Buying a shipping container is straightforward once you know what to look out for: a certified CSC plate, guaranteed watertightness and clear warranty terms make the difference between a sound purchase and an expensive disappointment. This checklist helps you assess the quality of a container before you sign.
The best-known shipping container approval mark is the CSC plate (Container Safety Convention), an international certificate confirming that a container may be safely stacked and transported by road, rail or water. The metal plate is fitted by the door as standard and states, among other things, the next inspection date.
A container built to ISO dimensions fits standard transport and stacking systems. That's a practical indication that the container was manufactured to recognised standards, alongside the CSC inspection itself.
Unsure about a specific supplier? Then always ask for the inspection report, the CSC plate and the payment terms before you transfer any money. That's how you buy a shipping container safely without a middleman.
Spot rust patches or damaged coating while inspecting? That needn't be a deal-breaker, but do ask how the container has been treated and maintained. Read more about prevention in shipping container maintenance and preventing rust.
| Feature | New (one-trip) | Used (cargo-worthy/A-grade) |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Virtually as-new, one sea voyage made | Signs of use possible, functionally in top condition |
| Watertightness | Guaranteed | Guaranteed, as inspected wind and watertight |
| Inspection | CSC-inspected | CSC-inspected and inspected at depot |
| Value for money | Best choice for visible applications | Best value for money for storage |
Want to see exactly which new and used containers are available immediately? Browse the current range in the shop, including type, size and condition.
Every container is inspected before delivery. Used containers are guaranteed wind and watertight and CSC-inspected; new (one-trip) containers have made exactly one sea voyage and are virtually as-new. After delivery, the local team remains available for service and questions.
When you request a quote, ask about the specific warranty terms for the type and condition of container you choose, so you know exactly where you stand. You'll receive a concrete quote with price, stock and delivery date within an hour on working days; see also containers available immediately from stock.
Come across a supplier offering the same container in the same condition for a lower price? Thanks to the lowest-price guarantee, that price is matched, with an extra discount on top.
Considering trading in an existing container when buying a new one, or want to know whether take-back after use is possible? This isn't arranged as standard, but it is open to discussion: mention it when you request a quote, and the team will look into what's feasible for your type and condition of container together with you.
Only need extra space temporarily? Then renting a shipping container is often a more flexible alternative than buying and later selling or trading it in again.
Unsure about the quality or approval mark of a specific container? Leave your name and phone number or email address, and the local team will be glad to help you.
When buying a shipping container, look out for a valid CSC plate, an inspection report, guaranteed wind and watertightness, and clear warranty and payment terms. Check the coating, doors, seals and floor for damage, and ask whether the container has been inspected before delivery. If in doubt, choose payment after delivery, so you never pay without the container actually being in place.
The best-known approval mark for a shipping container is the CSC plate, an international certificate confirming that the container may be safely stacked and transported. The certificate is fixed by the door and goes with a valid inspection report. Always ask for this certificate before buying: without a valid CSC inspection, you can't be sure the container meets the safety requirements.
Close the doors from inside and check whether any pinpoints of light show through seams or holes; that's a simple first test for watertightness. Also check the rubber seals around the doors, the coating for rust patches and the floor for signs of damp. At HEROX, every used container is inspected before delivery and delivered guaranteed wind and watertight.
Every container is inspected before delivery, and used containers are delivered guaranteed wind and watertight and CSC-inspected. After delivery, the local team remains available for service and questions. For the exact warranty terms for your type and condition of container, it's smartest to ask when you request a quote, so you know exactly where you stand.
Trading in or taking back isn't arranged as standard, but it is open to discussion: indicate when you request a quote whether you're interested, and the team will look into what's possible for your type and condition of container. That way you avoid surprises later and know in advance what options there are before you buy for good.
View live stock with prices, or get a tailored quote within one business hour.
