How to Buy Shipping Containers Online Safely: A Complete Guide

Shopping for shipping containers online has become the preferred choice for businesses, contractors, and homeowners. With hundreds of suppliers and marketplaces, it’s fast and convenient—but it can also be overwhelming. Worse, there are scams, misleading listings, and hidden costs to watch out for.

At Yes Containers, we specialize in helping customers buy new and used shipping containers with full transparency, fast delivery, and the option to Pay on Delivery (POD). This guide will walk you through the steps to ensure your purchase is safe, cost-effective, and hassle-free.

1. Verify the Supplier’s Credibility

The first rule of buying shipping containers online: make sure the company actually exists. Look for:

• A professional website with a clear About Us page and Contact information
• Verified reviews or testimonials
  
• Active business profiles on platforms like Google, Facebook, and LinkedIn
  
• A phone number you can call — at Yes Containers, our support team is available at (800) 223-4755
  

2. Understand Container Conditions

Shipping containers are sold in different grades:

• New / One-Trip – basically new, only shipped once
  
• WWT (Wind & Water Tight) – used but weatherproof for storage
  
• Cargo-Worthy (CW) – suitable for shipping and heavy-duty use
  
• AS-IS – discounted units that may have visible damage
  

Always confirm the grade and ask for recent photos. If a seller refuses to share this information, it’s a red flag.

3. Compare Real Prices

One of the easiest ways to spot scams is by checking the price. If the price seems “too good to be true,” it probably is.

For example, here are average container prices you might find in major cities:

• 20ft Used Standard: $1,400–$1,600
  
• 40ft Used High Cube: $1,700–$2,000
  
• 20ft New Standard: $2,300–$2,600
  
• 40ft New High Cube: $3,300–$3,800
  

You can browse our live container inventory by city and size to see real prices near you.

4. Watch for Hidden Fees

Some sellers advertise low prices but add unexpected costs at checkout. Common hidden charges include:

• Excessive delivery fees
  
• Lift gate or unloading fees
  
• Administration or “paperwork” charges
  

At Yes Containers, shipping is clearly listed on your quote and typically includes the first 100 miles. After that, we calculate per-mile charges transparently.

5. Use Secure Payment Options

Scammers often insist on wire transfers or cryptocurrency. Always use safe payment methods:

• Credit cards
  
• Bank transfers to registered business accounts
  
• Pay on Delivery (POD) – the safest option
  

With POD, you pay once your container arrives on-site. Yes Containers is one of the few suppliers offering this customer-first option.

6. Confirm Delivery Times

Delays are common in the industry. Be wary of sellers who can’t give you an accurate delivery estimate.

At Yes Containers, standard delivery takes 5–15 business days, depending on distance and scheduling. We also offer rush delivery services in some regions if you need your unit sooner.

7. Red Flags to Avoid

Here are signs you may be dealing with a scam:

• Prices far below the industry average
  
• No physical address or phone number listed
  
• Refusal to provide container photos
  
• Pushy sales tactics demanding upfront payment
  

If you spot these, walk away.

Pay on Delivery: The Safest Way to Buy

One of the main reasons customers trust Yes Containers is our Pay on Delivery option. You don’t pay until the unit is safely delivered and inspected on-site. This eliminates the biggest risk of online purchases.

Learn more or request POD directly on our Get a Quote page.

Conclusion: Buy with Confidence

Buying shipping containers online doesn’t have to be stressful. By verifying suppliers, checking container grades, comparing real prices, and choosing safe payment methods, you can avoid scams and secure the right unit for your needs.

At Yes Containers, we make the process simple and secure with transparent pricing, clear delivery timelines, and Pay on Delivery options.

Explore our container shop today, or call us directly at (800) 223-4755 to discuss your project with one of our experts.

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