Choosing the best shipping container comes down to what you need to use the container for, as well as your budget. We’ve put together four of our top tips on choosing the best shipping container to meet your needs.

Visit the Container Yard to get an Idea of What You Need

If you can, visiting the shipping container yard is a great way to get an idea of what type of container you need. You can talk to the right people, take a look at the various containers, and ensure that the container you need is available. It’s a great idea to also check out other options while you’re on site – there might be a better option than you originally thought.

Do an Inspection

Once you’ve chosen the container that best suits your needs, do a thorough inspection to ensure everything is in shape. You want to be checking out items such as:

  • Damage, dents, patches, and rust
  • The age of the container
  • Whether things like the doors, hinges, locks and roof is all in good working condition

What do you Need the Container For?

Choosing the right container all comes down to the purpose you are purchasing or hiring. You don’t want a standard shipping container if you are trying to store oversized items, just like you don’t want a refrigerated container to use as a temporary office space.  Knowing why you need the container, and how you’ll use it, will allow you to choose the best container to meet your needs (and it might not be what you originally thought).

What’s your Budget?

Something many people don’t realise is that shipping containers come in a range of conditions. You have brand new containers and used containers. Brand new are great if you need to ship or store something without the chance of cross contamination. Used containers come in three different conditions:

  • A Grade Containers – best condition overall and are generally within the 8 to 12 year age range. Everything is in tact, no rust, the doors close and very little dents and scratches. These containers are air and watertight.
  • B Grade Containers – older containers, usually between 10 to 14 years. Some rust may be present but the container is still air and watertight and the doors and seals are still good.
  • C Grade Containers – usually the oldest of the containers, and condition is not as good. Likely have rust, dents and scratches and doors and seals usually aren’t water and air tight.

When you’re looking for a shipping container in Adelaide, speak to the team at Shipping Containers Adelaide. You’ll get the right advice and can be sure that you’ll receive the best shipping container to meet your needs.