Buyers Guide for Shipping Containers
Choosing the right shipping container depends on your intended use, preferred size, condition, delivery location, budget and whether you need a standard or specialized unit. This guide from Lucky Container Service will help you make a more informed purchase.
Before you buy:
Decide what the container will be used for, how much space you need, what
condition is acceptable and whether your delivery site can safely receive
a large freight delivery. Availability varies by size, type, condition and
location.
1
Start With Your Intended Use
The best container depends first on what you plan to do with it.
- General storage
- Commercial inventory storage
- Construction-site storage
- Farm or equipment storage
- Workshop conversion
- Office conversion
- Residential or modular projects
- Freight or cargo transport
- Cold storage
- Oversized cargo handling
2
Choose the Right Container Size
Common container lengths include 10ft, 20ft, 40ft and 45ft, depending on availability.
10ft Containers
Useful when space is limited or when smaller storage capacity is sufficient.
20ft Containers
A popular all-purpose size for storage, equipment, tools and smaller commercial projects.
40ft Containers
Suitable for customers who need significantly more storage space or a larger platform for conversion projects.
45ft Containers
Offer additional length and capacity where extra space is required and site access permits delivery.
3
Standard Height or High Cube?
Standard containers work well for many storage and freight applications.
High Cube containers provide additional interior height and are often preferred for:
- Taller equipment
- Higher-volume storage
- Office conversions
- Residential conversions
- Interior ceiling and insulation work
If your project involves interior construction or taller contents, the additional height may be valuable.
4
Choose the Appropriate Condition
Container condition affects appearance, remaining service life and price.
- One Trip: Very limited previous use and generally newer appearance.
- New: Unused or essentially unused condition where specifically listed as such.
- Cargo Worthy: Used but assessed as structurally suitable for cargo service at the time of inspection.
- Wind & Water Tight: Commonly used for secure general storage.
- Used: May show normal dents, scratches, markings or surface wear.
- Refurbished: Used container that has undergone repair or cosmetic improvement.
- As-Is: Sold in its current condition and may require repair.
5
Understand Specialized Container Types
Some applications require a specialized design rather than a standard dry container.
- Reefer: For temperature-sensitive storage.
- Open Top: For cargo loaded from above.
- Flat Rack: For oversized or irregular cargo.
- Double Door: Provides access at both ends.
- Side Opening: Allows wider side access.
- High Cube: Provides additional vertical space.
6
Consider Appearance
If appearance matters, choose a newer or refurbished container.
Used containers may show:
- Dents
- Scratches
- Faded paint
- Shipping markings
- Surface rust
- Previous repair marks
These cosmetic signs do not necessarily mean the container is unsuitable for storage, but customers should select the grade that matches their expectations.
7
Think About Modifications Before Ordering
If you plan to modify the container, consider those requirements before purchase.
Possible modifications may include:
- Personnel doors
- Roll-up doors
- Windows
- Ventilation
- Insulation
- Electrical installation
- Interior walls
- Custom paint
Customized containers may have different return eligibility than standard, unmodified units.
8
Plan Your Delivery Site
A suitable delivery site is essential before ordering a container.
Check for:
- Enough road width for the delivery truck.
- Suitable turning and maneuvering space.
- Overhead clearance.
- No low branches or wires.
- A firm, reasonably level placement area.
- Enough room for unloading equipment.
- No narrow gates or access restrictions.
Inform Lucky Container Service of known access limitations before delivery arrangements are finalized.
Quick Container Comparison
Use this table as a general guide when comparing common container options.
| Container Option | Typical Use | Appearance | Budget Level | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One Trip | Premium storage, conversions, long-term use | Very good | Higher | Minimal prior use |
| Used | General storage, farms, construction | Varies | Moderate | Expect cosmetic wear |
| Wind & Water Tight | Secure storage | Functional | Moderate | Not automatically cargo-certified |
| Cargo Worthy | Storage and possible cargo use | Used | Moderate | Current certification requirements should be verified |
| Refurbished | Storage and appearance-sensitive projects | Improved | Moderate to Higher | Level of refurbishment varies |
| As-Is | Repair projects, budget builds | Variable | Lower | May require repair or maintenance |
| High Cube | High-volume storage, conversions | Depends on condition | Varies | Extra interior height |
| Reefer | Cold storage | Varies | Higher | Requires suitable electrical supply |
What to Check Before You Buy
Use this checklist before finalizing your shipping container order.
Buyer Checklist
- What will the container be used for?
- What size do I need?
- Do I need standard height or High Cube?
- Do I prefer new, One Trip, used or refurbished?
- Does appearance matter?
- Do I need cargo certification?
- Do I need a specialized container type?
- Will the container require customization?
- Is the delivery address accurate?
- Can a delivery truck safely access the property?
- Is the placement area ready?
- Are there overhead wires, trees or narrow gates?
- Have I reviewed the delivery charge?
- Have I reviewed the total amount due?
- Have I reviewed the Return & Refund Policy?
- Have I confirmed the payment instructions?
Payment, Delivery & Return Information
These are the key purchasing terms currently used by Lucky Container Service.
Bank Transfer
Current Active Payment Method
5–7 Business Days
Typical Standard Delivery Estimate
30 Days
Eligible Return Request Period
7–10 Business Days
Approved Refund Processing Time
Questions to Ask Before Ordering
If you are unsure which option is right for you, these questions can help.
Product Questions
- Is this exact size currently available?
- What condition is the container in?
- Is the listing for a specific unit or a representative unit?
- Is the container suitable for my intended use?
- Are there visible cosmetic imperfections?
- Are modifications available?
Delivery Questions
- What is the delivery charge to my location?
- Is my property accessible for delivery equipment?
- Do I need to prepare a foundation or supports?
- Will I need to be present?
- What delivery equipment is expected?
- Are there known access restrictions I should disclose?
Used Container Expectations
Understanding normal wear helps customers choose the right grade.
Used shipping containers are industrial transport equipment and should not be expected to look brand new unless specifically described as new, One Trip or refurbished.
Depending on grade and previous service, a used container may show:
- Minor or moderate dents
- Scratches and scuffs
- Faded paint
- Surface rust
- Previous shipping markings
- Floor wear
- Evidence of previous repairs
The appropriate choice depends on whether your priority is appearance, structural condition, storage performance, cargo use or price.
Before Using a Container for a Building Project
Container conversions can require local approvals depending on the location and intended use.
Before converting a container into an office, workshop, home, retail unit or another permanent structure, customers should investigate local requirements that may apply.
- Zoning requirements
- Building permits
- Foundation requirements
- Electrical permits
- Plumbing requirements
- Insulation requirements
- Fire or safety requirements
Lucky Container Service can help with product selection, but customers remain responsible for confirming applicable local rules unless another arrangement is expressly agreed in writing.
Need Help Choosing the Right Shipping Container?
Tell us your intended use, preferred size, delivery location, budget and any modification requirements. Our team can help you compare available options.
Email: sales@luckycontainerservice.com
Phone: +1 (520) 542-1018