Understanding Our Container Types, Quality & Condition Standards

At ShippingContainersX, we are committed to providing clear, accurate, and honest information about the condition and quality of every container we sell. Because our store offers different types of containers — from standard shipping containers to office, bar, refrigerated, and insulated units — this page explains all condition grades and provides type-specific guidance so customers know exactly what to expect.

Every container we list is individually inspected, and any unique characteristics, cosmetic wear, or mechanical details will always be shown and described on its specific product page.
This combined guide helps you understand how we classify quality across all container categories.

Our Standard Container Condition Grades

These grades apply to most steel-based storage, shipping, and converted containers.

1. “One-Trip” / “New” Condition

Description:
These containers have made only one cargo trip from the factory to the port or final destination. They offer the best condition available in the used container market and may have very light cosmetic markings. Paint, flooring, doors, and frame are in excellent shape. They are guaranteed to be wind and watertight.

Typical Use Cases:

  • Building container homes, offices, and bars

  • High-visibility commercial use

  • Long-term storage requiring maximum lifespan

2. Cargo Worthy (CW) Condition

Description:
Cargo Worthy containers are structurally sound and certified for international shipping. They remain wind and watertight, though they show signs of normal use such as surface rust, scratches, or dents. Structural integrity and door functionality are confirmed during inspection.

Typical Use Cases:

  • International or domestic transport

  • Secure storage

  • Container modification projects requiring strong structure

3. Wind & Watertight (WWT) Condition

Description:
WWT containers do not qualify for active international shipping but remain reliable for ground-level storage. They show heavier cosmetic wear, such as rust patches or dents, but still prevent wind and water from entering. Doors and floors are functional but may show age-related wear.

Typical Use Cases:

  • On-site storage for tools, equipment, inventory, or household goods

  • Projects where appearance is not a major concern

4. As-Is / Damaged Condition

Description:
“As-Is” containers may have issues such as flooring damage, rust holes, bent structures, door problems, or missing components. They are sold without condition guarantees and require repairs before reliable use.

Typical Use Cases:

  • Low-cost projects

  • Containers used for parts, scrap, or heavy modification

  • Situations where existing damage will be cut out or rebuilt

Container Type–Specific Quality Information

Different container types have different features, so we provide additional details below to help explain what condition expectations mean for each product category.

1. Standard Shipping Containers (Dry Containers)

Used for international shipping and general storage.

Key Condition Points:

  • Frame strength and corner posts are inspected

  • Doors must seal properly

  • Floors must be solid

  • Suitable for freight, storage, or modification

2. Refrigerated / Reefer Containers

These include cooling units used for temperature-controlled storage or transport.

Additional Quality Checks:

  • Cooling unit functionality (if applicable)

  • Interior insulation condition

  • Electrical system condition

  • Temperature control consistency

Note: Some reefer units may be sold with non-working machinery for use as insulated storage.

3. Insulated Containers

Designed to maintain stable internal temperature without active cooling.

Condition Expectations:

  • Insulation panels checked for damage

  • Doors and seals inspected

  • Structural integrity must be intact

Ideal for storage of temperature-sensitive products.

4. Office Containers

Modified containers equipped with doors, windows, panels, and fittings.

Condition Coverage Includes:

  • Interior finishing (flooring, walls, ceiling)

  • Electrical installation (if included)

  • Ventilation or AC units

  • Window and door integrity

  • Exterior structural condition

5. Bar Containers / Kiosk Containers

Containers converted into bars, shops, or serving units.

Quality Evaluation Includes:

  • Serving hatches or storefront doors

  • Countertops and interior fittings

  • Electrical outlets and lighting

  • Water connections (if applicable)

  • Condition of remodeling materials

6. Container Homes / Living Units

Converted for residential or accommodation use.

Condition Factors Checked:

  • Internal room structure

  • Plumbing and electrical setup

  • Insulation and ventilation

  • Windows and doors

  • Exterior durability

7. Toilet Containers (Restroom Units)

Equipped with toilets, sinks, and plumbing systems.

Condition Focus:

  • Water lines and fittings

  • Waste system condition

  • Flooring and wall hygiene

  • Ventilation system

  • Electrical connections

8. Storage Containers (General Purpose)

Used primarily for ground storage of goods, tools, equipment, etc.

Condition Checks:

  • Doors open and close properly

  • Floors remain solid

  • No holes or water entry

  • Locks and seals function correctly

9. Shipping Containers / Vehicle Transport Units

Standard shipping containers used for vehicle loading and overseas transport.

Additional Quality Points:

  • Floor strength

  • Interior tie-down points

  • Door alignment

  • Structural rigidity for long-distance shipping

Important Note on Photos and Individual Listings

While this page explains our condition standards and container types, each container is unique.
For accuracy, always check the specific photos and details listed on the individual product page.
This ensures full transparency about cosmetic details, modifications, or mechanical conditions.

Questions? We’re Here to Help

If you have any questions about container conditions or need help selecting the right type for your project, our support team is available.

Container Solution

Phone: +1 (561) 283-8481

Email: sales@shippingcontainersx.com
Address: 101 Chicago Ave SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548, United States