#usedshippingcontainers

Ask the Right Questions

Every used shipping container has a backstory. Much of that isn’t evident from the shipping container’s appearance. This is why it is crucial to not rush when buying shipping containers, especially if they are from a private seller. You need to be inquisitive to bring to light every secret about the shipping container otherwise you may regret your decision to purchase it in the end. Ask how old it is, what types of products were previously stored in it, how many trips it has made, and how often it was maintained. The answer you’ll get will guide you to the best deals.

Inspect Each Unit Thoroughly

There’s not much you can see in a shipping container aside from the metal panels and frame. The tiniest details you’ll find can tell a lot about its condition and how long it can last at sea. Here’s a list of the most important things you have to look for during inspection.

Rust. Most shipping containers are made from steel. Although steel is a toughened version of iron, it is still susceptible to rusting and corrosion when constantly exposed to moisture, let alone the moisture from the sea, because it contains iron. In most cases, the extent of rust will give you a clue on the true condition of the container. If you think the rust is just skin-deep, then the container deserves a second chance. But if it has ingrained itself into the panels, don’t pick the unit.

Holes. Sometimes, when straps or buckles have to be installed on the shipping container, the installer could mistakenly poke a whole on its surface. A few holes may not pose a risk to the structural integrity of the container but too many may require serious repair.

Warp. Constant movement during travel at sea can gradually affect the stability of the container’s frame, causing the whole body to warp. A warped shipping container is too dangerous to use, especially when stacked up with other shipping containers, because it might twist altogether and cause the whole structure to fall apart.

To be sure of the quality of the used shipping container you will use for your new business, find a professional inspector that can help you with inspection. Or, you can simply go to a reputable supplier in Texas, such as Equipment Management Services. Their products, be it brand new or used, are surely of high quality. They even offer customization in case you have special cargo storage needs.

About Equipment Management Services: Whether you need brand new or used shipping containers for your import/export business or a modified one for some other projects, Equipment Management Services is the supplier to call. Having a combined footprint of over 80 acres proximate to the port locations, EMS is fully capable of serving the maritime industry. We even operate a depot in Houston, which is revered as the largest off-dock container terminal in the US Gulf region.  

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