FAQs About Buying Your Shipping Container
What You Need to Know Before Buying a Steel Storage Container
What You Need to Know Before Delivery of Your Steel Storage Container
I’ve Purchased! Now What?
Congratulations! Our logistics team will reach out to you within 2 business days of purchase. They will work with you to set a hard date for delivery, within the delivery time frame you selected. On the day of delivery your driver will contact you once they are leaving the depot and will give you an ETA. We ask that you keep your delivery day open as we do not know an exact time that you will receive delivery. See What you need to know about Your Steel Storage delivery in the FAQ
What Do You Need To Know About Your Steel Storage Delivery?
Our heavy trucks are designed to be driven on compact surfaces such as asphalt or concrete. Compacted DRY dirt and gravel is acceptable. Our equipment is not 4×4 and will have issues delivering onto difficult terrain such as, but not limited to: loose dirt, wet and muddy areas, sandy conditions, grass if soft, ice, snow, steep inclines or declines, sloping surfaces, drains, ditches and trenches. It is your responsibility to set up the place for the container to be delivered, with access, and clearance the truck can handle. If your site is questionable, make sure to talk with our sales team before ordering and or have a backup location in mind. See Wrecker Policy
Drop-Site Preparation:
We recommend you take the time to prepare the site prior to delivery. Your drop-site should not require slope changes or moving over difficult terrain on the delivery day. When placing the container, the weight needs to be distributed between the 4 corners. Concrete and asphalt are excellent surfaces but stone pavers, railroad ties, or gravel work as well. If the drop-site is not level, the doors will pinch making them hard to operate.
If you have any concerns about your drop site, we recommend that you contact your local land grading company or landscaping company. They can level and clear the site by:
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Laying down heavy-duty landscaping fabric.
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Set out 3-4 inches of coarse gravel, with a couple of feet of overlap
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Use a straight board and level to ensure the site is graded correctly
Height, Width & Visibility Restrictions:
There must be adequate space to maneuver at the delivery location. Heavy trucks need more turning radius than normal vehicles. The container can be unloaded and the truck can drive forward unobstructed. Here is a checklist to help you judge the space:
- There must be at least 100 feet in a straight line at the intended drop site.
- A minimum height and width of 15 feet is required for moving a container.
- For unloading of the container up to 20 feet of height is required so the tilt bed can be raised up and the container slid off of the trailer.
- Low hanging tree branches and other obstacles can easily damage components on the tractor or trailer. Limited visibility can create a safety hazard for the driver, so on the day of the delivery you should plan to have at least two people on-site to act as spotters if low hanging objects such as electrical wires or telephone cables are potential problems. You’ll need to ensure there is sufficient clearance to avoid them.
- Please remember that we are not at your location, so you are our only eyes and ears. It’s imperative that you contact us at (316) 746-6688 to have your delivery rescheduled if there is any condition that would prevent successful delivery.
- If the weather is windy, rainy, and snowy, contact us. Especially for unsealed (not concrete/asphalt) delivery roads/paths/sites.
- The ground is wet from previous precipitation.
- It is important that your drop site is ready (Link Drop site prep) on the arrival of your container. We allot 30 minutes for our driver and equipment to unload your container and complete the delivery. Any excess time spent on-site may incur an additional charge of $75 per hour.
- On the day of delivery, you must be contactable by phone.
- Please ensure the path to the drop site is clear with no vehicles or other obstacles blocking the path (Link Height width).
- We recommended you inform your neighbors of the delivery as well. When the driver arrives on site he/she will walk around the drop site to check it’s suitability.
- If the driver deems the drop site to be unsafe or inaccessible the driver will not proceed. We recommend that you consider an alternative drop site for your container (in advance) in the event that the driver deems your first choice to be unsuitable.
- If you insist that the driver proceeds and attempts delivery to a site that is deemed unsuitable please refer to Wrecker Policy.
- In the unlikely event that delivery cannot be completed and an alternate location cannot be agreed upon your container may be returned to the depot. On the rare occasions when this occurs, your delivery fee will not be refunded. (Link Cancelations/Issues)
We want you to have the best possible experience with us. Most problem situations can easily be avoided by following the guidelines in our FAQ and ensuring that your intended drop site and access path is suitable. By following these guidelines, and taking the time to ensure that your drop site is suitable, you will have a safe and successful delivery of your container(s).If you need help or have any questions at all, please reach out to (316) 746-6688 or [email protected].
If the delivery driver can’t drop at your preferred delivery site, the driver will drop your container at the next closest suitable location. If you refuse delivery for any reason we will refund the purchase price of your container less a $300 restocking fee. Delivery costs are often prepaid 3rd party costs and as such are always non-refundable in any circumstances.
What Are The Measurements And Weight Of My Container?
| Standard Shipping Container Dimensions | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Container Type | External Length | Internal Length | External Height | Internal Height | External Width | Internal Width |
| 20ft Shipping Container | 20ft | 19ft 9 inches | 8ft 6 inches | 7ft 10 inches | 8ft | 7ft 10 inches |
| 40ft Shipping Container | 40ft | 39ft 9 inches | 8ft 6 inches | 7ft 10 inches | 8ft | 7ft 10 inches |
| 40ft High Cube Shipping Container | 40ft | 39ft 9 inches | 9ft 6 inches | 8ft 10 inches | 8ft | 7ft 10 inches |
- The Container Tare Weight is the weight of the container without cargo or contents.
| Typical Weights of Standard Shipping Containers | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Length | 20ft STD | 40ft STD | 40ft HC | |||
| Length | 20ft STD | 40ft STD | 40ft HC | |||
| Tare Weight | 4,500lbs | 8,500ibs | 8,750lbs | |||
What Is A New Container Description?
New one-trip containers are for those who are looking for the highest level of quality, durability, and aesthetics. New one trip containers are usually less than a year old, used only once when shipped from their overseas manufacturer. In pristine condition, new one trip containers are never exposed to the rigors of a marine environment or container depot. They are a single solid color with no shipping logos and are equipped with a factory lockbox. New containers are preferable for highly visible locations or for an owner who wants to use the container for decades to come.
See: What Is A Used Container Description?
What Is A Used Container Description?
Used containers reflect the rigors of the shipping process; used containers vary in color and often have shipping logos, dents, scratches, and rust from exposed steel of the container oxidizing. These containers are still in good used condition and will be the ideal steel storage to fit your needs. There WILL be surface rust and dents; however the doors, floors, seals and gaskets will be intact and in good working condition and an excellent value. Each container is inspected twice, once by the driver, and once by YOU upon delivery. We stand behind our products and offer a free 90 day guarantee*.
See: What Is A New Container Description?
Are Other Sizes Available?
Sizes other than 40’ and 20’ high cube and standard do exist. Based on availability and cost of logistics we only work with 40’, 40’ high cube and 20’ to ensure the best possible product and service for you, our customer.
Yes, in certain regions. Please contact us for pricing.
In the event that there are issues upon delivery due to customer negligence, this includes but is not limited to; inclement weather, road and surface conditions, less space than required to complete the delivery, insufficient access, etc. Your Steel Storage is not responsible for the cost associated with hiring a third party company to complete the delivery process. If a wrecker is called to pull a driver or unit out Your Steel Storage will not incur these charges. This will be the responsibility of the property owner/customer. These instances are rare and to ensure the smoothest delivery possible we highly suggest looking over our Delivery Guidelines.
Your Steel Storage guarantees all containers for 1 year from the date of purchase. The following is covered by the 1 year guarantee:
- Door will seal and function.
- Please note that loading the container heavy on one side can cause pinching (doors not opening or sticking when opening)
- Dropping a container on an uneven surface can cause pinching. Make sure to prepare the drop site prior to delivery date.
- Container will be leak free at the time of delivery or we will send a patch for repair.
- Please note guarantee is for the container only and does not cover the contents of the container at any time.
- Check your container regularly and paint to get the longest life out of your container.
- Floor will be free of holes.
- Please note the best way to prevent holes in the floor is to keep your container out of standing water. This is done by properly preparing the drop site for the container. See FAQ for proper site preparation.
- Color and cosmetic appearance are NOT covered..
- Used containers will have surface rust, dents, dings, and scratches.
- New or Used: Make sure to pressure wash and paint your container every few years to get the longest life out of the container
- If a different container needs to be brought out to site, the restocking fee will be waived. Additional logistics charges will apply. See Terms and Conditions
All containers come with a 5-year structural frame failure guarantee under normal use (the
“Guarantee”). The Guarantee is subject to container inspection by YSS personnel to determine if such
claim may be denied, at the sole discretion of YSS, due to abnormal use, modification, or failure outside
the control and reasonable inspection of YSS. Any modification of the Container will void this Guarantee.
Can I Select A Specific Color?
For used containers, No. However, you are able to paint your container. See How to paint my container in FAQ.
New container colors can be specified in certain regions. Contact us here for details.
How To Paint and Maintain My Container?
General maintenance and repairs prior to painting will extend the life of your container. We recommend that you hire a professional painter or handyman for the job. They will have the necessary equipment to protect from fumes and paint vapors. For your convenience here is a checklist to make sure the work is done properly:
- Paint container(s) only outside or in a well-ventilated area is necessary.
- Make sure that the weather permits: over 65 degrees Fahrenheit, minimal humidity, no rain, and little to no wind.
- Thoroughly clean the outside of the container with a pressure washer.
- Remove all dirt, debris, and loose paint chips.
- Expose any areas on the shell of the container that may need special attention. Sand any areas where surface rust or loose paint may be visible.
- Don’t forget to clean the top of the container, as you’ll also need to paint there as well.
- Once the container has been cleaned and maintained, allow some time for it to completely dry.
- Select your paint color. Pick a side to start on. Always begin at the top and work your way down. This method ensures the paint won’t run over areas that have already been painted.
- A paint sprayer is recommended, as it leaves a nice even coat.
- Once the first coat is completely dry, then apply the second coat. The second coat will seal any joints, cracks, or missed areas that may have been overlooked.
The newly painted container will be sealed for many years to come. You may want to inspect your container annually for any spots that may need attention. If you have any questions or concerns, you can always contact us directly
Do You Move Loaded Containers?
This is not a service we provide at this time.
I Have A Container Can You Move It?
Please contact us at 866-977-3444 for information.
Used:
Rush is available 1-3 business days, additional fees apply. Standard is 5-7 business days.
New:
Rush is available in certain regions. Please Contact Us additional fees will apply.
Standard is 1-4 weeks. Varies by region.
Can I Look At The Container Before I Buy It?
No. Depots are not typically accessible to the public. However, we guarantee the containers: Doors, Floors, Roof, Walls, and seals. We only sell containers that are in good working order and will last for years if not decades when well maintained.
Doors to Cab – This means that the shipping container is loaded with its doors facing the front of the truck. In these circumstances, when the container is unloaded from the truck, the doors will land on the ground last and will face the same direction as how the truck drives away.
Doors to Rear – This means that the shipping container doors land on the ground first, facing the opposite direction of how the truck will exit the location. This method is commonly used when the container will be near a building for access and loading purposes.
Charitable Discounts Or Donations?
Please email [email protected] for questions about our Charitable Program.
This is not a service we provide at this time.
They have marine-grade plywood floors over steel cross-beams.
What Is The Container Made Of?
The typical ISO shipping container is made from a “weathering steel” commonly known as corten steel. The corrugated walls, frame, cargo doors and cross members are all made from corten steel because it possesses physical properties that make it weldable and rust-resistant.
What forms of payment we do accept:
- All major credit cards
- E-Check
- Wire
- Checks via mail
- Checks via mail will be processed once received. This will increase the container delivery timeframe.
What is not accepted at this time:
- Cash on delivery.
- Layaway and financing.
We are happy to look over any formal quote from another container sales company. We pride ourselves in keeping our prices honest and at fair market value. However we do not guarantee a price match. The services and experience that we offer at YSS are of the highest quality in the industry all while staying competitive in the marketplace.