01What's the difference between New 1-Trip, Cargo Worthy, and Wind & Watertight containers?+
New 1-Trip containers have made a single overseas trip and are the cleanest units FCC sells. Used Cargo Worthy containers are usually newer than Wind & Watertight units and can be certified to transport cargo, with some cosmetic wear expected. Wind & Watertight containers are older units retired from cargo service that only need to keep wind and rain out; FCC does not sell them.
02Is a used shipping container structurally safe?+
A used container can be a sound purchase when the condition grade matches the use and the quote clearly states what is being represented. Cargo Worthy does not mean cosmetically new; inspect doors, seals, floors, roof, underside, patches, and visible corrosion before acceptance.
03How much does a shipping container cost?+
FCC quotes every container individually because final cost depends on size, condition, inventory location, delivery distance, door configuration, tax handling, and modifications. The written quote sets the final purchase price.
04What sizes of shipping containers can I buy?+
First Choice Containers sells 10-foot, 20-foot, 40-foot, and 53-foot shipping containers. 20-foot and 40-foot units come in standard (8'6" tall) and high cube (9'6" tall) heights; the 10-foot is standard height, and the 53-foot is a used Cargo Worthy high cube sold in Texas only. Exterior, interior, door-opening, and weight data is on the Container Specifications page.
05What door configurations are available?+
Every container has standard cargo doors on one end. New 1-Trip specialty options add doors on both ends (double door, also called a tunnel container), two, three, or four side doors, or a full side door where the entire side opens. Availability varies by hub, so the quote confirms the exact door pattern before approval.
06Can I visit your yard to see a container before I buy?+
No. First Choice Containers does not allow customers at our depots, for safety reasons and because container inventory changes by the day. When you place your order, you can request that the driver send pictures of your unit before leaving the depot for delivery.
07Can I inspect a container when it arrives?+
Yes. Compare the delivered container to the written condition expectation at arrival and document any concern before acceptance is finalized. Customers cannot visit our depots, so if you want to see your unit before delivery, request when you place your order that the driver send pictures of it before leaving the depot.
08What's your policy if the container isn't as described?+
The written quote or invoice should state the condition expectation, delivery assumptions, and any coverage or remedy that applies. Do not rely on verbal promises; document discrepancies with photos and contact FCC before acceptance is finalized.
09How long does it take to get a container after I order?+
Timing depends on inventory, delivery distance, site access, modification scope, agreement approval, and seasonal demand. The quote should confirm the expected delivery window and any requirements before dispatch.
10Do you charge sales tax on shipping container purchases?+
Tax handling depends on location, use, documentation, and transaction type. FCC's Sales Tax page summarizes current Texas guidance, but the written quote or invoice should confirm final tax handling for the order.
11Can I modify the container after I buy it?+
Yes, but it is usually better to discuss modifications before purchase so the base unit, condition, door pattern, delivery, and modification scope fit together. Major modifications should be quoted separately from the container shell.
12Should I buy or rent-to-own?+
Buying usually fits long-term ownership and modifications, and rent-to-own can fit long-term need when the written agreement terms matter more than paying cash up front.
13Do you offer any warranty or guarantee?+
Any warranty, condition guarantee, remedy, or acceptance policy should be stated in the written quote or invoice. The page does not publish a blanket warranty claim because coverage can depend on unit condition, modifications, delivery, and accepted terms.
