FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions

See some common questions and answers below, or call us at (708) 639-4992

About Containers:

  • What is the difference between a NEW or USED container?

    New containers are also known as new, one-way (one-trip) containers, which means they have had a one-way loaded move from the manufacturer overseas to North America.


    Used containers have been used in international container shipping for an average of 14 to 18 years. They are graded as Cargo Worthy, Wind/Water Tight or As Is.

  • Are shipping/storage containers referred to by other names?

    Yes, they can be called conex, ISO, freight, export, shipping, storage, cargo, seaworthy, boxes, portable, pods, containerized, etc.

  • What size containers are available?

    20’ length containers:

    • All USED 20’ containers are only available in 8’6” heights.
    • 20’ High Cube containers are only available as NEW units with very limited availability.
    • Width 8’

    40 ft. length containers:

    • 40’ USED and NEW containers are available in heights of 8' 6" (Standard Container) & 9' 6" (High Cube)
    • Width 8’
  • What is the difference between a Standard container & a High Cube container?

    A Standard container is 8' 6" high 


    A High Cube container is 9' 6" high

  • Are there different types of used containers?

    The grading system in the container industry ranges from IICL, Cargo Worthy for Ocean Export, Wind/Water Tight and As Is. There is no other industry recognized grading system.

    • IICL – These are used containers that have come out of international shipping line fleets before their normal 14-18 year depreciation.
    • Cargo Worthy is a grade of container that meets all of the requirements of the manufacturer. Certified means a licensed private company has inspected the container to confirm it meets all requirements for international ocean shipment.
    • Wind/Water tight containers have structural integrity and are able to carry the same weight for which they were built. The Wind/Water Tight designation means the container is dry inside.
    • As Is condition means the container comes with no guarantees.
  • What is the average age of a used shipping container?

    Used containers generally average 14 to 18 years of age.

  • What is the average condition of used shipping containers?

    Be careful when comparing pricing. Not all used containers are equal - the greatest percentage of used containers we sell are graded as Cargo Worthy. Used Wind/Water Tight containers are also available.


    Used containers may have some dings & dents with exterior rust - none of which affect the structural integrity of the container.

  • What type of flooring is in a container?

    The majority of containers have a 1 1/8" laminated marine-grade plywood flooring with steel cross member beams underneath.

  • Are storage containers wind & watertight?

    Our containers are completely enclosed to offer wind and water protection. We guarantee all of our containers to be wind and water tight at time of pick up or delivery.

  • What color are the containers?

    Our NEW containers are generally beige, tan, or gray. We do not sell USED containers by color. However, for a multiple-container purchase, we can usually match the container colors.

About Delivery:

  • What types of delivery do you offer?

    Deliveries are available as two primary options:

    • Delivery via a tilt-bed trailer placing the container on the ground.
    • A second optional delivery is via a flat-bed or step-deck trailer requiring customers to lift the container off at time of arrival.
  • Can I pick up the container if I have my own delivery truck?

    Yes, we will lift the container at no additional cost, and place it on your trailer. Trailer must meet state highway requirements requiring you to completely secure the container.

  • How much does it cost to deliver?

    Delivery costs depend on the distance to your site from where we store the containers. We suggest you contact us by phone - Monday through Friday – 8 am to 5pm Eastern Standard Time - 708 639-4992 or email us at [email protected]

  • How much space is required for delivery?

    For a 20’ container, about 75 feet of straight-line space is needed, and 20 feet of turning space. For a 40’ container, the truck and trailer will need about 110 feet of straight-line space, and 20 feet of turning space. All units require a minimum of 12 feet of width.


    We need 12 feet 6 inches of clearance from the ground to the top of the container; and a total of 16 feet of clearance to allow for the highest extension of the tilt-bed trailer. It is important that there are no power lines, tree branches, or other obstructions at the site that do not meet the above height restrictions.

  • Is there any preparation I need to do to my site?

    The site should be level and firm. We have delivered on grass, dirt, cement and pavement. 40’ containers need to be level.

  • Can weather affect delivery?

    Yes, weather can affect delivery.


    If you plan to place the container directly on the ground, as opposed to concrete, black-top, or gravel; rain or snow can make the soil less firm and difficult to support the massive weight of the truck and shipping container.


    We ask that you keep an eye on the weather report and advise if we need to reschedule for when the ground will be dry enough to accept the weight of the truck, trailer, and container. To reschedule, we require a minimum 24-hour notice prior to the established delivery date.


    If a container is being delivered to a firm surface; i.e., established road bed, asphalt, or cement; rain generally will not affect a delivery.

  • How long will delivery take, once I order a container?

    We strive to deliver containers generally within a 2 to 3 day window from your order date Monday through Friday. Delivery dates are advised at time of order.

  • Do I have to be present for the delivery?

    An individual needs to be present at the delivery site with cell phone accessibility to the driver.

  • Can a ground level portable container be move loaded?

    We do not move loaded containers with our tilt-bed trucks.

  • Can we place blocking devices under a container to raise it off the ground?

    We do not normally recommend containers be raised off the ground unless a specific ground condition requires it. We suggest that you give our Operations Group a call to discuss how this can be accomplished when utilizing our tilt-bed trailers. From a few of our geographical locations we do offer delivery utilizing a side-unloader where a container can be placed on top of a fixed foundation.

  • Can I pay the driver with a check when he arrives?

    Our drivers do not accept any payments. As a result, we do not offer a COD program.

Purchasing A Container:

  • How do I purchase a container?

    It is best to call our office when you’re ready to order a container. We will have a number of questions that need to be answered to complete an invoice.

  • What type of payment is required?

    We accept all credit cards, checks, and wire transfers.

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