Looking for sea can containers for sale in Canada? Whether you are a homeowner seeking to keep your belongings safe or a business that requires durable storage or shipping options, shipping containers (sea cans) are an ideal solution for storage, shipping and conversions. But before you buy, you should know what your options are, where to buy and what to look for when you buy a container in Canada. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll steer you through everything you need to know, from types and sizes to where to buy and how shipping container prices work in Canada.
Sea cans or shipping containers are massive steel boxes used to ship goods over great distances. Designed to last through rough conditions, they’ve become the blank slate of the physical world, popping up for any number of uses other than shipping like on-site storage, mobile offices, pop-up shops, even as container homes. When you begin to search for sea can containers for sale, the most important question is what exactly are you looking to use it for. That choice is going to affect what size, what shape and what price point you should go after.
Out on the east coast and Canada’s westernmost reaches from Ontario to BC, Canadians in general are flocking to shipping containers for more than just transporting goods. They are a great option because of their ruggedness, mobility and price tag for:
With the demand for both new and used sea can containers for sale in Canada continually on the rise, knowing where to buy, what you’ll get for different sizes and prices is a knowledge asset.
Before buying your container, it’s important to know the sizes and prices of shipping containers in Canada. These are the most popular sizes:
Before buying your container, it’s important to know the sizes and prices of shipping containers in Canada. These are the most popular sizes:
Measurements: 20’ L 8’ W 8’6” H
Best for: Small storage needs, job sites & small spaces
Measurements: 40′ L x 8′ W x 8’6” H
Best for: Long term storage, large equipment & container homes
Height: 9’6” (1’ taller than normal)
Best for: Taller items, turning into homes or offices
Available in: 20′ – 40′ Lengths
When it comes to condition containers are classified into two distinct types:
These containers are considered brand new and have only made one trip from the factory (typically overseas). They are:
Used containers are affordable and come in different conditions:
If you’re searching for used sea cans for sale near me, make sure you look at the condition ratings, especially if you are in Ontario or BC where the demand is higher.
A lot of factors are involved in the pricing of shipping containers. So when purchasing a container be mindful of the following:
Shipping container prices in Canada vary considerably for shipping containers in Canada depending on the location. For instance:
Availability is influenced by fluctuations in global trade. Excess or insufficient supply in ports can increase or decrease costs. Prices soared, for example, due to a lack of containers following the pandemic.
Custom features like insulation, windows, doors or ventilation can hike the price up dramatically. If you want a modified container, always ask for a detailed quote.
Once you’re ready to purchase a sea can container and the next question arises where to find sea can containers for sale in Canada? After all, there are many organizations from which to order online across Canada and you want a source that provides exceptional quality, a good price and fast delivery. Here are some of the most popular and reliable sources for buying sea can containers for sale in Canada:
A local shipping container dealer like Sea Can Kings or a container yard in your area is one of the best and most trusted methods to buy a sea can. These companies sell new and used sea cans in Canada. They typically offer:
If you’re in Ontario, there is a rich supply of dealers near major transport hubs such as Toronto or Hamilton. Looking for “sea can containers for sale in Canada” can get you in touch with providers who offer inventory and delivery services in the area. In British Columbia, the demand is high within the vicinity of Vancouver so there are a lot of shipping containers for sale both online and locally. Purchasing from a local vendor cuts transportation expenses, which can amount to a hefty chunk of the total cost with large containers.
Many national companies have websites where you can check out what’s in stock, get a quote, even arrange delivery without leaving home or the office. They have depots in several provinces from which they can maintain better shipping rates and stock. Here is what top online container dealers in Canada are providing:
These suppliers also frequently stock 20ft and 40ft shipping containers, some of which may offer online booking tools to make the purchasing process easier. Be sure to read reviews, return policies and warranty terms before ordering.
Another great choice is to search classifieds and third-party marketplaces online. On these sites, you’ll usually see ads by private sellers and companies selling used sea cans for sale near you. Where you might find better deals, particularly on used sea can containers but proceed with caution:
It’s especially great if you live in rural locations where transport isn’t as easy. At times, local sellers can supply the container on a tilt deck truck at a lower cost than national carriers.
Some of the big shipping lines and port terminals sell their older containers once they are retired from active shipping. These containers can sometimes be purchased for less, particularly if they are only cargo worthy, or are sold “as-is”. You can call some container leasing companies or contact your local port to see if they sell used containers to the public. This strategy, for buyers in port cities like Vancouver, Montreal or Halifax, can offer access to well-priced units that are still structurally sound.
You can occasionally purchase sea can containers for sale at auctions, surplus sales or government liquidation websites. These events often include:
Auction prices may be lower than retail, but the pickings are slim and you often have to arrange pick up or delivery yourself. Be ready to pounce, inventory is moving fast and the competition is sometimes intense.
Also, make sure to check if delivery is factored into its advertised price. Some sellers might quote a low price for the container but high fees for transportation.
When you’re getting ready to buy your sea can, be sure to check or inquire about the following items:
If you can’t see in person, some suppliers are providing virtual inspections or photos.
Here are some basic tips to get the best deal when it comes to container prices
You don’t have to be overwhelmed when finding sea can containers for sale in Canada. From Ontario to BC and everywhere else north of the border, you can find a number of reputable sources for new and used shipping containers at a good price. Having knowledge about the sizes of containers, their conditions and costs will help you to invest wisely in your storage, business, or construction requirements. If you’re new to the market, start by browsing through used sea can containers for sale in Canada and contact a reliable, local dealer to learn what’s available and pricing. Whether you’re storing tools or building a container home, a sea can is the perfect solution. Start your search today and make the most of this affordable storage method.
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