TrailTainer’s Guide to Shipping Container and Horse Trailer Conditions

When purchasing a shipping container or horse trailer from TrailTainer, it’s essential to understand the differences in conditions and grades. This knowledge will help ensure that you choose the best option for your specific needs, whether it’s for storage, transport, or other purposes. The condition and grade of the container or trailer will directly affect its price, so understanding the distinctions is key to making an informed decision.

Shipping Container Conditions

1. Used Containers
Our most popular option, used containers have typically been in heavy-duty service for 5 to 15 years before being retired. These containers may still have original paint and shipping line markings, and they will show signs of wear and tear like surface rust, dents, and scratches. While they may not look pristine, depending on the grade, they will be structurally sound and can be perfect for storage solutions, business use, or even repurposing for creative projects.

2. New One Trip Containers
New One Trip containers are nearly brand new but may have minor dings, dents, and scrapes from their initial ocean journey. These containers are manufactured overseas and shipped to various depots worldwide. To reduce shipping costs, the containers are typically loaded with cargo for just one trip. This “one trip” process helps us offer you competitive pricing while maintaining a high standard of quality. You can expect minimal signs of use, and these containers are ideal if you need a container that looks almost brand new without paying full price.

3. Refurbished Containers
At TrailTainer, we offer refurbished containers that have been upgraded from used Wind and Water Tight (WWT) units. Refurbishing extends the container’s lifespan and gives it a fresh new look. We offer three levels of refurbishment:

• Typical Refurbishment: The exterior is prepped, primed, and repainted. We’ll remove any loose rust, spot prime exposed metal, and give the container a fresh coat of paint. The interior is not altered.
• Complete Refurbishment: This is similar to our typical refurbishment, but we also paint the interior to give the entire container a refreshed look.
• Factory Refurbishment: This is a complete overhaul, including both exterior and interior painting, replacing gaskets, and applying new container markings for a like-new finish.

Grades of Used Shipping Containers

1. Wind and Water Tight (WWT)
Our most popular grade, Wind, and Water Tight containers are used units that have been inspected and guaranteed to be free from leaks. While the exterior may show signs of age such as original paint, rust, and dents, they are structurally sound and ready for use. These containers are ideal for long-term storage or conversion purposes. Though they may not look brand new, they provide reliable, watertight protection.

2. Cargo Worthy (CW)
Cargo-worthy containers are inspected and deemed safe for international transport by sea, rail, and road. They will typically still have their original paint and may show surface rust, dents, or shipping markings. These containers are perfect for shipping and export needs, as they meet the required safety standards. If you need a container for cargo transport, a Cargo Worthy container is the right choice.

3. IICL (IICL-6)
IICL containers meet the stringent inspection standards set by the Institute of International Container Lessors (IICL), ensuring they are in excellent condition for export use. These containers have a higher market value due to their superior condition and are inspected for structural integrity. Expect these containers to have a much cleaner external appearance compared to other grades.

4. As Is
As-is containers are those that have been deemed damaged beyond repair, with severe structural issues such as holes or broken flooring. These containers are typically not recommended for use in applications where structural soundness is necessary. However, if you’re looking for a container to repurpose or use in an area where appearance and structural integrity aren’t critical, an As-Is container may still serve your purpose.

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Horse Trailer Conditions

1. Used Horse Trailers
Used horse trailers may have visible wear from their years of service, including scratches, dents, and surface rust. However, all used horse trailers at TrailTainer undergo a thorough inspection to ensure they’re still structurally safe for transporting horses. Depending on the grade, these trailers can be perfect for regular use, or with some refurbishment, they can be upgraded to nearly new condition.

2. New One Trip Horse Trailers
New One Trip horse trailers are trailers that have been used for one transport journey only. These trailers are virtually brand new, with only minor signs of use from the single trip. They are a great option if you’re looking for a high-quality, nearly-new trailer at a reduced price.

3. Refurbished Horse Trailers
We also offer refurbished horse trailers that have been upgraded and restored to offer enhanced longevity and a fresh look. Depending on the level of refurbishment, these trailers can come with newly painted exteriors, interior repairs, and even new flooring. Refurbished trailers provide excellent value and are ideal if you need a reliable trailer without the cost of a brand-new model.