For first-time buyers, the process of purchasing a shipping container can be overwhelming. There’s figuring out what type and size of a container you want, how to get it delivered, and where exactly you should go to make a container purchase. While shipping containers are utilized globally, purchasing them just anywhere is not the best choice. You need to find a company that you can trust and that is knowledgeable about the shipping container industry.
What to Consider When Choosing a Shipping Container Seller
First things first, do a little preliminary research about the type and size of the container you’re trying to purchase. Then call around to local companies who are close to where you want the container delivered to learn more about them. You want to make sure that the company or business you are working with is reputable within the industry and the products that they are selling are of good quality. There are a few key questions to ask that will help you determine this:
Do they have their own yard where the containers are stored & maintained?
Some companies are merely brokers and therefore do not actually see the containers that they are selling. Typically, they will offer a container that has been retired from overseas transport after many years. They will not know the exact container they’re selling to you, and therefore will not know the condition it’s in. While this may be a cheaper container, it’s likely to be in poor condition, may have holes and heavy rust, and overall will have a shorter lifespan. So, if a company does not have their own yard to store their containers, they are likely a broker.
Do they have their own internal transportation?
A company that has its own delivery drivers will provide a better experience for the customer at a cheaper rate. Why? First, because the company will have complete control over the schedule to accommodate your needs. Second, you will have one company that’s responsible for a successful delivery instead of placing blame on another party for something that may go wrong. Third, the drivers will be the most experienced container delivery drivers you’ll be able to find! They will have tips and tricks to share with the customer on the best placement of the container and how to do it properly. Here at American Trailer Rentals, our in-house drivers not only deliver your container precisely where you want it, but they verify that it’s level, the doors open and close properly, and assist with any complex placement like on top of wood blocks. Lastly, having an internal delivery team means there’s no extra mark-up on cost for delivery.
How long have they been in business?
Knowing how long a company has been in business speaks volumes. It will help you understand if they treat their customers right and if their products hold up to the test of time. After all, if you don’t respect your customers and if you offer a crummy product, you won’t be in business for long! Here at American Trailer Rentals, we’ve been in the industry for over 30 years. Our reviews on Google & Facebook from our customers reflect our excellent customer service, quality products that we offer, and our professional drivers.
Make the Right Choice
At American Trailer Rentals, we pride ourselves on top-notch customer service and offering quality products. Give us a call at our Tampa, Lakeland, or Orlando locations, and let us prove it to you!
