Things to Consider Before Buying a Shipping Container
You have made the decision that a shipping container could be the answer to your storage, workspace, or logistics problem. Good decision, containers are hard, incredibly adaptable, and quite affordable if you choose the appropriate one.
But this is the point. Get into the process without a little homework, and you can easily find yourself with the wrong size, the wrong condition, or a container that simply does not work on your site. A little thought now will save a good many headaches in the future.
In this case, here are all the things that are worth considering before you commit.
What Are You Actually Going to Use It For?
This is a redundant statement, but it's the question most people will pass by - and it is, in fact, the most important question you will answer.
A self storage container in which household furniture may be stored during a renovation is a very different thing from a container being fitted out as a site office. The requirements of a business with stock stored on it are quite different from those of a farming operation that would like a secure shed in the paddock.
Before you begin comparing prices or sizes, get it straight about why you are doing it. Do you store goods on a long-term basis? Conducting a mobile workshop? On a construction site, establishing a temporary office? Transporting equipment to other places? Once you know just what the container has to do, all the other decisions become a whole lot easier.
New or Used — Which One Do You Actually Need?
It is among the most popular questions that people ask, and the truthful answer to the question is - it depends on what you want it to be.
New containers are in excellent condition. They are clean and structurally sound with no history of transporting cargo that can potentially impact what you place inside. New would justify the added cost in case you are going to modify the container into an office or workspace, or when you are storing food, sensitive equipment, or anything that requires a clean environment.
Old containers are cheaper and are totally usable in the very large majority of storage requirements. They may have a couple of dents, some surface rust, or some paint wear due to their service in the Australian backyard. When all one needs is secure, weatherproof storage, a used container will do the same job at a fraction of the cost.
The trick is to examine any container you use before purchase, or purchase a container that is known to be of quality, and can inform you what exactly you are buying.
Size Matters More Than You Think
Containers are available in varying sizes - some as small as 6ft, and as big as 40ft - and selecting the wrong size is one of the most widespread errors that buyers may make.
Go too small, and you'll constantly be running out of room. Go too big, and you are paying for space you will not be able to use at all, as well as dealing with a container that may not even be able to fit on your site.
The following is a quick guide:
5ft and 8ft are also available and are good in tight places, and also in small personal or trade storage requirements.
10ft - A general-purpose home and small business product.
20ft — The most popular size. Strikes the balancing point between space and feasibility for the majority of businesses.
40ft -Serious large operations or high-volume storage, or major alterations.
You should always check with a container specialist who can help you figure out what fits your location and your requirements before you invest.
Check Your Site Before Anything Else
This is the one that catches people up more than you would have thought. You have just discovered the best container at a great price and then realize that there is no way as to how you can actually get it onto your premises.
Consider before you make a purchase:
Access - Does a delivery truck have access in and out? Container delivery vehicles are big and require a decent degree of clearance. Delivery may be difficult or impossible due to narrow driveways, low-hanging trees, or tight corners.
Ground conditions - Containers are hard. When your ground is soft or uneven, you'll have to consider how you will support the container once it is in place. It is best on a solid level surface. Most situations will work well with concrete, gravel, or timber sleepers.
Council regulations - Depending on your location and how long you are planning to keep the container, your local council may have an opinion on where the containers should be located and whether you need a permit or not. Before you purchase, it is always good to check it out prior to purchasing it, as opposed to after.
Buy or Hire — Which Makes More Financial Sense?
It is a question worth sitting down and having a moment to think before you make your decision.
The purchase would be rational in case you intend to use the container over the long term. When it is paid, it belongs to you - there is no maintenance day after day, and containers keep their value fairly intact. When you are looking at making some changes or even looking at a long-term storage solution, then it is nearly always the better investment to buy.
The more intelligent option would be to hire for short-term needs. Hiring is flexible, as you do not need to spend as much money as you would spend on buying it. You do not have to go through the hassle of finally selling it as you do.
There are also some suppliers that have a hire-to-buy option, which can also be a clever method of spreading the cost should the budget be tight at the moment.
Think About Modifications Before You Buy
In case you require anything other than simple storage, shelving, ventilation, windows, doors, insulation, power, or a complete fit-out office, think about making modifications before you select your container, not after.
There are sizes and conditions that are more appropriate for modifications than others. A modification specialist can also make suggestions on how you can best obtain what you need and in a cost-efficient manner. It is better to sort this conversation out early to save money and avoid repeating work in the future.
Buy From Someone You Can Trust
This could be the most significant aspect of all. The container market is no exception, as there are sellers out there with bargain prices on containers that are structurally damaged, heavily corroded, or simply not what they seem to be in photographs.
Shop with somebody who has a good reputation and who provides you with the information about the state of their stock, can answer your questions, and supports what they are selling. An excellent supplier will assist you in selecting the appropriate container to use in your circumstances, not necessarily provide you with what they have at hand.
Final Thoughts
Buying a shipping container doesn't need to be complicated. Get clear on your purpose, choose the right size, check your site, and buy from someone you trust. Get those things right and a container will serve you well for years.
At ABC Containers, we make the whole process easy. Whether you're buying, hiring, or looking for a modified solution, our team is happy to walk you through your options and make sure you get exactly what you need.
Visit us at abccontainers.com.au or give us a call — we're always happy to help.







