How to Choose a Shipping Container Dealer and Compare Quotes
A checklist for comparing shipping container dealers: condition grades, delivered price, container numbers, photos, payment safety and lead times.
Quick answer
Compare the delivered price (container plus delivery to your ZIP code), the exact condition grade, and whether the dealer gives you a written quote you can sign. Confirm the business is real and check who you're paying before sending money, especially by wire.
Two quotes for a "20ft container" can describe very different boxes. One might be a one-trip unit, the other a worn used one, and one price might include delivery while the other doesn't. Putting quotes side by side on the same points is the fastest way to spot the better deal.
At Outback Shipping Containers, every quote has to be reviewed, signed and returned as a purchase order before we send an invoice, so you can see exactly what you're buying first.
Quote comparison checklist
Guide by Outback Shipping Containers.
| Check | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Condition grade | One-trip, cargo-worthy, or wind & watertight. These are not the same |
| Delivered price | Container + delivery + any crane or placement fees, all in writing |
| Size & height | Standard 8'6" or high cube 9'6"; 10ft, 20ft or 40ft |
| Door direction | Which way the doors face when the container is set down |
| Lead time | Outback: in-stock 7–10 business days, standard 10–14 |
| Payment safety | Confirm the business and the person you're paying before you wire money |
| Written terms | A signed quote, then an invoice showing the same details |
Common questions
Questions about your project?
Send your ZIP code and what you need, and we'll quote the container and delivery together.