Buying a storage container should be a straightforward way to add secure, inexpensive storage…not a headache. That said, scammers have noticed the demand and have gotten creative with fake listings, stolen photos, phony businesses, and pressure to pay with untraceable methods. Below are four common container scams and how you can protect yourself from them! As a bonus: we’ve also listed red flags you can look out for!
1. Phony Listings
Scammers post attractive container photos and real-looking business addresses. Everything appears to check out, and customers pay deposits but never receive their container. The container never existed.
You can protect yourself from this scam by asking the right questions and collecting the proper credentials. Is this person or business who they say they are? Can you look up their business online and does it look like a legitimate business. Can you VISIT THEIR LOCATION and get eyes on the container you wish to purchase(this is absolutely crucial and here at American Trailer Rentals, we ALWAYS encourage buyers to come down for a tour/look at our containers!)
2. Stolen photo sellers
Ads with stock images or images copied from other sites. We’ve even had OUR photos stolen and posted on various online marketplaces.
Avoid this scam by asking for multiple photos of the container you’re purchasing, and of course, see if you can look at containers in person before you pay. One of the best tools at your fingertips is a reverse image search. Simply upload the container photos from the listing into Google (or your phone’s search feature). If those same images appear on another company’s website or across multiple listings, that’s a strong sign the seller might not be legitimate. A quick image search could save you thousands.
3. Upfront payment pressure
Requests for Zelle, wire transfers, crypto, gift cards, or other irreversible methods with promises like “limited time deal” or “dealer’s choice” are common tactics.
Although it’s standard practice that payment must be received prior to delivery, you should never feel pressured to pay and you should always be given an option for everyday forms of payment like credit card, cash, check, or Automatic Clearing House (ACH).
4. Bogus documentation
Fake invoices, forged ownership papers, or container numbers that don’t check out when validated.
Do your homework! Scammers are getting smarter! Phone numbers, company names, and logos can be copied or faked. Before you buy, take a few minutes to verify everything.
Red flags to watch for (quick checklist)
- Price far below market value: if it’s too good to be true, it most likely is.
- No physical address, yard, or photos of the actual unit being sold: You are ALWAYS welcome to come by our yard in Lakeland to see what our sale containers look like!
- Seller refuses in-person inspection: Make an appointment today to take a walk in our yard and see the inside of our containers!
- Requests payment via untraceable methods: While we accept wire payments, you’re welcome to pay via credit card, check, or ACH.
- Inconsistent contact details or poor/blank online presence: Visit us at AmericanTrailerRentals.com or our Facebook page!
- Lack of jargon familiarity: You hear crickets when you ask questions like “What is the height of a High Cube”, “Can you send me a picture of the CSC Plate”, or “How is the condition of the gasket?”
If you suspect fraud
DO NOT PAY! Save any messages/screenshots/invoices, and report the listing to the marketplace (Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, etc.) Report the seller to consumer protection agencies and the BBB so others won’t be targeted.
Final thought
Buying a Storage Container can be a smooth, affordable upgrade! You just need to treat your purchase like you would when you purchase a vehicle by verifying identities, inspecting the item, and using a secure payment. If you want to avoid all that mess just buy from reputable local dealer like American Trailer Rentals!
