When it comes to buying certain items, the question of buying brand new or used is often taken into consideration. In many cases, buying used can save people hundreds to thousands of dollars on their purchase. However, there are times when purchasing brand new is the better option, even helping people save more money in the long run than what they would have initially saved had they bought used. One such instance would be when buying quality shipping containers. Here are some ways buying new shipping containers may actually help you save money:
Save on the cost of hiring a professional inspector
When buying used, it is highly recommended to hire a professional inspector, such as an inspector from the Institute of International Container Lessors, to check the condition of the cargo container. However, the services of a professional inspector can be rather expensive, especially if you need to have several containers inspected. When purchasing new shipping containers, there is no need to assess the condition of each box. After all, respected vendors are thorough with their own inspection to ensure that they are not selling faulty products. As such, you are virtually assured a quality conex box when purchasing new.
Save on the cost for necessary repairs
In some cases, shipping containers that have been used several times over have sustained substantial damage. Scratches are not much of an issue, but damage such as dents and noticeable signs of corrosion are red flags. There is also the possibility that a shipping container may have been used to transport toxic or biohazard materials. Repair and decontamination costs for large shipping containers can easily run into the thousands, eating away at the amount you might have saved. If this is the case, it’s better to purchase new rather than used.
Save on the cost of customization and preparation
Many trusted vendors; such as Equipment Management Services, LLC in Houston, Dallas, and Seattle; offer customized shipping containers to their clients. In the event that you require customization, it may be better to go with a brand new storage container instead. Some containers may already have customizations present that you do not need. Removing those customizations and installing new ones can take a lot of time and effort, which may increase costs. Since buying new allows customizers to start from scratch, you can save a few hundred dollars and receive your shipping container a few days earlier.
Save on the cost of replacement conex boxes in the future
Shipping containers are often used in very harsh conditions, which lead to quick deterioration. This may not be a big issue for those who plan to use shipping containers as an office or other less rigorous uses. However, logistics companies that plan to use the containers to transport cargo would be better off buying new. This assures you that you are getting the most out of the lifespan of a particular shipping container, allowing you to get the most value out of your purchase. Some used shipping containers may have sustained enough wear and tear over the years that you may need to replace them after a year or two. Regularly replacing shipping containers can be quite expensive.
Of course, this is no knock on the value of buying used. This is especially true when purchasing used shipping containers from respected vendors since they will do their due diligence to ensure their lineup of used containers meet the standards and expectations of their clients. However, there are times when buying new is the best way to go. If you are not sure which options is the right one for you, do not hesitate to explain your needs to a representative. They can easily make necessary recommendations to help you find the best value.
Source:
Should You Build With New or Used Shipping Containers?, containerhomeplans.org
