Buying a Second hand Container? (Buying Tips)

Buying Tips for second hand containers What to look out for, when buying a second hand shipping container for storage. We at Billie Box know that there are a number of dealers out there that want to offer you a “cheap” container. Well we believe “You get what you pay for”. Buying “Cheap” is not always the best policy. The second hand containers we sell are generally 10-15 years old, they are watertight and structurally sound, we ensure our depots check over all containers prior to release. Remember, they will have been used to ship goods all around the world via sea and road. During their life; they will have been lifted on and off ships and trucks, full and empty. So they will have seen a good shipping life! After about 10-15 years or so (time varies depending on the shipping companies sale policy), these containers will be perfect for static storage. Our buying tips: Your container should fulfill the following criteria. Watertight and structurally sound (you should not see any daylight from inside, when the doors are closed) A lock box (cowl) would need to be fitted – for security The door hinges are working freely The door locking bar handles are working freely The wooden floors are fairly intact (the floorboards are held in place with steel cross members on the underside 6in apart) Cosmetics, you will have surface rust, scratches, scuffs, non transferable markings and dents which should still be in cube. The above criteria will ensure (with a little maintenance) that your static storage container will last you another 10-15 years. There are suppliers that are offering containers that are over 20 years old. These containers will not last as long as the 10-15 year old ones. You may also have troubles with many elements whilst being used for static storage. The longer a container is used for shipping the more it will deteriorate. We strongly recommend you get more information before you buy. Use our buying tips above. Remember: You get what you pay for!