If you are looking for shipping containers in Houston, then you are in luck! The Port of Houston climbed into the top five list of ports in the United States. It handled 2.46 million containers in 2017.
What this means for you is that there are plenty of container options for you to choose from. To help you get started, we are going to give you an overview of your options and what you should look for in your next container.
New Containers
New containers are going to be your most expensive option. The advantage of them is that they are in the best condition.
To get started, think about what you plan to ship and the regulations of the country it is going to. Remember that freight carriers charge by weight and volume. You also need to think about your company’s growth. It can be smart to buy a container bigger than what you need right now.
If you want to build with your container, then instead of cargo, you need to think about usable interior space as a room.
Used Containers
Operating revenue for Port Houston is $366 million. This is up 10% from the previous year. To continue this growth, a four-year project to deepen and widen the channel is in place.
What does this have to do with you buying containers? Well, the more shipments that can come through the port, the more options you will have for used containers. As the port grows, so does the container industry. Buying a used container can save you a lot of money. The trick is to balance quality with cost. You will find used containers that are quite cheap, but these containers may not be in good or usable condition.
You need to make sure your container complies with either shipping regulations or building codes. If you plan to ship your cargo via ocean freight, then Houston is a great place to look for your container. The port ranks number one in the country for waterborne tonnage at 173 million short tons.
What Is Your Intended Use?
If you plan to use your container for shipping, you need to make sure you buy the right container for your cargo. The amount of general cargo that comes through Port Houston is around 3.5 million. This cargo typically comes in standard sized containers.
Styles of Containers
When it comes to shopping for your container, you have a couple of different options when it comes to style.
Standard, Hard Top, and Open Top
These are the containers that everyone thinks of when they think of ocean freight. They are metal boxes that are 20 feet wide and 40 feet long. At one end you will find a set of doors.
Hard top containers have a roof that is designed to be removed. This way your cargo can get dropped in from the top.
An open top container is accessible on the top with a tarpaulin roof. Unlike the hard top
These containers work great for shipping dry goods. Anything in boxes, bags, or on pallets can go in these containers.
Ventilated or Insulated?
Some containers offer ventilation or insulation. They look exactly like regular containers, except they provide increased or reduced air circulation.
Ventilated containers have openings at the top and bottom to encourage the flow of air. Insulated containers have a layer of Polyurethane foam on the walls. This will help regulate the temperature inside.
Reefer
If you need more than just insulation, then you will want to look at reefers. These containers have refrigeration thanks to a powerful compressor built into the container. These containers are a must if you need your cargo to stay frozen or is temperature sensitive.
Flat and Platform
Think of these containers as a very large pallet. They are what you need for large or over-sized cargo. They are a flat platform with no walls or ceiling.
Do You Need Modifications?
Do you need your container modified for a specific purpose? Ask if your container dealer can help you with this. Modifications are typically a discussion when you want to turn your shipping container into a building material. This means you need to add windows, doors, and electrical.
Some companies have limited skill in this area. They will offer you a handful of pre-designed options. These companies may not have what you need though.
Look for a company that can work with you. You need a team that can be as creative as you when it comes to the shipping container of your dreams.
Do You Need Delivery?
Ask if the company you plan to buy your shipping container from will deliver it. Otherwise, you will have an added expense of moving your container. One catch to this is if they will ship it anywhere you want. Texas and Houston are huge geographic regions. Many container companies will either only move your container at the port terminal or in a minimal radius from it.
Shop for Shipping Containers in Houston
When it comes to buying shipping containers in Houston, think about your budget and intended use. That way you can narrow down whether you need a new or used container.
If you intend to use your container for shipping, you need to decide which style of container will work best for your cargo. If you are struggling to choose, we can help you sort through your needs and the available containers at our Houston Depot.
Contact us today and we can help you find the perfect shipping container for your needs.
