Shipping Container FAQ
Commercial Container Grades Available
Not all containers are created equal. At Ascent Fleet Services, we make it simple by breaking down pricing based on condition, type, and structural grade—so you always know exactly what you’re getting at the best value.
Every container we sell is professionally inspected and graded to IICL standards—the same benchmarks trusted by commercial shipping lines worldwide. We know “a good container” can mean different things to different people, which is why we clearly define each grade below so you’ll always know exactly what to expect.
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AS-IS
Cheapest. Usually has defects, making them ideal for those who modify or repair containers. (No Warranty)
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WIND and WATERTIGHT
Retired from commercial use and no longer eligible for shipping recertification, these containers are great for secure, affordable storage —may show more signs of age and wear (5-Year Warranty)
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CARGO WORTHY
Solid structural integrity with an expired CSC plate, these units are a step above Wind & Watertight and can be recertified for international shipping or commercial use. (10-Year Warranty)
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Multi-Trip
Typically 2–5 years old with an active CSC plate, these containers are in excellent condition—close to new and ready for continued commercial use. (15-Year Warranty)
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New/One Trip
Like-new condition, these containers have only been used one time for cargo, offering the highest quality and longest lifespan available. (25-Year Warranty)
Can I Choose Container Colors?
When it comes to USED containers, color selection is generally random to help keep prices low and ensure fast delivery. These units come from various global shipping lines and change daily, so the color you receive depends on availability and is first come, first serve—though we can sometimes accommodate requests for an added reservation fee depending on the depot. If selecting a specific color is important, we recommend choosing a new or One-Trip container, where you can pick from a range of standard colors.
Container Sizes, Configurations & Specialty Units
Shipping containers come in a wide range of sizes and configurations to fit your specific needs. Common sizes include 10ft, 20ft, 40ft, 45ft, and 53ft, with 20ft and 40ft being the most widely available. Most containers are offered in either Standard Height (DC)(8’6″) or High Cube (HC)(9’6″) versions—ideal for extra headroom when storing large items or building out custom spaces.
Most units feature doors on one end, but specialty configurations include Double Door (DD) containers with doors on both ends, Side Door (SD) containers with four sets of swing-out side doors, and Open Side (OS) containers with two full-length 20ft swinging doors for maximum side access.
Reefer (Refrigerated) Containers
Reefer containers are insulated, temperature-controlled units ideal for perishables, pharmaceuticals, florals, and other sensitive goods. They run on three-phase 460V power and can maintain temps from -20°F to +70°F (-29°C to +21°C) depending on the model.
We carry units from Carrier, Thermo King, Daikin, Star Cool, and Mitsubishi. Used reefers are first-come, first-serve, while New/One-Trip reefers can often be custom-ordered by color and brand with a 4-Year Manufacturer Warranty.
All reefers are structurally graded (WWT, Cargo Worthy, As-Is). Working units may qualify for extended warranties, while non-working reefers still provide excellent insulated storage for dry goods, buffered spaces, or custom builds. Specialty sizes, brands, or features may affect cost, but we’ll help you find the best fit for your project and budget.
Pickup or Nationwide Delivery
Average pick up time is 1 to 3 business days and average delivery time is 3–10 business days, depending on your location and local availability. In rare cases of regional or depot-related delays, delivery may take longer—but we remain in communication and stand behind our commitment with a 30-day delivery guarantee or your money back.
Container Types
Common Container Acronyms
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HC = High Cube -
DD = Double Doors (Doors on both ends) -
SD = Side Doors -
OS = Open Side -
RF = Reefer -
WWT = Wind and Watertight -
CW = Cargo Worthy
Q: What container sizes do you offer?
A: We supply 10ft, 20ft, 40ft, 45ft, and 53ft containers, including high-cube, refrigerated, double-door, and side-door options.
Q: Are the containers new or used?
A: Both. We offer “one-trip” (like-new), Cargo Worthy, Wind & Water Tight (WWT), and As-Is grades—all inspected to IICL standards.
Q: Do you deliver nationwide?
A: Yes. With 170+ depots across the U.S. and Canada, we deliver to your location or you can arrange local pickup.
Q: Can containers be financed?
A: Absolutely. We offer Rent-to-Own and financing programs, letting you start with little to no upfront cost.
Q: What are typical uses for containers?
A: Storage, offices, workshops, retail pop-ups, housing conversions, and more.