7 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Shipping Container
August 30, 2020
Shipping containers are a great way to temporarily or permanently increase the space you have to work with, for any sort of environment. Before you jump into the deep end of shipping containers, read up on our 7 common mistakes to avoid when buying a shipping container. You’ll thank yourself later!
Choosing the wrong container
First and foremost, you need to know what you’re going to be using your container for. Is it an office space? Is it a storage shipping container? There are many different varieties of containers and you want to familiarise yourself with the vast range to pick the best option for your needs. Some varieties are refrigerated, some are top loading, side loading, high cube, and some are specially designed for storing dangerous and hazardous goods.
Not preparing the containers floor
It should come as no surprise to you to learn that shipping containers are big and heavy. When you are thinking about where to leave it for an extended amount of time, you want to make sure the ground is ready for it. If it's dirt or sand terrain, you may need to get a reinforced concrete slab installed to avoid any erosion or weather from disrupting the ground and shifting the container.
Not inspecting it in person
A common mistake we see time after time are people who don't fully understand what they're about to buy. A physical inspection lets you check the container to your satisfaction and visualise your ideas with it. It also helps visualise modifications you may want later on.
Over modification
Modding your container gives you so much freedom and control with how you want it to be. Although it can be hard to recover if you go overboard. For example, it can be hard to replace that extra window you no longer want. Plan your modified container wisely.
Be careful with second hand
All Betta Storage second hand shipping containers are inspected before being made available to purchase and mod. If you’re not purchasing from us however, think of it like a used car. You can never know its full history, and you may discover a huge liability later. Always physically inspect a second hand container before you purchase it.
Understanding its material
As mentioned before, there are a variety of shipping containers available with different functions. A home office container may be made with different metal than a dangerous goods storage container. Ask your specialist about a container's make and what weather effects it can endure. This is especially important if you’re near a beach/ocean.
Knowing your options for relocation
Shipping containers are easy to move, if you have the right resources. If you are buying a container, knowing you will need to move it at some point, make sure you are ready for it when the time comes. Betta Storage is ready to facilitate any moves you may have with a quick call.
At the end of the day, if you listen to your reliable Betta Storage experts, you won’t have any difficulties when buying or hiring a shipping container for your needs. Contact us today with any questions you may have and we will get into the specifics with you.
