Used Shipping Container Inspection Checklist (Printable)

Use this checklist whether you're standing at a depot, checking a container on delivery day, or reviewing photos from a used shipping containers sale. It covers everything that affects how well a used container will keep your things dry and secure, and skips the cosmetic stuff that doesn't matter.

To print it, use your browser's print option (Ctrl+P or Cmd+P).

What to bring

• A flashlight
• A tape measure
• Your phone, for photos
• Gloves
• Your quote or invoice, with the unit number and grade

1. Paperwork and identity

• The unit number on the doors matches the quote (four letters, seven digits)
• The CSC safety approval plate is present and readable
• The manufacture date on the CSC plate is noted
• The size and height match what you ordered (look for "HC" or 9′6″ markings on a high cube)
• The grade is written on the quote or invoice

2. Exterior walls

• No holes or rust-through on any wall
• Patches, if any, are welded steel rather than filler or tape
• Dents are cosmetic and don't deform the frame
• Rust is surface rust only, with no flaking layers

3. Roof

Check from a ladder if you safely can, or ask for photos.

• No holes or rust-through
• No deep dents holding water
• No heavy rust around roof dents or seams
• Any roof patches are welded steel

4. Frame, rails and corners

• Corner posts are straight, not bent or cracked
• Corner castings are intact
• Bottom side rails have no holes or scaling rust
• The container sits level and doesn't rock (check on level ground)

5. Doors and locking gear

• Both doors open fully without forcing
• Both doors close and line up with each other
• Locking bars turn and engage in their keepers
• Handles and cam keepers aren't bent or broken
• Hinges move freely, without excessive play
• A lock box or padlock point is usable

6. Door seals

• Rubber gaskets run around all door edges
• Gaskets are flexible, not cracked, torn or missing
• No daylight shows around the closed doors from inside

7. Interior and light test

• Light test: step inside, close the doors, wait a minute and look for any daylight
• No water stains or puddles on the floor
• No strong smells, chemical residue or oily stains
• Walls have no sharp edges or protruding damage inside

8. Floor

• Walk the full floor: no soft or spongy spots
• No layers of plywood peeling apart (delamination)
• No holes or broken boards, especially just inside the doors
• Any floor repairs are solid and level

Pass or fail?

Common findings and how hard they are to fix

Small and medium fixes are normal on used containers and are worth knowing about when you compare prices. Large structural problems are the ones to walk away from.

On delivery day

Before the driver leaves:

1. Check the unit number matches.
2. Open and close the doors.
3. Do the light test.
4. Walk the floor.
5. Photograph all sides, the roof if possible, the interior and the CSC plate.

If something doesn't match your quote, note it on the delivery paperwork and contact the seller right away.

FAQ

What's the most important check on a used container?

The light test. Close yourself inside and look for daylight. Any light means a hole that will let in water.

Is surface rust a reason to reject a container?

No. Surface rust is normal on used containers and can be cleaned and painted. Reject rust that flakes in layers or has eaten through.

Can I inspect a container before buying?

Sometimes, if the depot allows visits. Otherwise, ask for photos and a video of the actual unit, and use this checklist on delivery.

What if the container fails the checklist on delivery?

Don't accept it without noting the problem. Photograph the issue, write it on the delivery paperwork and contact the seller straight away.