How to Buy a Shipping Container When You Can’t See It in Person

When you’re purchasing a shipping container, it’s completely normal to want to see what you’re buying. But since most containers are stored in active depots and container yards, and not retail lots, it’s often not possible for customers to see them in person.

At Super Cubes, we understand that this can feel a little intimidating. That’s why we take extra steps to make the process clear, honest, and stress-free. In this article, we'll be sharing need-to-know info for buying your shipping container with confidence, even when you can't see it with your own eyes.

Why You Can’t Always See Containers in Person

There are a few reasons why you can't always see the container you are buying before purchase, and one of the most significant reasons is that shipping container depots are busy commercial yards that aren’t typically open to public visitors for safety and logistical reasons.

Another reason is that containers move quickly — sometimes within just a few hours — so the specific unit you’re quoted on may be sold before an in-person visit could even take place. Instead, Super Cubes provides reference photos that show what you can expect for the condition and style of container you’re purchasing.

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How the Shipping Container Buying Process Works

When you buy a shipping container through Super Cubes, you’ll get photos that represent the same grade and style of container you’re ordering, whether that’s a one-trip/new unit or a used, cargo-worthy container.

Buying New Shipping Containers

For one-trip/new containers, what you see is almost exactly what you’ll get as these units show very little variation. They’re typically beige in color and in excellent condition. You might notice a few light scratches or small dings here and there, which is completely normal since each container is handled about 10–20 times on its journey to the U.S.

Buying Used Shipping Containers

For used containers, we provide reference photos that show the level of wear, surface rust, and markings typical for that grade. We do not sell “as-is” units, so you can feel confident you’ll receive a solid, watertight container suitable for storage or modification.

While we don’t typically provide videos, the reference photos and container grades we share are a reliable way to understand what to expect. They give you a clear idea of the overall condition and appearance of your container before it arrives.

How Super Cubes Ensures Shipping Container Quality

When you work with Super Cubes to make your shipping container purchase, you can be rest assured that every container we sell comes from trusted, long-standing partners in the intermodal industry. When containers arrive at the depot, they go through a standard inspection process, which involves inspecting the container’s doors, seals, walls, and floors to confirm they meet their grade and condition standards. We rely on our trusted vendors who specialize in grading containers accurately, whether one-trip/new or used, so you can count on getting the quality described in your quote. Once your container order is placed, we handle the logistics and delivery to make sure everything runs smoothly.

Shipping Container Grading Standards and Warranties

Container grades, such as One-Trip/New or Cargo-Worthy, are industry standards that describe the physical and structural condition of the unit. Super Cubes only offers containers that meet or exceed those standards, verified by depot inspections before delivery. While containers are sold in “as-is” condition within their grade, we stand by our descriptions and work with customers if any issues arise upon delivery.

Super Cubes does not personally offer warranties on containers, as their condition and grading are certified by the depots and vendors we work with. However, we take care to partner only with trusted suppliers to ensure the containers you receive meet the advertised grade and quality expectations.

How to Make Sure You’re Getting the Quality You Expect

It’s understandable to feel uncertain about buying a container without seeing it in person; but rest assured, thousands of customers have successfully purchased this way. When you work with Super Cubes, our industry experts walk you through each step of the process, explain exactly what you’re getting, and provide visuals that represent the grade and style.

Once customers receive their container, they’re often pleasantly surprised by how accurate our descriptions and photos were. Next we'll cover smart steps, buying tips and red flags to watch out for when making your container purchase. 

Smart Steps for First-Time Shipping Container Buyers

If you are buying a container for the first time, these tips will help you make an informed purchase and avoid surprises along the way.

Ask About Container Grades and Inspection Standards

Reputable vendors should tell you whether the unit is cargo-worthy, wind and watertight, or one-trip/new.

Request Reference Photos

Ask for photos so you can get a clear visual of the container’s condition before you buy.

Know Who You’re Buying From

Work with a trusted, established vendor with real industry connections, like Super Cubes.

Clarify Container Delivery Details

Ask questions about the delivery process, recommended preparations, and confirm how and when your container will arrive, along with any offloading requirements.

Learn More About Buying a Container: 6 Questions for Smart Container Shopping

Red Flags to Watch For When Buying a Shipping Container

Unfortunately, the container industry has seen an increase in online scams and misleading listings. 

Be cautious if:

• The price seems too good to be true.
• The seller can’t provide a company name, business address, or verifiable contact information.
• You’re asked to pay via gift cards or personal apps like Venmo.

A legitimate shipping container vendor will always provide invoices and be transparent about their process.

Learn the 5 Steps to Verify Your Shipping Container Vendor's Legitimacy

Buy Shipping Containers With Confidence

Buying a container without seeing it first might sound risky, but with the right company, it’s a simple, straightforward process. At Super Cubes, we combine transparency, experience, and trusted depot partnerships to make sure you get exactly what you’re expecting without any surprises.

Many of our customers start off unsure about buying without seeing the container, but after delivery, they often tell us they were pleasantly surprised at how smooth and accurate the process was. We’ve helped everyone from homeowners to large companies purchase containers confidently without ever setting foot in a depot.

If you’re ready to explore options or have questions about finding the right container, contact Super Cubes today. We’ll guide you through the process from start to finish so you can buy a shipping container with confidence, no matter where you are.

Super Cubes is a family-owned business located in Minneapolis, MN, that provides containers anywhere in the continental US. We offer personalized service for individuals and businesses, providing high-quality containers at competitive prices. With nationwide facilities, we can modify and deliver containers close to you. Contact our experienced team for your next container project.