This is a question that we are asked on a daily basis and the simple answer is, it depends. As with any purchase you need to weigh up the use and budget. To help you make the right choice for your project, we have broken down the key differences between the two options:
Cosmetic appearance: ‘One-trip’ units arrive clean with minimal marks, whereas used containers feature noticeable dents, scratches, and patches of surface rust after 15 years being used on the sea.
Colour Choice: With ‘One-Trip’ units you’ll be able to chose the exact colour that you want, the standard being Green (RAL 6007), Light Blue (RAL 5010), Dark Blue (RAL 5013) & Black (RAL 9005). As well as some other specialised colours. If you are ordering 50 or more, call us for quotes on getting your boxes made in your exact RAL colour. For ‘Used’ boxes it’s usually a matter of get what the next box off the stack is, if you request a specific colour we might be able to but it could come at a cost if boxes need to be moved around.
Size: If you are looking for standard size, 10, 20, 40ft you will be able to get at both ‘Used’ & ‘One-Trip’, however for more specialised sizes such as 6 & 8ft there will only be ‘One-Trips’ available.
Lifespan and value: A new container lasts up to 50 years with minimal upkeep, while a used unit usually offers a 10 to 20-year lifespan before structural maintenance is required. All our used units are guaranteed wind and watertight.
Intended use: Choose a one-trip unit if aesthetics matter, such as for a visible garden workshop or a sleek office conversion. Opt for a used unit if you just need budget-friendly, secure site storage hidden away from view.
Total budget: Used containers cost significantly less upfront, allowing you to save money if you do not mind a weathered look. New containers command a premium price but retain a much higher resale value across the UK market.
Odour and cleanliness: One-trip containers have only carried clean factory goods on their single voyage. Used containers spent over a decade in global transport, meaning they may have lingering odours or floor stains from previous commercial cargoes.
Immediate modifications: New units come equipped with modern security features like factory-fitted lockboxes. Used units often require you to pay extra for modifications or structural repairs to guarantee they are fully wind and watertight.
In summary, your decision rests on balancing presentation against price. If your container will be positioned in a highly visible area, requires an extended lifespan, or is destined for a premium conversion project, investing in a new ‘one-trip’ unit is undoubtedly the best route. However, if the container is intended purely for secure, low-cost storage where cosmetics do not matter, a structurally sound, used wind-and-watertight unit will save you thousands of pounds while still getting the job done.