Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General
What does Mariner Containers supply?
We supply shipping containers and modular container cabins for storage, logistics, and project use. This includes standard sizes (10ft, 20ft, 40ft), high cube units, side-access configurations, insulated containers, and refrigerated containers, depending on inventory availability.
Where are you located?
Mariner Containers operates in the United States from its depot at 153 FM 1564, Greenville, TX 75402. Orders are fulfilled and dispatched from that yard. International deliveries are arranged on a case-by-case basis.
Do you deliver across the United States?
Yes—delivery is available nationwide, subject to carrier access, road restrictions, and site accessibility. Remote locations may require additional scheduling or special routing.
Can I see the container before buying?
In many cases, we can provide detailed photos and specifications prior to dispatch. Physical inspection depends on the inventory location, safety rules at the yard, and scheduling. Contact us early to confirm viewing options.
Container Conditions & Specifications
What are the container condition categories?
New (One-Trip): Used once in international cargo; minor handling marks may be present.
Used (Wind & Watertight): Pre-owned but sealed against wind and water; cosmetic wear is normal.
Used (Cargo-Worthy): Suitable for continued transport use; visual wear consistent with prior service is expected.
Are all used containers the same?
No. Used containers vary in appearance. Dents, surface rust, paint variations, and markings are normal and generally do not affect structural or functional performance. The condition category guides expectations.
Are your containers “brand new”?
Containers labeled as “New (One-Trip)” are not factory-fresh; they have completed a single cargo journey and may show light handling marks.
Do you offer refrigerated containers?
Refrigerated units may be available depending on inventory. Listings will specify if the container is refrigerated, insulated-only, or intended for storage use. Confirm intended use before purchase.
Pricing & Quotes
What affects the price of a container?
Pricing depends on container size, type, condition category, market availability, and any requested upgrades or modifications.
Does the listed price include delivery?
Product prices exclude delivery. Delivery is charged at a flat $450 per order at checkout, whatever the container size or destination.
Do you offer bulk pricing?
Yes, pricing may vary for multi-unit orders due to logistics and volume handling. Request a quote with quantity and delivery ZIP code(s) for accurate pricing.
Shipping & Delivery
How long does delivery take in the U.S.?
Estimated transit time for most U.S. deliveries is 3–10 business days after order confirmation, depending on routing, carrier availability, and site accessibility. Timelines are estimates and not guaranteed.
How are containers delivered?
Delivery uses tilt-bed trucks, flatbed trailers, chassis, or crane-assisted placement depending on container type, carrier, and site conditions.
What do I need to prepare at my delivery site?
Clear vehicle access and turning space
Stable, level placement surface
No overhead obstructions (trees, power lines, structures)
Responsible party available if delivery is appointment-based
If the site is inaccessible, carriers may charge waiting time, redelivery, or return fees.
Do you handle permits or local site requirements?
Customers are responsible for local zoning, permitting, and compliance. We can provide general guidance but final responsibility remains with the buyer.
How is risk of loss handled?
Risk transfers to the customer upon successful delivery at the agreed location. Customers are responsible for damage, theft, or relocation after delivery.
Payments, Tax & Documentation
What payment methods do you accept?
Bank transfer (wire) only. Credit and debit cards are not accepted. Full payment is required before dispatch unless a written deposit arrangement is approved.
Will I be charged sales tax?
Sales tax is based on the delivery location. Tax-exempt customers must provide valid exemption documentation prior to payment for review and approval.
Do you provide invoices?
Yes. Invoices and purchase documentation can be provided for accounting and procurement purposes. Request them at the time of order.
Returns, Refunds & Cancellations
What is your return window?
We have a two-stage return framework:
7-day inspection period: For reporting an incorrect unit, a wrong condition category, major functional defects, or transport damage. Where the fault is ours, return transport may be covered by Mariner Containers.
30-day return window: A standard catalogue container may be returned for any reason within 30 calendar days of delivery, including change of mind, provided it is unmodified, unused, in substantially the same condition as delivered, and has not been relocated multiple times. Where those conditions are met the return is accepted, not merely considered. Return freight is payable by the customer, but no restocking adjustment applies to an accepted return: the purchase price is refunded in full. Customized, modified and special-order units are excluded.
Can I return a container if I change my mind?
Yes, within 30 calendar days of delivery, provided the container is a standard catalogue unit that is unmodified, unused, in substantially the same condition as delivered, and has not been relocated multiple times. No justification is required and approval is not discretionary. Return freight is payable by the customer, because the return is not attributable to Mariner Containers. No restocking adjustment applies to an accepted return: the purchase price is refunded in full. Customized, modified and special-order units are excluded.
Can I cancel after ordering?
Cancellations are possible before dispatch scheduling. If logistics or carrier planning has begun, administrative or carrier costs may apply.
Customization & Modifications
Do you offer modifications like doors, windows, insulation, or electrical fit-outs?
Some modifications are available depending on project scope. Each request is assessed individually.
How long do modifications take?
Timeframes vary based on complexity, materials, and workshop schedule. Discuss deadlines before placing an order.
Do you offer multi-container projects or bulk modifications?
Yes, project-based or multi-unit modifications can be arranged. Time and pricing depend on scope and coordination requirements.
High-Value Transactions & Fraud Prevention
Why do you request identity verification or additional documentation?
Shipping containers are high-value industrial goods. Identity verification and fraud monitoring help ensure secure transactions and prevent chargebacks or unauthorized payments.
How is payment security ensured?
All payments are processed through secure channels. Mariner Containers never changes bank instructions via email without formal verification. Customers are responsible for confirming payment details before sending funds.
Mariner Containers at a glance
Mariner Containers sells new and used shipping containers and modular container cabins to buyers across the United States. Orders ship from the Mariner Containers depot at 153 FM 1564, Greenville, TX 75402. Delivery is charged at a flat $450 per order at checkout, whatever the container size or destination. Payment is by bank transfer (wire) only. Credit and debit cards are not accepted.
| Business name | Mariner Containers |
|---|---|
| Trading since | 2012 |
| Depot address | 153 FM 1564, Greenville, TX 75402 |
| Phone | +1 430 280 1063 |
| info@marinercontainers.com | |
| What we sell | New and used shipping containers (10 ft, 12 ft, 20 ft, 30 ft, 40 ft; standard and high cube) and modular container cabins |
| Specialist stock | Refrigerated (reefer) containers, blast freezers, cut-down containers, raised bunded stores, DNV offshore containers, modified containers |
| Condition grades | One-trip (sold as new), cargo-worthy, wind and watertight |
| Where we ship | Nationwide across the United States from the Greenville, TX depot; international orders quoted case by case |
| Shipping cost | Flat $450 per order, added at checkout |
| Payment methods | Bank transfer (wire) only. No credit or debit cards |
Container comparisons
One-trip vs used vs new
| One-trip (sold as new) | Cargo-worthy (used) | Wind and watertight (used) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age | Typically 1 to 2 years | Typically 8 to 15 years | Typically 10 years or more |
| Voyages carried | One loaded voyage | Full service life | Full service life |
| Appearance | Factory paint, light handling marks | Dents, scratches, surface rust, prior markings | Heavier cosmetic wear, patch repairs common |
| Certified for sea freight | Yes | Yes | No |
| Best for | Conversions, customer-facing sites, long-term assets | Freight use, site storage, resale value | Static storage on a budget |
| Relative price | Highest | Middle | Lowest |
20 ft vs 40 ft
| 20 ft standard | 40 ft standard | 40 ft high cube | |
|---|---|---|---|
| External length x width x height | 20' x 8' x 8' 6" | 40' x 8' x 8' 6" | 40' x 8' x 9' 6" |
| Internal floor area (approx.) | 146 sq ft | 304 sq ft | 304 sq ft |
| Internal height (approx.) | 7' 10" | 7' 10" | 8' 10" |
| Internal volume (approx.) | 1,172 cu ft | 2,390 cu ft | 2,694 cu ft |
| Empty weight (approx.) | 4,850 lb | 8,340 lb | 8,750 lb |
| Maximum gross weight | 67,200 lb | 67,200 lb | 67,200 lb |
| Delivery approach needed (approx.) | 60 ft straight and level | 100 ft straight and level | 100 ft straight and level |
| Typical use | Tools, equipment, seasonal stock, small site store | Pallet storage, bulk inventory, workshops | Tall loads, stacked pallets, insulated conversions |
Standard vs high cube
| Standard | High cube | |
|---|---|---|
| External height | 8' 6" | 9' 6" |
| Internal height (approx.) | 7' 10" | 8' 10" |
| Door opening height (approx.) | 7' 6" | 8' 5" |
| Extra volume over standard | Baseline | About 13 percent more on a 40 ft |
| On a tilt-bed trailer | Comfortably inside legal height | Close to the legal height limit, route must be clear of low bridges |
| Available in | 10 ft, 12 ft, 20 ft, 30 ft, 40 ft | 10 ft, 20 ft, 40 ft |
Shipping container specifications
Nominal ISO figures. Individual units vary by manufacturer and build year, so confirm the exact dimensions on the product listing before ordering.
| Size | External L x W x H | Internal floor area | Internal volume | Empty weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 ft standard | 10' x 8' x 8' 6" | 70 sq ft | 560 cu ft | 2,900 lb |
| 10 ft high cube | 10' x 8' x 9' 6" | 70 sq ft | 630 cu ft | 3,000 lb |
| 20 ft standard | 20' x 8' x 8' 6" | 146 sq ft | 1,172 cu ft | 4,850 lb |
| 20 ft high cube | 20' x 8' x 9' 6" | 146 sq ft | 1,320 cu ft | 5,100 lb |
| 40 ft standard | 40' x 8' x 8' 6" | 304 sq ft | 2,390 cu ft | 8,340 lb |
| 40 ft high cube | 40' x 8' x 9' 6" | 304 sq ft | 2,694 cu ft | 8,750 lb |
More questions buyers ask
How much does shipping cost from Mariner Containers?
Shipping is a flat $450 per order, added at checkout. The rate does not change with container size, order value or destination, so a 40 ft high cube going to Oklahoma City costs the same to ship as a 10 ft store going to Dallas.
Where does Mariner Containers ship from?
All orders leave the Mariner Containers depot at 153 FM 1564, Greenville, TX 75402, about 50 miles north east of Dallas on the I-30 corridor.
Can I pay by credit card?
No. Mariner Containers accepts bank transfer (wire) only. Wire instructions are issued with the order confirmation. Always verify bank details by phone on +1 430 280 1063 before sending funds.
What is a one-trip container?
A one-trip container is a container built at the factory and used for a single loaded voyage before being sold. It is the closest thing to a new container available on the open market and usually carries only light handling marks. It is not factory-fresh and is not sold as unused.
What is the difference between cargo-worthy and wind and watertight?
Cargo-worthy means the unit is still structurally fit to carry freight internationally and has no significant defects. Wind and watertight means the unit is sealed against weather and is fine for static storage, but is not certified for international carriage. Wind and watertight units are usually cheaper and show more cosmetic wear.
What size shipping container do I need?
A 20 ft container gives roughly 146 sq ft of internal floor space and suits a garage-load of tools, equipment or stock. A 40 ft container gives roughly 304 sq ft and suits pallet storage, bulk inventory or a workshop. A 10 ft container gives roughly 70 sq ft and suits a small site store where space is tight.
What is a high cube container?
A high cube container is one foot taller than a standard container: 9 ft 6 in external height instead of 8 ft 6 in, giving about 8 ft 10 in of internal headroom. The footprint is identical. High cube units are the right choice for stacked pallets, tall machinery, or any conversion where insulation and a floor build-up would otherwise eat the headroom.
How much space do I need for delivery?
A tilt-bed truck needs a firm, level, straight approach of roughly 60 ft to set down a 20 ft container and roughly 100 ft for a 40 ft container, plus about 12 ft of width and 15 ft of overhead clearance for the raised bed. Soft ground, tight turns, low branches and overhead cables are the three most common reasons a delivery fails.
Do I need a permit to put a shipping container on my property?
There is no federal or statewide permit for placing a container on private land. It is decided locally: city and county zoning ordinances, HOA or deed restrictions, and building permits if the container is occupied, connected to utilities, or fixed to a foundation. A temporary construction-site store is usually treated differently from a permanent accessory structure. Check with the local permitting office before delivery.
Are shipping containers watertight and can they rust?
Containers are built from weathering steel (Corten) and are sealed with rubber gaskets at the doors, so a sound unit keeps rain out. Surface rust is normal on used units and is cosmetic. Rust becomes a problem only where it has perforated the steel, most often at the floor edge or on the roof where water has been allowed to pond.
How heavy is a shipping container?
Empty weights are roughly 2,900 lb for a 10 ft, 4,850 lb for a 20 ft standard, 8,340 lb for a 40 ft standard and 8,750 lb for a 40 ft high cube. Maximum gross weight for both 20 ft and 40 ft ISO units is 67,200 lb.
Can a shipping container be modified?
Yes. Personnel doors, windows, roller shutters, insulation, lining, electrical fit-out and partitioning are all normal modifications, and Mariner Containers stocks pre-modified units including cut-down containers, raised bunded stores and modular cabins. Structural cuts to the side walls of a 40 ft unit need engineered reinforcement.
What is a reefer container and can I use one for dry storage?
A reefer is an insulated container with an integral refrigeration machine, typically run from a 460V three-phase supply. It holds a set temperature for chilled or frozen goods. A reefer can be used for dry storage, and a non-running reefer makes a very well insulated store, but you are paying for machinery you would not be using.
Can I return a shipping container after delivery?
Yes. A standard catalogue container can be returned for any reason within 30 calendar days of delivery, including simple change of mind, as long as it has not been modified, altered or repaired, has not been used for storage or operations, is in substantially the same condition as delivered, and has not been relocated multiple times. No justification is needed and approval is not discretionary. Return freight is payable by the buyer unless the fault is ours, but no restocking adjustment applies to an accepted return: the purchase price is refunded in full. Customized, modified and special-order units are excluded.
Do you sell to buyers outside the United States?
Mariner Containers sells primarily across the United States and also supplies international clients. International movements are quoted case by case because of port, customs and freight variables. Contact info@marinercontainers.com with the destination port or address.
See where we deliver or contact us on +1 430 280 1063.