Container Condition and Grading Infomation
Shipping Containers receive a grade based on their condition
There are 4 general grades of second hand containers
The following is to assist you in understanding the Shipping Container Grading system
One Trip Containers
(New Builds, Single Trip Containers, One way trippers, Like New Containers)
One trip containers are factory-made primarily in Asia, prior to being utilised by shippers to relocate cargo from Asia to Australia.
After the container reaches Australia, the shipper takes the container to a warehouse to empty the containers contents, prior to being trucked to what is known as an empty container yard.
This is where the containers are surveyed and made available for resale.
One Trip Containers are the best quality container available for purchase in Australia.
This is due to spending minimal time being fork lifted around shipping ports, container terminals, on and off ships and trucks, as well as being exposed to the high seas, and salt water sea spray.
Due to One Trip Containers having not been handled as often they will have minor dents, scratches, cargo marks and surface rust.
Although these containers are referred to in the industry as ‘new’, One Trip Containers have made one trip across the ocean and have been handled by forklifts and road transport, so quite often have a few scratches and a possible ding or two.
Container Trader Wholesale have One trip containers available from most of Australia’s capital cities, and occasionally some of Australia’s larger regional locations.
We strongly recommend you consider this option if you don’t want the hassle of maintenance, or the aesthetics of a Cargo Worthy or As is container.
Cargo Worthy Containers
Cargo worthy containers are second hand, or used containers that can be surveyed (if not still in survey) and certified to be structurally suitable for
rail and ocean freight of cargo.
To be classed as Cargo worthy, the container has been passed fit based on a number of universal inspection criteria’s.
These criteria’s relate directly to the condition of the container doors, floor condition, walls, ceiling, paint condition and structural integrity.
Structural integrity is main factor when it comes to certification of shipping containers.
Cargo Worthy containers all have imperfections, some worse than others.
The aesthetic appearance of cargo worthy container will vary, you will never find two cargo worthy containers in the same condition, with the same blemishes, dings, scratches and cargo marks.
Although Cargo worthy containers are still suitable and certified for their intended purpose, and will present in much better than an As Is, and WWT container, they are older second hand units, and generally will require a re-furb and paint if your intentions are to place the container in a high exposure locations.
*IICL is short for Institute of International Container Lessors. IICL is a globally governed and recognised industry body with uniform standards for container grading and repairs universally.
Wind And Water Tight Containers
Wind and Water Tight Containers (WWT) are containers that are no longer suitable to continue working life for international cargo.
But will be (as the name suggests) guaranteed to be dry, clean, and secure.
WWT containers are structurally sound and vermin proof, and will be delivered with easy operating, lockable doors. WWT containers are generally in the 8-15 year age range, and will have dents, rust, and will need some touch-up paintwork and a good wash out if to be utilised in a high exposure location.
AS IS Containers
These containers have not been through Container Traders stringent survey process upon gating into our depots when the shipping lines decommission (Retire from shipping life) the container.
As Is containers in evidently have denting, surface rust, cargo marks, depot labels, and some minor damage.
As is containers are generally 10 years+ and not cosmetically appealing, nor suitable for hi exposure locations.
AS IS containers are often decommissioned due to structural flaws in the container integrity.
As is containers are a popular choice for consumers seeking an economical storage solution for their personal belongings, or the punter whom has the skill base and time to repair and possible paint the container themselves.
Container Traders have AS IS storage container’s available for sale in every capital city in Australia and some larger regional locations.
These containers are used and retired containers, they will have surface rust in varying conditions where the factory paint has been rubbed, scuffed or scratched, and will often come with delaminating and stained flooring in sections, as well as shipping line and empty container yard labelling and decaling.
We sincerely hope this assists you find the perfect shipping container for your application or project.