New vs Used Shipping Containers: One-Trip, Cargo Worthy and WWT Grades Explained

When you shop for a container you will see terms like one-trip, cargo worthy, wind and watertight (WWT) and as-is. They describe condition, and they make a big difference to price, appearance and what you can use the container for. Here is what each grade means.

Container grades at a glance

• New / one-trip: built in the factory and shipped once with cargo. Clean, straight and almost like new. Best for conversions and visible sites.
• Cargo worthy (CW): used, but inspected and structurally sound enough to carry freight. Some dents and surface rust.
• Wind and watertight (WWT): used, with no holes or leaks, but not certified for shipping. Ideal for on-site storage.
• As-is: the lowest price, sold with known issues. Fine for some projects, but inspect carefully.

When to buy a new one-trip container

Choose new one-trip containers if the container will be seen by customers or neighbors, if you plan to paint it, or if you are converting it into an office, shop or home. A clean, straight shell is easier to insulate and fit out, and it will last longer. New containers carry our longest warranty.

When a used container makes more sense

For storage on farms, job sites and yards, used shipping containers give you the same steel security for less. A WWT container keeps contents dry, and a cargo worthy container can still be shipped later if you need to.

Price difference

On our site, used 20ft containers start at well under the price of a new one-trip unit, and the gap is similar for 40ft containers. Compare current prices in our 20ft shipping containers and 40ft shipping containers categories. For a closer look at what drives price, see our guide to how much a shipping container costs.

What to check on a used container

• Doors open, close and seal properly
• No light shows through the walls or roof when the doors are shut
• The floor is solid, with no soft spots
• Rust is on the surface only, not holes

Not sure which grade you need? request a quote and we will recommend one, or read our shipping container FAQs.

Frequently asked questions