Refund and Returns Policy

Effective Date: June 13, 2024

This Return & Refund Policy explains how returns, inspections, cancellations, and refunds are handled for purchases made through Mariner Containers. Shipping containers and cabins are industrial, heavy freight products, and return handling requires clear inspection periods, proper documentation, and realistic timelines.

By placing an order through this website, you acknowledge and accept the terms outlined in this policy.

1. Scope of This Policy

This policy applies to:

  • Shipping containers and cabins purchased through the Mariner Containers website;
  • Orders fulfilled within the United States from our depot at 153 FM 1564, Greenville, TX 75402;
  • Other regions where return terms are confirmed in writing at the time of order.

Company: Mariner Containers
Contact Email: info@marinercontainers.com

2. Two-Stage Return Framework

Due to the freight nature of container deliveries, returns follow a two-stage framework:

Stage 1 — Inspection & Acceptance Period (7 Calendar Days)

The first 7 calendar days after delivery are reserved for inspection. During this period, customers must verify that:

  • The correct container type and size were delivered;
  • The condition category matches the order;
  • There are no major functional issues beyond the stated condition classification.

Stage 2 — 30-Day Return Window (30 Calendar Days)

A standard catalogue container may be returned for any reason within 30 calendar days of delivery, including simple change of mind, provided it still meets the condition requirements in section 5. No justification is required. Where the return is not attributable to Mariner Containers, return freight and any restocking adjustment are the customer’s responsibility.

3. Condition Categories & Buyer Expectations

Containers may show signs of prior use based on condition classification:

  • New (One-Trip): Minor cosmetic marks from transport may be present;
  • Used (Wind and Watertight): Dents, surface rust, or paint wear may exist, but units remain sealed;
  • Used (Cargo-Worthy): Visible operational wear consistent with prior transport service.

Cosmetic wear consistent with the stated condition category is not a defect and does not automatically qualify for a return or refund.

4. Issues Eligible During the 7-Day Inspection Period

Returns or corrective actions may be approved if, within 7 calendar days, one of the following is confirmed:

  • Incorrect container size or type delivered;
  • Incorrect condition category delivered;
  • Major functional issues inconsistent with the stated condition (e.g., doors not operable);
  • Significant transport-related damage.

5. Returns Within 30 Days

A standard catalogue container may be returned for any reason within 30 calendar days of delivery, including change of mind. Approval is not discretionary: where all of the following are true, the return is accepted.

  • The container has not been modified, altered, or repaired;
  • The container has not been used for storage or operations;
  • The container remains in substantially the same condition as delivered;
  • The container has not been relocated multiple times or misused.

Where these conditions are met the return is accepted, not merely considered. Requests are acknowledged within one business day and a written return authorization is issued. Return freight and any restocking adjustment under section 11 remain the customer’s responsibility where the return is not attributable to Mariner Containers. Units listed in section 13 are excluded.

6. Reasons That Do Not Qualify as a Defect Claim

The following are not defects attributable to Mariner Containers, so they do not qualify for a covered return under section 4. A unit may still be returned under the 30-day window in section 5, with return freight and any restocking adjustment payable by the customer:

  • Cosmetic concerns consistent with the condition category;
  • Site access limitations or placement preferences;
  • HOA, zoning, or neighbor restrictions;
  • Carrier or weather-related delays;
  • Minor paint, marking, or surface variations.

7. Documentation & Inspection Requirements

All return requests must include:

  • Order number or purchase reference;
  • Delivery date and address;
  • Photos of the container exterior and interior;
  • Photos of any reported issues (doors, locks, flooring, structure);
  • Brief written description of the concern.

For transport damage, document as soon as reasonably possible after delivery.

8. Return Authorization Process

  1. Submit Request: Within the applicable timeframe (7 or 30 days).
  2. Review: Mariner Containers evaluates the order, condition classification, and documentation.
  3. Authorization: If approved, written return authorization and handling instructions are provided. Unauthorized returns may be refused.

9. Return Shipping & Handling Costs

If the Issue Is Attributable to Mariner Containers:

  • Incorrect item or condition category;
  • Major functional issues inconsistent with the listing;

Return transport or corrective arrangements may be covered by Mariner Containers.

If the Issue Is Not Attributable to Mariner Containers:

The customer is generally responsible for return freight and handling costs. Freight for containers is significant; customers should review specifications carefully before ordering.

10. Refund Processing & Timelines

Approved returns are refunded using the original payment method where possible. Bank transfers are refunded to the originating account. Processing typically occurs within 7–14 business days after acceptance and inspection. Timelines may vary based on payment provider and banking system.

11. Restocking & Handling Adjustments

No restocking adjustment applies to a return accepted under section 5. A unit that meets the section 5 conditions is refunded in full for the purchase price, less return freight where that is the customer’s responsibility under section 9.

The adjustments below apply only where a unit is taken back outside the section 5 conditions, and then only where permitted by law:

  • The container shows signs of use beyond inspection;
  • Additional handling or repositioning is required;
  • The container’s resale condition has been affected.

Adjustments are communicated during the return authorization process.

12. Cancellations Before Delivery

Cancellations may be requested prior to dispatch scheduling:

  • Before logistics planning: refund with minimal processing adjustments;
  • After dispatch planning: treated as a return scenario.

13. Non-Returnable Items

Generally non-returnable unless confirmed in writing:

  • Customized or modified containers;
  • Project-specific or special-order units;
  • Orders requiring unique logistics arrangements.

14. Fair Use & Policy Integrity

This policy ensures fairness for customers and logistics partners. Abuse of the return process, intentional damage, or incomplete reporting may result in denial of return eligibility where permitted by law.

15. Contact & Support

For return or refund inquiries, email info@marinercontainers.com and include your order reference number for faster assistance.

Quick Summary (For Buyers)

  • 7 days: inspection and acceptance period
  • 30 days: return for any reason, including change of mind
  • Cosmetic wear consistent with condition category is not a defect
  • Refunds typically processed within 7–14 business days after acceptance
  • Return freight responsibility depends on reason for return

What each condition category should look like on arrival is set out in the container grades guide, and delivery responsibilities in the shipping policy. If you are still choosing a unit, the buyer’s guide and our comparison of one-trip and used containers cover sizes and grades, or browse the inventory.