Buying used containers privately or from eBay

Defintely not.  We've seen some horrors over the years, at times we've collected from the seller and delivered to the new owner who was very excited, only to be disappointed with whats arrived.  And by the time they've paid for delivery and positioning, it really is too late.  

Some containers just were not built to last as long as others, some have been neglected (and that is not always visible). Some are decades old (not much can still work beautifully for that long, even steel). 

If you are lucky enough to be able to go and physically inspect the container it is advisable to get inside it and pull the doors too (don't get stuck inside).
Ideally the container would remain dark.  Any light getting in will indicate holes, rust and potential problems.  While you are in there, check the floor for any signs of damage / rot.  You wont be able to lift the container up to see what the underside is really like, but this can help you see.

All containers are different.  Some have seen years at sea, some years of abuse on a building site, others are well looked after by their owner and have been used to simply store dry goods.  Ensure your seller sends you as many photos of the container as possible.  This will help you judge whether the bargain deal is worthwhile.  

We've been to sites to collect and move shipping containers that people have brought and sold on auction sites only to pick the container up with our crane and have the floor fall out the bottom.  This is not just costly for the seller, but often its the buyer who has organised and paid for the collection and delivery.  Are you willing to risk hundreds of pounds on transport not knowing whether that container will fall apart or not.  Ensure your seller confirms it is sound before committing. 

You may not need a watertight or weathertight container, but if you plan to store personal effects then its worth the extra money to ensure your new purchase is.  Ensure your seller commits to this, else use a specialist who will.

There is no doubt that some containers spend their time transporting dangerous chemicals, and sometimes they have leaked.  But respectable sellers should never have sold containers which were contaminated with anything too bad.  However, you cant always be sure.  You can however, be assured knowing that metal walls can be cleaned and that most containers come with treated plywood floors that should have staved off most bugs and chemicals, but can be cleaned, re-covered, or replaced.

Security is one of the biggest concerns when hiring or purchasing a Container. When purchasing your second-hand container, we suggest ensuring that the locking bar handles are working freely – not just for security, but to ensure you can access your stored items and don’t encounter any unwanted problems further down the line.  Also, ensure your new purchase has a lock box, otherwise you'll need to find chains and other methods of securing.  A lockbox allows you to use a large / sturdy padlock (designed) for containers.

Quite simply, go for reputation. Ensure that the company you purchase from has a solid reputation for providing good-quality containers. You want to ensure that, like anything, you are getting good value for your money and the company you purchase from are able to deliver on their promises…and deliver the container ideally too.

Research reputable companies…or just come to us– we have the pedigree and experience to be able to not only match but exceed your expectations!