Shipping containers are often used in many different ways. They can be used for transporting cargos as the name suggests and can also be recycled and customized for other uses.
If you have never bought or ranted a shipping container before, you might have some difficulties trying to get the right one. This means that you will obviously have a lot of questions that need answers.
So, before you start looking for a shipping container to rent or buy, there are a few things you will need to have in mind. Below are some of them. You can also refer to Shipped.com for more information.
- Purpose
First things first. Before you start looking for a unit to buy, you first need to define the purpose for which you are going to use it.
As mentioned before, these units can often be used for storage purposes and sometimes people also use them for building purposes. For instance, you can use them to make small offices, guest house and garage among other things.
Some people also use them to make homes and garden sheds. If you know exactly what you want to use the container for, you will have an easy time choosing the right one.
- The size
If you are looking to store only a few belongings or you want to create a small garden shed, you won’t need a larger container, right? But, you will definitely need larger units when making garages or homes.
This only show one thing, the size matters a lot. Shipping containers usually come in various sizes. You will always find most of them having a height of about 8 ft. and 8.65 ft. however, the lengths often varies.
You will find them measuring 10ft, 20ft and 40ft long. When shopping for them, it is important to know the size you will need before making an order. This will help you to avoid extra costs when you get the wrong size and you have to take it back to be replaced.
- The state of the containers
This is also another important point to note when shopping for shipping containers. When talking about their state, it means whether you want a new one, a used one or a refurbished unit. Well, each type comes with its own ups and downs.
For instance, you will need to dig deeper into your pockets but you will have a clean container in very good condition. On the other hand, buying a used item might cost you a much less amount but might have some defects at the same time.
His will however, depend on your budget. If you are working with a tight budget, the used ones will definitely be the better choice. Buying new ones might also mean having peace of mind as you won’t have to worry about repairs and all that. They will also serve you for long with minimal maintenance.
- Do some inspection
Have you ever made a purchase only to find out that what you bought wasn’t actually a good item? Well, this happens a lot, especially when people forget to inspect what they are buying before accepting it.
It is always advisable to inspect an item before taking it home just to make sure it is in a good condition and will work as expected. In the case of shipping containers, you may need some assistance from a professional inspector to help you check it out.
You can use this opportunity to ask about anything if you notice something off about the item. Let the inspector help you check for any damages, possible leaks and dents among other things. Failing to do so might result in purchasing a bad thing that will only cost you more later on. See this link and find out some tips on how you can make a purchase https://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Buy-a-Shipping-Container/
- Age
This is also another important point that most people seem to overlook when shopping for such items. The age of the container should be taken into consideration, especially when you are looking to buy used units.
Different units will of course, have different shipping histories. A unit that has been in use for more than 10 years certainly needs to be refurbished.
If you are planning to use the container for shipping purposes, you will need to have it inspected by a professional. This will help to authorize the unit fit for use. This should be done after each expiration date of using the unit.
- The working mechanism
As you will be doing the inspection, you should also make sure the working mechanism of the container is in proper shape.
Some of the things you should look at include; hinges, doors, gasket seals, and the locks among other things. Have in mind that the units might get some damage during their lifetime, whether stationery or in motion.
This is why it is a good idea to always check and ensure that everything is in great working shape before making the order.
- Extra features
Sometimes the work you are going to do will need you to get a container that has extra features. Knowing this will help you budget for the right item before you start looking for them.
For instance, you might require a refrigerated container or one that is already wired for electricity. Some people might also prefer going for one that provides quick access to the inside and therefore going for a unit with doors on both sides.
Having this information will help you plan accordingly. Click here to see how these metal boxes have helped bring some change to the world.
Conclusion
It is common for people to have some challenges when doing something new for the first time. However, with a little bit of help and guidance, you can definitely do the right thing. There are a lot of things you can look for when getting a shipping container but, the tips mentioned above are just enough to get you started.
