Learn how to spot red flags and find reliable sellers so you get what you pay for—without the risk.
Thinking About Buying a Used Shipping Container?
Used shipping containers have become a go-to solution for homeowners, business owners, and builders across Eastern Canada. Whether you’re adding secure storage to your property, building an off-grid retreat, or expanding your worksite, sea cans are affordable, sturdy, and endlessly adaptable.
But buying a used container can be tricky—especially when you’re browsing listings online or speaking with sellers who won’t give you the full picture. From price confusion to delivery delays and poor condition units, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
This guide walks you through exactly what to check before buying a used sea can, and why working with a trusted supplier like Sea Can Guys helps you avoid costly mistakes.
1. Make Sure You’re Dealing With a Real Business
The shipping container industry has seen a surge in online scams. Fake websites and marketplace listings offer deals that are too good to be true—and often are. You’ll spot ads claiming to sell 20-foot containers for half the market rate, only to vanish after taking payment.
What to check:
Is the seller local, with a verifiable address in Eastern Canada?
Do they have a landline or team you can speak with directly?
Can you visit the container yard or storage site in person?
At Sea Can Guys, we’ve been in business since 2007, operating nine locations and five modification sites across Canada—including Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and PEI. When you call us, you’re speaking with real people who know containers inside and out.
2. Understand What Condition Terms Really Mean
Not all used containers are created equal. Some are wind and watertight (WWT). Others are cargo-worthy (CW), which means they still meet international shipping standards. Some, however, are simply “as-is”—which could mean rust, floor damage, or compromised seals.
Before buying, ask:
Is the container WWT, CW, or AS-IS?
Are there photos of the exact unit?
Has the container been inspected recently?
At Sea Can Guys, we inspect every container we sell and classify them clearly so you know exactly what you’re getting. If you’re unsure what those grades mean, our team will walk you through it—no jargon, just straight answers.
3. Get a Transparent Price Breakdown
Used containers vary in price depending on size, condition, modifications, and—crucially—delivery. The challenge? Many sellers post a “base price” that doesn’t include key extras. Suddenly, your $2,900 container becomes a $4,200 invoice.
Ask your seller:
Does the listed price include delivery and placement?
Are taxes and fees added later?
Is any customization included, like doors, vents, or paint?
We believe in transparent pricing. Our listings outline what’s included, what’s optional, and where fees apply. We’ll even walk you through average pricing for our most popular units so you can budget confidently.
4. Plan for Delivery—Especially in Rural or Remote Areas
One of the biggest pain points in Eastern Canada? Delivery. From Cape Breton to Moncton to remote PEI communities, getting a container to your site can cost as much as the unit itself—if not more—depending on the seller.
You’ll want to confirm:
Does the delivery quote include both transport and placement?
Are there fuel surcharges or extra rural fees?
What’s the typical delivery timeline?
Our delivery network spans Atlantic Canada. We offer fair, predictable pricing and aim for fast turnarounds—often within a few business days. We also communicate clearly about site access needs so there are no surprises when your sea can arrive.
5. Inspect Before You Buy—If You Can
Seeing your container in person is ideal. You can check for rust, dents, working doors, and solid flooring. But even if you’re buying sight unseen, a reputable seller should provide recent photos and a condition report.
Here’s what to check:
Doors: Do they open and close easily? Are the hinges intact?
Roof: Any dents that might lead to pooling or leaks?
Floor: Is it solid, dry, and free of soft spots?
Corners: Are all corner castings intact for stacking or placement?
At Sea Can Guys, we inspect every used container before it leaves our yard—and we can provide photos and detailed descriptions upon request. You’ll never be surprised by what shows up on your property.
6. Ask About Return Policies or Guarantees
Not every seller offers returns on used containers—but a trusted provider should at least offer some kind of satisfaction policy. This is especially important if you’re buying remotely.
Ask:
Can I exchange or return the container if it’s not as described?
What if delivery isn’t possible due to site conditions?
Does the container come with any warranty?
We stand behind our products. While used containers don’t come with factory warranties, we ensure every container meets the condition standard agreed upon at the time of sale and we’ll work with you to resolve issues.
7. Know Your Use Case and Let That Guide Your Purchase
Not everyone needs a cargo-worthy container. If you’re using it for backyard storage, wind and watertight may be perfect. But if you’re planning to turn it into a tiny home, office, or workshop, you may want to start with a cleaner, higher-grade unit.
We’ll help you choose the right container for:
Storage
Retail or event use
Tiny home builds
Contractor offices
Mobile studios
And we’ll guide you on modifications, insulation, doors, paint, and anything else you might need to bring your project to life.
Why Choose Sea Can Guys?
We’ve been delivering sea cans across Eastern Canada for nearly two decades. Our team knows the region’s terrain, climate, and logistics. We don’t just sell containers—we partner with our clients to ensure their purchase is a smart, stress-free investment.
What sets us apart:
Local service with a nationwide network
Transparent pricing and condition grading
Fast, flexible delivery options
Custom modifications, financing, and rentals
A customer-first approach backed by real testimonials
What Our Customers Say
“Very easy to deal with, had multiple options to choose from and different options for payment. Would highly recommend.”
– Josué Pilon
“Will is very professional, caring, and pays attention to details when dealing with a customer’s needs.”
– Russ Hansen
“Professionalism with a big dash of kindness.”
– Chris Riedesser
Take the Stress Out of Buying Used
Buying a used shipping container doesn’t have to feel like a gamble. With a little knowledge and a partner you can trust, it can be one of the smartest purchases you make this year.
If you’re ready to explore our current inventory of used sea cans, get in touch today. We’ll help you find the right container, at the right price, delivered where you need it—without the stress.
