Archive for the 'Shipping Containers' Category

Whether this is your first time buying used containers or you’ve purchased a few units in the past, you are probably wondering: where can I buy used shipping containers on the cheap and get a great deal at the same time?

Container prices fluctuate with the market based on a variety of factors, such as supply and demand; however, you can still sniff out bargains on shipping containers if you know where to look. There are endless listings online selling affordable used containers, but online purchases can be a tad risky because you can’t inspect the container before committing to the purchase – unless, of course, you can travel to meet the seller at their location. Also, shipping container photographs that are posted online can be quite deceiving.

That’s why buying local and in-person is always the best bet. You can stop in, view the container in question that you actually want to buy, and careful inspect its condition with your own eyes. Here are some more tips on finding the best deal on used shipping containers.

Buying From a Local Dealer

Buying local is a great option if you want to save money and time. Ask for word of mouth recommendations, check local business directories, call your local shipping docks or ask your business associates who they know and trust. Buying a used storage container is a big deal and a big investment, so you don’t want to leave anything up to chance.

Here are some reasons why local suppliers may be best for you:

• Delivery charges are cheaper because there’s less distance involved.
• Local suppliers, particularly those who have been immersed in the industry for a while, are experienced enough to help you find the right container for your exact needs and preferences. They are also knowledgeable about how to go about securing permits and other requirements in your area.
• They offer customized or special features you may need, such as shelving, high-end locking mechanisms and ramps.
• Check Yelp, the BBB and other review sites for local dealers.

Buying in Bulk

If you have the need, the money and the space, consider buying in bulk. Not only can you get a reduced rate on each container, you can transport more goods inside, you can reduce your shipping costs, and you don’t have to wait for delivery because you’ll always have spare containers on hand. Plus, you may be able to trade up on size. Let’s say you’re buying a batch of 20-foot containers; you could ask the seller to upgrade some of them to 40-foot containers at the same price. Or perhaps you could haggle for a couple of new containers but at used prices.

Finding the Best Value

In the end, it’s not just the price tag that should persuade you to buy something or not. Remember, what’s cheap to one person may not be to another. You may think it’s a steal to buy a used container for $500, but if it’s leaking and rusty, it’s essentially a waste of your hard-earned money. You might as well pay a little more and get the sturdy and reliable product you need.

Contact Container King

To learn more about our affordable rates on used shipping containers, contact us in Sanger or Dallas today.

Container King explains the importance of maintaining your shipping container roof in Dallas and Fort Worth Texas.

Your shipping container’s roof is under a lot of stress. From weather to accumulated debris, many things can take a heavy toll on the roof of your container. That’s why you need to pay special attention to this part of your container to ensure it lasts a long time and doesn’t require repair.

1.    Buy Your Container From a Reputable Source

With thousands of shipping containers available for purchase in the market at any given time, it’s vital that you investigate the quality of the container you choose, as well as the capabilities of the manufacturer before committing. Make sure the container is in good condition. Check the age of the container and look for significant damage. Here at Container King, we carefully select what kinds of containers we sell and rent.

2.    Don’t Put Too Much Weight on the Roof

The structural integrity of your container actually depends on the strength of the corner castings, which are the reinforced corners of the container, rather than the roof itself. Keep in mind, if you walk across the roof or store heavy items up there, it will bow and flex. If you need rooftop access or storage, ask your manufacturer to reinforce the roof.

3.    Remove Debris, Water, Ice, and Snow

While shipping container roofs are quite resilient, it’s always best to help things along by removing standing water, ice, and snow that start to build up on the roof for long periods of time. If you ignore ponding water, this can lead to rust, thinning metal, or moisture accumulation. Clean off the roof after all weather events just to be safe.

4.    Remove Visible Dirt and Surface Rust

Using a commercial wetting agent, bleach, or anti-mildew solution, as well as a hose and broom, get off all the rust and dirt you can see on the roof.

5.    Conduct Regular Inspections of the Roof

It’s important to regularly maintain and care for the roof of your shipping container. Then, those dents tend to collect rain water which leads to corrosion on chipped paint. Repair all dents right away and treat them with rust-proof paint to guard against corrosion. Take a look at the roof every so often to ensure it’s free of debris and damage.

Contact Container King

Got questions about maintaining your shipping container roof or about any of our containers for rent or purchase? Contact us at 972-290-4600.

Looking for using a shipping container as a workplace? Container King explains all of the alternative ways to use containers.

If you’re a project manager or site manager, you know most of your important work is done behind the scenes, poring over paperwork, sitting at a desk, working on the computer – all to make sure the job is progressing seamlessly. But attempting to complete all these tasks at the job site where the project is taking place can be a challenge to say the least.

There are frequent distractions and interruptions when you’re in plain sight. And renting office space away from the job site seems counterproductive because it takes you away from the in-the-trenches action so you can’t keep your finger on the pulse of progress.

An enclosed office space that gives you privacy yet places you on site would be ideal. Why not consider a 20-foot shipping container to address your needs? It’s the perfect size and will fit easily into your budget.

Twenty-foot shipping containers make ideal offices when…

Space is Limited

The best thing about these containers is that they’re small enough to fit anywhere. Due to their compact size, 20-foot containers feature a smaller footprint versus alternative structures such as standard portable offices. You can easily place them within larger warehouses or next to existing buildings. If you think about a container as a small office within a larger operation, you will realize how space efficient this option really is.

Efficiency and Mobility are a Must

Because shipping containers are typically modified off-site, it’s basically a drop-off-and-go situation. It can be placed anywhere you want on the property, as long as it’s on stable ground. Then, you can start using it right away. Once your project is done and you have to relocate, you can just move the container to the new site.

You Need Privacy and Security

Warehouses are always in flux, with a lot of movement due to people working or the flow of inventory. An enclosed office gives you a quiet, private space in which to get paperwork done or conduct important meetings, all while staying accessible to your employees on the floor should they need you. Plus, you get peace of mind knowing your documents will be safe and away from disruption.

You Need to Look Professional

With a neat, clean 20-foot shipping container as workplace, you can invite guests into that space with confidence. You don’t have to worry about a cluttered, unprofessional space like you would if you used an unstable portable structure or a desk and chair shoved into a corner. A shipping container looks secure and professional for the ultimate in first impressions.

Contact Container King

To learn more about our rates to buy or lease a 20-foot shipping container as a workplace, contact us Monday through Saturday at your convenience.

Here is a guide that outlines some of the important things you should look for before buying a shipping container of any kind.

Are you on the hunt for a shipping container to purchase? It’s important to stay abreast of current trends, costs and benefits. It doesn’t have to be difficult to find a good shipping container that meets all your needs. But there may be more to the process than you think, particularly if you’re a first-time buyer.

Here is a guide that outlines some of the important things you should look for before purchasing a shipping container of any kind.

Sales Trends

There is an increased demand for new storage or shipping containers thanks to the ever-increasing growth in global trade and freight distribution. Estimates say that up to 2.5 million 20-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of shipping containers are made each year. Those shipping containers are distributed to major ports all over the globe, with an estimated global inventory of more than 28 million TEUs.

Surprisingly, there are many abandoned shipping containers at all major ports. Sometimes transporting an empty shipping container back to its original port after unloading is just as expensive as transporting a full one, so the container owner leaves it there. This is what has led to an overstock of slightly used containers, which can be bought pretty affordably by individuals and companies.

Many people choose to repurpose them for other uses, such as bars, restaurants, mobile offices and housing.

What to Look For

When buying a shipping container, you should arm yourself with as much information as possible. Consider these factors.

• Requirements: Containers are available in different shapes and sizes. Sizes can be 10ft to 45ft. You can choose from open top containers, refrigerated containers, dry freight, flat rack containers or insulated containers.
• Types: There are many types of containers, which will dictate what they’re used for and how much they will cost. For example, one-trip containers are like new, used only once; cargo worthy are still considered seaworthy and meet international standards; wind and water tight containers are just that; and as-is containers are economical and but worn out and retired.

Check For:

• The container’s structural soundness by inspecting the edges for bends.
• Check if the container is watertight: close the doors to see if any light is getting in.
• Make sure the doors and hinges are in good condition.
• Make sure the locking door handles function freely.
• Check for corrosion under the door seals.
• Check for any weird smells, a sign of contamination.
• Make sure the wooden floors are intact.
• Check the cosmetics and make sure it doesn’t have rust, dents or scratches.

If the container passes the above tests, it’s probably a good idea to purchase it.

Contact Container King

If you’re in the market for a shipping container, new or used, contact us at 972-290-4600.

Here at Container King, we can typically our shipping container delivery occurs within one to three business days from receipt of order.

When ordering a shipping container, your first thought after cost may be: how long will it take for me to receive it? Here at Container King, we can typically deliver your container within one to three business days from receipt of order.

To kickstart the process, you first have to request a free quote. You’ll provide all the information you can, such as your contact info, whether you want to rent or buy, and what you will be using the container for. If you request a quote online Monday through Friday, you will get a quote within one hour of our receipt of your request. On the weekend, your call will be returned on the next business day.

On the back end, you may also wonder how long it will take for us to pick up your container when you’re done with it. We ask for as much notice as possible but we know last-minute things happen. In most cases, we can pick up the container on the same day or the next business day of your request. It could take longer, but this is very rare. We will let you know the time frame when you call to make arrangements.

Requirements to Think About

Before placing a container on your property, you should find out if your city or county requires a permit for you to do so legally. Each community will have its own regulations. Simply contact your local municipal authority to confirm. Most cities and counties do not require a permit; however, you are responsible for investigating and arranging for any required permits or fees associated with the placement of the container.

If you are leasing a container, you may wonder if there are any insurance requirements. Container King asks for an insurance certificate but we will waive the property insurance requirement for a monthly fee.

Delivery Requirements

All storage containers arrive on a tilt bed truck. The driver will tilt the truck bed upwards, the container touches the ground, then the driver will drive back out from underneath the container. At the delivery site, you will need to ensure there is enough space to allow for 14’ of overhead clearance in order to accommodate the container on top of the tilt bed trailer.

The driver will need at least the length of the container and the tilt bed truck in order to get out after delivery, which can be up to 100 feet with a 40’ container. The loaded tilt bed truck needs 12 feet of clearance. Twenty-foot containers can be delivered on a smaller truck when necessary. If you’re tight on space or turning radius, please request a smaller delivery truck.

Some things to think about before scheduling delivery are:

• Is the site level? In order for the doors to work properly, the container needs to be level.
• What is the foundation the container will sit on? If the location is dirt, any amount of rain may cause the need to reschedule delivery.

Contact Container King

Getting a container delivered to your property quickly is of vital importance. We understand that your business may depend on it. Or, perhaps the sale of your house does. Whatever the case, contact us today for a free quote on a rental or purchase.

Storage containers can enhance job site security so call Container King today. We would love to talk to you about containers.

If you have a remote job site, such as part of your construction company, you may find it’s difficult to get peace of mind when it comes to keeping your tools and equipment safe and dry. There are many storage solutions that can help, but secure storage is sometimes difficult to come by. You can resolve your security problems when you understand which storage container product options are available and what level of security you will require for your jobsite.

Storage Container Size and Build

Here at Container King, we offer storage containers from 10 to 53’, manufactured with high-quality steel construction and interior hardwood floors. Our containers also happen to be very secure, with steel lockboxes available on doors to guard against tampering, as well as high-security lock systems on exterior doors.

Our security and lock boxes protect your containers from break-ins and theft. Secure steel lock boxes cover the padlock areas on your container. Want more security? We can install bars over the windows and add a door bar. When paired with our padlocks, you get the ultimate in protection.

Preventing Theft

Security on construction sites is a big concern for many company owners and foremen. When unsecured, supplies, tools, and heavy machinery can be stolen while workers are on break or after quitting time, costing construction companies thousands of dollars in equipment, not to mention the loss in productivity as they adjust their building timelines to make up for the loss. Secure, steel, high-quality on-site ground storage containers make it easy to protect your assets through the entirety of your project.

Storage

Shipping containers are used for more than just security offices and mobile offices. When you store valuable equipment on your site, it’s crucial to store it somewhere that’s difficult to access. Storage containers are built of the strongest gauge steel, made with reinforced entry points, which makes it virtually impossible to access without the right keys.

Whether you store small equipment, tools or supplies inside the container, you’ll get peace of mind knowing that they’re safe and secure, even when you can’t be on site.

Benefits

Utilizing storage containers on your construction site presents many positives for your daily operations. Not only is it a simple solution to solving any of your security issues, containers are portable. You don’t have to buy individual containers for each of your projects: just move the containers to different sites as you need to.

You can stack the containers to save on space or have them custom made to your specifications. Using storage containers can also make it easier to advertise your business.

Contact Container King

Storage containers can enhance job site security!

Trust our containers to safely and securely store your belongings. The staff here at Container King would be happy to discuss your options for containers that suit your needs. To learn more, contact us at one of our many locations. Or, request a quote online.

If you’re in the market for a new shipping container, one of your first thoughts may be how you will be able to afford it. And rightly so. But when you partner with a trusted provider like Container King, you know you’ll be taken care of. We offer many affordable ways of financing your shipping container, from standard financing to rent to own.

Considerations

When you need to buy a shipping container for your business or personal use, there are many factors to consider, such as size, condition and extras like thermal lining or refrigeration. Other factors that determine price include whether you buy used, refurbished or new, as well as a variety of sizes and types.

Keep in mind that certain kinds of shipping containers cost more, such as ventilated or temperature-controlled units. Also, shipping for empty cargo containers can be expensive, so check if the shipping costs are included in the purchase price. If not, ask how much they will be.

Most shipping containers do not come with locks or similar security mechanisms. You’ll have to buy these on your own, so factor security features into your budget.

Often times, the cheapest option for purchasing shipping containers is choosing a provider closest to your home or business. That’s because shipping costs are often more expensive than the container itself. As a side note, we offer standard financing to Texas residents only.

More Budgeting Tips

• Buy new to ensure quality and long lifespan: New shipping containers are rust-free and don’t have the holes, dents and other imperfections that used shipping containers do. While new shipping containers cost more than used or refurbished, they last longer and give you more value for your money.
• Purchase used cargo containers for affordable global shipping: Overall, used shipping containers are more economical, and work well for most goods. If you’re not concerned about appearance, buy used to save money. Many shipping container suppliers include the shipping price in the cost of the container.
• Budget for extra features: Pad your budget for extra features if you think you will need special items like insulation, ventilation, customized models, windows, lining, shelving or other features that require more materials and labor. The more bells and whistles you want, the more it will all cost. It also costs extra to have the supplier paint your shipping container. Skip the paint job if the unit looks decent, to save money. Or, you could always paint it yourself.

Contact Container King

To learn more about our financing options, visit our financing page or contact us at one of our many convenient locations. We offer standard financing through First Financial Bank, which you can apply for online with no deposit. You can also apply online for our rent to own financing, also with no deposit needed.

Shipping containers are known for their versatility and durability, with very low maintenance requirements. They can last a long time, usually up to 25 years and beyond with proper upkeep. It’s quite easy to maintain your container over the years. Here are some helpful tips.

Year One (and As Needed)

Step 1: Buy a container from a reputable source

You don’t want to be taken for a ride when it comes to making a big investment like a shipping container. You want peace of mind knowing the product you’re buying will be in good condition, dependable and a value for the money. Always do your research on the container company you choose. At Container King, we stand behind every container we rent and sell.

Step 2: Don’t put too much weight on the roof

The shipping container’s corner posts offer the bulk of the strength and support your container needs, rather than the actual roof itself. When you walk across the roof or store heavy items on it, will bend and flex. This will damage the roof over time and take away from the structural integrity of your container.

If you absolutely require rooftop storage, ask your supplier to reinforce it for heavy loads.

Step 3: Remove debris, standing water, snow and ice from the roof

Water, ice, and snow also strain the roof, causing dents and scratches. Be sure to have lots of cleaning supplies handy. Did you know that standing water can cause rust, thin out the metal in the roof, and allow moisture to penetrate? After a weather event, such as a snow, ice or wind storm, clean off the roof as soon as you can. Get a cordless leaf vacuum to clear off the leaves and any snow within a few weeks.

Step 4: Follow manufacturer recommendations for climate control systems

The heating and air conditioning system within your modified shipping container is just like any other HVAC system. Air filters need to be replaced and the system needs regular maintenance from a professional. Stay on top of inspections, regular maintenance, service, and repair.

Annually

Step 5: Inspect the roof for debris, rust, dents, scratches and moisture

Scratches, dents, and peeling paint all increase your chances for rust. That’s why it’s important to inspect the roof and remove debris at least once a year. Touch up any chipped-off paint so the metal doesn’t thin out.

You can utilize a commercial cleaner, mild bleach, or anti-mildew solution to clean off rust and dirt. Use a simple water hose and broom to encourage the process. If you see large dents, scratches, rust spots, and holes, call a professional as soon as possible.

Step 6: Inspect and replace caulk and weather stripping

Moisture can enter spaces where caulk or weather stripping has cracked or peeled off. Moisture encourages mildew growth.

Every Few Years or As Needed

Step 7: Monitor the container for settling and re-level

If you wish to install your shipping container on a soft surface, keep in mind it will settle over time. Before buying, ask your shipping container supplier for recommendations on proper foundation and support mechanisms to guard against settling.

Contact Container King

To ask more questions about our shipping containers and their associated maintenance tasks, contact us or request a quote online.

Side opening containers are a bit different from other types, in that they open from the side rather than one end. This poses many benefits, not the least of which is ease of transferring lengthwise items and cargo such as vehicles. Here at Container King, for example, we offer a 40 Ft High Cube Open Side Container, among a wide variety of other sizes.

Features of Side Opening Containers

Side opening shipping containers typically feature the following:

• High-quality steel construction for durability and versatility
• Water-sealing on all doors to keep everything inside dry- and vermin-free
• Solid, marine-quality timber floors
• Standard doors that can open the full 270 degrees
• Large side doors for easier access and loading large items

Upon request, our team is also able to provide installation of:

• Whirlybirds
• Container ramps for easy loading
• Heavy-duty shelves for goods storage
• Security lock boxes
• Air vents to prevent condensation
• Windows

Basically, whatever accessory you need, we can install it on our side opening containers.

Benefits of Side Opening Shipping Containers

Check out these five benefits of side opening shipping containers:

1. Easy loading and offloading – Side opening containers provide easy access for loading and offloading goods, especially in instances where a forklift or pallet truck is being utilized. The forklift or truck can drive in, then place and stack the goods with little effort.
2. Better access to stored items – With a back-to-front loading style, it’s nearly impossible to access goods that were loaded first. You would have to remove front items to get to them, which wastes a lot of time. However, with a side opening container, goods that were loaded first don’t have to be offloaded last, which means it’s much easier to retrieve items quickly and efficiently.
3. Better utilization of the container – Side doors improve the functionality of the shipping container because it can be divided into two or more parts. This is ideal when you want your container to serve as multiple cafes, shops or offices.
4. Access for extra-large items – Side opening shipping containers featuring larger doors provide adequate room for extra-large cargo that simply can’t fit through regular doors. Thus, you are able to add more items than you normally would.
5. Conversions – You can turn side opening containers into anything from homes and sheds to offices and pop-up shops. You can even install more aesthetically-pleasing doors, like sliding glass doors or a roller door.

Bottom line is, side opening containers have much more versatility than traditional types. Consequently, you can use them for a variety of purposes, such as for more efficient storage and transportation.

Contact Container King

To learn more about our side opening containers or any other type we sell or rent, contact us now or fill out our online form.

Shipping container kitchens are trending for 2019. With more and more people interested in opening their first container restaurant, this trend is getting noticed by customers who crave something different. Traditional store fronts and large spaces cost too much to rent, lease and own these days. Storage containers come with a lower price tag, making this a more cost effective and versatile option for those in the food service business.

Here are five examples of how shipping containers can be used for food service.

1.    Full Restaurant

While the most challenging of all listed here to implement, full-service restaurants using storage containers make a great choice. They are functionally identical to other restaurants you may have visited in the past, yet these stand-alone eateries do all the prep work, cooking, grilling, frying, and baking on-site inside the container.

With a storage container, you can be more flexible with your seating, menu, staff and décor. Just be prepared to pay extra for the bells and whistles.

2.     Beverage Service

If you want to just serve alcohol, such as on the beach, a container is perfect for storing kegs, taps, soda machines, beer coolers and glasses. There’s room for some seating, bar tenders and equipment, giving you the perfect environment in which to interact with customers and make a name for yourself in a central location.

3.    Concessions

These simple set-ups are perfect for games, sporting events, festivals, fairs, concerts, and other events, typically consisting of pre-packaged food and drink. You’ll need a cooler, cash register,  and room for equipment like hotdog roasters or popcorn machines. You’ll also need shelving to place pre-packaged foods like chips and cookies. This type of container only serves as a distribution point, with no cooking or prepping on site.

4.     Warm Service/Commissary

With this kind of kitchen, you can serve fresh-made food sans the added expense of an industrial oven and hood. With a commissary, you do all your cooking and prepping off site, then, bring everything to the container for distribution. You will need to equip your container with the tools and equipment necessary to warm and assemble your dishes prior to serving to customers.

5.    Teaching/Showroom Kitchen

Teaching kitchens and showrooms must include high levels of finishes and special lighting to appeal to your audience. Everything must sparkle and look perfect! You’ll need to incorporate an AV system while making sure you include all the functions of an industrial kitchen.

Whether you want to serve gourmet cuisine or light snacks, shipping containers are ideal for housing kitchens of all shapes and sizes.

Contact Container King

If this sounds like something you’d be interested in, request a quote on our storage and shipping containers today.