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Container Grading Guidelines

Understand the essentials of container grading for shipping containers — the rating system, criteria and standards that determine quality, usability and safety. Make informed decisions about your storage needs.

Understanding the Grade Scale

All containers in our inventory are graded on a standardized scale — New/One-Trip, A, B, or C — before being leased or sold. The grade reflects the container’s age, exterior condition, door seal integrity, and any repair history. Here’s what each grade means for your storage needs:

NEW

New / One Trip

1–2 years old

Containers which have made only a single voyage across the ocean. Present in optimal condition with generic exterior paint and no blemishes. Doors work flawlessly.

Best for

Clean storageSensitive goodsModificationsRetail conversions

A Grade

8–12 years old

Great quality with a pristine interior, securely sealed doors, and solid welds. Impervious to vermin, effectively wind and water resistant.

Best for

FurnitureOffice archivesBooks & antiques

B Grade

10–14 years old

Moderate quality, may exhibit some light surface rust. Door seals still intact. Welded, preventing wind and water penetration.

Best for

Garden shedsTools & boxesMotor vehicles

C Grade

15+ years old

Fair quality, may display dents, patches, and surface rust. Still capable of preventing wind and water from entering.

Best for

Farm stockTractorsBuilding materialsCar parts

Grade Comparison at a Glance

Grade	Age	Surface	Seals	Wind/Water
New / One-Trip	1–2 yrs	✓ Perfect	✓ Flawless	✓ Yes
A Grade	8–12 yrs	✓ Pristine	✓ Secure	✓ Yes
B Grade	10–14 yrs	~ Light rust	✓ Intact	✓ Yes
C Grade	15+ yrs	✗ Dents/patches	~ Functional	✓ Yes