New and Used shipping container grading

One Trip: One trip containers are manufactured overseas; mainly in Asia and are shipped with a single container cargo load. Once the container reaches its destination they are often available for sale. These containers are an excellent choice because they have not spent time deteriorating on the ocean or in a container depot / terminal. One trip containers have not been handled as many time so they do not have dents, dings and surface rust like used “AS IS” containers. Most consider these containers and often refer to them as “new” or in “like new” condition. Keep in mind that these containers have made one trip across the ocean and have been handled by container lifts and trucks, so they often have a few scratches and a possible dent or two. One trip containers are available worldwide in most port locations.

Cargo Worthy: Very good condition. Absolutely wind and watertight. All holes (if there have been any) have been properly and fully repaired. No dents over 50mm (2 inches) deep. Good wooden floors with no breakages. Doors easily open to the full 270 degrees and all locking bars, cams, saddles, retainers, handles and seals are in good condition. These containers are suitable for export or food transport.

Wind/Water Tight: This is a common standard used by container traders to classify containers that do not have a valid CSC Plate for shipping. Although watertight, these containers are not suitable for shipping for any number of inspection criteria.

As is, where is: This grade classifies containers that have no guarantee that they are, or will remain, watertight or cargo worthy for any extended period. Often, they have sustained damage that is not easily repaired, such as large dents, holes or extensive, deep-seated corrosion, or greyscale deterioration.

DEEP-SEATED CORROSION = GREYSCALE

Used shipping container grading

Grade-A units are used but newer containers that have minimum dents and scratches

Grade-B units are used containers that show more dents, scratches and often superficial rust however still good in wind and water tight condition, specially for storage uses

Grade-C units are used containers normally called “AS IS CONDITION” They will display massive corrosion, sometimes structure damage, roof holes, wooden floor degrading, even if repaired, not recommendable long-term storage uses.

• 10 Ft Brand new containers
• 20 Ft New and used units
• 40 Ft New and used units
• 45 Ft new and used units
• 48 Ft new and used units (very scarce in the US used present market)
• 53 Ft new and used units (very scarce in the US used present market)

High cube represents a container that will be taller than a Standard unit

• High cube Height 9.5 Ft exterior dimension
• Standard Height 8.5 Ft exterior dimension