Guides

New one-trip vs used: what the grades mean

Close-up of blue container door bars secured with a chain and padlock

Two containers of the same size can look very different and cost very different amounts. The difference is the condition grade. Grades are not always used the same way across the industry, so it pays to know what each one should mean before you buy. This guide explains the grades we sell and how to choose between them.

Why grades exist

Shipping containers are built to carry cargo across oceans. Shipping lines and leasing companies use them for years, then sell them when they no longer meet their standards. A grade describes where a container is in that life: just built, still fit for shipping, or retired from shipping but still dry and secure.

The grade says nothing about size or type. A 20ft standard and a 40ft high cube can both be new one-trip, cargo-worthy or wind and watertight.

New one-trip

A new one-trip container is built overseas, loaded with cargo for its first voyage, and sold after it is unloaded. It has made one trip, which is how it reaches the US without traveling empty.

What to expect

  • Clean, even paint with a few small marks from loading and handling.
  • A clean floor, tight door seals and doors that open and close easily.
  • Straight walls and roof, with no rust beyond light surface marks.

Choose it when

Appearance matters, the box will stand in public view, or you plan to convert it into an office or workshop. Conversions go more smoothly when walls, floor and seals start in good condition. Double door, side door and open side containers are usually only available as new one-trip.

Used grades

Used containers have served for years in shipping. They show wear, but most have plenty of life left as storage. Within used containers, there are a few common grades.

IICL

IICL refers to the inspection and repair standards of the Institute of International Container Lessors. An IICL container meets the standard leasing companies require. It is the highest used grade, with sound structure, a good floor and limited dents and rust. Supply is limited, and it costs more than other used grades.

Cargo-worthy

A cargo-worthy container is structurally sound and fit to carry cargo again by sea, rail or road. Expect surface rust, dents, faded paint and some old markings. The frame, floor and doors are in working order, and the box is watertight.

Choose cargo-worthy if you may ship the container later, or if you want a solid used box with fewer signs of age than wind and watertight. If you plan to ship internationally, ask about current certification, since requirements depend on the route.

Wind and watertight

A wind and watertight container keeps wind and water out and locks securely, but no longer meets shipping standards. Expect more rust and dents, patched areas, faded or mismatched paint, and a worn floor.

For storage on the ground, this is often the right choice. A farm, job site or back lot needs a box that is dry and lockable, and wind and watertight delivers that at the lowest price among warrantied grades.

As-is

An as-is container is sold in its current state, with known defects and no warranty. It may have holes, damaged doors or a soft floor. It suits buyers who plan to repair it, or who need steel for a project rather than a working box. Always look at an as-is container or ask for photos before buying.

How to choose

Match the grade to the job, not to the most you can afford.

  • Dry storage on a farm, job site or back lot: wind and watertight is usually enough.
  • Storage that may be shipped or moved often: cargo-worthy.
  • Public-facing sites, offices, workshops and conversions: new one-trip.
  • Projects where you will cut or repair the box yourself: as-is, after inspection.

Questions to ask before you buy

  • Can I see photos of the specific unit, or only a typical one?
  • Which grade standard does the seller use, and what does the warranty cover?
  • How old is the container? The manufacture date is on the data plate by the doors.
  • Are there any repairs or patches, and where?
  • Has the floor been treated, and is it in one piece?

Checking the grade at delivery

Whatever grade you buy, inspect the container when it arrives. Walk around it and look for holes or serious damage. Open and close the doors and test the locking bars. Step inside, close the doors and look for daylight, which shows a hole. Check the floor for soft spots.

If something does not match the grade you ordered, note it on the delivery paperwork and send photos to your specialist the same day.

Our grades and condition page sets out what each grade includes, and every product page lists the grades available for that size. If you are unsure which grade fits your use, tell us what you plan to store and a specialist will recommend one.