The 10 mistakes to avoid when buying a used container
A well-chosen used container can last 15-20 years without issues. Poorly chosen, it will cost £1,500-3,000 for repairs within two years, or worse: it may fail on a sensitive construction site. Here are the 10 most common mistakes we see across our network, grouped into five categories.
Mistakes 1-2: rushed visual inspection
Mistake 1: not checking the floor. The original treated plywood absorbs moisture over time; a degraded floor (dark stains, local collapses) requires complete replacement (£600-1,200). Always walk on every surface, including under loaded areas.
Error 2: confusing cosmetic rust with structural rust. Surface rust on the side walls is normal and harmless. But rust on the base beams (on the longitudinal crossbeams under the floor) is a red flag: it can compromise load-bearing capacity.
Errors 3-4: forgotten document checks
Error 3: not requesting the CSC plate. Each shipping container has a CSC plate (Convention for Safe Containers) with serial number, year of manufacture and technical data. No CSC plate = no verifiable history, and impossible to use the container for international transport or certain regulated applications.
Error 4: for a reefer, skipping the ATP certificate. The ATP certificate (Agreement on the International Transport of Perishable Goods) is mandatory for any road transportation of fresh/frozen goods. It costs £350-700 to renew, and a reefer without a valid certificate loses 15-20% of its resale value.
Errors 5-6: the trap of prices 'too good to be true'
Error 5: falling for an ad at £975 for a 'good condition' 20'. The legitimate market floor is £1,100-£1,300 for a Grade C 20' in port storage. Below this, three scenarios: cargo-unworthy container (structural corrosion), fake listing to collect your contact details, or outright scam with bank transfer and no delivery.
Error 6: underestimating hidden costs. Listed price + delivery (£150-£720) + crane if access is difficult (£130-£480) + VAT non-recoverable for individuals (20% in France). A container 'at £1,900' can easily total £2,960. Always request a full inclusive quote including VAT.
Errors 7-8: neglecting installation logistics
Error 7: ordering without checking access. A 40-foot container requires 18-20 m of straight access for the flatbed truck + crane. A 20-foot fits on 12-15 m. Measuring before ordering avoids £230-£690 in extra costs (additional mobile crane, fence dismantling, return empty).
Error 8: forgetting administrative permissions. In France, an installation > 3 months on the ground often requires a prior declaration to the town hall, sometimes a building permit (protected areas, ABF zones). Local rules to check BEFORE purchase. We have seen projects blocked for six months due to this.
Errors 9-10: after purchase, vigilance drops
Error 9: no insurance on the container as a property. Your home/office insurance almost never covers a container in your yard unless explicitly stated. In case of theft or water damage, you are not covered. An additional line costs £25-£70/year.
Error 10: neglecting maintenance. A well-maintained container (annual visual inspection, repainting corroded areas every 5-7 years, lubricated door seals) lasts 20 years. Without maintenance, it deteriorates quickly after 8-10 years. Average annual budget: £45-150.
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