At Dale's Cans, we categorize our inventory primarily by its history and cosmetic condition. One-trip units are essentially new; they are manufactured overseas and shipped to the United States with a single cargo load to offset transport costs. These units feature pristine floors and factory paint with very few imperfections. Used containers, often called "Cargo-Worthy" or "Wind and Water Tight," have typically spent 10 to 15 years in international service. While they are structurally sound and guaranteed to keep your belongings dry, they will show signs of age, like surface rust and dents. For customers looking for the best value among shipping containers for sale in Baltimore, MD and the surrounding areas, used units are a practical choice, while one-trip units are ideal for high-visibility residential use.

Proper site preparation is essential for a successful delivery. Our tilt-bed trucks require a significant amount of straight-line clearance to slide the container off the back of the trailer. For a 20-foot container, you should plan for at least 60 to 75 feet of straight clearance. For a 40-foot container, you will need approximately 100 to 120 feet of space. Additionally, the path must be at least 12 feet wide and have 14 feet of overhead clearance to avoid low-hanging tree limbs or power lines. If you are ordering shipping containers for sale in Baltimore, MD and the surrounding areas, ensure your site is free of obstacles like soft mud or steep inclines that could hinder our heavy equipment.

Permit requirements vary significantly depending on your specific municipality and the intended use of the container. In many cases, a container used for temporary storage on a commercial site may not require a permit. However, if the unit is placed in a residential area or if you plan to modify it with windows, doors, or electricity, it may be classified as an accessory structure. We always recommend that customers researching shipping containers for sale in Baltimore, MD and the surrounding areas contact their local zoning office or Homeowners Association before finalizing a purchase to ensure compliance with local regulations and avoid potential fines.

To ensure your container remains functional for years, it must be placed on a firm, level surface. We strongly advise against placing a container directly on grass or dirt, as the weight can cause the unit to sink, leading to door misalignment and moisture damage to the wooden floor. A base of leveled gravel, concrete pads, or pressure-treated railroad ties is highly recommended. Elevating the unit slightly allows for critical airflow underneath, which prevents the buildup of moisture and protects the steel chassis. Maintaining a level foundation is one of the most important steps you can take after purchasing shipping containers for sale in Baltimore, MD and beyond.

We offer several sizes to fit different storage and project needs. A standard 20-foot container is 20 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 8.5 feet tall, weighing roughly 5,000 pounds empty. A standard 40-foot container shares the same width and height, but offers double the length and weighs about 8,000 pounds. For those needing more vertical room, we provide "High Cube" units, which stand 9.5 feet tall. Knowing these dimensions is vital when comparing shipping containers for sale in Baltimore, MD and beyond.

Containers are built from Corten steel, a "weathering steel" designed to develop a protective layer of oxidation that prevents deeper corrosion. While this makes them incredibly durable, they are not entirely maintenance-free. We recommend an annual inspection of your unit to identify any deep scratches or areas where water might be pooling on the roof. Touching up these spots with a simple rust-inhibitive primer and paint will significantly extend the life of the steel. For those investing in shipping containers for sale in Baltimore, MD and beyond, proper drainage and basic cosmetic upkeep will ensure the unit remains a secure asset for decades.