New vs Used Shipping Containers

Advantages:

✅ Impeccable condition - no dents, rust or wear

✅ Original factory paint intact

✅ Completely new seals and gaskets

✅ Longer lifespan (25-30 years with maintenance)

✅ Current CSC certification for export

✅ Better appearance for visible projects

✅ New bamboo or marine wood floors

Disadvantages:

❌ Significantly higher cost

❌ Lower availability (depends on imports)

❌ For many uses, premium condition is unnecessary

Best investment when:

- Exterior appearance matters (stores, showrooms)

- You plan to export merchandise

- It's a visible architectural project

- You want maximum long-term durability

Advantages:

✅ Considerably lower cost

✅ Greater immediate availability

✅ Perfect for storage (identical function)

✅ Ideal if you plan to modify/paint anyway

✅ More selection options

✅ Better value per square meter

Disadvantages:

❌ Visible cosmetic wear (dents, surface rust)

❌ May require initial maintenance

❌ Variable remaining lifespan (10-20 years typical)

❌ Not all qualify for maritime transport

Best investment when:

- Budget is priority

- It's for static storage

- You plan extensive modifications

- Exterior appearance isn't critical

- You need multiple units

General storage: → Used (WWT)

No reason to pay extra. A WWT container protects the same as a new one.

Construction site office: → Used

It will get dirty and bumped. Investing in new doesn't make sense.

Container home in visible area: → New or high-quality Used

Depends on budget. If you'll clad the exterior, used works perfectly.

Store or restaurant: → New (One-Trip)

First impression matters. Worth the investment.

Industrial warehouse: → Used

Functionality over aesthetics. Maximize your budget.

Airbnb or tourist rental: → New if visible, used if you'll modify it completely

Evaluate how much of the original exterior will remain exposed.

Merchandise export: → CW or New

Mandatory by regulations. No option.

For 80% of projects in Panama, a used container in good condition (WWT or CW) is the best financial decision.

Why?

1. Savings are significant

2. Functionality is identical for storage

3. If you'll modify the container, you'll paint/clad the exterior anyway

4. Availability is greater

Reserve "new" for:

- Projects where image is critical

- Need for certification for transport

- When you won't make exterior modifications

Have a specific project and not sure? Write to us on WhatsApp and we'll advise you honestly.