Florida Shipping Container Questions, Answered

Yes, always. Every quote we provide includes delivery to your Florida ZIP code. No freight charges added at checkout, no surprise fees on delivery day. The price we quote is the price you pay.

Most orders deliver within 1-2 weeks after payment is confirmed. Remote or rural locations may take 2-3 weeks depending on scheduling and access logistics. We'll give you an estimated delivery window when you confirm your order.

Yes. In addition to outright purchase, we offer rent-to-own and lease-to-own options for customers who prefer to spread payments over time. Contact us for details on available terms for your situation.

We accept major credit cards, debit cards, bank transfers (ACH), wire transfers, and certified checks. Payment terms are discussed when we provide your formal quote.

Containers are delivered on a tilt-bed (rollback) truck. The driver backs up to your desired drop location and the container slides off the back of the tilted bed onto the ground. You need a straight, clear approach: about 105-110 feet for a 20ft and 125-130 feet for a 40ft. The delivery area needs to be at least 10-12 feet wide with no overhead obstructions.

Shipping containers are extremely strong steel structures rated to stack nine high when fully loaded at sea. However, in hurricane-prone areas like Florida, proper anchoring is critical. An unanchored container can shift or even become airborne in extreme winds. We recommend securing containers with anchor bolts to a concrete pad or using twist-lock tie-downs rated for your wind zone. In High Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ) like Miami-Dade and Broward counties, additional anchoring requirements apply under the Florida Building Code. We can advise on best practices for your specific location.

The most common anchoring methods in Florida include: (1) Concrete slab with embedded anchor bolts -- the container's corner castings are bolted directly to the foundation. (2) Twist-lock tie-downs -- heavy-duty anchors driven into the ground or embedded in concrete that lock into the container's corner fittings. (3) Cable tie-downs -- steel cables from the container corners to ground anchors. For HVHZ areas, your anchoring system should be engineered for wind loads of 140-180 mph depending on your zone. We recommend consulting a local engineer or your county building department for site-specific requirements.

Shipping containers are made from Corten steel, which forms a protective patina that resists corrosion. However, Florida's salt air -- especially within a few miles of the coast -- accelerates wear on seals, hinges, and hardware. We recommend: (1) Apply a marine-grade protective coating or rust-inhibiting paint. (2) Keep door hinges and locking mechanisms lubricated. (3) Inspect gaskets and seals annually. (4) Place the container on concrete blocks or a pad to keep it off standing water. One-trip (new) containers start with the best factory coating and will last longest in coastal environments.

Florida's humidity levels regularly exceed 60-70%, which can cause condensation ("container rain") on the interior ceiling and walls. Solutions include: (1) Install passive ventilation -- whirlybird turbine vents or louvered side vents. (2) Use desiccant moisture absorbers (calcium chloride hanging bags). (3) If you have electrical access, a plug-in dehumidifier is most effective. (4) For valuable or moisture-sensitive items, consider a modified container with spray foam insulation and climate control.

An unmodified steel container in direct Florida sun can reach interior temperatures of 130-150F during summer. For storage-only use, this is generally fine for most items. If you or workers will spend time inside, you have options: (1) Position the container in shade. (2) Apply a reflective roof coating (ceramic-based white coatings reduce temps by 20-30F). (3) Install insulation and a mini-split AC unit. We can source modified containers with HVAC already installed.

Shipping containers are wind and water tight, so they can withstand temporary flooding. However, if your property is in a designated flood zone (common in much of Florida), you may need to elevate the container above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE) to comply with local regulations and FEMA requirements. This typically means placing it on an elevated concrete pad or pilings. Check your local floodplain management office for specific requirements.

It depends on your county and municipality. In general: (1) Temporary storage containers (under 180 days) in many jurisdictions may only need a temporary placement or zoning permit, or no permit at all. (2) Permanent placement (over 180 days) usually requires a building permit and must meet Florida Building Code requirements. (3) Miami-Dade and Broward counties have the strictest requirements due to HVHZ regulations. (4) Rural and unincorporated areas tend to be more flexible. We always recommend contacting your local building department before ordering.

The High Velocity Hurricane Zone covers Miami-Dade and Broward counties and has the strictest building standards in Florida. Any permanent structure in the HVHZ -- including a shipping container used as a building -- must meet enhanced wind load requirements (up to 180 mph), use impact-resistant openings, and have engineered anchoring. Products installed in the HVHZ may need a Notice of Acceptance (NOA). For temporary storage use, requirements are generally less restrictive.

Many Florida HOAs have rules about containers. Common restrictions include maximum placement duration (often 30-90 days), placement only on driveways or behind the home, and advance approval from the HOA board. Some HOAs prohibit containers entirely. Review your CC&Rs and contact your HOA before ordering.

A one-trip container was manufactured overseas, loaded with cargo for a single voyage, and retired. It arrives in near-new condition. A Wind and Water Tight (WWT) container is a used unit retired after years of service. It will show cosmetic wear but is certified to keep wind and water out. WWT offers excellent value for storage. One-trip is better for conversions, long-term use, or when appearance matters.

We offer five main types: 20ft Standard, 40ft Standard, 40ft High Cube, Modified/Custom, and Refrigerated. Visit our sizes page for a full comparison.

Yes. Container homes, offices, and workshops are increasingly popular in Florida. Any container used as an occupied structure must meet the Florida Building Code, including requirements for insulation, electrical, plumbing, fire safety, hurricane resistance, and accessibility. In the HVHZ, requirements are stricter. You will need a building permit and plans stamped by a licensed Florida engineer or architect. Read our Florida container homes guide for more details.

We sell containers outright and also offer rent-to-own (lease-to-own) options. We do not offer short-term rentals. Contact us to discuss the options available for your situation.

For basic storage use, a level, well-drained surface is sufficient. Many Florida customers place containers on concrete blocks, railroad ties, or a gravel pad. For permanent placement or in hurricane zones, a reinforced concrete slab with embedded anchor bolts is strongly recommended. Florida's sandy and limestone soils drain well but may require deeper footings in some areas. For flood zone properties, elevated foundations may be required.

You need a clear, straight approach from the road to the drop point: about 105-110 feet for a 20ft and 125-130 feet for a 40ft. The path needs to be at least 10-12 feet wide with no overhead obstructions lower than 14 feet. If you have any concerns about access, send us photos or a description and we'll assess it before quoting.

Yes. We deliver across all 67 Florida counties, including rural areas, agricultural land, and properties with unpaved access roads. If you have concerns about soft ground, narrow roads, or limited access, let us know when you request your quote and we'll work with you on logistics.