From time to time, shipping container builders often must think about how to sell metal cargo containers for sale effectively. Be they new or seasoned builders, the intricacies of selling shipping containers to buyers continue.
In this opportunity, we’ll fill in the know-how on selling new or used metal cargo containers for sale to buyers. Whether you’re selling them as a company or as an individual, we’ll cover all the important parts to help you!
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Preparations Before Selling the Shipping Containers
Before listing your container on your website, you’ve got to do some prep work before then.
Pre-Sale Quality Inspection
Selling new or used shipping containers is like selling a car: nobody wants a dirty, rusty eyesore.
To prevent that, you can start by thoroughly inspecting your container. Check for dents, rust spots, or holes, especially if you find them around the doors and corners.
If the container’s been sitting outside, odds are it’s collected some grime or even minor structural issues. A quick power wash (inside and out) is important here to wash away any dirt in the container.
Certification and Compliance
If you want to sell the containers for international shipping, ensure they have a valid CSC (Container Safety Convention) plate.
Having the plate is non-negotiable for buyers planning to ship goods overseas, and lacking one could slash the container’s value by up to 30%.
Even if selling domestically, highlighting certifications like wind/watertight guarantees can justify higher pricing.
Repair Like a Pro
Got a used container with some dents? No problem! Weld shut any holes instead of using temporary patches to show buyers you’re serious about quality.
Replace broken door hinges or seals, and slap on a fresh coat of paint if the exterior looks faded. For new containers, emphasize their pristine condition and compliance with shipping standards.
Remember, first impressions matter, so take bright, well-lit photos from multiple angles to showcase your container’s best features.
Determining the Price for the Containers
Pricing can make or break your sale. Charge too much, and buyers will scroll past your listing. Charge too little, and you’re leaving cash on the table.
So, how do you strike the right balance? Research is key. Check online marketplaces or local dealers to see what similar containers are selling for.
Crunch the Numbers
Factors like size, age, and condition heavily influence price. A used 20-foot container might cost $1,500–$3,000, while a new one could go for $2,500–$5,000.
Specialty containers like reefer or side-opening units command higher prices, especially if they’re new. Location matters too – containers in port cities often cost less due to higher supply, while rural areas might see inflated prices.
Leverage Appraisals
If you’re unsure about pricing, hire a professional appraiser. They’ll assess factors like corrosion levels, floor condition, and structural integrity.
For example, a container with minor surface rust might lose 10% of its value, while one with corroded corner castings could drop by 40%.
Transparency about past repairs or modifications builds trust since buyers appreciate knowing the container’s current quality.
Where to Sell the Containers
Now that your container’s ready, it’s time to find buyers. Cast a wide net by listing on multiple platforms:
Online Marketplaces
Sites like eBay or Craiglist let you reach global buyers. While they can help you find buyers from stateside, it’s always good if you can find buyers from abroad.
Make a comprehensive product list on these websites so buyers can find the one they prefer. With many metal cargo containers for sale to check, more buyers will be more inclined to see your products.
Niche Buyers
It might sound unconventional, but you shouldn’t overlook non-industrial customer bases. Today, architects often repurpose containers into homes, while event planners set them up for field offices.
Farmers might seek containers for equipment storage, and urban developers could want them for affordable housing projects. Because of that, use social media like LinkedIn to target construction firms or Instagram to attract DIY enthusiasts.
Local Partnerships
Partner with shipping container dealers for consignment sales. They’ll handle marketing and buyer vetting for a 10–15% commission. Alternatively, rent space at trade shows to network with logistics companies and exporters.
How to Sell Containers as a Business
If you work in a company capacity and are ready to promote your metal cargo containers for sale, follow these steps when selling!
Build a Brand That Stands Out
Create a sleek website showcasing your inventory, services (like delivery or customization), and customer testimonials.
Highlight certifications like CSC plates or partnerships with manufacturers like Tradecorp, which supplies containers for US-based customers.
Furthermore, you should also offer value-adds like free site prep guides or financing options to help your customers.
Master Logistics
To sell your containers more, you can invest in tilt-bed trucks for delivery or partner with transport companies.
Properly securing containers during transit avoids damage claims. Furthermore, offer installation services, like pouring concrete foundations, to upsell buyers.
How to Sell Containers as an Individual
What if you’re just an individual seller looking to sell your containers to potential buyers? Here’s how to sell them.
List with Flair
Use free platforms like Facebook Marketplace, but avoid generic descriptions. Instead of “40ft containers for sale,” try “Rustic 40ft High Cube—Perfect for Art Studio or Vintage Shop!”
Include keywords like “CSC-certified” or “insulated” to attract specific buyers. High-quality photos are non-negotiable so buyers will feel convinced that their choice is an actual steal.
Negotiate with Confidence
Set a firm bottom price but leave room for haggling. If a buyer hesitates at $3,000, offer free delivery (which typically costs $200–$500) to close the deal.
If you want to sell used containers, provide a maintenance history so buyers can deduce the container’s actual quality.
Dot the I’s
Draft a bill of sale detailing the container’s condition, price, and buyer/seller info. Transfer ownership officially via your local maritime authority if the container has a CSC plate. For non-certified units, a notarized sales agreement suffices.
How to Convince the Buyers to Buy?
Knowing how to sell metal cargo containers for sale is good, but it all hinges on convincing the buyers to buy your products!
To start, appeal to practicality by framing the container as a solution. Mention uses like mobile offices, pop-up shops, or storm-proof storage and tailor your pitch to the buyer’s needs.
For example, contractors value wind/watertight guarantees, while homeowners might love insulation-ready units.
Next, you should leverage social proof by presenting satisfied, honest testimonials from former container buyers. With these testimonials, working hard to convince potential buyers is as easy as pie.
You can also create urgency with limited-time offers. Meanwhile, use the “Foot-in-the-Door” technique that offers a free inspection for hesitant buyers.
Finally, simplify the process. Provide clear delivery options, financing plans, or 3D mockups to visualize modifications to attract customers.
Also Read: Cut Container Shipping Costs with the Best Practices
Conclusion
So long as you follow the steps above properly, your metal cargo containers for sale will be emptied from your catalog in no time. Tradecorp, for example, follows these steps to ensure customers are thoroughly satisfied with their various container units. Want to experience its high-quality containers? Buy or rent one today by contacting Tradecorp via its quote form!
