Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you’re purchasing your first container or you’re an experienced shopper, here are the answers to the most frequently-asked questions about containers
What size and type of containers do you sell?
All of our products are used and ‘like new’ One-Trip shipping containers. The sizes we have available are: 20 ft. Standard, 40 ft. Standard and 40 ft. High Cube. We don’t currently sell refrigerated or uncommon size containers.
What is the Standard Delivery time for used containers?
For our used shipping containers, the standard delivery time is between 7 and 10 business days.
Height of 20’ and 40’ Standard Container on a Trailer?
The height of our trailer decks is around 5 ft. high. Once loaded on the trailer, our Standard 20 ft. or 40 ft. container has an approximate height of 14 ft.
How much room is needed at delivery?
In terms of a 20 ft. container, you will need 100 ft. of length. Regarding a 40 ft. container, you will need 120 ft. of length. We recommend having a minimum of 13 ft. in width to accommodate the width of our truck and a minimum of 22 ft. in height to accommodate the entire unloading process (when including the elevated apex of the container, prepare for a height clearance around 22 ft.).
Can I pickup my container myself?
We do accommodate for self pick-up of your shipping container; however we only allow authorization to those who have the proper means of safe transportation. Following your purchase, we supply you with the pickup information as well as a release #.
If you choose to opt for self-pickup, you are legally required to follow all O.S.H.A. and D.O.T. rules when on site at the depot. Rugged Container is not liable for any transportation issues that arise.
If this option is something you are not capable of or comfortable with, we are ready and able to assist with the delivery. Due to the complexity, of weight and size of shipping containers, the majority of our clients prefer us to handle the delivery.
How secure is my online payment?
Here at Rugged Container, our overall priority is to provide you with a secure, smooth and transparent process from start to finish. We pride ourselves on handling your entire transaction securely and thoughtfully. All transactions process through a secure 3rd party website, called the STRIPE Payment Gateway. The reason we utilize this 3rd party website to process payment is because when it comes to e-commerce payments, they have renown top-notch security.
We notify STRIPE Payment Gateway of the item you are purchasing from us as well as the amount, and they process your payment for us. For your knowledge, due to the use of this 3rd party, Rugged Container does not save your credit card or payment information (only retaining the minimum amount to individualize your purchase). Simply put, we greatly prioritize a secure transaction method for your safety and peace of mind.
Difference between WWT and CW shipping containers?
Rugged Container follows a method, implemented by shipping lines, to determine shipping container grades. Which break down into two types of shipping containers, C.W. and W.W.T.
C.W. = “Cargo-Worthy”, which during a C.S.C. inspection, determines whether or not a container can withstand the weight of being stacked 7 high during transport on a cargo ship. (C.W. containers are also Wind & Water Tight.)
W.W.T. = “Wind & Water Tight” is a descriptor for when a shipping container has working doors that seal. If it cannot pass inspection, W.W.T. container can no longer be certified for shipment without making repairs. Due to their average age, W.W.T. containers are more prone to cosmetic imperfections, but the majority can be easily repaired back to C.W. standards.
Warranty Information
What is the standard delivery time for my container?
Depending on your chosen type of container, shipping times vary.
For used containers, our standard delivery time is between 7 and 10 business days. For new containers, our standard delivery time is between 20 and 30 days.
We also offer rush delivery for used containers, which can be delivered between 3 and 5 business days. However, rush chargers will apply. Unfortunately, in terms of new containers rush delivery is not possible.
If you are wanting to opt in for self-pickup, this option is only available for used containers and the standard pickup time is between 3 and 5 business days
How to choose between a new and used shipping container?
New/One-Trip containers are favored when prioritizing the exterior look of your shipping container and/or utilizing it for construction.
However, majority of consumers purchase the used, wind & water tight, container simply because they are available for approximately half the cost.
How can I make my container door open and close more easily?
First and foremost, we suggest you verify your container is sitting on level ground because this is crucial for the doors working properly. If you are having further issues with your doors, we recommend greasing or oiling their hinges with an industrial grade lubricant.
Before installation, to prevent any level issues from arising, we recommend placing wood blocks or railroad ties to ensure a level surface. We highly recommend reading our “about delivery” page for a step by step breakdown for properly preparing your shipping container location.
What is a "One-Trip" Container?
Our “One-Trip” containers are classified as Cargo-Worthy containers that have been manufactured sometime within the past twelve months. They typically have minimal to no cosmetic imperfections (there may be a few noticeable scrapes and/or dings due to the stacking method, if any).
Does Rugged Container offer financing?
Rugged Containers currently is not providing financing options.
Do you sell refrigerated or insulated containers?
Due to the inaccessibility and irregularity of used refrigerated containers, we currently do not offer these containers for purchase.
Do shipping containers have titles?
Traditionally, shipping containers are classified as a byproduct of trade, therefore they do not have a title. However, in order to travel with a container or move it, it will require a trailer that has a registration and title. (To clarify, in the U.S., the actual container does not require a registration or a title.)
Why are 20' containers almost the same price as 40' containers?
Our container pricing is determined by the domestic regional supply. Typically, 40 ft. containers are much more common than 20 ft. containers due to their prevalence in the shipping industry. Therefore, 40 ft. standard and high cube shipping containers typically cost less per square ft. compared to 20 ft. containers.
Do you offer volume discounts?
Rugged Container does offer a discount on the sale of 3 or more containers. For our pricing on 3 or more, please feel free to give us a call to fulfill your request. If you are planning on purchasing 10 or more containers, call us directly or fill out our “contact us” form via our website so we can accommodate your needs.
How should I prepare the site for delivery?
The key to a smooth delivery is ensuring you have ample room for our delivery truck to unload your container. A 20 ft. shipping container calls for 60 ft. of space (20 ft. of which is for the container and 40 ft. is for our delivery truck). A 40 ft. shipping container calls for 100 ft. of space (40 ft. of which is for the container and 60 ft. is for our delivery truck). However, if your 20 ft. container is being delivered via a semi-truck, we recommend accommodating for extra space.
If our delivery ends up being declined and our driver is unable to drop off the container, (due to being unable to carefully back into the location and install it safely), the customer will be billed a trucking fee as well as a 15% restocking fee. Taking this under consideration, we highly encourage you to have the appropriate space needed for us to deliver your container. As for your desired container location, having level ground is critical. You can accomplish this by laying concrete or leveling with gravel, other options include placing blocks or railroad ties that are able to support the weight of your container.
In terms of the placement of blocks or railroad ties, it is recommended to place one under each end of the container and adding more every 8-10 ft. Rugged Container does not supply blocks or railroad ties, so we recommend having your location completely prepared before delivery. If you have the time, we encourage you to watch our short video available on our “about delivery” page.
Can I visit the container depot?
Taking into account how busy depots are as well as insurance liability, we recommend you do not visit unless you have specific business to take care of (such as self-pickup of your shipping container). If you plan on opting for self-pickup, we will provide you with all the information needed, including depot information and your release number.
Terms and Conditions
Can I look at the shipping container before I buy it?
Due to the way shipping containers are transported and stacked at depots, we unfortunately cannot acquire photographs of your particular container or guarantee you will secure a specific container. Once we place your order, the shipping depot simply picks the next container from the stack that meets the criteria needed.
When you’re purchasing through Rugged Container, you are purchasing a container that is extracted directly from cargo circulation at wholesale price. We assist our clients with the purchase of containers straight from a depot, similar to the way large nationwide storage companies purchase their containers.