Several questions arise in mind while buying shipping containers and whether to buy new or used shipping containers is one amongst all. Everyday millions of containers sail across the seven-seas encountering harsh wind, scorching sun, and salty seawater. At the same time, thousands of new shipping containers are manufactured in the world. All this says that one can have a vastness of options as to whether go for brand new shipping boxes or a used box will be equally viable.
Although buying new helps you breathe a sigh of relief as it keeps you away from worries regarding its quality, used containers with minor dents and patches also work wonder as long as it is water-tight and secure. Various factors count while considering which one suits your purpose best. Whether it is for cargo shipment, storage, or building purpose. Basically, there is no right or wrong choice. Both have their own pros and cons. New vs Old: Well, most of us think that buying a new container means we get a fresh piece manufactured out of the factory but that is not true. Most of the new containers are actually one-tripped. It means they have already been used once for the shipment of cargo. When new boxes come out after manufacturing, they are loaded with cargoes, shipped, and then unloaded at the port of destination and further listed for sale. New/One-trip containers are ideal if the aesthetic is required elsewise, used one also serves well if they are in good condition. Let’s dive deep into factors that you must consider before making a final buying decision Purpose Knowledge of your purpose for acquiring containers is of paramount importance. No doubt, shipping containers serve multiple purposes- shipment of cargoes, storage, or construction of houses, office, store, and many more. Yet, one needs to specific regarding its purpose. 1. Construction: Generally, for building purpose it is always advisable to buy new shipping containers addressing safety. The used cargo boxes are exposed to a wide variety of substances carried on them during its course in shipping lines and thus the chemicals and other harmful residuals can make those containers dangerous to be used for residential purpose. If you can’t afford a new one, you can still use old boxes after getting them cleaned properly from your container supplier. Boxes like 40’ hard top open top, 40’ Side doors can be modified perfectly to craft buildings out of them. 2. Cargo Transportation: For shipment, both new and used stands to be perfect. If you don’t mind minor dents and scratches, buying used could be an excellent choice. While they are already used, they are designed to last for years. But what you need is to be cautious about interior damage, leakage, or lose door hinges because that can somewhere harm your cargo during the transition. You can also get them repaired and modified. 3. Storage Units: Whether you want them for inventories, household appliances, or use them as a storeroom, it’s not necessary that you go and buy a brand new from the market. A used one can always fulfill this need. Since storage does not require much of the handling, all you do is load your belongings and keep them at a place for whatever period you want. So, a used container in proper condition is a perfect choice. Spending a big amount in acquiring a new one will not be too economical. 4. Price: The budget plays a major role in determining whether to opt for new or used. Undoubtedly, there is always a high price for something new and price tends to depreciate as the product grow old. The same happens with the containers. When you go for a new one, you have to pay the actual amount of the box while for used ones you get a good consolation. The more it is depreciated, the lower you will have to pay depending upon its age, damage, market value, etc. Thus, if you do not want to expand your budget then buying an old would be the best option for you. 5. Condition: What baffles most while doing the right selection of containers is their condition. One trip/new containers are marked with nearly no or minor evidence of wear and tear as they are listed to sales after a single trip. So, you do not need to inspect much in case of new boxes. They are least exposed to the external environment, toxic substances, and offer a longer life span. While used containers are exposed to harsh environment, toxic products during its course in shipping lines for years and hence develop dents, damage, leakage, rust, etc. Still, there is no problem in going for old, but you must thoroughly un an inspection and roll your eyes over every corner of it before making a final buying decision. 6. Cargo Type: Now, this is another factor that should be taken into consideration especially when you’re hiring it for cargo shipment or storage. Most often, a used shipping container is not considered to be safe enough when you are dealing with food products like vegetables, fruits, grains, coffee beans, etc. You never know, for what other cargo types, the containers would have been used. Used containers are highly exposed to toxic substances that reside either in the corners or folding. Shipping food products in a very old container can put entire goods at risk. So, it’s better to use new/one-trip containers for the shipment or storage of edible products. 7. Wrapping up From the above reading we can conclude that, both have their own pros and cons but what suits your purpose best can only be determined by considering the above factors minutely. You may need to list some additional features as well while making a choice. Take your time, ponder over every factor. But safety should always precede price. And once you have the final decision in your hand, finding a relevant container supplier should be next on your list. At LOTUS Containers, we have been your specialist in providing the right containers for your requirement. Whether be new or used, rented or purchased, Shanghai or Miami we meet your every requirement with affordability & flexibility.
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