Top Tips During Container Purchase and Hire.
There are various reasons that people buy or hire shipping containers. Although they are popular in the transport industry, they can also be used for storage purposes or fabricated into homes and offices. Buying or renting a shipping container has never been easier if you follow the tips below.
What are your needs?
Do not choose a container merely based on its size; rather, evaluate the various types of shipping containers and ensure that the container you hire or buy fits your intended use. Some types of shipping containers include:
- Dry storage containers. These are the standard containers used by shipping companies. They have doors at the back.
- Open top containers have a removable top to allow you to carry towering objects.
- Refrigerated containers are fitted with cooling systems to allow you to store or transport perishable products.
- Containers can also be grouped according to the orientation of their doors. For instance, they can be tunnel (doors at both ends), open side (doors located at the side) or double doors (doors at one end and the side).
The condition of the container.
Whether you are looking for shipping containers for sale or hire, you must ensure that the container is in an excellent condition. Preferably, ensure that you view the container before purchase. Inspect it for any signs of corrosion. Avoid containers with leaking roofs, damaged floors or dents. If you notice such damages, ask the seller to give you a discount.
Location and handling.
How will the shipping container reach you? Some companies may offer transport services at a fee. Ensure that you make such inquiries in advance. If you want to fabricate the container or use it as a storage unit, place it on a rigid and level surface. If you put it on an uneven surface, it could get dents underneath or the doors could fail to open.
Terms of hire.
If you are looking for shipping containers for hire, ensure that you inquire on the company's terms before leasing the container. Some important inquiries include:
- Is the container insured?
- When and how should you make payments?
- If the container is refrigerated, who will conduct maintenance if the cooling system breaks down?
- What happens if you want to stay longer with the container? Are there any penalties?
The primary considerations when buying or hiring containers are the type of container, the condition of the container, location, handling, and terms of hire.