Used Shipping Container Grades Explained: Choosing the Right Unit
1. New / "One-Trip" Containers
Best for: High-visibility sites, pop-up shops, and long-term storage where aesthetics matter.
These are the best quality units available. Manufactured in China, they make a single journey to the UK carrying cargo before being sold. They are structurally immaculate, have factory-fitted lockboxes, and come in standard colours (usually green or blue). If you are placing a unit in a school in Bury or a visible retail spot in Salford Quays, this is the grade to choose.
2. IICL-5 (Premium Used)
Best for: Long-term shipping, high-end conversions, and architectural projects.
IICL-5 is the highest standard for a used container, established by the Institute of International Container Lessors. These units are inspected to a stricter standard than standard "Cargo Worthy" boxes. They have minimal dents, excellent floor condition, and superior structural integrity. If you need a used container that is structurally close to new for a complex modification project in Trafford Park, an IICL-5 unit provides the straightest lines and best base frame.
3. Cargo Worthy (CW) / CSC Plated
Best for: Exporting goods abroad.
"Cargo Worthy" is a functional technical standard. It means the container has been inspected by a surveyor and deemed structurally sound enough to be stacked and transported on a cargo ship. While it may have surface rust and dents, the frame and weight-bearing pillars are solid. If you plan to pack a container with goods and ship it from Manchester to Mumbai, you must have a CW container with a valid CSC plate.
4. Wind and Watertight (WWT)
Best for: General dry storage, agricultural use, and industrial yards.
This is the most popular grade for static storage. A WWT container is typically 10–15 years old and has been retired from international shipping lines. It will have dents, surface rust, and perhaps patch repairs, but we guarantee it is weatherproof. No wind or water will get in, meaning your tools, machinery, or furniture stay dry. It’s the cost-effective choice for businesses in Rochdale or Wigan looking for functionality over aesthetics.
5. Refurbished Containers
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who want a tidy appearance.
A refurbished unit is usually a used WWT container that has been given a "facelift." We sand down the loose rust and apply a fresh coat of marine-grade paint (often dark green or blue). We can also install a lockbox if one isn't present. It’s a great middle-ground option, cheaper than new, but brighter than a raw used box.
Do used containers smell?
They can sometimes have a residual odour from previous cargoes (such as spices, timber, or tyres) or from the flooring. If you are storing sensitive items such as fabrics or paper archives, we recommend a "One-Trip" container or a unit with a neutral history.
How long will a used container last?
A used WWT container, if kept off the ground on sleepers to prevent damp rising, can easily last another 10 to 20 years. Maintenance (such as painting over rusty patches) helps significantly extend this lifespan. See our guide on protecting your container for more tips.
Is IICL-5 worth the extra cost over Cargo Worthy?
For static storage, probably not a standard WWT or CW unit will keep things dry just as well. However, if you are converting the container and need straight walls for lining, or if you are shipping high-value goods long-term, the superior condition of IICL-5 is worth the premium.
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Tel: 0330 0130 636