What to Choose: One Trip vs Used Shipping Container

What can you use a shipping container for besides delivering goods by sea? There are a lot of options. You can store your possessions in it, and it is much more convenient than having them cluttering up the space in your house. You can equip it as a working or even living space. A shipping container can also be used as a portable office. You can use old as well as new shipping containers for the ground transportation of different things. So, if you need extra space for pretty much anything, consider shipping containers.

But this is where questions may arise. What size container do you need? The answer is simple. You choose a certain size depending on how much space you need. The second most common question is what is better: used vs. one-trip shipping container? And this is where you need more information.

The task of this article is to help you choose between old and new shipping containers. We will tell you all about their functions and costs, explain the benefits of a one-trip vs. a used shipping container, as well as what you can store in such containers.

The Difference Between One-Trip and Used Shipping Containers

In this section, we’ll talk about the difference between used and one-trip shipping containers. Obviously, both are equally large, made of metal, quite sturdy, and waterproof. But let’s see how these options are different after all.

Used containers have already been used to send goods over the sea. They could have been in use for several years, sometimes exposed to water. Over time, wear and tear occur, and the containers can no longer protect the products they are transporting. These containers are no longer used for shipping. But an old container can still be used for other purposes, such as storing various things.

One-trip containers are those that are only shipped by sea once. This means that a brand-new container is loaded with cargo. On a cargo ship, it arrives in some country. And after that, it is sold. Such a container can be used for storing various products, or it could be made into living quarters or an office. They cost more than used old containers. That is why some people seek to rent such a container instead of buying. But if you don’t know how to choose between renting vs buying shipping containers, think about how long you will need the container for. Of course, if you buy one, you will need to pay a large sum right away. But if you will be using the container for many months, then renting will end up costing you more.

As you can see, the duration of use and the purpose of these containers are different. In the following sections, we will take a closer look at the advantages of one-trip storage vs. used cargo containers.

Benefits of One-Trip Shipping Containers

One-trip shipping containers can store food, equipment, medical supplies, and more. And you can be sure that your property is protected. The one-trip container price is higher than the price of the containers used many times. But let’s see what benefits of a one-trip shipping container you will enjoy.

Aesthetic

Single-trip shipping containers are a good choice for those who appreciate aesthetics. These containers have only been used once. Therefore, they usually look new and do not need to be repainted or renovated. These containers are usually less than one year old. More often than not, one-trip shipping containers are monochrome, without any lettering, logos, or signs of wear and tear. You can just take them and use them as they are.

Modifications

New shipping containers are ready to use. That means it isn’t necessary to make any modifications. But still, if you have such a need, you can make any modifications you want to your container. Install ventilation, lighting, and additional insulation, and create any design. It is a modification of a simple container that turns into a store, office, home, or medical center.

Corrosion resistance

One-trip shipping containers are usually made of corrugated panels and have corrosion-resistant steel doors. This means that such a container will retain its protective qualities and attractive look for quite a long time. When you buy a one-trip shipping container, you can be sure that it is a good investment for long-term use.

Long lifetime

You are buying a container that is almost brand new. If you properly maintain it, it can serve you for up to 30 years. Therefore, single-use shipping containers are a good investment from a long-term perspective.

Benefits of Used Shipping Containers

On average, a container is used to ship goods for about 8-10 years. After that, it is sold. Such containers cost much less than new containers. They already show signs of wear and tear and may not look very attractive. But these containers are very good for people who appreciate functionality first and don’t attach as much value to aesthetics. More often than not, old containers are bought for nonresidential uses. Below, we will describe a few more benefits of a used shipping container.

Lower cost

Used shipping containers cost much less than new ones. This price difference can be as much as 40%. But old and new containers have the same functionality. Plus, if you have an old container, it will still last you for many years.

Modifications

You can buy an old used container of any size and make any modifications you want to it. Even a damaged container can be modified to your taste. As we have already mentioned, it depends solely on your needs. You can add windows and doors, install ventilation, and more. It all depends on what you want to use the container for. Everything else is a matter of your imagination.

Eco-friendly

Besides getting a lot of use out of the container, you’re also helping the environment. You are giving a second life to old, used sea containers and thereby reducing the amount of waste in the landfill. In addition, this saves resources for the creation of new ones.

Durability

Shipping containers are very durable. Even old shipping containers can be used for many years. If you renovate the container and then maintain it well, it can last you for at least 10 years.

Conclusion

If you cannot choose the right sea container, think about what you are going to use it for and how long you are going to use it. Old and new containers have the same capacity. And in general, there aren’t many differences between used vs. one-way shipping containers. New shipping containers are more expensive, but they look better and will last longer. If you don’t plan on using the container for more than 10 years, you don’t need to overpay for a new container at all. When choosing an old or new container, you also need to think about what you want to store in it. Some foods are better stored in a container that is in perfect condition.

If you don’t know how to buy a shipping container, contact us. At Pelican Containers, you’ll find both new and old containers in a variety of sizes. Our staff will advise you on exactly which container you need. We can also help you get your order together quickly.