How to inspect a used shipping container (checklist)

Outside

• Rust — surface rust is cosmetic; flaking or holed metal, especially on the corner posts, bottom rails and roof, is structural.
• Roof — look for dents that hold water. Standing water is the main cause of roof rust.
• Walls — dents are normal; creases or holes are not.
• Corner castings — the four lifting points at each corner should be solid and undamaged.

Doors and seals

• Both doors should open and close without forcing, and the locking bars should turn freely.
• Rubber door gaskets should be soft, complete and not torn — they keep rain out.
• Hinges should not be cracked or heavily rusted.

Inside

• The light test — step inside, close the doors, and look for daylight through the roof or walls. Any light means a hole.
• Floor — usually marine plywood. Walk the whole floor and feel for soft or spongy spots, delamination or holes.
• Smell — a strong chemical smell can mean a past spill; important if you'll store food or convert it into a living space.
• Water marks — stains on walls or floor point to a leak.

Paperwork and identity

Every container has a unique container number painted on the doors (four letters and seven digits, e.g. CSQU 305438 3). The last digit is a check digit — a mistyped number won't validate. Match the number on the door to the one on your receipt or invoice. Cargo-worthy units also carry a CSC plate showing the last safety examination date.

On C-ZUCHI, your invoice records the container number of the exact unit delivered.

Frequently asked questions