Buying Used Containers at Auction vs. From a Dealer

Auctions can look like the cheapest way to get a used container. Government surplus sales, liquidations and online auction sites sometimes list containers with low starting bids. But the winning bid is rarely the whole story.

Here's how buying at auction compares with buying from a dealer, so you know which route suits you. If you're new to buying used shipping containers, start with our guide to buying used shipping containers and their grades.

Where container auctions happen

• Government surplus auctions: military, municipal and agency equipment
• Liquidation and bankruptcy sales: businesses selling off assets
• Online auction platforms: industrial and construction equipment
• Port or depot clearance sales: occasionally, for older stock

Buying at auction: the pros

• Potentially low prices, especially if few people bid
• Unusual items, such as older military CONEX units or modified containers
• Bulk lots, if you need several containers

Buying at auction: the catches

Sold as-is, where-is

Auction containers are almost always sold as-is, with no grade, warranty or guarantee. You get what you see, and sometimes less.

Limited inspection

You may only get photos and a short description. Some auctions allow viewing days, but often only in person at a distant site.

Removal is your problem

You'll usually need to arrange transport and loading within a short deadline, sometimes just days. If the site has no loading equipment, you'll need to bring or hire it.

Fees add up

• Buyer's premium: a percentage added to the winning bid
• Loading fees at the site
• Transport to your property
• Storage charges if you miss the removal deadline

Bidding wars

Popular items can sell for close to, or above, dealer prices once fees are added.

Buying from a dealer

The pros

• Graded containers: cargo-worthy, wind and watertight or as-is, in writing
• Choice of sizes, types and conditions
• Delivery included to your site, unloaded where you want it
• Photos of the actual unit and its unit number
• Help and support if something isn't right
• Extras such as lock boxes, vents and modifications

The cons

• The price includes the dealer's service, so the box price may be higher than an auction bid

Side-by-side comparison

Working out the true auction cost

Add up:

1. Winning bid
2. Buyer's premium
3. Loading fee
4. Transport cost
5. Any repairs (as-is units often need them)
6. Your time

Compare that total with a dealer's delivered price for a graded container.

Who should buy at auction

• Buyers who can inspect in person
• Buyers with their own truck, trailer or loading equipment, or a trusted hauler
• Buyers who are comfortable with as-is condition and repairs
• Buyers looking for unusual or bulk lots

Who should buy from a dealer

• First-time buyers
• Anyone who needs a container that keeps out weather from day one
• Anyone who wants delivery to their site
• Buyers with a deadline

Auction checklist

Before you bid:

• I've read the auction terms, including the buyer's premium and fees
• I know the removal deadline and site rules
• I've inspected the container, or I'm comfortable with the photos
• I've arranged a hauler with a suitable truck and loading plan
• I've set a maximum bid that includes all fees, transport and likely repairs
• I've compared that total with a dealer's delivered price

Old military CONEX units at auction

Government surplus auctions sometimes include original military CONEX units. They're smaller than modern containers, often older, and sold as-is. They can make sturdy storage, but check the doors, floor and rust carefully, and remember they won't match modern container sizes.

FAQ

Are containers cheaper at auction?

Sometimes, but once you add the buyer's premium, loading, transport and repairs, the total can be close to a dealer's delivered price.

Can I inspect an auction container before bidding?

Sometimes, on viewing days. Often you only get photos and a description.

Do auction containers come with a grade?

Rarely. Most are sold as-is, where-is.

How do I move a container I bought at auction?

You'll need to arrange a hauler with a suitable truck and a way to load it, often within a short deadline.

What does "as-is, where-is" mean at an auction?

You buy the container in its current condition, at its current location, with no guarantee. You're responsible for collecting it.

Can dealers match auction prices?

Sometimes on older or as-is stock. Compare a dealer's delivered price with your full auction total, including fees, transport and repairs.

Are auction containers good for storage?

Some are, once you've checked the roof, floor and doors. Because they're sold as-is, budget for repairs such as patching holes or replacing seals before you rely on one for storage.