1. What is Shipped.com

Shipped.com is an amazing and innovative way to purchase shipping containers at wholesale prices. We function as a direct provider with upfront pricing listed on our site and automated checkout. We facilitate and support every transaction from start to finish until you are 100% satisfied. Our website fully automates the process but we also have support staff standing by, for any assistance needed.

2. What is the Shipped.com process? How does it work?

We created a detailed guide for you. Check out How Shipped Works!

3. What are shipping containers made of?

Shipping containers are made of high-grade COR-TEN Steel. They are non-corrosive and rust-resistant. They are made to endure years of heavy use on the high-seas, often in the most brutal conditions. More info is available in our Buyer's Guide.

4. I keep hearing the phrase "Adaptive Reuse". Can you tell me what it means in relation to shipping containers?

Sure. Adaptive Reuse means the reusing of a material, building or site for a purpose other than for which it was originally intended. And this is why shipping container homes are becoming so popular. It's not only because they’re a cheaper construction material. In some cases they can be more expensive. But converting used shipping containers to homes goes along with the trend of "going green" and preserving the raw materials the earth has a limited supply of.

5. Aside from converting used shipping containers into homes, what are some other uses for used shipping containers?

Well, nearly anything you can build from brick and mortar, you can make from a repurposed shipping container. Storage sheds, emergency shelters, even swimming pools or the perfect massive composter; nearly any building project can utilize containers. Check out our Buyer's Guide and our blog for more inspiration and ideas.

6. Are shipping containers subjected to or affected by condensation?

Metal surfaces that are exposed to variations in temperature will develop condensation. Evidence has shown that corrugated metal is less affected by condensation. Also, shipping containers have a slight bow at the top so that moisture will roll down the sides instead of puddling on the roof. And, of course, certain types of paint resist condensation. Condensation generally occurs when a container is positioned on ground that can become cold and damp. This cold, damp air permeates through the metal. Since all air has moisture in it, and that moisture will condense into water droplets, the key is to keep the container as air and water tight as possible. Also, items inside the container that may be damaged by water should be placed on pallets or racks to prevent being damaged incase condensation forms.

7. What's the best surface to place a storage container?

The answer depends greatly on what your intended use is. Generally speaking though, your container should sit on a dry, even, hard surface. The weight of the container needs to be distributed to the corners. Concrete and asphalt are excellent choices. Alternatively, stone pavers, hard blocks of wood, even railroad ties or gravel can be placed in the corners to keep the container level and the weight evenly distributed.

8. How many pallets can fit into a 20' storage container?

If properly configured, about 10 standard (40”x48”x48”) pallets can fit into a 20' shipping container. Also, approximately 22 standard (40”x48”x48”) pallets can fit into a 40' shipping container, and approximately 24 standard (40”x48”x48”) pallets can fit into 40' and 45' hi-cube shipping containers. Our Buyer's Guide contains additional volume and load capacity information.

9. I've heard you can turn shipping containers into homes. Is this possible and how do I get started?

Yes, it is possible and it's being done every day. Our Shipping Container Blog is full of stories of people creating everything from single family luxury homes to multiple-unit low income housing to portable pop-up hotels. We are connected with many companies that specialize in the design and manufacture of shipping container homes and other structures. These companies do everything from simply designing buildings to full-on remodeling and construction! What you can turn a shipping container into is limited only by your imagination. If you'd like a list of companies to assist with your unique project, please contact us, we'd be happy to help for free.

10. What are the different types of containers?

There are many types of used and new containers. Check out our Buyer's Guide for all the different classes, types, sizes and ratings of intermodal conex shipping containers.

11. Do shipping containers require maintenance?

Shipping containers require very little maintenance because the steel work is very high quality. After all, they're designed to carry expensive cargo securely over the high-seas. Containers of this type can expect a life span of over 50 years. The door hinges and locking bars may require a bit of oiling from time to time, but that's about it. Once your container begins to age, you may need to keep up with painting the areas that have been dented or scratched, as they are prone to light rusting over long periods of time.

12. How secure are shipping containers?

Basic security is done by fitting a padlock onto the doors. This stops the "walk-by" or crimes of opportunity. But for a thief intent on getting in, the container can be modified and fit with a steel hasp or locking box across the two doors, at about chest height. This is basically a steel box that fits over the lock, making it difficult to tamper with. At this point, the only way to break in is with a blow-torch or steel grinding/cutting gear, which makes a lot of racket. We've also seen motion detectors for shipping containers and other high tech solutions if you'd like additional security.

13. Do I need city permission for a storage container?

Generally speaking, storage containers are considered temporary structures and don't normally need permissions. But if you are considering using your container as a permanent attachment to your house (i.e. as an addition, etc.), then it's always good to check with your local city planning commission.

1. How Do I Get Started

First, read our shipping container Buyer's Guide and decide on the type of container you want. Then take a look at the shipping containers we have for sale or for rent. All our prices are listed and there is no need to wait for quotes! Our advanced shopping cart also provides an instant and accurate delivery cost to your home or business. Within seconds you can check out using any of our 7 different payment options and then we'll work on getting your container shipped to your door!

For more info on this process, check out How it Works!

2. I'm buying many containers or I'm a repeat buyer. Do you have a discount or loyalty bonus available?

Yes, in a way your discount is already built in. Shipped is a direct seller of our own shipping containers. We pass on serious savings that are usually absorbed by brokers and middle-men that markup the prices of containers as they change hands. The price you will pay is lower than anywhere else and in addition, we have the service and guarantees to ensure your total satisfaction.

3. When I purchase a container, does the price include shipping/taxes/fees/etc?

Yes, by default our shopping cart calculates the exact cost for delivery. The price you see is the all inclusive price. We make purchasing a shipping container as easy and seamless as possible. All taxes, fees, customs duties, insurance, delivery fees, etc., are all included in your final price you pay. Basically, the price you pay on shipped.com will be the total price you pay to have your container(s) safely delivered to your doorstep.

Also, if you would prefer to pickup your container at your local Shipped.com depot you can remove the shipping in the cart.

4. What are the payment options for Shipped.com?

We accept all major forms of payment including:

5. I'm concerned about who owned the container before me. Is there any way to get previous ownership information?

Yes, through a BIC-Code search engine. Just enter the BIC-Code and you'll see the prior ownership information, much like CarFax.com does for automobile VIN numbers.

6. Is my delivery site suitable?

Please read through our entire Shipping Container Delivery Guidelines (PDF) to ensure your site is suitable

7. How will my container be delivered? What about space restrictions?

That depends on the type of delivery vehicle. The container is normally delivered by one of two methods, depending on the size and number of container you are buying.

The most frequently utilized delivery method is via a tilt-bed truck. These back in to your delivery space, lower the back-end, and slowly slide the container down the bed of the truck and then back away. Generally speaking, you'll need double the length of the container to deliver via this method.

The second is via a flat-bed truck and crane. The crane can be attached to the delivery vehicle, or it can be on its own vehicle. In this case, a good rule of thumb is the have twice the width of the container to allow the crane ample space in which to operate, plus an additional 10' or so in length. Also, there should be no overhead restrictions like tree branches or cables or branches and the road leading to the delivery spot should be navigable.

8. Receiving Your Container

Once the delivery driver arrives and unloads your container to the correct spot, you'll need to perform a quick but thorough inspection. If you've done it before, then you know what to look for. If not, re-familiarize yourself with the type of container you purchased, including grade and condition. The first thing to check for is pin holes in the container. Step inside the container and have the driver close the door behind you. Look around for small beams of light that indicate holes caused by rusting or corrosion. In most cases the imperfections can be corrected on the spot by applying a small amount of epoxy.

The second thing to check during your delivery inspection is the doors. Make sure they are in good working order and that there isn't any major problem opening or closing them. Sometimes, the position of the container can cause a pinching of the door hinges. This will make them grind or rub when opening/closing. This can be corrected by repositioning the container if needed.

1. Getting Started As A Dealer

Container Dealers & Brokers can signup for Shipped.com here. Each container request you submit can be a separate order with separate buyer name, address, phone number, currency, etc. You can let us coordinate delivery for you or you can pickup at our depot. The choices are yours to make as a Shipped.com Dealer.

2. As a Dealer or Broker, why should I buy at Shipped.com?

For the same reasons buyers use us, you should buy from us. We have 65+ depots and lots of quality inventory. Our bottom dollar is lower than other suppliers and we can even provide delivery to your buyer if you want us to. Please get in touch with one of our wholesale account managers at +1 503-SHIPPED today!