Buying a 20′ Shipping Container

Buying a 20ft Shipping Container: Your Checklist

A 20ft container is the most popular size for home and jobsite storage. This checklist covers what to decide, what to inspect and what to ask before you pay, so the container that shows up is the one you expected.

Step 1: Decide New or Used

• New (one-trip): used once to ship cargo, near-new condition. Best when it will be seen or modified. See what one-trip means.
• Used: lower price, visible wear. Ask for the grade and what it means; ours are explained in our container grades guide.

Step 2: Inspect the Container

Whenever you can, look at the actual unit, not a stock photo. At our Rosedale yard you can.

• Doors: open and close both doors fully. They should swing without forcing, and the locking bars should seat cleanly.
• Door seals: look for torn or missing rubber gaskets around the doors.
• Light test: step inside, close the doors and look for daylight. Pinholes in the roof or walls mean leaks.
• Floor: walk the whole floor and feel for soft or broken spots in the wood.
• Roof: look for deep dents where water could pool.
• Corners and frame: surface rust is normal on used units; rust that has eaten through the steel is not.
• Smell and stains: strong odors or stains can mean a past spill.

Step 3: Ask the Seller These Questions

1. Is the container in your yard, and can I see this exact unit?
2. What grade is it, and what does that grade mean?
3. Is delivery included, and who does the delivering?
4. What happens if it arrives with damage that was not disclosed?
5. Do you service or repair containers after the sale?

At K&K, the answers are simple: the container is in our yard, our own drivers deliver it, and our 20,000 sq. ft. shop is here if you need repairs later. Beware of brokers who cannot answer the first question; see our guide to shipping container scams.

Step 4: Check Your Site

A 20ft container is 20′ L x 8′ W x 8’6″ H and weighs about 5,000 lbs empty (see 20′ conex weight). The delivery truck needs a clear, straight path and firm, level ground at the drop spot. Our delivery site preparation guide walks through it, and our permit guide covers when you may need county or city approval.

Step 5: Choose and Order

Compare current 20ft containers in our shop or on our 20ft containers for sale page. Need it for a short project instead? Ask about container rentals. Call (410) 574-5550 or request a free quote.