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Frequently asked questions
- What sizes do the containers come in?
- What are containers made of?
- Are the containers new or used?
- What are the most common container uses?
- How does Interport grade used containers?
- How are the containers delivered?
- How should I prepare the ground for delivery?
- How much room is required for tilt-bed delivery?
- How can my container be customized?
- How is payment made?
- How long does the entire process take?
- Does Interport offer overseas shipping services?
- What sizes do the containers come in?
- International standard (ISO) sizes are 20’L x 8’W x 8’6”H, 40’L x 8’W x 8’6”H, and 40’L x 8’W x 9’6”H (“high-cube”). For additional sizes, dimensions, and technical specifications, visit our steel containers page.
- What are containers made of?
- Modern ISO containers are constructed of steel with hardwood flooring.
- Are the containers new or used?
- Interport sells both new and used containers. New containers come directly to Interport from the factory, having carried just one load of cargo. Used containers are available in a range of conditions. Interport categorizes into four grades (see below).
- What are the most common container uses?
- Container uses include weathertight storage, modular buildings, machinery & equipment storage, military command centers, hunting shelters, and much more. View a complete list of container uses.
- How does Interport grade used containers?
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- IICL: As recommended by the International Institute of Container Lessors (IICL). Suitable for prolonged international marine use.
- Cargo-worthy: Not repaired or maintained in accordance with IICL guidelines. Suitable for short-term international marine use.
- Wind and watertight: A slightly lower standard than cargo-worthy. Possibly not suitable for international marine use.
- As is where is: Meets requirements for use as secure, static storage, and other secondary market applications. Requiring inspection and repair before further user as a container.
- How are the containers delivered?
- Containers are delivered by truck, either tilt-bed or flatbed. A tilt-bed truck allows the container to be positioned on the ground at the delivery location. Delivery by flatbed truck generally costs less than by tilt-bed, but requires that you have the proper machinery to lift the container off the truck at your site. Interport can arrange delivery through one of its third-party trucking providers, or you can engage the trucking company of your choice to pick your container up at Interport’s depot.
- How should I prepare the ground for delivery?
- Your container should be placed on firm, dry, level ground, i.e. pavement, gravel, or hard dirt.
- How much room is required for tilt-bed delivery?
- For a 20’ container: 60’ of straight running room; for a 40’ container: 110’ of straight running room.
- How can my container be customized?
- Interport can add personnel doors, roll-up doors, or windows, and can paint your container. Other customization options are also available.
- How is payment made?
- Once you’ve ordered your container, Interport will issue you an invoice. Once your invoice is paid via check, money order, wire transfer, cash, or credit card, Interport will release your container to you or to the trucking company making your delivery.
- How long does the entire process take?
- With immediate payment, you can usually have your containers on site within a week
- Does Interport offer overseas shipping services?
- Interport does not offer shipping or freight forwarding services. Visit the industry links page for a list of steamship lines.