There have recently been some opportunistic shipping container sellers in Melbourne. These sellers have been taking advantage of high container demand, limited supply and increasing prices. 

When certain markets experience such type of turbulence, unsavoury characters try to find quick ways to make easy money, without ever actually providing shipping containers for sale in Melbourne. How to spot these fraud sellers? 

7 tips to avoid scams when looking for shipping containers for sale in Brisbane

Scammers rely on the growing demand to attract customers with competitive pricing and gimmicks. Victims get easily enticed by extremely low prices and are often convinced by the supposed provider’s legitimacy. They only realise that they were scammed upon non-delivery of the shipping container they have purchased. 

Luckily, there are some proven ways to spot fake shipping container sellers and minimise scams. Here are the top tips to help identify fraud shipping containers for sale in Brisbane:

1: Verify the business

Before you purchase or hire a shipping container, verify the authenticity of the business by looking for its company registration information. Ask for their registration certificate and liability insurance. 

The seller must have a publicly listed contact number. Call the phone number and ensure that they sound genuine. Additionally, look for evidence of:  

> A full address

> Google location details

> Third-party site mentions 

> Online reviews

2: Check out their website

A reliable online business will have its company domain as the name, for example, containercompany.com. Whereas, a scammer may use an address like containercompany61.com. Also, visit their social media pages to ensure that they are consistent on all platforms. 

Another way to ensure their online credibility is to check that their website appears in Google search engine results. A business only appearing in a paid ad could indicate that there is no actual webpage, meaning the business may be fake.

3: Visit their depot

Before you purchase a shipping container, you must inspect it. This is the best way to avoid scams when looking for shipping containers. Avoid dealing with any seller who is not transparent and declines an on-site inspection.

Physically inspecting a container site will help you see what you are going to buy and meet the people that you are dealing with. So, request a physical inspection at one of their shipping container depots. 

4: Compare market prices

Good-quality shipping containers are not cheap. So, it is better to compare the prices of various sellers to get a rough idea of the deal you are getting. 

If their prices are significantly lower than other prices in the market, this could be a red flag. Similarly, a price that’s much higher than the market price is also an immediate red flag.

5: Ask plenty of questions

A legitimate container seller would be able to answer your questions and satisfy you with expert answers. Whereas, a seller who dodges questions or is dismissive about specific questions should be treated with caution. 

Scammers don’t know the industry and are afraid of questions. So, if a shipping container supplier doesn’t seem to answer your question, just hit the road!

6: Don’t share your banking information

Be suspicious of any business asking you to share your personal or banking information, especially early on in the process. This may showcase a lack of professionalism and reliability. 

Also, make payments only using secure payment portals online. Avoid making transactions using cryptocurrencies or any other pseudo-anonymous methods. 

7: Be wary of discounts and gimmicks

Lastly, be wary of discounts and additional charges too. Shipping containers require a considerable investment and their prices may escalate during peak demand. So, don’t fall for this scam, thinking you could buy a 20-foot container for $2,000 when the market price is $4,000. 

Trusted shipping containers supplier in Melbourne

If you are looking for a reliable shipping container for sale in Melbourne, you can trust Affordable Containers! We have a range of shipping container sizes and grades available for different applications. Our team of experts is passionate about shipping containers and also offers logistics and removal solutions for commercial, residential and industry requirements. 

Contact us for a no-obligation quote. 

The post Shipping container for sale in Melbourne: How to avoid scams? appeared first on Affordable Containers.

One of the innovative ways to maximise efficiency when building a house or office is shipping containers. These metal boxes are sturdy, cheap, and can be used for anything from building a shipping container home to a retail storefront. The only challenge is the prep work.

How to prepare your site for a shipping container?

A lot of site work needs to be completed before delivering your containers to the site. Failing to think through site preparation early on in the project can cause expensive rework later. For example, a shipping container could sink into the ground if the foundation isn’t packed tightly.

Below are a few essential things to consider when choosing a site to place your shipping container.

• Level and firm ground: This makes getting the shipping container in place more accessible and avoids unwanted tilting, sinking or flipping.

• No pooling water: Standing water near your container site can damage the container and its contents over time.

• Minimal vegetation: Plants and tree roots can cause structural damage and make it difficult to level the container properly.

If your site doesn’t meet all these requirements, start working around them. If the ground is not level, you can use blocks to raise the container.

Follow these simple steps to ensure successful site preparation:

Step 1: Getting permits

Before you plan any construction, check with your local and national authorities to determine if you need any permits for placing a shipping container on your property.

Permit requirements may vary depending on your location and the intended application of the container. Have all the necessary building code permits and planning permission in writing when you buy or hire shipping containers.

Step 2: Choosing the right location

Consider where you are going to place the shipping container. Choose an ideal location to avoid future nuisances for everyone involved in the delivery, setup and usability process.

When choosing a location for your shipping container, you must consider proximity to utilities, sunlight exposure and drainage. The ground must be well-drained and levelled to prevent water from pooling around the container. Make sure there is no debris, rocks or vegetation.

Step 3: Determining the foundation type

The type of foundation you choose depends mainly on the intended application, the shipping container you buy and local regulations. Some popular options for the foundation include:

• Concrete slab: It provides a durable surface ideal for containers used as permanent structures, such as offices and workshops.

• Gravel pad: This foundation is easy to install and offers good drainage and stability. It is suitable for temporary or portable container structures.

• Wooden pier: Using piers to support the corners of the container is a common approach – as it provides proper ventilation and prevents moisture build-up.

Step 4: Preparing the foundation

Depending on your chosen foundation type, start preparing the land accordingly. You can hire a professional to prepare the foundation. If required, excavate and backfill the area to achieve a level surface.

Also, install a proper drainage system to prevent water pooling around the container. If you plan to place your shipping container on a gravel pad or pier foundation, ensure the land is graded to direct water away from the container.

Step 5: Mark the area of the container

Once the site is fully prepared, mark the location of the shipping container to help the delivery crew place the container in the correct area. Be sure to keep the container off the ground by using railroad ties under it. This will protect the container from corrosion and make opening doors easier.

Are you searching for shipping containers for sale in Melbourne?

Get in touch with us today! Whether you want to hire shipping containers or are looking for shipping containers for sale, we’ve covered your unique needs at Affordable Containers. We can provide you with high-quality containers for any project so you can have them ready for use.

The post A 5-step guide to prepare a site for your shipping container appeared first on Affordable Containers.

Widely popular in the realms of maritime transportation, shipping containers have undergone a remarkable transformation over the past few years. These metal giants have now evolved into versatile storage spaces that challenge conventional notions of utility.

As a result, an increasing number of businesses and homeowners use repurposed containers to guard their belongings and treasures against external elements. This is how these steel behemoths are transcending their maritime origin, helping people meet their ever-growing storage needs.

Top reasons to use shipping containers for storage

Many store owners use shipping containers to store office goods and retail items. These containers can be just as valuable for other applications too, such as stowing away garden equipment, unused furniture and practically anything else associated with storage.

Let’s delve into the intriguing world of shipping containers and understand why using them for onsite storage is a viable idea. Below are a few convincing reasons:

#1 – Water and weather-proof

Built to survive extreme weather conditions at sea, shipping containers are water-resistant and can withstand harsh weather elements, including strong winds and heavy rainfall.

A shipping container will help you protect all goods stored inside against whatever external elements might be in effect. While searching for shipping containers for sale in Melbourne, choose something made of superior-grade cortex steel.

#2 – Highly durable

Shipping containers are sturdy structures that can last for years on your premises. On average, they have a lifespan of 40-50 years.

Even if that time has expired, the container will still have a 75% salvage value. All it requires is proper inspection of the paint, rust and seals.

#3 – Different sizes available

Regarding shipping containers, they offer quite a bit of flexibility for your needs. This is because they come in different sizes.

For example, you can choose 20-foot containers for smaller storage applications while 40-foot containers for larger applications. These containers will easily fit into most backyards and driveways.

#4 – Safe and secure

Since shipping containers are durable and sturdy, they are secure against any potential break-ins or breakdowns. They are usually heavy-duty 16 gauge steel, making it virtually impossible to break in.

Also, reusing shipping containers for storage is safe and even helps reduce your carbon footprint by recycling shipping containers.

#5 – Easy to transport

While you may only sometimes need to move your storage container from one place to another, shipping containers are easy to transport. They are portable so that you can take your container to several locations for storage.

Shipping containers can be dropped off at your storage site – before being collected and taken to a secure facility. This prevents you from having to transport the items and solves transportation issues that are common with storage.

#6 – Budget-friendly

Apart from their usability, shipping containers are affordable. As building materials are getting costlier and construction costs are skyrocketing, shipping containers for storage can help you save money.

Used containers are even more inexpensive. Also, installation costs are low, and you won’t need a foundation to set up a storage container.

#7 – Flexibility to expand the space

Unlike a basement or storeroom, shipping containers offer more flexibility for expanding your storage project. No reconstruction is required.

Just set up storage space in any configuration by simply stacking containers on each other or sideways. To have extra space right from the beginning, we recommend using 40-foot shipping containers.

#8 – Easy to customise and modify

You don’t have to dump your valuable items in them haphazardly when you buy or hire shipping containers. You can customise or modify them according to your unique needs and tastes. For instance, you can add insulation, side doors, racks or windows.

Also, reusing shipping containers for storage is safe and even helps reduce your carbon footprint by recycling shipping containers.

Shipping containers for sale in Melbourne

Whether you are a homeowner or a business, if you are searching for a shipping container for sale in Melbourne, we can help! Get access to various shipping containers that come in different sizes and configurations while being fully portable. Buy or hire shipping containers as per your unique storage needs.

Talk to us for more details.

The post Why Use Shipping Containers for Storage? (8 Convincing Reasons) appeared first on Affordable Containers.

In recent years, building houses from shipping containers have become more and more popular among many creative Aussies. This is because it is relatively a great time and money-saving idea than a stick-built home. But, the process of building a shipping container house is rocket science for many people. It’s okay to feel that way.

In this step-by-step guide, we’re going to help you better understand the process of building a house with shipping containers. By the time you finish reading this article, you’ll have a clear idea about your project. So, let’s begin!

Step #1 – Plan everything

The very first step is deciding what you’d like your house to be like. For this, create a plan so that you could understand the project, your goals and your resources. Determine how many rooms you are going to build and whether it will be a single-story or multi-story building. Also, get all the much-needed permits and permissions from the local council.

Step #2 – Seek help from a professional

We recommend that you seek out a professional for designing and building shipping container structures. Your design will require a lot of details like insulation, flooring, framing, electricity and so on. Here, a professional builder or architect will help you to weigh up the different options and perform the task.

Step #3 – Prepare the land

Next, you need to prepare the site for construction. You should ensure there’s a clear foundation or surface for construction. Also, earthworks need to be carried out. As well as various utilities such as electricity, gas lines, septic tanks and storm water drains need to be supplied.

Step #3 – Procure your shipping containers

Once your design and site is ready, you need to get the best-quality containers that will fit your budget and needs. You can choose from used and new shipping containers. For used containers, it’s crucial to ensure that they are in a good condition. For more guidance regarding shipping containers for sale, you can ask the experts at Affordable Shipping Containers.

Step #5 – Time to Approach

Now, it’s time for you to get started. Decide whether you’ll build the house on-site or in a modular environment. Based on your preference, work with the professionals or builders and incorporate everything from space to windows, utilities to the foundation as per your taste and needs.

Final Words

We hope the information provided in this blog article will give you a good starting point for building your home with shipping containers. By knowing these crucial steps, you’ll know where to invest your time and effort. Our biggest advice is to do proper research and hire experienced professionals to get the best results.

Looking for a shipping container for sale? We’d love to help you find the perfect one for you.

The post Building a house from shipping containers – A Step-By-Step Guide appeared first on Affordable Containers.

For many notable reasons, a second-hand shipping container can provide you the same way a brand-new one can, while saving a big fraction of the cost. Plus, they can be upcycled to other products, helping in the much-needed environmental conservation. Though, finding a good-quality used shipping container for sale can be difficult.
That is why we are here to help you out with this vital piece of information.

1. Get the best value for your money

At Affordable Containers, we can help you get the best value for your money by telling you – what to expect when buying a second-hand/used shipping container. With our industry know-how, we have compiled some crucial factors to keep in mind when you are looking for a shipping container for sale.

(1) The overall condition

The overall condition of the container is the prime factor is the first thing you should look at. Check the paint, the corner castings, the seals around the edges and the underside of the container. Also, make sure its underside that holds up the floor, is free from rust or corrosion.

(2) The perfect size

As there are two standard lengths for storage containers (20-footers and 40-footers), you should know which one you need. By understanding the purpose for which you need a used container, you can place yourself in a better position to select the right size. Also, consider its height, width and thickness.

(3) Budget friendly

What matters the most for many buyers in Melbourne and across Australia is the price. Well, it is actually the biggest deciding factor for them. From buying to delivery, a container can cost a significant amount of money. However, if you look in the right place, you are most likely to find a budget friendly shipping container. We advise you to always enquire about the cost of container and its delivery charges from the supplier.

(4) A reputed supplier

The supplier you are dealing with should be a reputed name in the business. Before deciding on the supplier of your shipping container, it’s a good idea to visit their depot and inspect their products. Buying used shipping containers is an investment decisions, so make sure your supplier is going to deliver on what is promised.

2. Final thoughts

In order to buy shipping containers, its not rocket science but its good to understand what you are looking for. With some research you can get a deal that you will be happy with. Need a shipping container for hire? Ask experts at Affordable Containers, a reputed shipping container supplier in Melbourne. Thanks for reading and enjoy container shopping!

The post Buying shipping containers: What to expect from a used shipping container? appeared first on Affordable Containers.

With thousands of containers loaded on ocean-going vessels each day, the shipping industry will not come to a halt anytime sooner. The demand for different types of shipping containers is increasing rapidly.
If you are looking to buy or hire a shipping container, you must know your options.
We are going to discuss the types of containers that facilitate the process of taking cargo from point ‘A’ to point ‘B’.

1. Dry Containers

Dry containers are the transporters of general cargo and the most common type of shipping containers. These come in various sizes of 10, 20 or 40 feet. The commodities that are shipped using dry containers do not need specialised equipment.

2. Flat Rack Containers

With collapsible sides, flat rack containers can be folded to make a flat rack. The USP of these containers is that they are ideal for shipping oversized goods like heavy machinery, vehicles on tracks, big reels and other heavy material. Steel is used for manufacturing purposes and comes in sizes of 20’ and 40’.

3. Double Door Containers

Famously known as “tunnel container”, these containers have doors on both ends, which make loading and unloading easy. Double door containers render more flexible and efficient storage solutions. Weather-tight seals at both the doors keep the cargo protected against any damage caused by external elements.

4. High Cube Containers

High cube containers and general-purpose containers are alike but with a difference that the former is taller by about 1 foot. These containers come in sizes of 40’ and sometimes 45’. Most of these containers contain a recess in the floor at the front end to centre the container on gooseneck chassis.

5. Insulated Containers

The distinct feature of an insulated container is that it has a regulated temperature control that makes it resistant to extreme and harsh temperatures. An electrical appliance that comes with each container cools or heats the air present within the container. Products like foods, blood, organs and chemicals have a shorter shelf life and an insulated container is the most ideal option to transport such materials from one spot to another.

6. Tank Containers

Made of strong steel or anti-corrosive materials to protect liquid materials, tank containers must be at least 80% filled to prevent dangerous gushing of liquids on the way.
We hope that was sufficient for you to know about a few types of shipping containers!
When it comes to shipping containers, every individual or company is coming up with unique requirements these days. The above-mentioned containers are just the tip of the iceberg. You can check for more with Affordable Containers and pick what suits your needs. We have a vast range of shipping containers for sale in Brisbane.

The post Shipping Containers- The Most Common Types Available In The Market appeared first on Affordable Containers.

Nowadays, shipping containers are no longer used only for transportation! They have got new purposes in our lives. There was a time when shipping containers were just a big box of steel, used for good’s transportation. But with innovation, creativity and outright ingenuity, shipping containers have many new uses now. At present, there are many shipping container architectural trends in the industry.
Shipping containers are available in all shapes and sizes. So, you can easily convert them to become school classes, houses and even offices! This sturdy structure can also be fitted with electricity cables for power. You can find a container for sale or you can also hire one and turn it into your own private space.
Here are 5 innovative ways to use shipping containers. Have a read:

1. Low-Cost Housing

Shipping containers are adapted by architects across the world! They are widely used as affordable, innovative, temporary & permanent houses. The shape & size of these structures make them apt for building low-cost shipping container homes.

2. Sturdy Shed

From a peaceful garden sanctuary to a convenient storage space, a shipping container can be put to many uses. They are considered as the best steel structure for constructing sturdy sheds. When you use them as a shed, no wood, no assembly or maintenance is required! Plus, it adds to the security. Shipping containers are weather-proof & the best option for outdoor sheds.

3. Swimming Pools

A shipping container is a great alternative to traditional fibreglass swimming pool. If you want to construct your own swimming pool, shipping containers offer a fantastic, rust-free shell. An additional benefit is that your shipping container swimming pool will be portable. If you live in Australia, you can buy a shipping container for sale in Melbourne and turn it into your own swimming pool.

4. Retail Shops

The size, shape and durability of shipping containers make them an ideal structure for cool pop-up shops, bars or cafés. You can also paint them to give them an aesthetic look. A shipping container can be completely transformed into any desired shop.

5. Refurbished Furniture

You can enjoy a new life in your home and office by unveiling a line of furniture made from container scraps. Also, you can make durable furniture for schools and houses from a shipping container. Whether you want to create chairs, tables or desks, you can’t get any sturdier material than shipping container for sale in Melbourne.
It’s interesting how many uses can be found for these simple metal containers. From using it at home to constructing a retail shop out of it, and much more, a shipping container has many innovative uses!
For more information, click here!

The post 5 Innovative Ways To Use Shipping Containers In Your Daily Life! appeared first on Affordable Containers.

Shipping containers offer unique benefits. From serving their real purpose to which you purchased or rented it for. To being re-used for several other purposes, these containers are a quality solution! However, when you plan to invest in a shipping container, you need to figure out your domestic & business needs. Whether you are looking for a shipping container for a long period or just temporarily, we will help you decide what will be the best bet for you! Buy it or hire it? Which one is best for you? Well, here’s your answer:

Buy It

You may have different requirements pertaining to the condition, size, budget, and usage. Regardless, you can find some great options if you search for shipping container for sale Melbourne! Browse through a full range of containers that meet all top-quality standards. If you wish to convert a shipping container into almost anything you desire, it is best to buy one. It’s a great purchase to make if you need it for permanent use, such as transforming it into a:

• Swimming pool
• Mini office
• Retail outlet
• Car or bike parking
• Indoor gardens or nurseries
• Durable storage solution

Shipping containers offer a variety of innovative functions and can be put to so many uses. Creative people are looking for alternate living solutions and have begun to utilise shipping containers to create homes. A shipping container may be what a new entrepreneur or a long-running business is looking for. And buying a high-quality container is the best bet in such cases!

Rent It

What if you need a shipping container for a specific time period? Sometimes, it is not always practical to purchase a shipping container. So, in instances like this, you can rent one! Here are few cases when it might be better that you go for shipping container for hire instead of buying one:

• You’re on a budget & want to save money.
• You need a temporary structure.
• Want to return it when you have finished using it.

If you need a container for a shorter period, getting shipping containers on rent is the best bet! A shipping container on rent will suit your budget and serve the purpose well. You can also get long-term leasing options too when you need your 40 or 20ft shipping container for an extended period than initially planned. Affordable Containers is the shipping container expert that delivers solutions pertaining to your moving or sales-related needs. For your convenience, we also provide delivery to and collection from your location, which means you can look forward to a hassle-free experience that fits seamlessly in Australia.

Our shipping containers (new and used) have been constructed from corrosion-resistant Corten steel, which is chosen for its superior strength and durability. Our containers are the manufactured to withstand any conditions. We make sure they measure up against most conditions and handling requirements so that our customers can be benefited with the top-notch solutions for whatever application they might require a container for.

So, if you’re looking for shipping containers for sale Melbourne, we are here to help you out!

The post Rent Or Buy A Shipping Container: Which Option Is The Best For You? appeared first on Affordable Containers.

At face value, a shipping container isn’t the most mysterious thing you’ll ever come across. I mean, the name says it all. It’s an object that stores items that are transported by ship … but is that all there is to it? Of course not. The world is never black and white, and neither is this list of facts about shipping containers. We’re pretty confident you’ll be surprised by at least one of these, so enjoy!

Shipping Container Fact #1: They’re Not Used Exclusively for Shipping

You may have noticed that residential, commercial and office blocks built from shipping containers are popping up all around us. Property developers are making the most of these convenient, versatile units to build modern structures.

Shipping Container Fact #2: Building With Them is Friendly Towards the Environment

Not only are shipping containers all-rounders, but they are easy to re-use and recycle. This makes them the eco-friendly choice for storage and construction. They are also mostly transported on massive ships, which reduces the carbon footprint related to fuel used to move them around the world.

Shipping Container Fact #3: They Carry Almost All Cargo Transported Around the World

Global trade largely depends on shipping containers. It is estimated that they carry about 90% of the items traded between continents. Why? Well, the weather conditions at sea can get harsh. Shipping containers are durable. They can last for over three decades, so companies can get maximum use out of them.

Shipping Container Fact #4: Thousands Get Lost at Sea From Year to Year

The world’s oceans are rough to traverse. There are hectic storms, unpredictable elements and pirates to worry about. As a result, tens of thousands of shipping containers disappear at sea every year.

Shipping Container Fact #5: Less than 10% Get Physical Inspections at Customs Ports

With over 50 000 shipping containers making their way somewhere day in, day out, it’s merely impractical to expect customs officials to search through each one. Many of them are the same size as multiple storey buildings. X-ray is the main precaution used to screen them, but only a few get selected for physical inspections.

It’s clear that there’s more to the world of shipping containers than meets the eye. From innovative design in the construction industry to, well, global shipping, there’s a lot you can do with these large-scale storage units. Contact Affordable containers for top quality shipping containers in Melbourne.

The post Inside Info on Shipping Containers: 5 Fascinating Things You Might Not Know (Yet) appeared first on Affordable Containers.

If you haven’t heard of or seen new homes created from shipping containers, you probably will very soon. In recent years, shipping containers have taken on a whole new function as innovative architects, and creative people looking for alternate living solutions have begun to utilize shipping containers to create homes. We look at some of the benefits of this style of home below:

Strong structure

Manufactured to be tough and handle a great deal of physical and environmental onslaught, a shipping container will be as secure as a brick house. Able to deal with extremely strong winds and entirely weatherproof, a shipping container will protect you and your belongings perfectly.

Modify according to what you want

Unlike solid brick houses, with shipping containers, you have the freedom to move, arrange and rearrange your rooms according to how you want it to look or need it to function. The interiors of container homes are incredibly adaptable and can be fitted out with the material of your choice – quite similarly to that of a normal house. Should you buy a shipping container, your imagination is all that limits you from creating something unique. Add windows and sliding doors, paint the interior in any colour. The options are endless.

No worries about pests

The structure of your home and rooms are solid steel, which means you won’t have to worry about wood borers, ants or other insects damaging and infiltrating your home.

Energy Efficient

By installing proper insulation, you’ll find that container homes are extremely effective at keeping cool in summer and warm in winter. This will save you on electric bills in the long run while also being a more green solution.

Get Your House Completed Much Sooner

Since there’s no need for laying a foundation, building walls or installing a roof, you will have your home completed and ready in no time. The turnaround time to set up the interior of your container should only be a few weeks, and from there, you can relocate your container to the final site and move in!

If you’re interested in shipping containers for sale in Brisbane or would like to find out about hiring a shipping container, contact us – our experienced and professional team are ready to assist.

The post How Modular Container Houses Are Changing The Game appeared first on Affordable Containers.