Shipping Container Grades Explained

What to expect when buying a shipping container

All shipping containers sold by Container Traders are wind and watertight, structurally sound, lockable and vermin proof. Cosmetic blemishes like scratches, dents, surface rust and floor marks are standard across most shipping containers in Australia.

Why do containers have blemishes?

Both new and used shipping containers spend their life being loaded, unloaded, craned onto ships, stacked and transported across the world. New build Shipping Containers have done a single loaded trip from the factory in Asia. Cargo worthy Shipping Containers have done it repeatedly over their 12 to 18 year service life.

Our Grades

Common Blemishes

New build shipping container delivered to a regional NSW Hobby Farm

New & used shipping container grades

New build (single trip) containers

Shipping containers direct from the factory, making one loaded voyage to Australia. Typically 0 to 2 years old and the best condition available on the Australian market.

Cargo worthy (used) containers

Used shipping containers with 12 to 18 years of service across global shipping routes. More cosmetic wear, but the same structural performance as a new build. A great budget-friendly option.

Secure and Watertight

All containers sold by Container Traders are wind and watertight, structurally sound, lockable and vermin proof.

New build (single trip) shipping containers

Choose this grade if you:

Plan to modify the container
Need a container with street appeal
Want the best condition available
Need a valid CSC plate

View Blemishes

Cargo worthy (used) shipping containers

Choose this grade if you:

Only need basic dry storage
Don’t need it to look cosmetic
Just need it for basic dry storage

View Blemishes

Customer Disclaimer

Photos and descriptions on this page show typical wear for each grade. Every shipping container is unique, so yours will have different cosmetic blemishes to those pictured. Have a question? Contact our team today.

Common shipping container blemishes

Surface rust

Corten steel forms a protective rust layer by design. Surface rust is the steel doing its job, not corroding through. Normal on both grades.

Dents & dings

Caused by cranes, forklifts and stacking equipment during handling. Cosmetic only and do not affect the structural integrity of the container.

Welded patch repairs

When corten steel is punctured during service, depots weld in a new plate. Common with used containers. Remains structurally sound, wind and watertight.

Paint wear & discolouration

Depots touch up damaged paint with whatever colour is available. A used container may have multiple paint colours across its panels.

Floor marks & staining

Marine-grade plywood floors cop marks from cargo and forklift tines over years of use.

Roof bow

Roof panels on used containers can develop a slight bow from years of stacking. Does not affect weatherproofing, but may pool water periodically.

3 things every container buyer should know

No two containers are the same

Even two containers from the same factory run will arrive with different marks. The cargo they carried, the ports they visited and the weather during transit all leave unique blemishes.

Surface rust is normal

Shipping containers are made from Corten steel, which rusts on the surface to protect the metal underneath. This patina layer is engineered into the material and slows deeper corrosion.

Both grades are structurally sound

Our new & used containers are both wind and watertight, structurally sound, lockable and vermin proof. A new build will have a longer lifespan because it starts with less accumulated wear.

New build shipping containers (single trip)

A single trip container has made one loaded voyage from the factory in China to an Australian depot. The industry calls them “new,” but every container has been through cranes, ships, forklifts and depots before it reaches you. That journey leaves minor marks and blemishes.

Possible new build container blemish examples

Cargo worthy shipping containers (used)

Our Used shipping containers have 12 to 18 years of service across global shipping routes. Expect more cosmetic wear, but the same structural performance as a new build shipping container. Used shipping containers are the best budget-friendly container option.

Possible cargo worthy container blemish examples

Shipping container grading FAQ’s

Have a question that’s not listed here? We’re here to help. Contact us and get the answers you need from our friendly team.

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Do Used Shipping Containers leak?
Any steel structure, including Shipping Containers, is prone to corrosion over time. Typically, Shipping Containers will experience roof corrosion before the side walls, as water tends to pool in this area. Without proper maintenance, the roof will eventually corrode, leading to leaks.
How do I maintain my Used Shipping Container?
Used Shipping Containers require minimal maintenance, but it’s important to regularly check the roof for water pooling and debris buildup, such as damp leaves, as well as monitor for any signs of corrosion. If corrosion is detected, it should be addressed promptly by removing it and applying rust treatment to prevent leaks.

Additionally, the door hinges should be lubricated regularly to ensure they remain functional and do not seize.
What are the advantages of purchasing a Used Shipping Container?
Used Shipping Containers are more affordable than New Shipping Containers, while still offering the same functionality. If you’re on a budget and need a secure, dry storage solution, a Used Shipping Container is the perfect choice.
Do Used Shipping Containers retain their value for resale?
Yes, Shipping Container prices fluctuate with the market, so there’s potential for a good return on sale in your local market once you’ve finished using it.
What is the difference between a new build and cargo worthy container?
A new build has made a single trip from the factory and has minimal cosmetic wear. A cargo worthy container has 12 to 18 years of service and shows more visible blemishes. Both grades are wind and watertight, structurally sound, lockable and vermin proof.
Can a cargo worthy container be used for shipping?
Yes, Cargo Worthy Containers meet the structural standard required for sea and rail freight. To ship internationally, the container will need a current CSC plate inspection and certification. Our team can advise on the recertification process.
Should I buy a new or used shipping container?
It comes down to what you’re using it for. A new build is the better choice if you’re planning a modification, need the container to look presentable in a public-facing location, or want the longest possible lifespan. A cargo worthy container is the smarter pick if you need secure, dry storage and cosmetic appearance isn’t a concern.
Do used shipping containers have an odour?
Some used containers carry residual odours from previous cargoes. This is uncommon but possible. Odours typically disappear within a few weeks of airing out with the doors open. If your container has a strong odour at delivery, contact our team for assistance.

Still have questions?

For more details on specific shipping containers, rates and eligibility, contact our Container Specialists today on 1300 89 89 70 or email [email protected]

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