General Storage
Tools, furniture, equipment, household goods, inventory and general commercial storage.
Consider:- Wind-and-watertight condition
- Door operation
- Floor condition
- Ventilation
Shipping Container Buyer's Guide
Buy the Right Container the First Time.
A shipping container is a substantial purchase. The right choice depends on more than price — size, height, condition, intended use, site access, delivery method and long-term requirements all matter.
This guide explains the key differences between container sizes, types and grades so you can compare your options, inspect a unit intelligently and prepare your site before delivery.
01
Start With the Purpose
What Will the Container Actually Be Used For?
Freight & Transport
Containers intended for cargo movement require more attention to structural condition and applicable transport requirements.
Consider:- Cargo-worthy condition
- Structural integrity
- CSC requirements
- Carrier acceptance
Commercial Use
Workshops, construction sites, retail storage, equipment rooms and other business applications.
Consider:- Security
- Access frequency
- Ventilation
- Electrical requirements
Conversion Projects
Offices, studios, kiosks, workshops and other modified-container projects.
Consider:- High cube height
- Overall structural condition
- Insulation
- Window and door openings
Container Size Guide
Choose the Right Size & Height
The most common choices are 20ft and 40ft containers. High cube units provide approximately one additional foot of external height compared with standard containers.
POPULAR
20FT
20ft Standard Container
A practical choice where site space is limited or extremely large storage capacity is unnecessary.
- Exterior Length
- 20 ft
- Exterior Width
- 8 ft
- Exterior Height
- 8 ft 6 in
- Best For
- Storage & compact sites
HIGH CAPACITY
40FT
40ft Standard Container
Approximately twice the nominal length of a 20ft unit, making it suitable for larger storage and cargo requirements.
- Exterior Length
- 40 ft
- Exterior Width
- 8 ft
- Exterior Height
- 8 ft 6 in
- Best For
- High-volume storage
EXTRA HEIGHT
HC
40ft High Cube Container
The extra height makes high cubes particularly useful for bulky storage and many conversion projects.
- Exterior Length
- 40 ft
- Exterior Width
- 8 ft
- Exterior Height
- 9 ft 6 in
- Best For
- Bulky cargo & conversions
Important:
Exact internal dimensions, door openings, weights and capacities can vary slightly between manufacturers and container models. Confirm the specifications of the actual unit before designing shelving, machinery layouts or conversion components around it.
Container Types
Not Every Container Does the Same Job
Standard dry containers are suitable for many buyers, but specialist cargo and storage requirements may call for a different configuration.
Standard Dry Container
The most common enclosed steel container configuration, suitable for general cargo, storage and many conversions.
High Cube Container
Similar to a standard container but with additional vertical clearance for taller or bulkier contents.
Refrigerated Container
Insulated units designed around temperature-controlled applications. Operating reefers require suitable electrical power.
Open Top Container
Designed for cargo that is difficult to load through conventional container doors or requires top loading.
Flat Rack Container
Intended for suitable oversized or irregular cargo requiring open sides or special loading arrangements.
Double Door Container
Doors at both ends can improve access and may be useful where contents need to be reached from either direction.
Container Condition
Understand the Grade Before You Buy.
Container terminology can be confusing. A lower-priced unit is not automatically a poor purchase — it may simply have more cosmetic wear or be intended for a different application.
PREMIUM CONDITION
One-Trip / Newer Unit
Generally among the newest containers available on the secondary market and typically shows significantly less wear than older used stock.
- Cleaner appearance
- Lower accumulated wear
- Often preferred for visible projects
- Usually higher purchase price
WORKING CONDITION
Cargo-Worthy
A structurally serviceable container suitable for cargo use subject to applicable inspection, certification and carrier requirements.
- Structurally serviceable
- Used appearance expected
- Dents and surface corrosion possible
- Confirm transport requirements before export use
STORAGE FOCUSED
Wind & Watertight
Commonly selected for stationary storage where keeping normal weather out is more important than cosmetic appearance.
- Suitable for many storage uses
- Visible wear may be substantial
- Not automatically suitable for international freight
- Inspect doors, seals and floor carefully
BUDGET / PROJECT STOCK
As-Is / Project Grade
Units sold in their present condition may require repairs or modification and are usually best suited to buyers who understand the work required.
- Potential repair requirements
- May have leaks or significant wear
- Useful for some conversion projects
- Inspect carefully before purchase
Container Inspection
What to Check Before Purchasing
Cosmetic wear is normal on used containers. The more important question is whether the condition is appropriate for what you intend to do with the unit.
Roof & Structural Frame
Look for severe deformation, excessive corrosion, major repairs or other structural concerns.
Doors & Locking Bars
Doors should operate appropriately for the stated grade. Inspect hinges, locking bars, handles and door alignment.
Door Gaskets
Damaged, missing or severely degraded seals can allow moisture, dust or pests to enter the container.
Floor
Inspect for major damage, soft areas, contamination, holes, severe delamination or previous repairs.
Interior Condition
Check cleanliness, odours, water staining and evidence that may suggest unwanted moisture entry.
Corrosion
Surface rust is different from severe corrosion that has materially reduced or penetrated the steel.
Vents
Ensure ventilation openings are intact and consider whether additional ventilation is appropriate for your use.
Identification & Plate
Check available container identification and relevant plate information where transport requirements make it necessary.
Site Preparation
Prepare the Site Before the Truck Arrives
Good preparation helps keep the container level, improves door operation and can reduce future drainage or settlement problems.
Level the Placement Area
The container should rest on a suitably prepared, reasonably level support system. Excessive twisting can affect doors and overall usability.
Use Suitable Supports
Depending on the project, support may involve suitable concrete pads, piers, blocks, strip foundations or slabs.
Plan for Drainage
Avoid locations where water naturally pools. Appropriate drainage helps protect the surrounding site and underside.
Allow Door Clearance
Make sure there is adequate room for both container doors to swing fully without contacting fences, buildings or obstacles.
Consider Long-Term Access
Think about how vehicles, forklifts, machinery and people will access the container after it has been positioned.
Check Local Requirements
Planning, zoning, building, setback and permitting requirements can vary by location and intended use.
IMPORTANT
The appropriate foundation depends on soil conditions, intended use, local requirements and whether the container will remain temporary or become part of a permanent structure. Structural or conversion projects may require professional engineering or local authority approval.
Delivery Planning
The Container Fits. Will the Delivery Truck?
One of the most commonly overlooked parts of buying a shipping container is access for the delivery vehicle.
The amount of space required varies according to the container size, truck configuration, unloading method and site layout. Confirm your delivery requirements before dispatch.
Discuss Your Delivery SiteRoad Access
Can a large delivery vehicle safely reach the property?
Gate & Entrance Width
Confirm narrow gates, turns, posts and entrances in advance.
Overhead Clearance
Check trees, cables, signs, roofs and other overhead obstacles.
Ground Conditions
Soft, wet or unstable ground can prevent safe vehicle access.
Turning Space
The driver may require substantial room to maneuver and align.
Final Orientation
Decide which direction you want the container doors to face.
Understanding the Cost
Look Beyond the Container Price
Compare the total delivered cost of an appropriate container, rather than simply choosing the lowest advertised unit price.
Container Price
Size, type, age, condition and grade influence the base cost.
Delivery
Transport cost may depend on distance, equipment and destination.
Site Preparation
Allow for groundwork, supports, drainage or foundations where required.
Modifications
Windows, doors, insulation, electrical work and ventilation add cost.
Permits & Professional Work
Some installations may require approvals, engineering or inspections.
Future Maintenance
Consider paint, seals, rust treatment and other long-term maintenance.
Avoid These Mistakes
Common Container Buying Mistakes
Buying on Price Alone
A cheaper grade may cost more later if it is unsuitable for the intended application.
Ignoring Internal Height
High cube units can be significantly more practical where headroom or bulky contents matter.
Not Checking Delivery Access
A container may fit the site even when the truck required to deliver it cannot reach the placement area.
Ignoring the Foundation
Poor support or settlement can twist the container and make doors difficult to operate.
Assuming All Used Units Are Identical
Condition can vary significantly between containers of similar age or stated grade.
Planning Modifications Too Late
Think about windows, doors, insulation and electrical needs before selecting the container.
FINAL BUYER CHECKLIST
Before You Place Your Order
If you can confidently answer each of these points, you are much closer to selecting the right unit.
- ✓I know the intended use.
- ✓I have chosen the appropriate size.
- ✓I know whether standard or high cube is preferable.
- ✓I understand the stated condition or grade.
- ✓I have reviewed the product specifications.
- ✓I understand the delivery cost.
- ✓I have checked site access.
- ✓I know where the container will be placed.
- ✓The site will be prepared before delivery.
- ✓I understand any local approval requirements.
Buyer Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What size shipping container should I buy? +
The right size depends on available site space, required storage capacity, the dimensions of your contents and whether additional internal height is important. A 20ft container is often suitable for compact sites, while 40ft units provide significantly more storage capacity.
What is a high cube container? +
A high cube shipping container is taller than a standard container. Common 40ft high cube units are approximately 9ft 6in high externally compared with approximately 8ft 6in for a standard unit.
Is a used shipping container suitable for storage? +
Many used containers are suitable for storage when their condition matches the application. Door seals, roof, floor, structural condition and weather resistance should be considered before purchase.
Does wind-and-watertight mean cargo-worthy? +
No. The terms describe different expectations. A wind-and-watertight container may be appropriate for stationary storage but should not automatically be assumed suitable for international freight transportation.
Do shipping containers need a foundation? +
Containers should be placed on a suitably prepared and stable base. The appropriate solution depends on ground conditions, intended use, duration of installation and local requirements.
Can shipping containers be modified? +
Yes. Depending on the project, modifications can include personnel doors, roll-up doors, windows, ventilation, insulation, electrical systems, shelving and other features. Significant structural modifications should be planned appropriately.
What should I check before delivery? +
Confirm road access, gate width, turning space, overhead obstacles, ground conditions, unloading method and the final orientation of the container doors.
READY TO BUY?
Find the Container That Fits the Job.
Browse our available shipping containers or contact CMG Container Sales if you need help comparing sizes, configurations or condition grades.