How to Choose the Right Shipping Container for Your Needs

Choosing a shipping container is not only about selecting a size. The right container depends on what you intend to store, how much space you have available, how often you need access to the contents, and where the container will be placed.

Whether you need additional storage space for a business, equipment storage, materials for a project, or general onsite storage, understanding the available container options can help you make a more suitable choice.

1. Consider the Container Size

Shipping containers are available in different sizes, with 20ft and 40ft containers being two of the most commonly used options.

A 20ft container can be suitable when space is limited or when you need a practical amount of enclosed storage.

A 40ft container provides considerably more internal space and may be more appropriate when storing larger quantities of goods, equipment, materials or other items.

Before choosing a size, consider both the amount of storage space you need and the available space at your property.

2. Think About What You Will Store

The contents of the container should also influence your choice.

Shipping containers can be used for storing a variety of items, including:

Equipment
Building and construction materials
Tools
Business stock
Furniture
Machinery
General goods

Consider the size, weight and quantity of the items you intend to store. This can help determine the container size and configuration that is most suitable for your requirements.

3. New One Trip, Used or Refurbished Container?

The condition of a container is another important consideration.

One-trip containers: are commonly manufactured for international cargo transportation and may be offered for sale after limited use. Their actual condition, appearance and specifications should be confirmed for the individual container being offered.

Used shipping containers have had previous service and may show signs of use such as dents, surface marks, scratches or other cosmetic wear.

The right option depends on your requirements, budget and the condition you need.

Refurbished containers: may have undergone repair, maintenance or other work intended to improve their condition. The work completed and the resulting condition can vary between containers. Customers should review the individual product description and confirm the available details before ordering.

4. Consider Access Requirements

Think about how frequently you will need to access the container.

Standard containers generally have doors at one end. A double-end-door or tunnel container has doors at both ends, allowing access from either side.

This configuration can be useful where access from both ends is important or where the container will be used in a location where loading and unloading from both sides is more convenient.

5. Check Your Site Before Ordering

Before arranging delivery, make sure there is sufficient space for both the container and the delivery vehicle.

Consider:

Available ground space
Access from the road
Overhead clearance
Trees, buildings and power lines
Gates and narrow entrances
Ground conditions
Space required for the delivery vehicle to position the container

Site access can affect the delivery process, so checking these factors beforehand can help avoid unnecessary delays.

6. Consider How the Container Will Be Used

Your intended use can help determine which container is appropriate.

For example, a container used for general storage may have different requirements from one used to store business inventory, equipment or construction materials.

If you are unsure which option is suitable, provide details about what you need to store, where the container will be placed and the available space. This information can help when discussing your requirements with a container supplier.

7. Compare the Product Details Carefully

Before purchasing, review the container’s specifications and condition information.

Important details may include:

Container length and dimensions
Door configuration
Condition
Age or usage history, where available
Delivery requirements
Available quantity
Price
Any additional delivery or handling costs

A clear understanding of these details can help you choose a container that is appropriate for your intended use.

Final Considerations

The right shipping container depends on more than size alone. Consider what you need to store, the available space at your property, the condition of the container, access requirements and how the container will be delivered.

Taking the time to assess these factors before ordering can help you select a container that better suits your storage requirements.

If you are considering a shipping container for your business, property or project, you can review the available container options from AGM Container & Towing Service or contact our team to discuss your requirements.