New, CW, WWT.
What these labels actually mean.
Every seller in this space throws around grade acronyms like everyone should already know them. Here’s what they actually mean, which one you should buy, and how to tell when a vendor is upselling. Containers Directsells Used Wind & Watertight (WWT) and New one-trip containers online. CW and As-Is are reference grades (quote on request if you specifically need them).
We cannot send photos of “your” specific container before purchase. Depots assign the unit after you pay. The gallery photos on each product page are representative of that grade so you know what WWT vs New looks like in the real world.
New / One-Trip
Built overseas and shipped to the US with one cargo load. Factory paint, minimal dents, usually under a year old. Best when appearance matters.
- Container homes / ADUs where appearance matters
- Retail pop-ups, offices, customer-facing builds
- Modification projects with factory-straight panels
- Buyers who want color options (tan, grey, blue, green, red)
- Pure storage where no one sees it
- Budget-first purchases
Cargo Worthy
Certified for another international ocean voyage. Structure is sound, doors work, no holes, some cosmetic wear is normal.
- Export shipping (required by most ocean carriers)
- Heavy-duty storage with periodic inspection
- Modification projects where you'll repaint anyway
- Pure aesthetic use
- Situations where rust warranty matters
Wind & Watertight
The workhorse. Dry, sealed, doors operate, roof doesn't leak. Expect visible surface rust and cosmetic dings.
- On-site storage where appearance is secondary
- Backyard / acreage / job-site storage
- Agricultural use (hay covers, equipment, tack)
- Modification projects where you'll replace panels anyway
- Retail / customer-facing use
- International export (use CW instead)
As-Is
Below WWT. We don't warrant cosmetic or functional condition. Typically has holes, failing doors, or structural issues.
- Heavy structural modifications where you cut panels anyway
- Scrap / parts / artificial reef projects
- Storage, water will get in
- Export, will fail inspection
- First-time buyers, you likely need WWT minimum
