Used Sea Cans: Complete Buyer's Guide For Storage Containers

Are you in the market for used sea cans but feeling overwhelmed about where to start? You've come to the right place! because Shippingcontainersonsale does all the heavy lifting in sourcing high-quality used shipping containers at a fraction of the cost of new units

Our team has helped thousands of customers find the perfect storage solution, and we've compiled everything we've learned into this comprehensive guide to help you make a confident, informed purchase.

What Are Used Sea Cans and Why Choose Them?

Used sea cans are retired shipping containers that have been repurposed for storage, homes, and countless other innovative uses. Originally designed to transport goods across oceans, these sturdy conex boxes offer unmatched durability and weather resistance.

Shipping Containers on Sale Advantages

At ShippingcontainersonSale, we specialize in supplying these remarkable structures because they offer:

• Exceptional Durability: Built to withstand harsh ocean conditions

• Superior Construction: Made from heavy-duty corrugated steel

• Complete Weather Protection: Designed to be 100% weatherproof

• Easy Mobility: Simple to transport and relocate as needed

• Maximum Security: Fully secure and lockable

Think of a sea can as a ready-made steel building you can place anywhere on your property—no construction required, unlike traditional storage buildings.

Why "Sea Cans"?

This nickname stuck because these containers spent much of their early life at sea. You might also hear them called:

• Shipping containers (their formal name)

• Storage containers (reflecting their common current use)

• Conex boxes (an old military term)

Finding Your Perfect Size: Our Container Size Guide

20 Ft Shipping Container

• Storage capacity: 1,150 cubic feet

• Floor space: 150 square feet

• Ideal uses: Home storage, small business inventory, compact workshop space

• Typically holds: Furniture from 2-3 rooms, small equipment, workshop tools

• Our price range: Starting from $1999 (contact us for current pricing)

40 Ft Shipping Container

• Storage capacity: 2,350 cubic feet

• Floor space: 305 square feet

• Ideal uses: Business storage, large equipment, commercial applications

• Typically holds: Commercial inventory, large machinery, contents of a 3-4 bedroom house

• Our price range: Starting from $4999 (contact us for current pricing)

High-Cube Options

• Added height: Extra foot of height (9'6" instead of standard 8'6")

• Perfect for: Tall equipment, conversion projects, spacious workshop environments

• Worth considering when: You need vertical storage or plan to convert the container

Why Our Customers Choose Used Sea Cans

Significant Cost Savings

While new sea cans typically cost $5,000-$8,000, our used inventory offers substantial savings:

• Grade A (Premium condition): $2,000-$3,000

• Grade B (Good condition): $1,500-$2,000

• Grade C (Functional condition): $1,000-$1,500

Practical Benefits Our Clients Love

1. Instant Setup

   • Arrives ready to use the same day

   • Zero construction needed

   • Can be relocated if your needs change

2. Superior Weather Protection

   • Engineered for harsh ocean transport

   • Shields contents from rain, snow, and wind

   • Keeps everything inside dry and secure

3. Unmatched Security

   • Heavy-duty steel construction

   • Commercial-grade locking systems

   • Highly theft-resistant design

How to Choose the Right Used Sea Container: Our Grading System

Grade A (Premium)

Best for:

• Long-term storage solutions

• Conversion projects requiring minimal prep

• Visible locations on your property

• Storing sensitive or valuable items

Features:

• Minimal wear and tear

• No significant rust issues

• Perfect door seals

• Good paint condition

Grade B (Standard)

Best for:

• General everyday storage

• Work sites and industrial applications

• Budget-conscious buyers

• Temporary or medium-term solutions

Features:

• Minor cosmetic issues that don't affect function

• Some surface rust (non-structural)

• Good working condition throughout

• Remains completely weather-tight

Grade C (Economy)

Best for:

• Basic storage needs

• Short-term applications

• Hidden locations where appearance is less important

• Extremely budget-conscious projects

Features:

• More visible wear and aging

• More rust present (but still structurally sound)

• May need minor repairs

• Fully functional for basic storage

Essential Inspection Points: What We Check Before Selling

Structural Integrity

We carefully examine:

• Straight, undamaged walls

• Solid, intact corner posts

• Even, stable floor surface

• Good roof condition without sagging

Weather Protection

Our team verifies:

• Door seal condition and effectiveness

• No light visible when doors are closed

• Working drain holes for proper water drainage

• No major rust spots that could compromise integrity

Functionality Testing

Before any container leaves our yard, we check:

• Smooth door operation

• Fully functioning lock mechanisms

• Floor strength and integrity

• Overall structural stability

Making Your Purchase with Shipping Containers on Sale

Our Simple Process

1. Determine your specific needs

   • Size required for your application

   • Intended use (affects recommended condition)

   • Budget considerations

   • Desired condition level

2. Let us do the research for you

   • Our team has already vetted suppliers

   • We provide competitive, transparent pricing

   • All containers include our satisfaction guarantee

   • Multiple delivery options to suit your situation

3. Inspection before commitment

   • Visit our yard to see options in person

   • We'll guide you through all inspection points

   • Full documentation of container condition

   • Clear discussion of any repairs or modifications needed

Preparing for Your Container Delivery

Before Your Container Arrives

1. Ground requirements

   • Level surface for proper door function

   • Solid foundation to support weight (typically 5,000+ lbs)

   • Good drainage to prevent water damage

   • Clear access for delivery vehicle

2. Legal considerations

   • We can help you check local regulations

   • Guidance on necessary permits

   • Verification of placement rules

   • Understanding of any restrictions

Maintaining Your Sea Can: Tips from Our Experts

Regular Care

• Annual comprehensive inspection

• Keep door hinges and mechanisms lubricated

• Clear drainage holes to prevent water buildup

• Check for and address any leaks promptly

• Treat any rust spots quickly to prevent spreading

Long-term Protection Strategies

• Apply fresh paint as needed (we can recommend products)

• Fix small issues before they become major problems

• Keep area around container clean and clear

• Ensure good airflow to minimize condensation

Warning Signs to Watch For

After purchase, contact us if you notice:

• Developing rust damage

• Deteriorating door seals

• Any bent frame components

• New major dents affecting structure

• Signs of water intrusion

• Any documentation discrepancies

Your Next Steps

A used sea can for sale from Shippingcontainersonsale can be an excellent investment when you know what to look for. Our team is ready to help you find the perfect balance of condition and price for your specific needs.

Contact us today at to see our current inventory. Let our expertise guide you to the perfect storage solution for your home, business, or project