BUYERS GUIDE
The Ultimate Shipping Container Buyers Guide
Buying a shipping container is a significant investment. At Lease Lane Containers LLC, we believe transparency is the key to a successful project. Whether you are looking for a simple storage solution or a foundation for a custom build, this guide covers everything you need to know.
1. Understanding Container Grades
Not all steel boxes are equal. We categorize our inventory into three primary grades to help you choose the right balance of price and condition.
One-Trip (New)
Condition: Manufactured overseas and shipped to the USA exactly once.
Best For: Living spaces, high-end retail, and long-term assets where appearance matters.
Expect: Pristine paint, minimal dings, and easy-to-operate doors.
Cargo Worthy (CW)
Condition: Inspected and certified for international maritime transport.
Best For: Heavy-duty storage and international shipping.
Expect: Structurally sound units that can be stacked, though they will show cosmetic wear from port use.
Wind & Watertight (WWT)
Condition: Guaranteed to have zero holes or leaks.
Best For: Residential storage, workshops, and construction site protection.
Expect: Surface rust and dents, but a 100% dry interior. We perform a manual “Light Test” on every WWT unit.
2. Choosing the Right Size
| Container Type | Exterior Dimensions (LxWxH) | Max Payload |
| 20ft Standard | $20′ \times 8′ \times 8’6″$ | ~62,000 lbs |
| 40ft Standard | $40′ \times 8′ \times 8’6″$ | ~59,000 lbs |
| 40ft High Cube | $40′ \times 8′ \times 9’6″$ | ~63,000 lbs |
Pro Tip: If you plan on adding insulation or a finished ceiling, we highly recommend the High Cube model for the extra 12 inches of vertical clearance.
3. Site Preparation & Delivery Requirements
Preparation is the most critical step for a smooth delivery. Lease Lane Containers LLC utilizes specialized tilt-bed trailers that require specific clearances:
Surface: The ground must be level and firm. We recommend gravel, concrete, asphalt, or packed earth.
Linear Clearance: For a 20ft container, you need 60ft of straight-line clearance. For a 40ft container, you need 100ft of straight-line clearance for the truck to pull away.
Vertical Clearance: Ensure there are no low-hanging power lines or tree branches (need ~14ft of height).
4. Our 5-Point Structural Inspection
To ensure the “Lease Lane Standard,” every unit dispatched from our Raleigh hub or regional partner hubs undergoes this check:
Floor Integrity: Inspection of 1.1” (27mm) marine-grade plywood for weight-bearing strength.
Door Gaskets: Verification of rubber seals to prevent moisture ingress.
Locking Rods: Lubricated and tested for smooth operation.
Structural Walls: Checking for major punctures or structural warping.
Roof Integrity: Ensuring the roof is solid and free of standing-water damage.
5. Transparent Pricing & Logistics
We have eliminated the “hidden fee” culture of the container industry:
Flat Rate Shipping: We charge a simplified $170.00 Flat Rate for nationwide delivery to the Lower 48.
No Surcharges: The price you see in your cart includes the unit, delivery, and professional off-loading.
6. The Lease Lane Guarantee
We stand behind our steel. Every unit comes with our 30-Day Structural Guarantee. If you discover a structural leak or defect within the first 30 days, our team will coordinate a mobile repair or a unit exchange at no cost to you.
Ready to find your box?
Browse our live inventory or Contact our Raleigh team for a custom quote.
Contact Information
For any questions regarding your order or this policy, please reach out to us directly:
Business Name: Lease Lane Containers LLC
Phone: +1 (984) 313-6158
Address: 5832 Lease Ln, Ste B, Raleigh, NC 27617