Container Conditions for Professionals

Tyler Britt published this post on Nov 4, 2020. It was updated on Oct 12, 2022.

Container condition types

• New / One Trip — Containers shipped from the factory with imported product. They are not unused in practice. “New” and “One Trip” are synonymous.
• IICL — A certification and documentation status from the Institute of International Container Lessors. It allows a container to qualify for international maritime travel. These containers are generally older than New / One Trip and newer than Cargo Worthy.
• Cargo Worthy (CW) — The typical term for an average or above-average used container. This condition is often subjective and depends on depot inspection protocols. It is the inspection standard used to quote damage repair costs.
• Wind WaterTight (WWT) — A used container that seals. Doors fully close, and there is no puncture or hole damage. It is usually older and more worn than a CW unit.
• As Is — The seller does not vouch for the container’s condition. The seller likely has little understanding of the condition and expects lower cost than CW or WWT.
• Damaged — A container evaluated and issued a damage report by a depot, terminal, or port. Damage report availability can be difficult to obtain.
• Scrap / Total Loss — Containers beyond use for their original purpose. Steam ship lines may use “Total Loss” for similar reasons as “as is.”

Buying considerations

The post says container condition expectations vary by vendor, depot, and market. Buyers in bulk or in tight markets may need to decide before seeing the containers.

The author recommends matching the container condition to the intended use. If structural integrity matters, New / One Trip reduces uncertainty. If a dented or rusted unit can be sanded and painted, there is less need to pay for a high-end condition.

The post warns buyers not to take chances when the margin for error is low.