Used Container Sales: Warranties, Returns & What's Normal

Buying a used container isn't like buying a new appliance. There's rarely a long warranty, and returns can be complicated because moving a container costs real money. That doesn't mean you're unprotected: what matters is knowing what's normal and getting the right things in writing.

Here's what to expect from used shipping container sales on warranties, returns and guarantees, and how to protect yourself. See our used shipping container sales page for how our used units are graded.

What's normal for used containers

Most used containers are sold on their grade at the time of delivery. That means the seller is saying the container meets that grade when it arrives:

• Wind and watertight: no holes, doors that close and seal
• Cargo-worthy: structurally fit to carry cargo by sea
• As-is: sold with known problems, no guarantee of condition

Long warranties, like those on new products, are uncommon for used containers, because their condition depends on how they're used and maintained after delivery.

What a grade guarantee covers

If a container is sold as wind and watertight, you can reasonably expect:

• No daylight showing through the walls or roof
• Doors that open, close and seal
• A floor that's sound enough to use

If it doesn't meet that standard on delivery, the seller should put it right. That might mean a repair, a replacement container or a partial refund, depending on their policy.

What isn't usually covered

• Cosmetic issues: dents, surface rust, faded paint, old logos
• Damage after delivery, such as from equipment, weather or settling
• Wear and tear over time
• As-is containers, beyond what was described

Returns

Returns on containers are less common than on smaller goods because:

• Delivery and pickup are expensive
• A container that's been used can't easily be resold as the same grade

Some sellers accept returns under specific conditions, such as within a set number of days, unused, with the buyer paying pickup. Ask before you buy.

Protecting yourself

Before you buy

• Get the grade in writing on the quote and invoice
• Ask for photos of the actual unit and its unit number
• Ask exactly what the seller's guarantee, return and claims policy is
• Find out how long you have to report a problem

On delivery day

1. Check the unit number matches your paperwork
2. Open and close the doors
3. Do the light test inside
4. Walk the floor
5. Take photos of all sides, the inside and any damage
6. Note problems on the delivery receipt before signing

After delivery

• Report any issue promptly, in writing, with photos
• Keep all paperwork: quote, invoice, delivery receipt and photos

What a fair resolution looks like

If a container doesn't meet its grade, common fixes include:

• Repair on site: patching a hole, replacing a seal
• Replacement: swapping it for another container of the same grade
• Partial refund: for minor issues you're willing to live with
• Full refund and pickup: for serious problems

Agree on the fix in writing.

New containers and modifications

New (one-trip) containers and modification work may come with specific guarantees, for example on doors, windows or electrical work. Ask what's covered and for how long. See new conex containers and custom and office conex.

Red flags

• No written grade
• Refusal to provide photos or a unit number
• No clear policy for problems on delivery
• "All sales final" with no description of condition
• Pressure to sign the delivery receipt without checking

A sample claim message

If something isn't right on delivery, a short, clear message gets the fastest response:

Hi, my container (unit number ABCU 123456 7) was delivered today to my home on Maple Avenue. It was sold as wind and watertight, but there's daylight showing through the roof near the door end. Photos are attached. I noted this on the delivery receipt. Could you let me know how you'd like to resolve it? Thanks.

Include the unit number, the grade you bought, what's wrong, photos, and when you noticed it.

FAQ

Do used shipping containers come with a warranty?

Usually not a long warranty. Most are sold on their grade at delivery, so check the container carefully when it arrives.

Can I return a used container?

Sometimes, under the seller's return policy. Returns often have conditions and pickup costs, so ask before buying.

What if my used container leaks on delivery?

If it was sold as wind and watertight, report it straight away with photos. The seller should repair or replace it.

What does "as-is" mean for returns?

As-is containers are sold with known problems and usually can't be returned for those problems.

Should I sign the delivery receipt if I haven't checked the container?

Check it first if you can. If the driver can't wait, write "not inspected" on the receipt and check it as soon as possible.