How to Read a Shipping Container Listing: Grades, Specs & Hidden Fees

A typical shipping container for sale listing reads like a code: "20' DV CW, 2011, $X + del." Two listings that look identical can describe very different boxes, and the headline price is rarely what you pay. Here's how to read each part of a listing so you can compare like with like.

When you're ready to compare real options, browse our shipping container for sale listings by size and type, or request a quote with the details below already decided.

The headline: size, height and type

Most listings start with a size and a short code for the type. Here are the common ones:

So "40' HC" is a 40-foot high cube, and "20' DV" is a standard 20-foot box.

The condition and grade

This is where listings vary most, because some sellers use their own terms. The common ones:

• New / one-trip: made one voyage from the factory. Expect minor handling marks at most.
• IICL or premium used: a used box in very good condition, close to the standard leasing companies use when units come off lease.
• Cargo-worthy (CW): structurally fit to carry cargo overseas. It may be dented and rusty on the surface but has no holes and a sound frame.
• Wind and watertight (WWT): keeps out wind and rain, with working doors. Fine for storage, not certified for shipping.
• As-is: sold with known problems such as holes, floor damage or stiff doors.

Watch for vague words like "good condition", "grade A" or "storage grade". If a listing uses its own grading scale, ask exactly what it means and get the answer in writing. Our used conex containers page explains the standard grades in more detail.

The specs that actually matter

A good listing, or a good answer when you ask, includes:

• External and internal dimensions. Internal size is what you can use; door opening size is what you can get through.
• Manufacture date. Printed on the CSC safety approval plate on the door. It tells you how old the box is.
• Tare weight, max gross and payload. Tare is the empty weight. Max gross is the most it can weigh loaded. Payload is the difference.
• Floor. Usually marine plywood or hardwood. Ask about soft spots or replaced sections on used units.
• Unit number. Four letters and seven digits on the doors, such as ABCU 123456 7. It identifies the exact box.

The photos: what a good listing shows

Stock photos tell you nothing about the box you'll get. A trustworthy listing, or seller, can show:

1. All four sides and both ends
2. The roof, or at least close-ups of any dents
3. The interior with the doors open
4. The floor, especially near the doors
5. Door seals and locking gear
6. The CSC plate and unit number

For used containers, ask for photos of the actual unit you're buying, not a "similar" one, and check that the unit number in the photos matches your quote.

The price line: what's in and what's not

The biggest surprises are in what the headline price leaves out. Before you compare two listings, find out whether each price includes:

• Delivery to your ZIP code, and how it's calculated
• Fuel surcharges or mileage beyond a base distance
• Site fees, such as charges for waiting time, difficult access or a failed delivery attempt
• Sales tax, which depends on your state
• Door direction, if loading the truck a particular way costs extra
• Lock box, vents or other accessories shown in the photos
• Pickup, for rentals

A listing that says "+ delivery" or "pickup price" is quoting the box only. Ask for a delivered price in writing so you can compare it fairly. Our conex price guide explains each part of a container price.

Red flags in a listing

• A price far below every other quote
• Only stock photos, or the same photos used by other sellers
• No business address, or an address you can't verify
• Payment only by wire transfer, payment app, gift card or crypto
• Pressure to pay today "before the unit sells"
• No grade, no unit number and no straight answers about condition

Any one of these is a reason to slow down. Two or more is a reason to walk away.

A quick comparison template

When you have two or three quotes, line them up like this:

The cheapest box price often isn't the cheapest delivered total.

FAQ

What does "CW" mean on a container listing?

Cargo-worthy: the container is structurally sound enough to carry cargo overseas. It can still be dented and faded on the outside.

What is the difference between DV and HC?

DV (dry van) is a standard container, 8′ 6″ tall. HC (high cube) is 9′ 6″ tall, giving about 12% more space on the same footprint.

Where do I find a container's age?

On the CSC safety approval plate, usually on the left-hand door, which shows the month and year it was made.

Should a listing price include delivery?

Not always. Many listings show the box price only. Ask for a delivered price to your ZIP code so you can compare quotes fairly.