The quality of the shipping container
What are the qualities of shipping containers and what do the individual qualities guarantee?
When deciding to purchase or rent a shipping container, it is important to know the quality and condition of the containers offered and what you are actually buying. There are several categories reflecting the technical condition and suitability of the container for transport or storage. Here we describe the individual categories and their descriptions:
IICL6 – Container after one trip
Containers marked as IICL6 after one trip are essentially almost new. They have been used only for one transport from the manufacturing facility to the first customer. These containers show minimal signs of wear, often look like new, and meet the strictest standards of the International Institute of Container Lessors (IICL). They are ideal for those seeking a long-term and reliable solution for transportation or storage and want to acquire a container in excellent condition that will serve them for decades without the need for repairs.
This quality of container is often required for corporate use and various business activities, corporate storage, where emphasis is placed on high-quality representation of the company.
IICL5 – Container after multiple trips
Shipping containers marked as IICL5 after multiple trips are still in very good condition, although they have already gone through several transport cycles. These containers are maintained according to strict IICL standards and regularly undergo thorough inspections and maintenance. They are suitable for repeated use in the transport industry and offer a good combination of quality and price. However, this does not mean that the container cannot have some minor deformation or scratches from normal use on the road and in transport depots. This quality guarantees that the container has well-sealing doors, functional locking, and goods stored inside the container are safe even for further ocean voyages.
IICL
Containers with the IICL designation are in good technical condition and meet the standards of the International Institute of Container Lessors, although they may not be as new as IICL6 or IICL5. These containers are often used for various types of transportation and storage where functionality and reliability are important. However, as in the previous case, it is possible that the container may already have some aesthetic flaws. Still, it is in absolutely functional condition for storage, transport, and long-term storage of goods, not just for transport.
Used Cargo Worthy / CIC
Used containers in the Cargo Worthy (CW) or Container Inspection Criteria (CIC) category are still suitable for transport, although they have been used for several years. These containers have undergone inspections and are still capable of safely transporting cargo at an international level. They are an ideal choice for those needing functional and reliable containers at a lower price. These containers also have a valid CSC label for international transport. However, their visual condition may be worse. Such containers often have defects like rust, minor deformations, scratches. They may also have repairs. Nevertheless, the interior of the container must still be completely functional for the safe transport of goods by sea.
This type of container is widely used for conversions from shipping containers. It is often chosen for its attractive price with the assurance that the container will not leak and is still well-sealing.
Decommissioned Shipping Containers „AS IS“
Decommissioned „AS IS“ containers are sold in the condition they are in, without any guarantees regarding their technical condition. These containers may be damaged, older models, or no longer meet modern transport and safety standards. Despite this, they still have a wide range of uses outside of maritime transport. They may be containers with minor damage, corrosion, or wear that does not prevent their further use. These containers are no longer suitable for transporting goods by sea, but they can still be functional and practical for other purposes.
These containers are often suitable for less demanding storage purposes, such as workshops, tool storage, storage on construction sites, garden storage, or various creative projects such as building projects (shipping container homes, container houses), garden sheds, or artistic installations. Containers retired from maritime transport may also have minor damage, such as holes the size of a finger. There may be several of them. Some people don’t mind, while others quickly repair them. The container often appeals due to its very low price, but despite its minor flaws, it can still offer a functional storage space that will serve well for a long time.
There are several subcategories:
The individual digits after the „AS IS“ designation indicate the required number of hours of work to bring the container up to Cargo Worthy quality.
AS IS 10:
These containers are in the worst condition of the listed categories and often require significant repairs. However, they are still usable for various types of static projects and can be converted for other purposes. Such a container is in very worn condition and nearing the end of its lifespan, which is reflected in its very low price. It may have visible signs of wear, damage, rust, or other severe defects that could affect its functionality. If you do not require the container to be waterproof and fully functional, e.g., just to secure garden equipment from theft, store tires, etc., such a container can be entirely sufficient.
AS IS 5:
Containers in this category have visible signs of wear and may require minor repairs. They are suitable for storage or for projects where aesthetics is not the primary factor, but they are still functional and generally serve their purpose without issues.
AS IS 2:
These containers still have a relatively good technical condition but may have minor cosmetic defects or slight signs of wear and defects. They are suitable for less demanding storage needs. This category denotes a container still in good condition with minimal wear. It may have minor signs of use, and its functionality is generally considered satisfactory. Such a shipping container is most often purchased for storing less demanding material. However, do not expect the container to be free of rust, etc. It is still a retired container from maritime transport.
Consider the quality and condition of the container before purchase
When choosing a shipping container, it is important to consider its quality and condition, which will affect its suitability for the intended purpose. Categories like IICL6 after one trip and IICL5 after multiple trips offer high reliability and long life. IICL containers and used Cargo Worthy / CIC are ideal for those seeking good functionality at a reasonable price. Decommissioned „AS IS“ containers provide a cost-effective solution for less demanding applications or creative projects.
Important keywords for this topic: container quality, IICL6, IICL5, IICL, Cargo Worthy, CIC, decommissioned containers, AS IS 10, AS IS 5, AS IS 2
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