Buying a container – everything worth knowing first.
Conditions, dimensions, permits, transport and payment. If your question is not here, write to us.
Condition and quality
What do CW, WWT, one-way and factory new mean?
Cargo Worthy (CW) is a used container still certified for sea transport with a valid CSC plate. WWT (wind- and watertight) is sound and fully usable but no longer released for shipping – the cheapest choice for static storage. One-way means exactly one sea voyage: effectively as new, no repair patches. Factory new has never carried cargo.
How much rust is normal on a used container?
Surface rust on edges, weld seams and the base frame is expected on any used unit and does not affect function – containers are built from weathering Corten steel, which forms a protective patina. What is not acceptable is perforation, failed seals or distorted door frames. We do not release units like that.
Do I get photographs of the actual container?
Yes. Before you approve the purchase we send current images of the unit you will receive – not a catalogue photograph of the model.
How long does a container last?
A shipping container is designed for around 25 years at sea. On land, without salt water and without crane handling, a used unit will typically last another 15 to 20 years with normal care. Clear roof drainage, intact seals and ventilation against condensation are what matter.
Why does condensation form inside a container?
Warm, humid air condenses on the cool steel ceiling – the trade calls it container rain. Ventilation grilles on opposite walls, a slightly raised site and desiccant for sensitive goods all help. We fit ventilation grilles ex works on request.
Dimensions and siting
What are the external dimensions of a 20 ft and a 40 ft container?
20 ft standard: 6.058 × 2.438 × 2.591 m. 40 ft standard: 12.192 × 2.438 × 2.591 m. A high cube is 2.896 m tall, around 30 cm more. Internal dimensions are on every product page.
What ground does a container need?
Level, made-up and load-bearing. Hardcore, concrete slabs or paving are sufficient. Because the container rests only on its four corner castings we recommend concrete pads beneath them. One to two per cent of fall helps water run off.
How much room does the delivery vehicle need?
A side loader needs a straight approach, about 4 m of clear width next to the standing area and roughly 4.2 m of headroom. Where that is not available we deliver by crane truck over the obstacle. We settle this with you before quoting.
Can containers be stacked?
Shipping containers are structurally stackable up to eight high, locked together through the corner castings with twistlocks. Modular systems such as office and accommodation units follow the manufacturer’s limits – usually up to three storeys with an external staircase. From two storeys up, planning permission is almost always required.
Legal, transport and payment
Do I need planning permission?
Rules differ by country and, in Germany, by federal state. A storage container standing temporarily on a commercial site is usually exempt. Permission is generally needed once the container is placed permanently, contains occupied rooms, is connected to services or is stacked. Check with your local authority; we provide the technical documentation.
What does delivery cost?
Nothing. Delivery across Europe is included in the price. We set the container down on your site.
How long does delivery take?
Stock units within Germany usually 3–7 working days. Modular systems such as office, sanitary and accommodation containers are built to order: 2–8 weeks. Bespoke conversions 4–10 weeks.
Do you deliver outside Germany?
Yes, to 32 European countries – the whole of the EU, the EFTA states and the United Kingdom. Intra-Community supplies to businesses with a valid VAT ID are invoiced zero-rated.
How is payment made?
By advance payment against invoice. The container is scheduled and delivered once payment has cleared. Different terms are possible for public authorities and established business customers.
Do you sell to private individuals?
Yes. We sell to private customers, businesses and public bodies. All prices include VAT and delivery.
Can I have the container in a specific colour?
Yes. For a surcharge we respray any container in the RAL colour of your choice; on one-way units the colour is often available ex works. Vinyl logo lettering is also possible.
Question not answered?
Write us a short note about what you need – we normally reply the same working day.