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Buying a Shipping Container in Canada – What You Need to Know
Why This Purchase Deserves a Little Homework
Buying a shipping container isn’t like buying a garden shed. It’s a serious, long-term investment—one that can last for decades if done right. But with so many options, sizes, and conditions available, it helps to know the essentials before you order.
Here’s Maple Containers’ definitive guide to buying a container in Canada.
1. Understand Your Purpose
Start by defining your goal:
- Storage for personal or business use
- Shipping or export
- Conversion into a workspace, café, or home
Your purpose determines the size, condition, and features you’ll need.
2. Choose the Right Size
The two most common sizes are 20 ft and 40 ft.
- 20 ft containers suit small storage, farms, or temporary offices.
- 40 ft units handle bulk materials, large equipment, or inventory.
High-cube versions add an extra foot of height—useful for tall machinery or creative conversions.
3. Decide Between New and Used
- New (One-Trip) Containers: Nearly flawless, ideal for businesses or modifications.
- Used Containers: More affordable and fully functional, though they may show cosmetic wear.
At Maple Containers, each unit is graded and photographed before sale so you know its exact condition.
4. Inspect Before Delivery
Before finalizing your order, ask for detailed photos or schedule an in-person inspection. Look for:
- Straight door frames and smooth door operation
- Solid flooring without rot
- Minimal rust or corrosion
All our containers are wind- and water-tight, ensuring secure storage from day one.
5. Plan Your Delivery Site
Containers arrive on tilt-bed or flatbed trucks, so you’ll need:
- Enough space for the truck to maneuver
- A firm, level surface (gravel or concrete preferred)
- Clear access without overhead wires or obstacles
If your site is tight, let us know—we’ll plan the correct offload method.
6. Understand Pricing Factors
Prices vary depending on:
- Size and condition (new vs. used)
- Delivery distance
- Modifications (extra doors, vents, paint, etc.)
- Market availability (steel prices fluctuate seasonally)
We believe in transparent pricing—no hidden fees, no last-minute surprises.
7. Check Local Regulations
In some provinces or municipalities, placing a container on residential property may require a temporary structure permit. It’s always best to check before delivery to avoid issues later.
8. Maintenance Tips
Containers require little maintenance, but small steps go a long way:
- Keep the ground dry to prevent rust underneath.
- Lubricate door hinges annually.
- Repaint spots of exposed metal to maintain the seal.
- Elevate on concrete blocks or timber beams for better ventilation.
A little care ensures decades of performance.
9. Why Buy from Maple Containers
As a Canadian-owned company, we understand the terrain, the climate, and the logistics. Our promise:
- Nationwide delivery from coast to coast
- Inspected and certified containers only
- Friendly, transparent service every step of the way
From small farms to large construction firms, hundreds of Canadians trust us for quality and reliability.
10. Ready to Order?
Buying a shipping container doesn’t need to be complicated. With Maple Containers, it’s simple: choose your size, confirm your location, and we handle the rest.
Visit maplecontainers.ca to get your personalized quote today.
Secure. Durable. Delivered. That’s the Maple Containers way.