FAQ

Q. Should I rent or buy?

A. Generally speaking, if you plan to use a storage container for more than 3 years, you might want to buy one. The
break-even number for buying versus renting will depend on the purchase price of the portable storage container
(plus delivery, tax, and any permitting fees) versus the monthly rental fee.

Shipping container shortages have increased prices significantly. Renting is a cost-effective way of gaining access to
a steel portable storage container without spending thousands of dollars upfront. If your storage needs are
temporary, renting is probably your best option. Please call a member of our sales team at 207-848-5718 to help
guide you with this decision.

Q. What do used containers look like?

A. Most used containers can have some cosmetic blemishes, surface rust, and dings/dents. Some containers have
no cosmetic issues at all, but we want to set expectations for our customers as to the potential for cosmetic
blemishes.

Containers can be painted and even power-washed and will look close to as good as new.

Q. Are shipping containers insect and rodent-proof?

A. Yes, generally speaking containers are insect and rodent-proof. Containers require periodic maintenance to
make sure that no holes develop over time and that your door gaskets and floors remain intact.

Q. How do I keep moisture out of my container?

A. There are many ways to combat moisture getting in your container. Opening and closing the doors regularly is a
great start. In addition, you can hang desiccant bags or place a dehumidifier inside the container to absorb
moisture in the air. You can also install additional venting in the container for better air circulation and insulate the
container to keep moisture out.

Q. What grades of containers does Maine Trailer sell?

Wind & Watertight Container:
Container will be wind & watertight. However, since the containers
have been used, they may have slight surface rust and dents, original shipping line container markings and will
come in different colors. Wind & watertight containers work for customers who have little concern over
appearance and simply need a dry storage container.

Cargo-worthy Container:
Our most popular used grade of container. Same standards as wind & watertight above, but has the structural integrity
to be used for short-term international marine use. The container will require a proper survey prior to maritime use and
certain shipping container markings must be removed. Please note that cargo-worthy containers may still have surface
rust and dents.

IICL:
Compared to one-trip containers, IICL (Institute of International Container Lessors) shipping containers are just one
small rung down on the quality ladder. The IICL dictates a grading and review process to certify that these used
containers are in good condition. Most often, these containers are a few years old and have little visible wear and
tear, if any.

Basically, an IICL-rated container is certified for cargo use. And that should tell you about the level of quality —
companies trust this rating as a guarantee that their goods will weather rough seas and long trips across the ocean.

New Container (One Trip):
Like New or "One Trip Containers" are generally within a few years of their date of manufacture and are in
excellent condition inside and out with very few dings and dents. While some one trip containers have only taken
one trip across an ocean on a container ship, the term "one tripper" is more of a reference to a 1-2-year-old
container. One trip containers are great for customers when appearance and condition is extremely important.

Q. Can I see the exact unit I will be purchasing?

A. Yes! In fact, we encourage all customers to come pick out their own container in either our Hampden or Auburn
Depot.

Q. How are Containers Delivered?

A. Watch our video to see how we deliver our 20’ or 40’ containers

Q. Do I need to be present during the delivery of my storage container?

A. No, although we would prefer that you are present during the delivery to sign the paperwork and to identify
your preferred delivery location you are not required to be present. If you plan to not be present for delivery,
please let your salesperson know beforehand.

Q. What else can you tell me about delivery? How much space is required?

A. The ground should be flat and level, preferably asphalt, concrete or gravel surface.

•  A 20’ tilt bed truck requires approximately 50 feet of straight clearance to drop a container.
•  A 40’ tilt bed truck requires approximately 100 feet of straight clearance to drop a container.

Additionally, when placing your order, you should choose if you want to have the container doors to the cab of the
truck or to the rear of the truck (this will determine where the container doors will be located after we drop the
container). Our delivery carrier will contact you prior to delivery to review all of the above and answer any
additional questions you may have.

Q. Does the ground that my container will sit on have to be level?

A. It needs to be fairly level, specifically at the 4 corner posts, as these are the weight-bearing sections
of the container. Making sure these are level will ensure that your doors to function properly. We
encourage customers to use 6x6 timber or concrete pads if we are dropping the container on bare
ground.

Q. Can I move or relocate a rented container?

A. Container relocation services are offered as long as the container is empty. Call or email our team to schedule a
move.

Q. What is the difference between a “standard” container and a “high cube” container?

A. High cube containers are 9 feet and 6 inches tall while standard containers are 8 feet 6 inches tall