Container Condition & Grading Guide

Understanding Container Conditions at Container Sales Co. Inc.

Shipping containers are industrial assets designed for heavy-duty use. Unlike consumer goods, containers naturally show wear depending on their history and application. To ensure transparency and consistency, we classify our containers using clear condition grades based on structural integrity, weather resistance, and functional readiness — not cosmetic perfection.

This guide explains what each condition means, what to expect, and how to choose the right container for your intended use.

New / One-Trip Containers

Definition:
New (often referred to as “One-Trip”) containers are units that have completed a single international voyage from the manufacturing facility to the destination country.

What to Expect:

  • Excellent structural condition
  • Minimal surface wear from transport
  • Fully functional doors, seals, and locking mechanisms
  • Clean interior with little to no markings
  • Wind- and water-tight

Important Notes:

  • Minor scuffs, handling marks, or transit scratches may be present
  • These are industrial products, not showroom items

Best For:

  • Long-term storage
  • Office or conversion projects
  • Customers seeking near-new appearance

Used – Cargo Worthy (CW)

Definition:
Cargo Worthy containers are used containers certified as structurally sound and suitable for transport and storage.

What to Expect:

  • Solid steel structure
  • Functional doors and locking bars
  • Weather-resistant (wind & water tight)
  • Visible cosmetic wear such as dents, scratches, surface rust, or previous shipping labels

Important Notes:

  • Cosmetic imperfections are normal and expected
  • No structural holes or compromised integrity

Best For:

  • Secure storage
  • Job sites
  • Industrial or commercial use
  • Buyers prioritizing function over appearance

Used – Wind & Water Tight (WWT)

Definition:
Wind & Water Tight containers are used units that prevent water ingress and protect contents from the elements, but may not meet international shipping certification standards.

What to Expect:

  • Structurally intact frame and walls
  • Doors that open and close properly
  • No active leaks
  • Visible wear, dents, patches, or surface corrosion

Important Notes:

  • May include professionally repaired areas
  • Not intended for overseas cargo transport

Best For:

  • On-site storage
  • Workshops
  • Equipment housing
  • Agricultural or construction use

Refurbished Containers

Definition:
Refurbished containers are used units that have undergone selective repairs and improvements to extend service life or improve appearance.

What to Expect:

  • Structural repairs where necessary
  • Sealed and weather-resistant
  • May include repainting, floor repairs, or door servicing

Important Notes:

  • Refurbishment focuses on function and durability, not cosmetic uniformity
  • Specifications vary by unit

Best For:

  • Storage where appearance matters
  • Projects requiring improved presentation without the cost of new units

As-Is / Project Grade Containers

Definition:
As-Is containers are sold in their current condition, without repairs or certification.

What to Expect:

  • May have significant cosmetic or structural wear
  • Possible dents, rust, or prior modifications
  • Sold at a reduced price

Important Notes:

  • These units are not wind & water tight unless explicitly stated
  • Intended for repair, modification, or non-critical use

Best For:

  • DIY projects
  • Scrap or modification bases
  • Buyers experienced with container refurbishment

Cosmetic Wear vs Structural Integrity

It is important to distinguish between appearance and performance:

  • Cosmetic wear includes dents, scratches, surface rust, and paint fading
  • Structural integrity refers to the container’s ability to remain rigid, secure, and weather-resistant

A container can look rough but still perform exceptionally well for storage or industrial use.

Inspection & Transparency

Before dispatch:

  • Containers are visually inspected
  • Condition is classified accurately
  • Any known functional limitations are disclosed

Customers are encouraged to ask questions before purchase to ensure the selected condition aligns with their expectations and intended use.

Choosing the Right Condition

Ask yourself:

  • Is appearance important, or is function the priority?
  • Will the container be modified, stored long-term, or relocated?
  • Is this for shipping, storage, or conversion?

Our team is available to help match the right grade to the right application — without overselling or assumptions.