Guide to renting a shipping container
There are many uses for a shipping container. Traditionally, cargo companies in Lebanon will use them to transport goods overseas. So, if you need to do business in Lebanon, or exports goods out of the country, then you might find one pretty useful. These steel units are pretty tough, so they are usually the first pick when you are looking for security. What’s more, they are also weather resistant! However, some people find creative ways to incorporate shipping containers into their everyday lives. They convert them into rooms or offices for a unique living experience. Since you are looking into renting a shipping container, the last option might not be the case. Still, today, we will take a closer look at the renting process – and what you need to know.
Steps to take when renting a shipping container
- figuring out what type of a shipping container you will need;
- finding the company that can help with renting a shipping container;
- inspecting the container and securing the deal.
First, figure out what kind of a shipping container you want
The first thing you will need to know when renting a shipping container is what type of unit you actually want. There are all sorts of shipping containers – just like there are people with different shipping needs. However, even before you start looking into containers, it’s a good idea to see if you can store one on your property. Make sure you contact your housing authority and logistics companies in Lebanon to ensure that the whole process is legal. There is no sense in trying to rent a unit if you cannot legally have it in your yard.
After you know you can get the unit in your yard, ready to be packed, it’s time to think about what unit to get. First, consider the height. There are standard containers which are 8 ft 6 inches tall, and high cubes, which are a foot taller. Since they offer you more room, the latter are also a bit more expensive, too. Of course, there are custom height containers, too! When it comes to their length, you can choose anything between 6 feet and 40 feet. The most common ones, however, are either 20 ft or 40 ft.
Once you choose the size of a container, it is time to pick its grade. There are three grades of containers to choose from:
- A-grade containers are like new. The company you are renting a shipping container from have either never used it, or used it only a couple of times;
- B-grade containers have a couple of bumps and scratches, but they are in perfect shape. They will cheaper than the first group;
- C-grade containers are the cheapest, but they also have the most imperfections. Usually, you will not consider renting a shipping container with C-grade for shipping things – but as a storage unit.
Finding the container you want
When you know all the types of containers out there, it’s time to think about what you will need. Then, once you decide on what shipping container to use, it’s time to find it. The best way for this would be to start Googling it. Search for professional freight services near you, and the containers they offer.
At this time, it’s a smart idea to create a spreadsheet with container information. When you are renting a shipping container, you will be working with a lot of information. You will be comparing various sizes and costs, so having a place where you can track it all will be very, very helpful. You can have a column for everything you need – the height, length, costs, renting companies, special features, etc.
After that, it’s only a question of comparing the data you have and figuring out the best option for you. Then, all you need to do is call the company and talk to them about renting a shipping container from them.
Inspect the unit before renting a shipping container
Now, getting in touch with the renting company is not the end of the journey. You still need to talk to them about renting the container, figuring out the dates and finally inspecting the container for yourself.
When it comes to the inspection, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. The most important thing is to be thorough with it. Once you sign the agreement with the renting company, it will be hard to go back on it. So, before you make your final decision, you will need to see every inch of the shipping container for yourself.
The first things to note on the container are the door and the seal on it. Make sure they close off well and don’t let any air in. You don’t want them opening up while your container is on a freight – even though you can track it! Then, look for any signs of rusting or the steel being compromised. These aren’t good omens for the stability and reliability of the unit.
Conclusion
If you are not satisfied with the unit you have, you can ask the company for a different one. If they cannot offer you another one, then it’s time to look for other offers. Don’t be afraid of saying no when renting a shipping container. It’s important not to settle for something you don’t want. This will only compromise the items you are storing in the shipping container, as well as the whole reason you even want to rent one. So, be careful, think through everything before you make your decision. This way, you will have a satisfactory experience, and you will find the perfect shipping container.
