Should You Buy or Rent a Shipping Container?

The versatility of shipping containers has opened up a world of possibilities for storage, living spaces, businesses, and more. As their popularity continues to rise, one of the biggest decisions is whether to buy or rent your container. Let's explore the key pros and cons of buying vs renting

    Rent or Buy A Shipping Container
    Rent or Buy A Shipping Container

    Buying a Used Shipping Container

    Purchasing a shipping container outright has some compelling benefits, especially if you plan to use it for an extended period:

    • Ownership and Customization: As the owner, you have complete freedom to modify and customize the container as you desire for your intended purpose.
    • Long-Term Cost Savings: While the upfront purchase price is higher, buying can be more cost-effective in the long run if you plan to keep the container for several months or even years.
    • Asset Value: A purchased container is an asset that you can potentially sell later if your needs change.
    • Permanence: Buying offers stability and a permanent solution for your container needs.

     

    However, there are also some drawbacks to consider when purchasing:

    • Higher Upfront Costs: Be prepared for a larger initial investment compared to renting.
    • Maintenance Responsibility: As the owner, you'll be responsible for any necessary maintenance, repairs, or compliance requirements.
    • Placement Limitations: Permanent container placement generally requires permitting and may be subject to regulations.

     

    Renting a Used Shipping Container

    For those seeking more flexibility or a temporary solution, renting provides an appealing alternative:

    • Lower Upfront Costs: Rental options have lower entry costs with more affordable monthly or yearly rates.
    • No Maintenance Burden: All maintenance and repair responsibilities fall on the rental company, not you.
    • Portability: Rented containers can usually be relocated or returned when no longer needed.
    • Short-Term Solution: Renting is ideal for one-off short-term projects, temporary storage needs, or testing out container usage.

     

    The potential downsides of renting include:

    • Recurring Costs: While lower upfront, you'll be paying an ongoing rental fee for as long as you need the container.
    • Modification Limits: Rental companies may restrict modifications or customizations to their containers.
    • Availability Issues: You may need to find a new rental container eventually, depending on availability.

    For retired Veteran Will Dorry and current Eveon customer "Renting vs.Owning" is a bit of a touchy subject, “I rented storage for 20 years...I could have bought a small plot of land instead.”

    Cost Comparison and Analysis

    For shorter-term usage of just a few months, renting is generally the most economical option. However, if you plan to use the container for a longer timeframe, purchasing will be cheaper than renting long-term.

    Flexibility is a key advantage of renting, while buying is best suited if you want a truly permanent container solution with full customization abilities. Consider your specific space, timing, budget, and modification needs when weighing each path.

    Ultimately, there's no one-size-fits-all answer—the buying vs renting decision depends on your particular container requirements and priorities.

    Finding a Reliable Container Supplier

    If you do decide to purchase, working with a reliable, experienced container supplier is crucial to ensure safety and quality. Research companies thoroughly by:

    • Reviewing their history, customer satisfaction ratings, and product warranties
    • Checking the provider’s association to the NPSA. All reliable container providers are enlisted here
    • Looking for suppliers providing expertise and attentive customer support

     

    At Eveon Containers, we pride ourselves on our extensive knowledge of the container industry and our commitment to customer satisfaction. Our inventory of high-quality used shipping containers is rigorously inspected, and we stand behind our products with robust warranties and guarantees.

    If you’re ready to buy your next container, we're ready to help you find the perfect solution for your needs. Explore our inventory today!