When considering purchasing a shipping container, understanding the difference between "used" and "new" is crucial. A common misconception is that there are "new" shipping containers available in North America. In reality, all shipping containers are manufactured in China and brought to North America as part of the global supply chain. Once they arrive and are emptied, they are sold as "new," but in the industry, these are technically referred to as "one-trip" containers.

The Truth About "New" Shipping Containers

If you are in the market for a container, do not be misled into paying a premium for what is advertised as a "new" shipping container. The term "new" can be misleading since all containers arriving in North America have already been used for at least one shipment. Instead, these "one-trip" containers are in pristine condition but come at a higher price than used alternatives.

While it would seem logical to spend more for a new car or new pair of shoes over gently used, we encourage you to research the provider and understand that you in fact are NOT buying a new product. It has been packed and shipped from China and spent time at sea.

Aside from some of the obvious benefits, buying a used shipping container instead of a new or one-trip container significantly supports the circular economy by extending the shipping containers lifecycle and reducing demand for new raw materials. Reusing containers minimizes waste, lowers carbon emissions associated with manufacturing and transportation, and decreases energy consumption compared to producing new steel containers. This approach aligns with sustainable strategies and corporate practices by preventing unnecessary scrapping and encourages repurposing durable materials for various applications, such as storage. By choosing a second-hand container, businesses and individuals contribute to a more resource-efficient system that prioritizes reuse over continuous production and disposal.