It may seem complicated to shop for a container if you’ve never done so before, but everything is straightforward. Size, specifications, kind, condition, and shipping container price are the five most important factors when choosing the container. 

• Size 
• Specifications 
• Types 
• Conditions  
• Cost 

Determining the Shipping Container Size 

The cost and availability of a container are just two variables that might be affected by its size. So, it’s a good starting point for figuring out how to choose the right container.  

Twenty-foot (ft) and forty-foot (ft) shipping containers are the two most common sizes. There are various containers available, including 10ft and 30ft. Still, they are less frequent and can be harder to find. 

Shipping containers with a length of 20 feet are ideal for transporting machinery and bulky materials like sugar, paper, cement, and steel because of their limited capacity and high weight. 

Forty-foot containers are up next. These can hold twice as much as a standard 20-foot container but only half as much cargo. Thus, they transport items like cotton, electronics, and household furnishings that are big but relatively light. 

The type  

After settling on a container’s appropriate size, you’ll be presented with several options. What you intend to store in the container will determine this. 

“Standard” or “general purpose” containers are the most prevalent packaging options. The measurements mentioned above apply to most common containers, typically 20 to 40 feet. 

Conversely, “high cube” containers are visually identical to ordinary containers, except that they are 9 feet and 6 inches tall. Their extra height makes them look like cubes, hence the moniker when viewed from behind or in front. 

Condition  

Given that you know the size and shape of the container you’ll require, you can now determine whether to buy a brand new one or reuse an existing one. One-way containers, or “new” containers, are containers that have never been used to transport anything other than dry merchandise from overseas to the United States. You won’t find nicer or more modern containers anywhere else. One-way containers have a service life of 25 to 30 years and don’t need to be repainted or maintained. The used shipping containers are still in good shape. Used containers that have been inspected and are still considered cargo-worthy can transport goods internationally. Used containers still in good condition for transporting freight are less expensive than brand new ones. For more information, please log on to https://www.southwestcontainers.com.au/refrigerated-shipping-containers. 

Specifications  

Specifications are equally important to body size. When shopping for a shipping container, you’ll find two primary options: shipping and storage. Most of a shipping container’s life is hauled around by trucks. They are opened and closed on the chassis. Therefore, they have handles placed lower so they may be opened by persons sitting on the floor. General shipping containers are stored on the ground. Therefore, they have a lockbox, forklift pockets, and larger handles that can be opened from the ground up. It is useful whether the containers are being used for storing or as a place to live. 

Cost  

Ultimately, your budget and intended use will determine your selected container condition. You need to choose the shipping container price that is closest to your needs and resources.