Buy a Container in Colorado: A Practical Buyer’s Guide
Buying a shipping container can be a practical way to add secure storage, support a construction project, or create additional space for a business. However, choosing the right container involves more than selecting a size. You need to consider the container’s condition, intended use, delivery requirements, location, and budget. If you are planning to buy a container, understanding these factors can help you make a confident decision and avoid choosing a unit that does not fit your needs.
Understand What You Need the Container For
Start by deciding how you plan to use the container. Your intended use will influence the size, condition, features, and type of container you should choose.
Common uses include:
Equipment and material storage
Business inventory
Construction-site storage
Tools and machinery
Seasonal items
Agricultural supplies
Workshop or project space
Long-term outdoor storage
For basic storage, a standard container may be enough. If you need additional height or more usable space, a high-cube option may be worth considering.
Choose the Right Container Size
Shipping containers are available in several sizes, but 20-foot and 40-foot models are among the most common choices.
20-Foot Containers
A 20-foot container is a good option when space is limited or you only need moderate storage capacity. It can work well for tools, equipment, household items, construction materials, and business inventory.
40-Foot Containers
A 40-foot container provides significantly more storage space. It may be a better choice for larger inventories, commercial storage, construction materials, or projects that require substantial capacity.
High-Cube Containers
High-cube containers provide additional interior height compared with standard containers. The extra vertical space can be useful when storing taller items or when you want more room for shelving and organization.
Choosing a size that matches your storage needs can help you avoid paying for unnecessary space while still leaving enough room for future needs.
Consider New and Used Containers
Another important decision is whether to choose a new or used container.
Newer containers generally offer a cleaner appearance and less previous use. They can be a good option when appearance, condition, and long-term use are important.
Used containers can provide a practical storage solution at a potentially lower cost. However, condition can vary, so it is important to understand what you are purchasing.
Before making a decision, ask about the container's condition, doors, flooring, roof, walls, and overall structural integrity.
Inspect the Container Before Buying
A careful inspection can help you identify potential issues before completing your purchase.
Pay attention to:
Exterior walls and corners
Roof condition
Door operation
Door seals and locking bars
Interior flooring
Signs of significant rust
Holes or visible damage
Water leakage
Structural condition
Minor cosmetic wear may be normal on a used container. However, major damage, poor doors, extensive corrosion, or water intrusion may create problems later.
If you are purchasing a container for long-term storage, make sure it is suitable for the environment where it will be placed.
Think About Your Colorado Location
Colorado weather can be an important consideration when selecting and placing a container. Snow, rain, wind, and temperature changes can affect how your container performs over time.
Choose a suitable location with a stable, reasonably level surface. Proper placement can help with drainage, accessibility, and long-term use.
You should also consider how the delivery truck will access the property. Narrow entrances, low branches, overhead obstacles, steep areas, and limited driveway space can make delivery more complicated.
Check Delivery Requirements
A container may be purchased at a good price, but delivery still needs to be planned carefully.
Before scheduling delivery, consider:
Available driveway or access width
Overhead clearance
Ground conditions
Turning space
Placement area
Distance from buildings and other obstacles
Local access restrictions
Make sure the delivery location can accommodate the container and the equipment used to place it. Discussing the site beforehand can help prevent unexpected delivery problems.
Consider Modifications and Accessories
Not every project needs a basic container. Depending on your requirements, modifications can make the space more useful.
Possible options may include additional doors, windows, ventilation, insulation, shelving, and other custom features.
For example, shelving can help organize tools and inventory, while ventilation can improve airflow inside the container. If you need the container for a specialized purpose, discuss your requirements before purchasing so you can determine whether modifications are appropriate.
Set a Realistic Budget
The purchase price is only one part of the total cost. Your budget should also account for delivery, placement, modifications, accessories, and any site preparation that may be needed.
Prices can vary based on factors such as:
Container size
Age and condition
Type
Availability
Modifications
Delivery distance
Market demand
Rather than choosing based only on the lowest price, compare the overall value and condition of each option.
Work With an Experienced Container Provider
Buying from an experienced container provider can make the process easier. A knowledgeable provider can help you compare sizes, conditions, delivery requirements, and available options based on how you plan to use the container.
Complete Container offers container sales along with rentals, modifications, depot services, and container supplies. This gives customers access to multiple container solutions for storage, commercial, construction, and other needs.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a shipping container in Colorado does not have to be complicated. Start with your intended use, determine the appropriate size, compare new and used options, inspect the container carefully, and plan for delivery and placement. Taking time to evaluate these factors can help you choose a container that provides reliable and practical space for your needs.
If you are ready to buy a container, contact Complete Container to discuss your requirements and explore available options.
FAQs
What size shipping container should I buy?
The right size depends on what you plan to store. A 20-foot container works well for moderate storage, while a 40-foot container is better suited to larger quantities of equipment, materials, or inventory.
Should I choose a new or used container?
It depends on your budget, appearance requirements, and intended use. Used containers can be practical for storage, while newer containers may be preferable when condition and appearance are higher priorities.
Can shipping containers be delivered in Colorado?
Yes, delivery can be arranged depending on the location and site conditions. Before delivery, make sure there is adequate access, clearance, and a suitable placement area.
Can a shipping container be modified?
Yes. Depending on the container and project, modifications can include doors, windows, ventilation, insulation, shelving, and other features.
What should I check before purchasing a used container?
Check the roof, walls, flooring, doors, seals, corners, and overall structural condition. Look for significant rust, holes, water damage, or other issues that could affect long-term use.