Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some questions that we usually get asked. If you have any other inquiries, feel free to contact us here.

How Does Your Order Process Work ?

We source shipping containers through local suppliers / ports within your area or region. Below is a brief overview. To read a more in depth description of our order process, click here.

Choose Your Container: Once you’ve chosen your size and condition. We will contact our suppliers in your area to assist in coordinating delivery.
Schedule Your Delivery: Before placing your order, we will ask for a delivery date. After your order has been processed. You will have 12 days to arrange for the pick-up or delivery of your container(s) from the port / depot. *You can always opt to pick up your order by yourself. This will waive the additional shipping fee.
Prepare for Delivery: Once you’ve picked a location, checked for obstructions, prepared the surface and created enough space. It’s time to plan the delivery of your container. Communicate with an experienced truck operator, to have your order delivered safely to where you require.

If you are unsure of the type or condition of container you require. Our team can help point you in the right direction, before placing your order and scheduling delivery. For more information on the delivery process. Such as what to expect or how to prepare, click here.

What Is A Shipping Container ?

Also known as a conex box or a sea can. A shipping container is a durable and secure rectangular box. That is used to store or transport cargo from one destination to another. Due to their strength, they are suitable to withstand storage, freight and handling. In the air, land or sea. Shipping containers are usually made of steel, but also known to be made of aluminum. Especially when transporting /storing temperature controlled substances. While available in a few different sizes (or lengths). The most common you will notice within the market. Is the 20 ft Standard, along with the 40 ft Standard and High Cube units. ⁽¹⁾

What Types of Shipping Containers Do You Have Available ?

Currently our website mostly has access to New (One-Trip), Cargo Worthy (CW/CWO) and Wind & Watertight (WWT) containers. We also have access to As-Is containers on a case by case basis. These are available in sizes of 20 ft and 40 ft lengths. We also have 40 ft High Cube units available at 9′ 6″ in height.

Most of the inventory that we have access to, is available in 20 ft and 40 ft standard sizes / lengths. 10 ft and 45 ft lengths are less common, but still options we can source. For more details on acquiring those sizes. Be sure to send us an email or give us a call.

*Other sizes that you might run into, are 48 ft and 53 ft containers. Those are usually harder to source and not readily available in our inventory.

What Material Are Your Shipping Containers Made of ?

The containers we have access to from our suppliers are made of high-grade COR-TEN steel. Each has corrugated steel sides, 1 ⅛” thick marine plywood floors and steel framing.

This high grade weathering steel is a made of copper chromium alloy and considered “atmospheric corrosion resistant”. It was developed for higher strength and longer life cycle uses. It was also designed to remove the need for painting. ⁽²⁾

Am I Able to Select A Color ?

Unfortunately at this moment in time, selecting a color is not feasible. Despite the current increase in demand. In many cases these containers are stacked at the depot with similar containers that match their specific grading criteria. In these instances, you will receive what is known as “next off stack”, which makes it very difficult for us to guarantee a particular color.

Do You Guarantee Cosmetic Appearance ?

When purchasing a used container, you should always expect there will be some dents, surface rust, faded paint or scratches from transport overseas. While less noticeable, even one trip containers can have minor wear and tear from that single trip. On the interior, it is common to notice scratches on the floor. Mostly from forklifts. You may also notice some repairs or patches to the floor as well.

While our suppliers are able to guarantee that their containers are wind and watertight, have working doors, and are free from holes In the steel walls and in the floors (no leaks). They / we are not able to guarantee cosmetic appearance.

When proper maintenance, cleaning and paint are properly applied. Shipping containers can usually last for up to approximately 40 – 50 years or more. ⁽³⁾

Can I See a Photo of The Container I Am Purchasing ?

Unfortunately at this moment in time. Receiving photos is not feasible. Our suppliers guarantee structural integrity and not the physical condition of the used containers (including One-Trip). As a result, we also guarantee structural integrity, which includes; leak free, floors free of holes and doors in working condition. We do not make guarantees with regards to the cosmetic appearance of the container(s).

Used shipping containers will most likely always have surface rust, scratches, smaller dents, gouges on the floors or metal patches. Please have a look at our article on container conditions, where we clearly describe the potential cosmetic issues to be aware of when purchasing a used container.

Is There a Quality Guarantee ?

For New (One-Trip), Cargo Worthy (CWO) and Wind & Watertight (WWT). We do provide a quality guarantee that our containers will adhere to the following upon delivery:

No Leaks (Wind & Watertight): No holes in steel work
Floors in Working Condition: No holes, but patches, scratches, and gouges are acceptable
Functioning Doors: Doors that open and close properly

For further details about the three bullet points above, click here.

Be sure to check the condition of your container once it is received. If you notice any issues, we encourage you to contact us immediately. If a container does not meet the guarantee mentioned above. We will either:

Repair the issue on site within 7 days
If repair is not possible, we will provide a replacement unit that meets our guarantee.

How Secure Is My Container From Theft ?

Typically containers are built to make breaking in a difficult task. For additional security, we definitely recommend using either a padlock on the doors. Or, for even more security. We recommend using a lockbox, which is a reinforced steel box across the two doors. Heavy equipment would be needed to break in, which usually deters most thieves or intruders.

Will I Require A Permit ?

If the location you are expecting delivery is only temporary. Chances are you will not need a permit. If you plan on leaving it at the delivery site for an extended period of time. Possibly a prefab container home / office. Depending on where you live (Canada, USA, Europe, etc.), a permit will most likely need to be presented.

Should I Buy New or Used ?

Ultimately that comes down to your intended use. Generally speaking, if you’re looking for something that can transport freight. You will most likely want to go with a Cargo Worthy (CWO / CW) container. If you’re looking to customize or build a pre-fabricated home. In most cases you will probably want to go with a One-Trip container.

The Difference Between a Standard (GP) Container and a High Cube (HC) Container ?

A general purpose or standard containers height is around 8′ 6″ in tall. When it comes to High Cube containers. They add an additional foot vertically, making their height 9′ 6″ in tall.

Why Are 20′ Containers Sometimes More Expensive Than 40′ ?

It really comes down to supply and demand. 40 ft shipping containers are more commonly used than 20 ft containers. As a result, this occasionally contributes to the reason why you will notice. 20 ft shipping containers, are sometimes the same price or more than their 40 ft counterparts.

Can I Modify or Customize My Container ?

Depending on the condition of the container that you purchase. There are many different ways you can customize your box. A few of the more desired modifications include;

A long-term or short-term prefab home
Mobile working space
Restaurant
Car / vehicle storage etc.

How Do I Choose the Right Condition for My Needs ?

Deciding on whether to purchase a New (One-Trip), Cargo Worthy or Wind and Watertight container, pretty much comes down to your intended use or purpose for the unit. For more information on container conditions and which might work best for you. Be sure to read our article here.

Can I Get My Container Painted ?

Definitely. Painting your container is a great way to provide a uniform look to your container collection. If you’re looking to make your container look more new, or are planning to have it used for a prefabricated home / office. Getting your container painted is a great idea in those situations. As BlokAve does not provide the services. We are able to put you in contact with the suppliers that may be able to help you out. Moreover, we can also provide insight on which paint options are most suitable for your needs.

Do We Modify Containers ?

Unfortunately no, although we do have contact with some reputable builders throughout the United States. These are professionals, who are qualified to customize your container to your specific requirements. For more information on these contractor / builders. Be sure to send us an email.

How Do I Maintain My Container ?

COR-TEN steel is a Weathering steel. It is extremely strong, durable and meant to exhibit increased resistance to atmospheric corrosion, in comparison to other steels. As a result, they do not require that much maintenance.

However, it is recommended to periodically apply grease or lubrication oil to the hinges of the doors. It is also a good idea to clean the walls and floors. For maintenance on the exterior, we highly recommend Marine-grade paint on areas that are dented or scratched.

Does BlokAve Build Container Homes ?

No, BlokAve does not. However we do have contact with professional and reputable builders within the United States. For more information, feel free to send us an email.

Do Shipping Containers Have Titles ?

Shipping containers do not have titles. To prove ownership, you will only need your receipt and or invoice.

Delivery

Do I Need to Prepare My Location / Site for Delivery ?

Yes. It is highly recommended to read our delivery guide, for a more thorough breakdown on how to prepare and what to expect when receiving delivery of your container.

Order Processing

Am I Able to Cancel My Order ?

Yes, depending on the stage or status of your order, we will be able to provide a refund of the purchase price according to the following rules / guidelines:

Before we have accepted your payment, you may cancel at any time, at no cost.
If we have accepted your payment but your order has not yet been processed. You are able to receive a 100% refund, minus any banking fees.
If your order has already been processed. We will charge a 15% restocking fee and any charges for shipping, trucking, surveys, storage and banking fees are non-refundable. In this instance, “processed” means that the container has been made available to you at the depot / port, and is ready for pickup or delivery.

If you suddenly feel the need to cancel. It’s highly recommended to get in contact with us immediately, so that we can do our best to provide our assistance.

If I Purchase Multiple Units, Do You Offer Discounts ?

Our prices are already the lowest possible wholesale prices, as we have very little overhead costs and source directly from the closest port. Essentially, this means that we always pass on savings to our customers in the form of lower prices.

We do have customers who are self storage companies or who are resellers that purchase many containers in bulk. In these instances, our suppliers are willing to offer volume discounts. Which we can then pass on to our buyers. If you believe your order may qualify for a volume discount, be sure to send us an email.

Is My Payment Secured ?

Yes, all payments are processed through secure third-party payment platforms (Stripe). All payments are securely processed over HTTPS and your card information never touches our servers (TLS / SSL).

Audited by a PCI-certified auditor. Stripe is a certified PCI Service Provider Level 1. In the payments industry, this is known to be the most stringent level of certification available. ⁽⁴⁾

Founded in 2010, Stripe is a fairly well known payment processing platform throughout the industry. With dual headquarters in the United States and Ireland. The company recently entered into a five-year partnership with Ford Motor Company. This would make them responsible for handling consumer transactions for vehicle orders and reservations. ⁽⁵⁾

If you have any additional questions about Stripe or regarding payment and data security on our website. Don’t hesitate to send us an email or give us a call.

Is There Additional Sales Tax On My Shipping Container ?

As an online sales channel. BlokAve primarily functions as a “broker”, facilitating the sale and delivery of shipping containers from owners to buyers.

United States

In the United states. We only charge sales tax in the states where we have suppliers that have an office presence. We do not charge sales tax in the states where our suppliers do not have a physical location.

Canada

The only other country we currently ship to is Canada. However, at this moment in time we are only working with clients and suppliers located in Edmonton, AB. The sales tax found in Edmonton, is the same tax that will be charged during your transaction on our website.

As tax rules change, we will update our policies in order to comply with all tax rules and regulations in the United States & Canada.

What Payment Options Do You Accept ?

Currently we accept all major credit cards, bank transfers and some forms of cryptocurrency (USDT, BTC, ETH).

Do We Provide Financing ?

Unfortunately no, we do not currently provide financing. Feel free however to send us an email or give us a call. We may potentially be able to refer you to a few reputable financial service providers that can assist.

Issues With Your Order

My Container Arrived Damaged, What Next?

In the rare occasion that you’re a container does not live up to our quality guarantee, we are here to assist.

For the conditions we currently have available on our website; New (One-Trip), Cargo Worthy and Wind & Watertight. We guarantee that our containers will adhere to the following upon delivery.

No Leaks (Wind & Watertight): No holes in steel work
Floors in Working Condition: No holes, but patches, scratches, and gouges are acceptable
Functioning Doors: Doors that open and close properly

If the container arrives damaged and does not live up to the condition you purchase, we are here to help.

Be sure to check the condition of your container once it is received. Once inspected. If you notice any issues, we encourage you to document them and contact us immediately.

If a container is damaged and does not meet the guarantee mentioned above. We will either:

Repair the issue on site within 7 days
If repair is not possible, we will provide a replacement unit that meets the same standard

It is very important and highly recommended, that you familiarize yourself with the condition standard prior to ordering. As mentioned before. Used containers will always have some dents, rust and the flooring may have scratches or have been repaired with patches.

Although, if the doors have trouble opening and closing properly. If there happens to be a hole in the steel or in the flooring. The condition is not acceptable and we recommend you give us an email or a call immediately.

Our relationship with our suppliers is quite good, so issues with conditions are very rare. However, if they do arise, we will do our best to resolve the situation.

The Container Arrived but I Don’t Want it, What Now ?

If your container arrives and you choose to reject delivery. You will receive a refund of the purchase price, minus a 15% restocking fee and any shipping, trucking, survey, storage and banking fees already incurred.

If the container arrives damaged and does not live up to the condition you purchase, we are here to help.

Be sure to check the condition of your container once it is received. Once inspected. If you notice any issues, we encourage you to document them and contact us immediately.

If a container is damaged and does not meet the guarantee mentioned above. We will either:

Repair the issue on site within 7 days
If repair is not possible, we will provide a replacement unit that meets the same standard

*If you opt to have it fixed on your own terms by a third-party. We will reimburse you after having a look at your invoice.

It is very important and highly recommended, that you familiarize yourself with the condition standard prior to ordering. As mentioned before. Used containers will always have some dents, rust and the flooring may have scratches or have been repaired with patches.

Our relationship with our suppliers is quite good, so issues with conditions are very rare. However, if they do arise, we will do our best to resolve the situation.

The Doors Don’t Open & Close Properly, What Now ?

In most cases, the reason for doors that bind or having trouble opening and closing properly. Is due to your container not being placed on a hard, flat and even surface.

If your container is placed on an uneven surface or happens to be heavily loaded on one side. This may cause slight bending which can make the door frame uneven. Wood blocks or railroad ties can be beneficial in helping to create an even foundation for the door frame. Additionally, applying grease or lubrication oil on the hinges periodically, is a great way to keep the doors in good shape.

For the conditions we currently have available on our website; New (One-Trip), Cargo Worthy and Wind & Watertight. If your delivery arrives and the doors do not open and close properly. You are covered by our condition guarantee. In this instance, we will either:

Repair the issue on site within 7 days
If repair is not possible, we will provide a replacement unit that meets the same standard

This does happen very rarely. Although please contact us immediately if you happen to encounter the situation, so we can assist.

What If I Have A Question That Wasn’t Discussed In Your FAQ ?

Feel free to contact us and we will do our best to address your inquiry.

To learn more about container delivery and what to expect, click here. Or, click here to head back to the homepage.

References:

Mark Abrams, Trade Finance Global, Container Shipping – How It Works (2022), retrieved from: https://www.tradefinanceglobal.com/freight-forwarding/container-shipping
Central Steel Service, Inc., Cor-Ten® Steel, retrieved from: https://www.centralsteelservice.com/corten-steel
Big Box Containers, Shipping Container Lifespan: What to Expect, retrieved from: https://www.bigboxcontainers.co.za/blog/shipping-container-lifespan-what-to-expect
Stripe, Stripe Docs: Security at Stripe, retrieved from: https://stripe.com/docs/security
Wikipedia, Stripe, Inc., retrieved from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stripe,_Inc.
ScienceDirect, Shipping Container, retrieved from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/shipping-container