Commonly Asked Questions When Shopping for Shipping Containers for Sale
Buying a used or new shipping container can allow you to ship your items overseas quickly and easily, and these containers can also be used as secondary offices on your property or jobsite; some are even converted into small homes. Not all shipping containers are alike even if they seem similar from the outside, and you may not understand everything that is involved with their purchase. Note a few commonly asked questions when shopping for shipping containers for sale so you get one that will work for you and your needs.
1. Why are there stacks of containers at a shipyard that aren't for sale?
When you shop a shipyard for a shipping container for sale, you may notice that there are stacks of such containers that are not for sale and wonder if the shipyard is simply not selling to you for some reason. On the contrary, many shipyards will have reserves of containers on hand for customers and clients who may need to ship something at the last minute and who don't have their own container or shipping company. Don't assume that you're getting some type of raw deal when you're not shown every container on a lot but consider that a company is keeping a reserve for emergencies.
2. Can you ship anything in a shipping container?
Even if a shipping container seems very durable, there are often limits as to what can be put in the container. You need to follow the guidelines of the shipping company you use and any laws about the country to which you're shipping. In many cases you cannot ship live animals, human remains, artifacts, and other similar items in a shipping container, so ask about your type of shipment and restrictions before you make a purchase.
3. Do shipping containers get very hot in summer sun?
Because they're often made of metal, shipping containers might conduct heat and get very warm in summer months. If you're buying a container for shipping delicate items or to use as a second office on a jobsite, you'll want to ensure you choose something insulated. Some containers are even temperature controlled; they will have fans and vents that activate when the temperature reaches a certain level, or they might have small air conditioners and heaters that keep the temperature at a set reading during shipping. These features may be more expensive but they can be worth the investment to protect your shipment or keep you cool when using the container for an office.