Question 1

What sizes do shipping containers come in?

Accepted Answer

Standard shipping containers are available in 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft lengths. High-cube variants add an extra foot of height (9'6" vs standard 8'6"). We also offer custom sizes and modified configurations to meet your specific requirements.

Question 2

What is the difference between new and used containers?

Accepted Answer

New (one-trip) containers have made a single cargo voyage and are in near-pristine condition with minimal wear. Used containers are wind-and-water-tight, cargo-worthy units that may show surface rust, dents, and repaint marks but remain fully functional and secure.

Question 3

Do you deliver to all 50 states?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Cargo Vault Containers provides nationwide delivery to all 50 states. Delivery costs vary based on your ZIP code, container size, and site accessibility. Enter your ZIP code on any product page for an instant freight estimate.

Question 4

Can containers be modified for living or office space?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We offer a full range of modifications including insulation, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, windows, doors, partitions, custom paint, and more. Container homes, offices, workshops, and retail spaces are all possible. Request a quote for your custom build.

Question 5

How long does delivery take?

Accepted Answer

We offer three delivery methods, all with 1–3 business days handling: Free Tilt-Bed Delivery (7–12 business days transit, FREE), Express Tilt-Bed Delivery (3–7 business days transit, $350), and Express Flatbed Delivery (3–7 business days transit, $500). Modified containers require additional lead time for fabrication—your sales representative will provide a timeline with your quote.

Question 6

Are the containers weatherproof and secure?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All containers are wind-and-water-tight with secure locking cargo doors. New and refurbished units come with factory-installed locking bars. We also offer additional security upgrades including lock boxes, alarm systems, and reinforced doors.

Question 7

Do I need a permit for a shipping container?

Accepted Answer

Permitting requirements vary by municipality and intended use. Storage containers on private property often do not require permits, but permanent installations, modified living spaces, and commercial use typically do. We recommend checking with your local zoning office. Our team can provide guidance.

Question 8

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover) and bank wire transfers. Financing options are available for qualified buyers. Bulk and commercial orders can be invoiced with net-30 terms upon credit approval.

Question 9

How long do shipping containers last?

Accepted Answer

A well-maintained shipping container can last 25 years or more. New (one-trip) containers offer the longest lifespan, while used containers typically have 10–20 years of service life remaining. Proper placement, ventilation, and rust prevention extend longevity.

Question 10

Can I insulate a shipping container?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Common insulation options include spray foam, rigid foam board, and blanket insulation. For climate-controlled or living spaces, we recommend closed-cell spray foam for its high R-value and moisture barrier properties. We handle insulation as part of our modification services.

Question 11

Do you offer financing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, financing options are available for qualified buyers on larger orders. We also accept credit cards and bank wire transfers. Contact our sales team to discuss financing terms for your project.

Question 12

What is a high cube container?

Accepted Answer

A high cube container is 9'6" tall—one foot taller than a standard 8'6" container. The extra height provides more headroom, making high cube containers ideal for living spaces, offices, workshops, and storing tall items. We offer 40ft high cube containers.

Question 13

Can containers be stacked or connected?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Containers are engineered with corner castings designed for stacking up to nine units high when properly secured. They can also be connected side-by-side or end-to-end for larger structures. We can engineer connections and structural modifications for multi-container builds.

Question 14

What should I do to prepare for delivery?

Accepted Answer

Ensure a flat, firm surface with 100–120 feet of straight clearance for the truck, 14+ feet of overhead clearance, and no tight turns or low gates. Mark your desired placement spot before delivery. Our logistics team confirms site access with you before scheduling.

Question 15

How do I choose the right container size?

Accepted Answer

A 20ft container holds about one full room of contents and fits most residential lots. A 40ft holds roughly two rooms and is better for large storage, workshops, or living space. A 40ft high cube adds a foot of height for headroom. Our specialists can recommend the right size for your use.

Question 16

What is the difference between cargo-worthy and wind-and-water-tight?

Accepted Answer

Wind-and-water-tight (WWT) means the container has no leaks. Cargo-worthy additionally means it is structurally sound enough for intermodal shipping. All of our used containers are WWT and cargo-worthy, though they may show cosmetic wear.

Question 17

Can I inspect a container before buying?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Customers near our Savannah, GA facility may arrange an on-site inspection by appointment. For remote buyers, we provide detailed photos and a written condition report. Every unit is graded and certified before delivery.

Question 18

Do you offer volume discounts?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Multi-container orders and commercial accounts may qualify for volume pricing and net-30 invoicing terms on credit approval. Contact our sales team with your project details for a custom quote.

Question 19

What is the lead time for a modified container?

Accepted Answer

Modification lead time depends on scope—typically 2–6 weeks from design approval. Simple modifications ship faster; full container homes and offices take longer. Your quote includes an estimated fabrication timeline.

Question 20

Do you offer container trade-ins?

Accepted Answer

In some cases we accept trade-ins of serviceable used containers toward a new purchase. Share photos and the location of your existing container and our team will evaluate a trade-in credit.

Question 21

What delivery methods are available and how much do they cost?

Accepted Answer

We offer three delivery methods, all with 1–3 business days handling: Free Tilt-Bed Delivery (7–12 business days transit, FREE), Express Tilt-Bed Delivery (3–7 business days transit, $350), and Express Flatbed Delivery (3–7 business days transit, $500). Free and Express Tilt-Bed use tilt-bed trucks for ground-level placement with no crane required. Express Flatbed uses a flatbed truck and requires the customer to provide offloading equipment (crane or forklift).

Question 22

What if my site cannot fit a tilt-bed truck?

Accepted Answer

For tight sites we can quote flatbed delivery (you provide offloading) or crane service. Contact us before ordering with site photos and access details and we will recommend the right equipment.

Question 23

Can you deliver to a tight residential lot?

Accepted Answer

Often yes, if there is 100–120 feet of straight clearance and firm ground. Narrow gates, low branches, or soft lawns can prevent placement. We confirm access with you before scheduling.

Question 24

Do I need to be present for delivery?

Accepted Answer

Yes—an authorized person 18 or older must sign for delivery and confirm placement. You should inspect the container before the driver leaves and note any issues on the receipt.

Question 25

How is the container placed on site?

Accepted Answer

The tilt-bed truck tilts and slides the container off the bed directly onto your marked spot at ground level. No crane is needed in most cases. Final placement is at the driver’s discretion for safety.

Question 26

Can the delivery driver level the container?

Accepted Answer

Drivers place the container on the surface you prepared but do not level uneven ground. Use concrete pads, gravel, railroad ties, or container footings to ensure the unit sits level and drains properly.

Question 27

What happens if delivery is delayed?

Accepted Answer

Weather, carrier availability, and site conditions can affect timing. We provide a delivery window 24–48 hours in advance and keep you informed of any changes. Delays outside our control are addressed in our Shipping Policy.

Question 28

What warranty do you offer?

Accepted Answer

Every container is backed by our written condition guarantee: it will match the listed grade (new, refurbished, or used wind-and-water-tight). Custom modifications carry a separate workmanship warranty. Full details are in our Warranty Policy.

Question 29

What is your return and refund policy?

Accepted Answer

We accept returns for both defective and non-defective new containers within 30 days of delivery. Returns are by mail at the customer's expense, with a 15% restocking fee deducted from the refund. Refunds are processed within 10 days of our receipt and inspection of the returned container. We also accept exchanges within the 30-day window. Used and refurbished containers are sold as-is. See our Return & Refund Policy for full details.

Question 30

Who holds title and risk of loss during delivery?

Accepted Answer

Title and risk of loss pass to the buyer when the container is placed at the agreed delivery location and the delivery receipt is signed. Until then, the container is insured and remains at our risk during transit.

Question 31

Is my container insured during shipping?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All shipments are insured during transit. Any damage must be noted on the delivery receipt at the time of delivery, or reported as concealed damage within 48 hours with photographs.

Question 32

Do you collect sales tax?

Accepted Answer

We collect applicable sales tax where required by law based on your delivery location and our registration in your state. Tax-exempt buyers (resale, government, certain agriculture) may provide a valid exemption certificate. See our Sales Tax Policy.

Question 33

What payment methods do you accept and is checkout secure?

Accepted Answer

We accept all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover) and bank wire transfers. At checkout you may select Credit / Debit Card or Bank Wire Transfer. Card orders receive a secure payment link or invoice by email; bank wire instructions are provided on the order confirmation page. Payments are processed over 256-bit SSL encryption through PCI-DSS compliant infrastructure; we do not store full card numbers.

Question 34

Do you offer financing or net-30 terms?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Financing is available for qualified buyers on larger orders, and commercial accounts may apply for net-30 terms upon credit approval. Contact our billing department to discuss options for your project.

Question 35

What happens if my site cannot accept delivery?

Accepted Answer

If the delivery cannot be completed due to inadequate access, refusal, or the driver deems placement unsafe, the container will be returned to our yard and redelivery fees plus applicable return freight may apply per our Shipping and Returns policies.

Question 36

Are you licensed and insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Cargo Vault Containers is a licensed container dealer and transporter and carries general liability and cargo insurance. Our business information and compliance details are listed on the About page.

Question 37

How do you protect my personal information?

Accepted Answer

We handle your information per our Privacy Policy and applicable U.S. data-protection laws, use it only to fulfill your request, and never sell it. Review our Privacy and Cookie Policies for retention and your rights.

Question 38

What is your dispute resolution process?

Accepted Answer

Disputes are first addressed through good-faith negotiation, and if unresolved within 30 days, through binding arbitration as described in our Terms & Conditions. You and Cargo Vault each waive class-action participation.

Question 39

Who is responsible for permits and zoning compliance?

Accepted Answer

The buyer is responsible for obtaining required permits and complying with local zoning, building, and HOA rules. We can provide specification documents and guidance, but we do not obtain permits on your behalf.

Question 40

How are concealed transit-damage claims handled?

Accepted Answer

Visible damage should be noted on the delivery receipt before the driver leaves. Concealed damage must be reported within 48 hours with photographs. We coordinate directly with the insured carrier to resolve claims promptly.

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