What is a Cargo Worthy Container?

What is a "Cargo worthy" shipping container?

Cargo Worthy Shipping Container

I get this question a lot. Usually from folks that are shopping around for a storage container. Only a few really need a certified cargo worthy container.

So, what does cargo worthy mean?

Among wholesalers it means that the container should pass inspection for cargo use. Note the word "should". When I am offered cargo worthy units, they are usually more expensive than other used units. When I buy this grade, I should be able to have it inspected (by a third party). The inspector will pass or fail the unit. Approved units come with a certificate and a sticker. The sticker is fixed to the plate on the container doors indicating how long the inspection is good for. The paperwork is a certificate done on behalf of the owner (you). These inspections assure that the unit is structurally sound and weathertight for cargo. Inspections are required to ship.

It also implies that the last inspection is still valid-not expired. If you plan to ship, you will still need a new inspection. The inspection certificate (called a CSC) will need to be in your name. Your container, your inspection, in your name.

The problem with promising cargo worthy containers?

I have had an inspector completely fail a used "cargo worthy" 40'-supplied to me by a trusted 20 year supplier (one of the largest, most respected). I have had two other cases that "cargo worthy" units arrived to my place with holes. In every case they made good on anything I bought. Over the past 23 years, I have purchased a lot of containers. Every once in a while, I get a bad container. These instances have made me careful when using the term-"cargo worthy" with retail customers.

So how can you really know if a container is cargo worthy?

Get an inspection, by you know, an inspector. Not the truck driver or the seller.

Who are these inspectors?

Usually marine surveyors that do containers. Not all marine surveyors work with containers.

How much is an inspection?

I charge $150 in Atlanta to hire one of the inspectors I respect. I have been quoted up to $500-$600 in markets like Houston. Price varies by market.

So I need a storage container, but sellers are promising that it will be cargo worthy. How do I know if it is really cargo worthy?

Read the stuff above this and answer for yourself. Without an inspection you don't know, neither do I.

So why are sellers everywhere claiming that their equipment is cargo worthy vs. wind and water tight?

I suspect they want to make you feel really good about buying from them or they just don't know any better. I'm not sure which is worse. I recently heard of a seller telling a buyer that cargo worthy meant the "doors work really good". No, that is not accurate.

I also think cargo worthy implies that the units will look better, that they will be cleaner. That is sometimes the case, but not always. If I could count on that, I would always buy cargo worthy units. I could but a cargo worthy container next to a wind and water tight container and ask you to tell the difference. I could ask you to select the best one. You might be surprised! Cargo worthy does not address cosmetics at all-not even a little.

So my seller really says its an inspected, cargo worthy unit. What should I do?

Ask to see the inspection, ask for a photo of the sticker. Who inspected the container? The seller? With their eyeballs? The driver? Right before he delivers to you? With his eyeballs? Get what you pay for.

Oh, and by the way, containers do not come with titles. Only vehicles with wheels have titles.
Don't get hustled!

So who can I trust?

How about me? I have taken the time to educate thousands of first time and seasoned container buyers. I love what I do and will take excellent care of you. I specialize in supplying containers in the SE. I have facilities in Charlotte & Atlanta.

Addie Turner
Atlas Sales & leasing, Inc.
678-380-9980
980-475-1294
www.atlas-leasing.com