Specialised containers can be used for diverse purposes for both storage and transportation of different types of goods. They can meet specified requirements, and when you’re considering whether to select a new or used container, have in mind the main factor – usage.
Take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of new and used shipping containers, so you can decide which one is right for you.
Advantages of New Shipping Containers
- No Cross Contamination Risk – If you decide to buy or rent a brand new specialised container, there’s no risk of cross-contamination. The reason is obvious – it has never been used. Nothing has been stored or transported in this container, so, whatever purpose you need it for, you can be confident that your goods will be safe.
- Spotless Condition – This container will be gleaming on the inside and out. The paint will be flawless, with no blemishes, dents or scratches. You don’t have to be concerned about any former owner’s branding.
- Sea Worthiness – If you want to have an adequate specialised container for transport across the ocean, it must meet certain quality ‘seaworthiness’ standards. You can be confident that with the new container, this is guaranteed.
- Air Tight – With a brand new shipping container, you can rest assured that it will be airtight, watertight, and it will keep dust, debris, moisture and vermin out while protecting content.
- Safer to Modify – Being contaminant-free, new containers are ideal for creating pop-up shops, roadside restaurants or building homes and extensions.
Disadvantages of New Shipping Containers
- The Price – As expected, a new shipping container will be more expensive to purchase than a used one, so it only depends on how much you are willing to pay.
- Is The New Container Too Good for Storage? – If you’re storing old machinery, different used items that aren’t of high value, maybe brand new containers are too much. But if you’re going to preserve some sensitive goods, then it’s probably a smart choice.
Pros of Used Shipping Containers
- Excellent for on-site offices – On construction sites, one of the most common shipping container usages is a mobile on-site office. There’s no reason to spend extra money on a brand new container because of this. Aesthetics is not a priority here, so a used container in good condition will be enough.
- The Price Is Lower – This is one of the most common reasons why people decide to rent or buy used containers. There’s a variety of grades when it comes to used containers, so the cost will vary depending on the condition. But one thing’s for sure – you’ll save money.
Cons of Used Shipping Containers
- Cross Contamination is a Risk – Used shipping containers aren’t the best option if you need to transfer or store spoilable or sensitive items because you don’t know what it has been used for before. In this case, purchasing a new container would be a better option.
- Might not be Hermetical – If a specialised container isn’t airtight, it will allow dirt, moisture, and pests to enter inside the container and potentially cause damage to goods. This quality of the container isn’t considered to be seaworthy for transport on container ships.
- Limited Lifetime – The average lifespan of a shipping container is about 12 years. On the other hand, if you have an old container that’s around 8-9 years old, and you intend to use it for cargo transportation, you may not get much use of it before it ends up in the recycling yard.
Conclusion
In the end, your decision will depend on the business you are in and also on your needs. Both new and used shipping containers have advantages and disadvantages. Still, if you find a reliable company like Container Options, you will be able to rent or buy different containers in perfect condition no matter if they were used before or not.