Question 1

What is a used shipping container and where does it come from?

Accepted Answer

A used shipping container is a steel intermodal unit originally built for transporting cargo across oceans on ships, trains, and trucks. These containers are constructed from Corten steel to withstand harsh marine environments, which makes them exceptionally durable. Once retired from active shipping routes, they are sold for secondary uses such as storage, workshops, and building projects.

Question 2

How long can I expect a used container to last once placed on my property?

Accepted Answer

Shipping containers are engineered from corrosion-resistant Corten steel and can last 25 to 30 years or more in a stationary ground-level setting with basic upkeep. Many container structures outlast conventionally built sheds and outbuildings. Periodic inspection of seals and a coat of rust-inhibiting paint every few years will keep yours in top shape.

Question 3

Why should I consider a pre-owned container instead of buying new?

Accepted Answer

Pre-owned containers typically cost 40 to 60 percent less than brand-new units while still delivering strong structural performance and weather protection. Purchasing used also diverts steel from the waste stream, making it an environmentally responsible choice. For most storage and conversion projects, a used container in Cargo Worthy or Wind and Water Tight condition is more than sufficient.

Question 4

Do your containers come with any kind of buyer protection?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every container we sell includes a 30-day money-back guarantee. If the unit does not match the described condition upon delivery, we will arrange a return and issue a full refund. We also supply detailed condition reports and photos before you commit so there are no surprises.

Question 5

Are your containers suitable for Colorado's extreme temperature swings?

Accepted Answer

Corten steel handles Colorado's weather very well -- it was engineered for ocean voyages through every climate zone on the planet. The steel will not crack or warp from freeze-thaw cycles. For comfortable interior temperatures, add insulation and ventilation; uninsulated containers will be hot in summer and cold in winter, similar to a metal garage.

Question 6

Can I paint or modify the exterior of a used container?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can paint, weld, cut openings, mount fixtures, and apply cladding to any container you own. Many Denver buyers add siding, stucco, or wood cladding to match their property. Before painting, wire-brush any loose rust and apply a rust-converting primer for best adhesion and durability.

Question 7

What is the typical price range for containers you carry?

Accepted Answer

Prices depend on size and condition grade. A 20ft Wind and Water Tight starts around $1,350, while a 40ft High Cube One-Trip can reach $5,200. Cargo Worthy units -- our most popular grade -- range from roughly $1,800 for a 20ft to $2,800 for a 40ft High Cube. Use our online calculator or request a quote for an exact price including delivery.

Question 8

Can I visit your yard to inspect containers before purchasing?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We welcome scheduled yard visits so you can walk through available inventory in person. We also provide high-resolution photos and a written condition report for every unit, which is helpful if a visit is not practical. Either way, our 30-day guarantee means you can verify the container on delivery with zero risk.

Question 9

How do I figure out which size and condition fit my project?

Accepted Answer

Start with your intended use. Living spaces and visible builds benefit from Cargo Worthy or One-Trip grades. Storage and utility projects work well with Wind and Water Tight. For sizing, a 20ft unit provides about 148 square feet and fits most residential lots, while a 40ft delivers roughly 304 square feet for larger builds. Our team is happy to walk you through the options.

Question 10

What does the buying process look like from start to finish?

Accepted Answer

It is straightforward. First, request a free quote with your preferred size, condition, and delivery ZIP code. We respond with pricing, photos, and a condition report. Once you confirm, we schedule delivery within 3 to 7 business days. You inspect the container on site and are covered by our 30-day satisfaction guarantee throughout.

Question 11

Do you offer bulk pricing if I need more than one container?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Multi-unit orders qualify for volume discounts. Whether you are building a multi-container home, stocking a construction site, or setting up storage for a business, we can quote a package deal. Contact us with the quantities and conditions you need and we will provide a bundled price.

Question 12

Can I reserve a specific container before I finalize my site prep?

Accepted Answer

We can hold a specific unit for a short period with a refundable reservation fee. This is helpful when your site work or permitting is still in progress. Once your site is ready, we convert the reservation into a full order and schedule delivery.

Question 13

Do you buy back containers or accept trade-ins?

Accepted Answer

We consider buyback offers on a case-by-case basis depending on the container's condition and our current inventory needs. If you have a container you no longer need, send us a few photos and details and we will let you know whether we can make an offer.

Question 14

What sizes and heights are available in your inventory?

Accepted Answer

We stock the four most common configurations: 20ft Standard (8 feet 6 inches tall), 20ft High Cube (9 feet 6 inches tall), 40ft Standard, and 40ft High Cube. High Cube models add roughly one foot of interior headroom, which makes a meaningful difference in living and working spaces.

Question 15

What makes a One-Trip container different from other grades?

Accepted Answer

A One-Trip unit was manufactured overseas, loaded with a single shipment bound for the US, and then sold stateside. It is essentially a new container with minimal cosmetic wear -- clean paint, no dents, and factory-fresh flooring. One-Trip is the premium choice when appearance and condition matter most.

Question 16

What does a Cargo Worthy certification mean in practice?

Accepted Answer

Cargo Worthy means the container has passed a formal structural inspection and is certified safe for international ocean freight. It may show cosmetic signs of service such as surface rust, minor dents, and small repair patches, but it remains fully weatherproof and structurally sound. This grade offers the best combination of quality and value for most projects.

Question 17

When does it make sense to choose Wind and Water Tight over Cargo Worthy?

Accepted Answer

Wind and Water Tight is a smart pick when you need reliable weather protection at a lower price and do not require a shipping certification. It is ideal for on-site storage, workshops, and conversion projects where the exterior will be clad or painted. The container keeps wind and rain out but will show more visible wear than a Cargo Worthy unit.

Question 18

Is the extra height of a High Cube container worth the added cost?

Accepted Answer

For most conversion projects, yes. The additional foot of interior clearance -- about 8 feet 10 inches inside versus 7 feet 10 inches in a standard -- creates a far more comfortable living or working environment. If you plan to add insulation, flooring, or a dropped ceiling, that extra height prevents the space from feeling cramped.

Question 19

What kind of flooring comes standard inside a shipping container?

Accepted Answer

Nearly all shipping containers have marine-grade plywood floors, typically 28 mm thick, designed to withstand heavy cargo loads and moisture. In One-Trip units the plywood is essentially new. In older grades, the floor may show wear marks from cargo but remains structurally sound. Many conversion builders install finished flooring directly over the existing plywood.

Question 20

What exactly does the As-Is grade include and who should buy one?

Accepted Answer

As-Is containers are retired units sold in their current state with no guarantee of being watertight. They may have rust holes, worn flooring, or stiff doors. They are ideal for buyers who plan to cut, weld, or heavily modify the shell anyway -- fabricators, artists, and experienced builders who value low cost over cosmetic quality.

Question 21

How much does delivery cost within the Denver metro area?

Accepted Answer

Denver metro deliveries within 25 miles of our depot start at a flat $150. Beyond that, cost is calculated by distance using per-mile rates. Front Range deliveries to cities like Fort Collins or Colorado Springs are quoted individually. We provide free, all-inclusive delivery estimates so you know the total before committing.

Question 22

How quickly can I expect my container after placing an order?

Accepted Answer

Most orders are delivered within 3 to 7 business days. Denver metro deliveries typically land on the faster end at 3 to 5 days. Mountain communities and remote locations may take up to 10 business days depending on road access and weather conditions.

Question 23

Do you deliver throughout the state of Colorado?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We serve the entire state, including the Denver metro, the Front Range corridor from Fort Collins to Colorado Springs, mountain communities, the Western Slope, and southern Colorado. If you have a Colorado address, we can get a container to you.

Question 24

What do I need to do to prepare my site before the truck shows up?

Accepted Answer

You will need a level, compacted surface for the container, a clear access path at least 12 feet wide with 14 feet of overhead clearance, and enough room for the delivery truck to maneuver. For tilt-bed delivery, roughly 100 feet of straight approach is ideal. We will walk you through site preparation when we provide your quote.

Question 25

Can you deliver to mountain properties or dirt roads?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we regularly deliver to mountain communities and rural properties across Colorado. Narrow or unpaved roads may require a smaller truck or a crane assist, which we factor into the delivery quote. Let us know your property conditions when requesting a quote and we will plan the best approach.

Question 26

What happens if the delivery truck cannot reach my exact placement spot?

Accepted Answer

If access is too tight for our tilt-bed truck, we can arrange a flatbed delivery with a crane or side-lifter to place the container precisely where you need it. We discuss any access challenges during the quoting process so there are no surprises on delivery day.

Question 27

Will the delivery driver place the container exactly where I want it?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our drivers are experienced at precise placement. You mark the spot beforehand and the driver slides or lifts the container into position. Tilt-bed trucks can adjust placement by a few feet after the initial slide. For tight spots or exact positioning, crane-assisted delivery gives full control over placement.

Question 28

Can a shipping container really serve as the shell for a home or ADU?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and it is becoming increasingly common in Colorado. A container provides a strong, weather-resistant steel frame that can be insulated, plumbed, wired, and finished to residential standards. A single 40ft High Cube offers about 320 square feet of living space. We recommend Cargo Worthy or One-Trip grades for any habitable structure.

Question 29

Will I need a building permit for a container structure in Denver?

Accepted Answer

Permit requirements depend on your municipality and the nature of the project. In Denver and most Colorado cities, a building permit is required for permanent structures and any container used as a dwelling or ADU. Temporary storage may have different rules. We recommend consulting your local building department early in the planning process.

Question 30

Which condition grade works best for a conversion or build-out?

Accepted Answer

One-Trip is ideal when appearance matters because the container looks nearly new. Cargo Worthy is the most popular conversion grade -- structurally sound and considerably more affordable. Wind and Water Tight works well when the exterior will be clad or heavily modified, since the original surface will be covered.

Question 31

What insulation approach do you recommend for Colorado weather?

Accepted Answer

Closed-cell spray foam is the most popular choice for Colorado container builds because it insulates and seals in a single application. Rigid foam board and batt insulation between framed walls are also effective. Given the altitude and wide temperature swings along the Front Range, aim for R-19 to R-25 in the walls for year-round comfort.

Question 32

Is it possible to combine multiple containers into a larger building?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Containers can be placed side by side, end to end, or stacked to create larger floor plans. Shared walls are cut open and the frames are welded together for a seamless interior. Multi-container builds are common for homes, offices, and commercial spaces. Two 40ft units side by side, for example, yield roughly 640 square feet.

Question 33

What type of foundation does a container home need in Colorado?

Accepted Answer

Options range from simple concrete pier blocks for lightweight or temporary setups to full concrete slab or strip foundations for permanent dwellings. In Colorado, frost depth is typically 36 inches, so permanent foundations must reach below that line. A structural engineer can specify the best foundation for your soil type and building use.

Question 34

How long does a typical container-to-home conversion take?

Accepted Answer

A basic conversion such as a backyard office or studio can be completed in 4 to 8 weeks. A fully finished tiny home or ADU with plumbing, electrical, and interior finishes usually takes 3 to 6 months depending on complexity. Container builds are generally faster than conventional construction because the shell and structural framing are already in place.

Question 35

What are the biggest challenges of building with containers in Colorado?

Accepted Answer

The main considerations are insulation against temperature extremes, managing condensation on steel walls, and meeting local building codes for habitable structures. All of these are solvable with standard construction techniques. Spray foam insulation, vapor barriers, and proper ventilation address the first two; consulting your local building department early handles the third.

Question 36

Can I add windows, doors, and skylights to a shipping container?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Steel-cutting tools like plasma cutters or angle grinders make openings for windows, roll-up doors, French doors, and skylights. The container's corrugated walls are reinforced at the corner posts and top and bottom rails, so cutting between those structural members does not compromise the frame. Many fabrication shops in the Denver area offer this service.

Question 37

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept credit cards, debit cards, bank transfers (ACH), and cash. For larger or custom orders, we can discuss additional arrangements. Full payment is due before delivery unless alternative terms have been agreed upon in advance.

Question 38

Are financing or installment plans available?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer financing options for qualifying purchases through several lending partners. This can help spread the cost of your container project over time. Contact us with the details of your order and we will walk you through the available terms and see if you qualify.

Question 39

How does the 30-day money-back guarantee work?

Accepted Answer

If the container does not match the described condition or you are not satisfied for any reason, reach out to us within 30 days of delivery. We will coordinate pickup and issue a full refund for the container purchase price. Return delivery fees may apply depending on the circumstances.

Question 40

Is sales tax applied to shipping container purchases in Colorado?

Accepted Answer

Colorado sales tax rules apply to tangible goods, and shipping containers are typically subject to state and local sales tax. The exact rate depends on your delivery address. We include any applicable tax in your final quote so the price you see is the price you pay with no hidden add-ons.

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