Used shipping containers - affordable, tough storage

A used shipping container is the cheapest way to get strong, lockable, weatherproof storage. We sell inspected used shipping containers in 10, 20, 40 and 45 ft and deliver them across Estonia.

Below we explain what the CW and WWT grades mean, what to check before you buy and what a used container is best for.

Condition grades: CW, WWT and IICL

  • CW (cargo worthy) - the container can still ship cargo by sea, rail and road. It has a valid CSC plate, a sound floor and working doors. Signs of use such as rust spots or small dents are allowed, but they do not weaken the structure.
  • WWT (wind & water tight) - the container keeps out wind and water but may no longer meet shipping requirements. A good choice for storage, a workshop or a building site.
  • IICL - the highest standard for used containers: very good condition with minimal signs of use.

Read more in our article on used container grades.

What to check when buying a used container

  • Doors and seals - the doors should open and close without much force, and the rubber seals must be intact so water cannot get in.
  • Roof - no holes and no deep dents where water can collect.
  • Floor - the plywood floor should be dry and solid, with no soft spots.
  • Rust - surface rust is normal on a used container, but there must be no rust holes.
  • The light test - step inside, close the doors and look for daylight. If you see none, the container is tight.

Want to be sure? Also read how to avoid container scams.

What a used shipping container is good for

People use a used shipping container, for example:

  • as a lockable store for tools and materials on a building site;
  • on a farm or at a country house for machinery, feed and fertiliser;
  • as extra storage for a business - stock, packaging or archives;
  • as a garage, workshop or storeroom next to a house;
  • for shipping cargo - CW containers are made for that.

Used shipping container sizes

The most common are the used 20ft (6 m) and 40ft (12 m) containers. We also offer 10ft and 45ft containers, plus high cube and pallet wide versions. Each size page lists exact dimensions and weights:

How to make a used container last longer

  • Set the container on a level base slightly above the ground, so the floor never stands in water.
  • Grease the hinges of the door locking bars once a year to keep the doors moving easily.
  • Clear snow and leaves from the roof and make sure water does not stand in dents.
  • Keep the vents open - it reduces condensation.
  • Paint over rust spots before the rust goes deeper.

What the price of a used container depends on

The price of a used shipping container depends on size, grade (CW costs more than WWT), age, colour, quantity and where it needs to go. That is why we do not publish a general price list but send a quote that fits your needs. Specific containers with photos - many with a price - are listed under Containers in stock.

If you only need a container for a while, shipping container rental may cost less than buying. For a quote: Use the form on this page, call +372 505 46 14 or email sales@cway.ee.