Understanding Shipping Container Grading: A Complete Guide

When purchasing a shipping container, understanding the grading system is crucial to ensure you’re getting the right quality and durability for your needs. At Supernova Containers, we offer a variety of high-quality container grades, including New (One Trip), IICL, and Cargo Worthy (CW) units. Here’s a breakdown of the different grades, from the highest quality to the lowest.

1. New (One-Trip)

New (One Trip) containers are the highest quality available. These containers are manufactured overseas and used for a single cargo trip before being sold. Since they’ve only completed one journey, they are in near-perfect condition with minimal wear. These containers are ideal for those needing long-lasting, weatherproof, and secure units.

2. IICL (Institute of International Container Lessors)

IICL containers meet a high standard of quality, required for international leasing and continued use in global shipping. They have undergone rigorous inspections and maintenance to ensure they meet strict structural standards. IICL containers are in excellent condition, making them suitable for long-term use, whether for shipping or premium storage.

3. CW (Cargo Worthy)

Cargo Worthy (CW) containers are structurally sound and certified for international shipping. While used, they are in good condition and can handle the stresses of transport and secure storage. CW containers offer a cost-effective choice for reliable storage or shipping solutions at an affordable price. These units are sometimes called "Construction Grade" containers, but it’s important to know if the container you're purchasing is CW or WWT.

4. WWT (Wind and Water Tight)

Wind and Water Tight (WWT) containers are used but still provide protection from the elements. They may show signs of wear like rust or dents but remain sealed against wind and rain. WWT containers are typically used for on-site storage where weather protection is necessary, though they may not meet the standards required for shipping. At Supernova, we rarely offer WWT containers, but when we do, they are clearly marked, and you’ll receive photos to know exactly what you're buying.

5. As-Is Containers

As-Is containers are sold in their current state, without guarantees of structural integrity or weather resistance. These units may have significant damage like rust, holes, or defects and often require repairs before they can be used. These containers are not suitable for shipping or secure storage without modification. Supernova Containers does not offer As-Is containers, as they are unpredictable and of lower quality.

Why Supernova Containers Only Carries CW, IICL & New (One Trip)

At Supernova Containers, we prioritize quality and reliability. That’s why we exclusively offer New (One Trip), IICL, and Cargo Worthy (CW) containers. These grades meet international shipping standards and provide long-term durability for a variety of applications:

New (One Trip)

For customers needing pristine containers with top-tier durability.

IICL

Ideal for those looking for premium containers for long-term use.

CW

A cost-effective choice for reliable shipping and storage solutions.

By offering only the highest grades, we ensure that our customers receive containers that are ready to meet their needs, whether for shipping, storage, or custom projects. Occasionally, we purchase "CW" units that don’t meet our own rigorous inspection standards, and we don’t sell those to customers.

Contact Us for the Perfect Container

Ready to find the perfect container for your project? Contact us today for more information on CW, IICL, or New (One-Trip) containers!