors along the side

• Are significantly more expensive

• Ideal for commercial applications

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Fork Pockets and Handling Differences

New 40 foot containers include fork pockets for lifting.

Used containers typically do not.

Improper lifting from the floorboards instead of corner castings can cause structural damage.

Correct equipment matters.

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Quality Control and Why Local Matters

Buying locally offers major advantages:

• Physical inspection before delivery

• Door functionality checks

• Welding and patching holes

• Paint touch ups

• Daylight testing for leaks

Remote sellers and online marketplace listings can be risky.

If pricing seems dramatically lower than market value, it is likely a scam.

Warning signs include:

• Personal email addresses instead of company domains

• Payment requests that do not match official company details

• Sellers unwilling to verify business credentials

Always call the company directly and confirm legitimacy.

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Interior and Structural Features of One Time Use Containers

One time use containers include:

• Factory installed lock box

• Waist height door handles

• Strong 1 1/8 inch teak plywood floors

• Load capacity up to 20,000 pounds per square foot

• Multiple factory vents for improved airflow

These containers are forklift ready and suitable for clean storage, including furniture and mattresses.

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Used Container Wear and Repairs

Used containers may have:

• Bent doors

• Cracked hinges

• Worn seals

• Holes from previous job site use

Repairs typically include:

• Welding

• Hole patching

• Repainting

• Seal replacement

For minor pinholes, rivets combined with interior sealant are often recommended instead of welding to preserve paint quality.

Even heavily dented containers can remain fully functional and cost effective.

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Rental Containers

Rental units provided are typically one time use condition.

This ensures customers receive clean, secure containers rather than heavily damaged units.

Damaged containers are not sent out for rental.

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Door Functionality

Door alignment varies, especially on used containers.

Proper reconditioning ensures:

• Doors seal correctly

• Lock rods function smoothly

• Handles operate properly

Waist height handles on new containers provide easier leverage compared to older designs.

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Key Takeaways from The Container Guy

• 40 foot used containers offer strong value per square foot

• One time use containers provide cleaner appearance and better resale value

• Always verify seller legitimacy

• Delivery space planning is critical

• Door orientation must be confirmed before delivery

• Local quality control prevents surprises

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Quick Comparison Overview