Common Myths and Sales Tricks When Buying a Shipping Container

Common Myths and Sales Tricks When Buying a Shipping Container
Introduction

In this post, we’re covering the most common misconceptions and sales tricks I’ve seen over the past 5 years working in this industry.

The goal is simple—to show you how things actually work behind the scenes and to point out the tactics some sellers use to secure a sale.

 


1. “Some containers are better because they’re more expensive”

This is simply not true.

We all source containers from the same depots.
You’ll get the same unit whether you buy from us or from someone else.

There is no “premium batch” that only certain sellers have access to.

👉 The only things you should focus on:

  • The price

  • The expertise of the seller you’re working with

Because the container itself is the same, but the service is not.

 

 


2. “The best units go first”

Another myth.

Containers are stacked left, right, and on top of each other as they arrive at the depot.
There is no sorting by appearance, and no one is hand-picking the “best ones.”

I’ve personally checked this with multiple depots, and the process is always the same:

  • They take the next available unit

  • Perform an inspection

  • If everything is fine, they hand it over to drivers who inspect the unit themselves (the same thing you will do when the container arrives at your location), and once everything is confirmed to be in good condition, the unit is accepted and delivered

That’s it.

If someone tells you that the “best units go first,” it’s usually just a way to create urgency and push you to buy faster.

 

 


3. “You don’t need a foundation for your conex”

Not true.

Yes, you can place a container directly on the ground.
But over time, this leads to problems:

  • The container starts to shift

  • It becomes uneven

  • Doors become difficult—or impossible—to open

👉 That’s why I advise all my clients to install a proper foundation.

It ensures:

  • Long-term functionality

  • Easier daily use

  • Better overall durability

(If you’re not sure which foundation to use, check my other post (here) where I explain all options and when to use them.)


4. “There is a company that will let me inspect the container at the depot”

The chances of this are zero.

  • Visitors are not allowed to enter the depot

  • Access is restricted for safety reasons

Depots are not open to the public.

Containers are inspected by trained professionals before delivery, which ensures everything is checked properly.

👉 This system protects both you and the seller.

 


5. “Another seller sent me a picture of the exact unit”

This is not possible.

During busy seasons, dozens of containers are sold daily from each depot.
The container you’re buying is usually stacked in the middle of other containers that were purchased earlier and are waiting for delivery, as explained in section 2.

  • Not accessible

  • Impossible to photograph without moving multiple units

👉 Because of that, most images you receive are:

  • Reference photos

  • Similar units

  • Or general yard examples

Your container is often better preserved since it has been protected from direct sun and weather exposure,

 


6. “Delivery will be by the end of the week”

In 99% of cases, this is not realistic—especially during peak season (which usually lasts until mid-September).

Delivery is a serious process that includes:

  • Route planning

  • Site access evaluation

  • Scheduling trucks and logistics

👉 Standard delivery time:

  • 6–9 business days

  • During peak season: 10–15 business days

The most important thing is:

  • Smooth delivery

  • No unexpected costs

  • Arrival on the agreed date

Everything should be planned in advance—and delivered exactly as promised.

 

 



Conclusion

Buying a shipping container is not complicated.

What makes it complicated is:

  • Misinformation

  • Sales pressure

  • Unrealistic promises

👉 You don’t need a “better” container
👉 You need accurate information and a reliable seller

Fill out the quote form below and get an accurate price, along with clear and honest information—no sales tricks, no misleading claims.