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Faqs

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about buying a shipping container from Containers of Tampa Bay.

🚢   About Our Containers
What types of shipping containers do you sell?
We sell a wide range of shipping containers including standard dry containers (10ft, 20ft, 40ft), high-cube containers, refrigerated (reefer) containers, open-top containers, flat-rack containers, and double-door containers. Whether you need a unit for storage, transport, construction, or a custom project, we have options to suit every need.
Do you sell both new and used containers?
Yes. We carry new (one-trip) containers that have only been used once for an overseas shipment and are in near-perfect condition, as well as used (cargo-worthy) containers that are structurally sound and watertight. Used containers may show surface rust, dents, or markings consistent with their working history.
What sizes are available?
We stock containers in 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft standard lengths. High-cube variants (9'6" tall instead of the standard 8'6") are also available in 20ft and 40ft. Need a custom size or a modified unit? Contact us at info@containersoftampabay.com for a quote.
What is a "one-trip" container?
A one-trip container is a brand-new container that was manufactured overseas and used just once to ship goods to the United States. These units are in excellent, near-new condition with minimal wear and are the closest you can get to a factory-new container at a competitive price.
Are your used containers watertight?
Yes. All used containers we sell are inspected and certified as wind and watertight (WWT) or cargo-worthy (CW) unless otherwise clearly stated in the product listing. This means the container is structurally sound and suitable for dry storage or cargo transport.
Can I see the container before I buy?
Yes. Customers in the Tampa Bay area are welcome to view containers at our yard by appointment. Please email info@containersoftampabay.com to schedule a visit. For remote customers, we can provide detailed photos or a video walkthrough of your specific unit upon request.
💳   Ordering & Payment
How do I place an order?
You can order directly through our website by selecting your container, entering your delivery address to receive a shipping quote, and completing payment at checkout. You can also contact us by email for a custom quote on large orders or specialty containers.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover), as well as bank wire transfers for bulk or high-value orders. All payment methods available to you will be shown securely at checkout.
Is my payment information secure?
Absolutely. Our checkout is protected by SSL/TLS encryption. We do not store your full card details on our servers. All transactions are processed through certified, PCI-DSS-compliant payment gateways.
Can I get a price quote before ordering?
Yes. You can request a free, no-obligation quote by emailing us at info@containersoftampabay.com with your required container type, size, condition, and delivery address. We typically respond within 1 business day.
Can I purchase multiple containers in one order?
Yes. We welcome bulk orders. For purchases of 3 or more containers, we recommend contacting us directly for volume pricing and coordinated delivery scheduling. Discounts may be available for large orders.
Will I receive an order confirmation?
Yes. Once your order is placed and payment is processed, you will receive an Order Confirmation email with your order number, container details, estimated delivery date, and contact information. Please check your spam folder if you do not receive it within 30 minutes.
🚛   Shipping & Delivery
How long does delivery take?
Standard delivery takes 5–7 business days from the date your order is dispatched. Orders are typically processed and dispatched within 1–2 business days of payment confirmation, bringing the total estimated lead time to up to 9 business days.
Do you deliver across the United States?
Yes. We deliver to all 48 contiguous U.S. states. For deliveries to Alaska, Hawaii, or U.S. territories, please contact us directly for a custom freight quote, as special arrangements may be required.
How much does shipping cost?
Shipping costs vary based on container size, delivery distance, and site accessibility. Your exact shipping cost is calculated and displayed at checkout before you confirm your purchase — there are no hidden fees or surprise charges.
How is the container delivered?
Containers are delivered via a tilt-bed or flatbed truck. The truck tilts and slides the container off at your location. You do not need a crane or forklift in most cases. However, your site must have adequate clearance and a flat, stable surface.
What site requirements are needed for delivery?
Your delivery site should have a flat, accessible surface with minimum clearance of 14 feet in height and 12 feet in width for the delivery truck. The truck needs approximately 100 feet of straight access to safely deploy the container. Please ensure gates, trees, and overhead wires do not obstruct the path.
Will I be notified before delivery?
Yes. Once your container is dispatched, you will receive a tracking confirmation email. Our logistics team or carrier will contact you 24–48 hours before delivery to confirm the date and time window, ensuring someone is available to receive the container.
Do I need to be present at delivery?
Yes. A responsible adult (18+) must be present at the time of delivery to inspect the container and sign the delivery receipt. We strongly recommend inspecting the container thoroughly before signing to note any issues or damage.
What if my delivery is delayed?
While we work hard to meet all estimated delivery windows, delays can occasionally occur due to weather, carrier disruptions, or remote locations. We will proactively notify you of any significant delays. If your delivery is unreasonably delayed, contact us at info@containersoftampabay.com.
💰   Pricing & Tax
Are prices on your website final?
All listed prices are in U.S. Dollars (USD) and reflect the container cost only. Shipping fees and applicable sales tax are calculated and added at checkout. The total amount displayed at checkout — including all fees — is the final price you pay.
Do you charge sales tax?
Yes. As a Florida-registered business, we collect Florida state sales tax at 6% plus any applicable county discretionary surtax (0.5%–2%) based on your delivery address. For orders outside Florida, tax is collected only in states where we have established tax nexus.
I am tax-exempt. How do I apply my exemption?
Email your valid Florida Annual Resale Certificate (Form DR-13) or Consumer's Certificate of Exemption (Form DR-14) to info@containersoftampabay.com before placing your order. Once verified, your order will be processed tax-free. Exemption certificates must be renewed annually on December 31.
Do you offer financing or payment plans?
We do not currently offer in-house financing. However, we accept bank wire transfers for large orders, and many of our customers use third-party financing options through their bank or credit provider. Contact us for more details on high-value order arrangements.
🔄   Returns & Refunds
What is your return policy?
We offer a 30-day return window from the date of delivery on eligible orders. Returns are accepted for containers that arrive damaged, are materially different from what was ordered, or have significant undisclosed defects. Change-of-mind returns and used container surface wear are not covered.
How long does a refund take?
Once your return is approved and the container has been retrieved and inspected, your refund will be processed within 14 business days to your original payment method. You will receive an email confirmation once the refund has been initiated.
What do I do if my container arrives damaged?
Note the damage on the delivery receipt before signing, photograph it from multiple angles, and email us at info@containersoftampabay.com within 48 hours of delivery. Include your order number and photos. We will review your claim and respond promptly.
Can I cancel my order?
Yes, orders can be cancelled within 24 hours of placement at no charge, provided the container has not been dispatched. After dispatch, a restocking and return freight fee may apply. Custom container orders cannot be cancelled once fabrication has started.
Will my shipping fee be refunded on a return?
Original shipping fees are non-refundable unless the return is due to our error — such as delivering the wrong container or a damaged unit. For approved damage or defect claims, return freight costs are also fully covered by us.
🏗️   Uses & Customization
What can I use a shipping container for?
Our containers are used for a wide variety of purposes including on-site storage, job site equipment storage, retail pop-ups, home offices, tiny homes, garages, swimming pools, workshops, emergency shelters, agricultural storage, and international cargo transport — just to name a few.
Do you offer custom or modified containers?
Yes. We offer custom modifications including roll-up doors, personnel doors, windows, vents, electrical packages, insulation, shelving, and custom paint. Contact us at info@containersoftampabay.com to discuss your project requirements and receive a custom quote.
Do I need a permit to place a container on my property?
Permit requirements vary by city, county, and intended use. In Florida, Hillsborough County and the City of Tampa have specific zoning and land-use codes for container placement. We strongly recommend checking with your local municipality or HOA before purchasing. Containers of Tampa Bay is not responsible for permit compliance.
Can I use a container as a permanent structure?
Yes, many customers convert containers into permanent structures such as homes, offices, and studios. Permanent installations typically require a building permit and must comply with local Florida building codes, foundation requirements, and zoning ordinances. We recommend consulting a licensed contractor before beginning any permanent conversion.
Are containers suitable for Florida's climate?
Yes. Shipping containers are built from Corten (weathering) steel, which is engineered to resist corrosion and withstand harsh environments — including Florida's heat, humidity, and hurricane-force winds. For long-term outdoor placement, we recommend elevating the container slightly off the ground to improve airflow and reduce moisture buildup.
📞   Support & Contact
How can I contact Containers of Tampa Bay?
You can reach us by email at info@containersoftampabay.com. Our team is available Monday through Friday during business hours. We aim to respond to all inquiries within 1 business day.
Where are you located?
We are located at 1608 N 43rd St, Tampa, FL 33605, United States. We serve customers across the entire continental U.S. and offer local pickup or yard viewing by appointment for Tampa Bay area customers.
Do you have a customer loyalty or referral program?
We are currently developing a referral program for our valued customers. In the meantime, repeat customers and businesses placing multiple orders are encouraged to contact us directly for preferred pricing and priority service. Stay tuned to our website for program announcements.
Still have questions? We're here to help
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Our team is happy to assist. Email us anytime at info@containersoftampabay.com and we will get back to you as quickly as possible — typically within 1 business day.