SUPPORT • FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Questions? We've got answers.

Everything you need to know about buying, grading, delivering, and maintaining a shipping container. If your question isn't here, call us — we answer the phone.

SECTION 01

Buying a Container

How do I know if I should buy new or used?

It depends on what you're doing with it:

  • New / One-Trip — best for conversions (offices, workshops, homes), long-term storage, or anywhere appearance matters.
  • IICL Multi-Trip — near-new condition at a lower price. Great all-purpose option.
  • Cargo Worthy — for export/shipping, or when you just need a solid container that works.
  • Wind & Watertight — the budget pick. Perfect for on-site storage where cosmetic condition doesn't matter.

If you're not sure, call us with what you're storing and where it's going — we'll point you to the right grade.

Can I come look at a container before I buy?

Yes. In-person inspection is welcome by appointment. We'll walk you through the unit, show you the grade details, and answer any questions. Contact us to schedule a time.

Do you sell containers for one-way export or international shipping?

Yes. For export, you'll typically want a Cargo Worthy (CW) container with a valid CSC plate. Every CW container we sell includes a valid CSC certification. If you're moving cargo overseas, let us know — we can help you match the right grade to your destination requirements.

How many containers can I buy at once?

As many as you need — subject to availability. For multi-unit orders (5+), we can arrange volume pricing and coordinated delivery. Contact us for a multi-unit quote.

Do containers hold their resale value?

Yes — shipping containers are known for strong resale value. New containers typically depreciate slowly, and even used containers keep a meaningful portion of their value for years. If you buy well and take care of it, you can often resell for a reasonable price later.

SECTION 02

Container Grades

What do the different container grades mean?

We grade every container against recognized industry standards:

  • New / One-Trip — manufactured recently, in like-new condition. No rust or dents.
  • IICL Multi-Trip — 3–5 years old, inspected to strict IICL criteria. Minimal cosmetic wear.
  • Cargo Worthy (CW) — 7–12 years old, structurally sound and approved for shipping. Cosmetic wear is expected.
  • Wind & Watertight (WWT) — 12+ years old. Keeps weather out; dents, rust, and fading are visible.
What is IICL certification?

IICL stands for the Institute of International Container Lessors. IICL grading criteria are among the strictest in the industry, so an IICL-rated container is structurally and functionally closer to new than other used grades. It's the highest quality used grade you can buy.

What does "Cargo Worthy" mean?

Cargo Worthy means the container is structurally sound and certified for shipping cargo by sea, rail, or truck. It has a valid CSC plate. Cosmetic issues like rust, dents, and paint fading are normal at this grade — but it won't leak and it won't fail inspection.

Is "Wind & Watertight" the same as Cargo Worthy?

No. Wind & Watertight (WWT) containers keep rain and wind out, but they may not have a valid CSC plate and are not certified for international shipping. They're ideal for on-site storage, not export.

If you need to ship cargo overseas, choose Cargo Worthy or higher.

What is a CSC plate, and do I need one?

The CSC (Container Safety Convention) plate is a metal plate certifying that the container meets international safety standards for transport. You need a valid CSC plate if the container will be used for shipping cargo internationally. For storage-only use, it's not required.

SECTION 03

Sizes & Specifications

Which size container do I need — 20ft or 40ft?

Quick guide:

  • 20ft — best for heavy, dense items. Fits about 10–11 pallets.
  • 40ft — best for bulky, lighter items. Fits about 21–25 pallets.
  • 40ft High Cube — same footprint as a 40ft but a foot taller inside. Great for tall equipment and conversions.

Heads up: even though a 40ft holds double the volume of a 20ft, its payload capacity is often lower because the container itself is heavier. If you're shipping dense cargo, a 20ft may let you pack more weight.

What are the internal dimensions?

Approximate internal specs (may vary slightly by manufacturer):

  • 20ft: ~5.90m L × 2.35m W × 2.39m H (33 m³)
  • 40ft: ~12.03m L × 2.35m W × 2.39m H (67 m³)
  • 40ft HC: ~12.03m L × 2.35m W × 2.69m H (76 m³)

Always check the specific unit's CSC plate or spec sheet for exact numbers before finalizing a purchase.

Do you sell 10ft, 45ft, or specialty containers?

Availability on specialty sizes (10ft, 45ft, refrigerated, open-top, flat-rack) varies. Contact us with what you're looking for and we'll tell you what we can source.

How much does a shipping container weigh?

Empty (tare) weights are roughly:

  • 20ft: ~2,200–2,400 kg (4,850–5,300 lb)
  • 40ft: ~3,700–4,000 kg (8,150–8,800 lb)
  • 40ft HC: ~3,900–4,200 kg (8,600–9,250 lb)

Maximum loaded weight varies by container and CSC plate.

SECTION 04

Delivery & Placement

How long does delivery take?

Standard delivery is typically scheduled within 24–72 hours after payment clears. Timing depends on your location, container availability, and site access. We'll confirm an estimated window when your order is placed.

How is the container delivered?

Containers are delivered by tilt-bed or hiab (boom) truck, depending on your site access and the container size. Our drivers are experienced with container placement and will put it down as close to your desired spot as safely possible.

What do I need to prepare for delivery?

Please make sure:

  • The truck can safely reach your drop location
  • No low-hanging wires, branches, or obstructions
  • The ground is firm enough to support a loaded truck
  • There's enough space for the truck to maneuver
  • Any needed permits or HOA approvals are in place

If access is unsafe, delivery may need to be rescheduled, and additional fees may apply.

Do you deliver outside Florida?

We deliver throughout Florida and into select areas of the Southeast. Reach out with your zip code and we'll tell you straight whether we can serve you and what the cost looks like.

Will the container fit in my driveway or yard?

That's the first thing to plan for. A 20ft container needs about 25 feet of straight, accessible space. A 40ft needs about 50 feet. Delivery trucks (especially hiab trucks) need additional clearance to maneuver.

If you're unsure, send us a photo of the access route and we'll give you an honest read on whether it will work.

Can you place the container in a tight spot?

Sometimes. Hiab (boom) trucks can place containers over fences, low walls, and other obstacles — but there are limits based on reach, weight, and space. Let us know in advance if your placement is tricky, and we'll confirm whether it's doable and whether extra fees apply.

SECTION 05

Payment & Pricing

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept:

  • Credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex, Discover)
  • ACH bank transfer
  • Wire transfer
  • Cashier's check
  • Cash (in-person only)

We do not charge a credit card surcharge (and under Florida law, we can't).

Do I have to pay in full before delivery?

Yes — full payment is required before delivery. For certain orders (custom or multi-unit), we may require a deposit to hold the container, with the balance due before dispatch. The terms will be disclosed in your written quote.

Are prices negotiable?

Our prices are already sharp, but we're open to discussing multi-unit orders or repeat-customer pricing. Call us with what you need and we'll see what we can do.

Is sales tax included in the price?

Florida sales tax is added to qualifying purchases at checkout (or on the invoice). The exact rate depends on the delivery county. If you have a valid resale certificate, you may qualify for a tax-exempt purchase — see our Sales Tax Policy for details.

What if I need to cancel my order?

Cancellations before dispatch receive a full refund. Once the container is dispatched, cancellation is subject to our Refund & Returns Policy. Call us as soon as possible if you need to cancel.

SECTION 06

Setup, Care & Use

Does the container need a foundation?

Not a traditional one, but you should set it on something to keep it off the dirt:

  • Concrete blocks or pavers — the most common, inexpensive option
  • Timber sleepers — good for even weight distribution
  • Gravel pad — works well in most yards
  • Concrete slab — best for long-term or converted containers

Level ground matters. An unlevel container can twist and stress the frame over time.

How do I keep the container from rusting?

Shipping containers are built to handle salt air and rough weather, but a little care goes a long way:

  • Touch up scratches and chips with matching marine-grade paint
  • Keep the roof clear of standing water and debris
  • Ensure good ventilation inside to reduce condensation
  • Check seals and gaskets annually

With basic upkeep, a container can easily last 20+ years.

Can I put a lock on it?

Yes. For basic security, a padlock through the door handles works — but the standard handles are easy to cut. For real security, we recommend a container lockbox (also called a hockey-puck lock) that fully encloses the shackle. New containers often come with a lockbox already installed.

Can I convert a container into an office or home?

Absolutely — container conversions are one of the most popular uses for new one-trip units. For conversions, we recommend a new one-trip container because it's structurally unmodified, has no prior cargo residue, and gives you the cleanest starting point.

Note that conversions usually require permits and a contractor experienced with container builds.

Can containers be stacked?

Yes. Standard shipping containers are designed to be stacked up to 8 high when loaded, and more when empty. But stacking for permanent use requires proper corner castings, twist locks, and often a structural engineer's input. If you're planning to stack, talk to us before you buy.

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?

We'd rather answer it now than have a problem later.

Call us, send a message, or request a quote — you'll reach someone who actually knows containers and will give you a straight answer.

EST. 2011 FLORIDA LOCAL CONTAINER DEALS