Thinking of investing in used 20 ft shipping containers for sale? Well, that is a brilliant idea! These versatile steel boxes offer fantastic solutions for storage, workshops, or even creative building projects. The problem is, the used 20ft container market can be pretty tricky. In such a scenario, to ensure that you get a quality unit and avoid some costly mistakes, knowing all the red flags becomes instrumental. This guide walks you through common pitfalls and helps you make an informed purchase.
You probably want a long-term storage option that is durable, dependable, and reasonably priced for your company or industrial storage needs if you’re searching for used 20 ft shipping containers for sale. These containers’ adaptability and long-term durability make them ideal for a variety of industries, including retail, construction, logistics, and more. In this detailed manual, we’ll take you through all there is to learn about second-hand 20 ft shipping containers for sale ranging from knowing how they benefit you to what to inspect prior to purchase and how to take care of them for optimal performance.
Understanding Used 20 ft Shipping Containers for sale
A 20 ft shipping container is approximately 20 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 8.5 feet high, and provides around 1,170 cubic feet of secure storage space. Purchasing used 20 ft shipping containers for sale implies that you are getting an ordinary-sized, stackable, weather-resistant steel box that can withstand tough environments.
These are made with Corten steel a weather-resistant alloy that is designed to stand up to marine and industrial environments. They retain their structural integrity even after years of use with minimal maintenance.
Why Businesses Choose Used 20 ft Containers
Used 20 ft shipping containers for sale have many commercial benefits, such as:
1. Cost Efficiency
The used containers are much cheaper than new ones, releasing capital for other business functions. Although they might bear cosmetic flaws, functionality is not affected.
2. Availability and Speed of Delivery
Used 20 ft shipping containers for sale are available, and shipping can typically be provided for in a matter of days.
3. Durability
These tanks are designed for overseas shipment and can withstand heavy weight, rough seas, and extended use without sustaining structural damage.
4. Versatility
Used containers can also have various business uses, ranging from temporary offices to pop-up stores or storage space on-site for equipment, materials, or goods.
Key Factors to Consider Before Buying Used 20 ft Shipping Containers for Sale
– Condition: Check for dents, rust, and floor condition. Request “cargo-worthy” or “wind and watertight” grades for maximum reliability.
– Delivery Logistics: Facilitate your site to have convenient access for trucks and cranes.
– Purpose: Identify your planned use of storage, working space, or conversion to ascertain if adaptations are necessary.
– Budget: Get quotes from several vendors and factor in delivery and modification prices.
– Legal Requirements: Local regulations might necessitate permits for putting or changing containers on commercial premises.
Understanding Used Container Condition Grading
When looking at used 20 ft shipping containers for sale, the “condition” of the unit is the single biggest factor in pricing and suitability. You must know the lingo before you buy:
| Grade | Description | Ideal For |
| IICL | Meets International Institute of Container Lessors standards. Excellent condition, often used for international shipping. | Shipping, High-end Modification |
| Cargo-Worthy (CW) | Certified as safe for sea travel. Structurally sound, but may have noticeable wear, surface rust, and small dents. | Intermodal Transport, Long-Term Secure Storage |
| Wind & Watertight (WWT) | Guaranteed to be dry and secure for storage, but not certified for shipping. Ideal for static, on-site storage. | Residential Storage, Tool Sheds, Farm Equipment Shelter |
| As-Is | Lowest cost, but structural integrity or watertightness is not guaranteed. Requires inspection and often minor repairs. | Repurposing (e.g., container homes), Scrap Metal |
All reputable containers adhere to strict international container standards
Why the 20 ft Container is the Ideal Solution
The 20-foot standard dry cargo container (known as a 20DC) is the most popular size globally, offering about 1,172 cubic feet of usable space. Its popularity isn’t accidental; it’s a direct result of its perfect dimensions for a variety of uses:
- Optimal Size: It’s large enough to store the contents of a three-bedroom home, heavy machinery, or a significant inventory of goods, yet small enough to be easily transported and placed in a standard parking space or residential yard.
- Durability: Constructed from heavy-duty Corten steel, these units are designed to withstand decades of harsh maritime travel. Even used containers are inherently resistant to weather, pests, and fire.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to building a permanent storage structure or purchasing a 40-foot unit, acquiring used 20 ft shipping containers for sale presents significant initial savings. The average price for a reliable used 20 ft container typically falls between $1,500 and $3,000 (Source: Industry Price Analysis).
Essential Buying Tips to Secure the Best Deal
To ensure you get a high-quality unit and a fair price, follow these best practices:
- Inspect (or Get an Inspection): Never buy sight-unseen if the unit is only graded WWT or lower. Check the doors, floor integrity, and roof. Look for excessive ‘patchwork’ on the steel.
- Factor in Delivery Costs: The price of a container is often heavily influenced by how far it is from the depot. Buying locally from a reputable yard, like Container South LLC, can save hundreds in trucking fees. (Internal Link Suggestion)
- Choose the Right Grade: Don’t pay for Cargo-Worthy certification if you only need on-site storage. A WWT unit is perfectly fine and significantly cheaper.
1. The “Too Good to Be True” Price Tag
The temptation of used 20 ft shipping containers for sale is great, but an impossibly low price is frequently the first danger sign. Pricing varies based on condition and market demand, but containers whose price is way lower than the average for a used 20 ft shipping container in your area should raise suspicion right away.
What to Avoid: Deals that sound too good to be true, from some obscure website or social media group where the seller is not even providing much information. Those are scams where you pay for a container that never arrives or is delivered in unusable condition.
Smart move: Research the average market prices for used 20 ft shipping containers for sale in your local area. A reputable, reliable supplier of containers would give competitive but realistic pricing.
2. Lack of Clear Condition Grades and Photos
When looking for 20 ft used shipping containers for sale, condition is everything. Reputable sellers use standardised industry grading, such as Cargo Worthy/CW, Wind and Water Tight/WWT, or “As Is”. If a seller is evasive about the condition or only provides blurry, generic stock photos, be leery.
What to Avoid:
Sellers who cannot provide recent, clear photos of the exact container you would be purchasing.
Descriptions that are overly simplistic: (“good condition”) without further detail.
No mention of WWT if you need a weather-proof unit (Wind and Water Tight). Smart Move: Demand high-resolution, detailed photos from all sides, the roof, floor, and interior of the particular used 20 ft shipping containers for sale you’re interested in. A proper shipping container checklist from the seller is useful too.
Conclusion
The decision to purchase used 20 ft shipping containers for sale is a smart investment in secure, robust, and flexible storage. By understanding the condition grades, knowing the key benefits, and following essential buying tips, you can confidently secure a unit that will serve your residential, commercial, or creative needs for many years to come.
