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Main Blog New vs. Used Shipping Containers: What is Right for You

New vs. Used Shipping Containers: What is Right for You

August 30, 2022
Coast Containers

Before deciding on which container is right for you, it is essential to compare the pros and cons of a used shipping container vs. a new shipping container. Both kinds are in working condition, meaning they are durable, structurally sound, and reliable options no matter your choice. Based on your plans and which storage container characteristics are essential for your unique needs, there are multiple benefits of used and new sea cans. Keep reading to discover which container is right for you and find out the many benefits of new and used containers.

The Difference Between New and Used Shipping Containers

Knowing the difference between a used and a new shipping container can help you match your needs with the best storage container on the market. You can come across multiple names for a sea can when you start your research.  Although there are many different sizes and types of storage containers, if you are looking for a container to buy, there are two main types to consider.

Many people want to know the difference between one-trip vs. new shipping containers. The first thing to know is a one-trip container is referred to as a new container or a one-way container throughout the industry. Another name that people sometimes use to refer to this type of sea can is a single-use shipping container. This name is because it is common for them to have travelled once before becoming available for purchase. This single trip is from the manufacturer to one of the Coast Container locations across Canada, meaning their condition is “like new,” and it is common for there to be some minor dents or scratches from their single trip. 

Next, there are used sea containers which have been in previous use for multiple years before arriving at Coast Containers. This kind of old container has most likely been utilized by shipping companies as part of their container fleet to transport various cargo or merchandise from one location to another worldwide. Although this old shipping container may not be as aesthetically pleasing, it is a popular choice among many individuals and businesses. 

Depending on your personal or commercial requirements and needs for the container, you will find that there are both similar and different benefits of both new and used sea cans. In the following sections, we break down the unique positives of the two different kinds of containers. 

Benefits of New Shipping Containers

There are many pros of new vs. used shipping containers. They are fantastic if you need a new, aesthetically pleasing container for your unique needs or modifications. Here are some of the main benefits when comparing a new shipping container vs. a used shipping container:

Top Condition & Visually Appealing 

Since new containers have only travelled one time between the manufacturer and seller, they are in top condition and the most visually appealing. Therefore, new shipping containers for sale are great if the external appearance of the container is essential or if you plan to store it in a highly visible spot on your property. This benefit is especially relevant if your strata or municipality bylaws have rules and regulations for keeping container shipping on lawns, driveways, or in one of your business’s parking spots.

New Ventilation Systems & Installed Lock Boxes 

Many new containers have lock boxes and vents installed. Since they have not been used for years before you buy them, their ventilation systems are at the top of their game. In addition, new containers often come with new vents and lock boxes, making them ideal for storing items that rely on good airflow or need top security features. 

Less Shipping Container Maintenance

Since they are one-trip containers, they require less maintenance when compared to a used container which has travelled worldwide for many years. As a result, you can keep the container in a suitable environment for multiple years with minimal upkeep and care. They are ideal for those planning to use the container for a long time to store merchandise, furniture, and other items in one place. 

Benefits of Used Shipping Containers

When you think about the benefits of buying a new vs. a used shipping container, it can be easy to think of the pros of new containers. However, there are multiple positives of older used containers as well. Here are just some of the examples of the benefits that a used sea can offer: 

Lower Shipping Container Price

If you want to lower the cost of shipping containers, you might want to buy used shipping containers since they are cheaper than new ones. In addition, if your needs do not necessarily require a brand new container, or if you are looking for a budget-friendly option, then you might benefit from purchasing an older storage container. 

Good Working Condition 

You do not have to worry about the quality since used sea cans for sale are inspected beforehand and can be utilized for many years. They may not be as pretty as new containers but are still fully capable of providing safe, secure, and reliable transportation or storage for your business or personal needs. 

Great for Construction Sites & Difficult Environments

Containers are made of industrial-grade steel and are perfect for keeping things safe in different weather conditions and environments. So, if you know that they will become scratched, dented or heavily used, you may find that you should buy used shipping containers rather than new ones.

Choosing Between a New and Used Shipping Container

When purchasing a shipping container, there are considerable differences and similarities between various types, sizes, and conditions. Therefore, you should keep your precise needs and intended use in mind when you consider the comparison between new and used shipping containers. For example, if you are a contractor and need somewhere to store your tools and equipment at your active construction site, then a used shipping container can be a cost-effective solution. On the other hand, if you plan to store your merchandise or inventory in your business’s parking lot or if you are going to transform it into a container pop-up shop, then a new shipping container is a great option.

Final Thoughts

One of the biggest misconceptions is that a used container’s functionality is less than a new one before deciding between a new vs. used shipping container. It is essential to put aside this inaccurate difference between used and new shipping containers and remember that all containers for sale at Coast Containers are wind and watertight (WWT), rodent-proof, and structurally sound with functioning doors and solid floors. 

If you want to learn more about the other things you should consider when comparing new vs. used shipping containers, then you can learn more about what they are made of and which types are ideal for different needs. If you have any questions about our sea cans for sale, you can call us or contact us online today. We are happy to answer your questions and help you find the container which aligns with your unique plans and needs. Coast Containers has multiple locations in Canada to keep delivery costs low while maintaining a large inventory available to customers. 

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