There are a lot of reasons individuals buy shipping containers. Shipping containers range from large reusable steel boxes used for multi-purpose shipments to ubiquitous channeled boxes. The invention of shipping containers has advanced the globalization of trade. They are majorly used in the shipping business for transportation of freight all over the world. Every shipper has to consider certain questions before they make a decision about buying a shipping container.
Shipping containers are majorly preferred for the transportation and storage of cargo and can be transformed into semi-portable offices or workshops, and in some situations – crafted into full-sized luxury homes. Whatever your reason is for buying shipping containers, you deserve to get the best quality container for the best price without any inconvenience.
Shipping containers can be utilized in several ways based upon their dimensions. Although there is no doubt when we say that the advent of shipping containers revolutionized the world in several ways, but a few questions arise when the possibility of procuring a shipping container is considered. Whether your purpose is to convert them into a residence, a guesthouse, a garage, shelter, or shed, the following information should help you save money and a lot of time.
What are some of the pointers to be kept in mind before you decide to buy a shipping container?
If an individual has decided to make up their mind about buying a shipping container, there are some apprehensions or confusions that need to be cleared before the buyer makes a final decision. To ensure that you make an informed decision about what to consider before buying a used shipping container or a new variant, you need to follow the following tips:
Choose a Size
The first and the most important element to take into consideration when thinking about investing in a shipping container is its volume. Containers come in various sizes and dimensions. You may want a loftier or smaller container, depending upon your shipping requirements. There is a wide variety of container types like dry van containers, pallet-wide containers, reefer, side-door, and many more. They also come in certain dimensions, and you have to choose a high cube or a standard container depending on the goods that you need to transport.
• They range in length from 20 feet (6 meters) up to 53 feet (16 meters).
• In height from 8 feet 6 inches (2.6 meters) up to 9 feet 6 inches (2.9 meters).
• In Width from 8 feet (2.4 meters) to 8 feet 6 inches (2.6 meters).
New or Used Shipping Container
You also need to inquire if you would prefer to buy a new or used shipping containers. The former will clearly be in mint condition, yet it might also be more expensive than a used container of a bigger size. Used containers are normally in good condition and reasonable in price as compared to new containers, but their appearance will not be as pristine as that of the latter. Your choice between a new container and a used container will rely upon your uses for the cargo container. You need to take all circumstances into consideration like if you plan on exposing the shipping container, then a new variant will be suitable, or if you want to use it as a storage space, then a used container will suffice
Understand all the Commercial aspects Involved: Distance Matters
The distance between the departure and arrival destination of container shipping plays a huge role in determining the overall costs and other procedure that is to be followed in delivering your shipment. It is advisable to opt for the dealer who is close by and helps you curtail the unnecessary expenses met in the conveyance of the same.
This will depend on what you are able to negotiate with the seller. Most shipping containers don’t come with locks or other security mechanisms. If you want these you’ll have to buy them, so remember to include security features into your budget.
Consider your Location
Contingent upon your area, the expense, and availability of shipping containers can fluctuate significantly. If you’re near a coast or major urban center, the cost could be cheaper than a rural area. The delivery location of the shipping container should be specified clearly including the route that is to be followed and all other crucial information required by the client.
If you live in a more rural, in-land area, you could compare the expense of purchasing a shipping container locally with the expense of buying a container from an area where they are less expensive in addition to the expense of transporting it to you.
If you live in an area where containers are in intense demand, but not near to a big city or harbor, at that point a locally bought container could be extremely high-priced. It is also possible that you might be able to find a container in the closest port city or big city and have it delivered to you. In this instance, the cost of the container and the cost of the shipping together could be are more cost-effective option than buying a freight container from a local vendor.
Find the Right Grade of Shipping Container
Containers come in various grades, which provides information about how the container was used before it went up for sale. The grade of shipping containers fundamentally depends on your needs for the container.
• Cargo-worthy Containers- They are widely used for shipping but can be found in good condition, and could be used at sea again. Typically, these will be wind and watertight and structurally strong enough to be able to handle the stress if shipped overseas.
• Wind and Watertight Containers- They have a significant amount of rust and damage because they have been used sufficiently for the transportation of cargo all over the world. They are no longer considered “Cargo-worthy” for the shipping industry but are usually suitable for the storage of freight.
• Refurbished Containers- These are used containers that are repaired of all the damages caused to them during their life as a container used to ship cargo. They may have had dents evacuated, floors replaced, new doors, or new paintwork. The price will vary depending on the quality of the repairs. A refurbished container is guaranteed to last and is completely durable for all types of uses.
• Premium Containers- They are 2-8 years old and in excellent condition. They meet all repair standards and are qualified for regular cargo use. They usually cost comparatively less than acquiring new shipping containers.
The transportation needs of your business depend on your wise decision of buying a shipping container apt for your needs. LOTUS Containers is a world-renowned container supplying company preferred by industries all over the world to transport cargo internationally, thanks to their brilliant after-sales services like intermodal transportation, buy-back option, and many more.
So, choose wisely!
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