How to Know What Container Grade is Right for Your Project

What are container grades?

Container grades are a system for understanding the quality of a container or Conex box. These containers are typically used for overseas shipping, but they can be utilized in a wide range of uses. According to PLS Logistics, the first standard container box was invented and patented in 1956. These boxes were created with the intent to prioritize safety, security and efficiency of shipping.

While there is no exact way to grade a container, the letter grading system offers a structure for checking the condition of a used container. This is based on the conditions internally and externally of the storage box, the age of the box and the appearance. Some things that determine the ranking are the number of marks, stains, dents, paint chips, etc. The following explains each letter ranking.

• N-1 (New, One-Trip Container)– These containers have made one trip overseas and are in great shape. They’re perfect for customizing and storage, and they’re optimal for resale after the first trip.
• Grade A: These containers are “Cargo Worthy,” or CWO, containers, usually containing clean interiors and are free of major dents and rust. Since they are CWO, they are watertight and functional. Grade A containers are great for storage.
• Grade B: These containers may have dents, scratches and rust, but they are also watertight and wind tight. They will not look as good as N-1 and A containers from the outside and inside but will still provide someone with the storage they need.
• Grade C: These are usually old and will have dents, scratches and rust. They’re typically used to store items that don’t need to be away from moisture. They will not be water or wind tight.

The Institute of International Container Lessors (IICL) is one of the leading container trade associations, and their grading system is a certification program. The containers they grade can fall under three categories: CWO, wind and watertight (WWT) and as-is. CWO are used for shipping, WWT can be used for storage, and as-is are often recycled for their steel to be reused.

What Container Grade is Right for You?

To find the right grade for you, you first have to consider what you’re planning to do with the container. This question is important to answer because it can determine what kind of container you should use. These containers can be used for a wide range of goals: shipping, storage, renovation to a tiny office or even tiny house. There are also a variety of containers, ranging in size from 10 feet to 40 feet long.

Typically, you’re going to want to use an N-1 or Grade A for an office space, secure containers (like container SCIFs), storage or shipping. Construction for an office space or secure facility often requires certain steps to ensure it meets the requirements established by the ICD 705 Technical Specifications for Construction and Management of Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIF).

But, if you’re just wanting a container for storage in the backyard or a low maintenance project, Grade A or B containers are best. For shipping items, you’ll want an N-1 or A grade. Grade C containers could be used to store items like tools that won’t rust or building parts—items that don’t need secure protection from the elements. Grades A, B and C containers are all likely to be in need of paint touch-ups, if not patching or structural fixes. But again, selecting your container will depend on what it’s needed for and where it’s going.

How do you fix a container?

If you decide to opt for a lower-grade container, it’s important to know what parts of the container may need to be fixed prior to use. Sometimes you can get a container that has rough floors or even holes in the steel wall. Again, you’ll want to fix it based on what you’re using it for, but a variety of easy fixes can make a big difference. There are technologies today like quick patch resin that can make all the difference. However, it’s still important to consult groups like Lab 7 who can help you in your journey of selecting the right container to meet your needs.

While the uses of containers are wide ranging, it’s important to identify the best practices for knowing the grade of a Conex box. The container grades offer the structure for determining whether a box could be the right fit for your needs. Learn more about the crafted containers Lab 7 offers and contact us to get a custom container quote.