Understanding shipping container grading is essential when buying, hiring, or modifying a container. Grading helps determine the container’s condition, durability, and suitability for different purposes, from international shipping to secure on-site storage. At Boxman, we make the grading process clear and straightforward, ensuring you know exactly what to expect. With our guidance, you can select the right container with confidence, saving time and avoiding costly surprises.
Shipping container grades are based on structure and aesthetics
There are two main ways of grading the condition of a shipping container – structure and aesthetics. Both of these factors can be considered independently of the other, for example; a container may be structurally sound for shipping purposes but may look unsightly due to rust and paint degradation, or lots of small dents.
Make sure you're comparing apples to apples
It’s important to note that grading is a subjective process, not only within a company, but across the container industry. This means that although two companies might both classify their containers in terms of grade A, B, or C, it does not mean that a Grade A container will be the same standard for both.
Check it out before you buy it
Because there are lots of different methods of container grading used in the container industry, and unfortunately, there is not an overall industry standard, we recommend you get down to your nearest Boxman branch and visually inspect the container before you buy to make sure you are happy with its condition. Our staff will be happy to show you around and make this as easy as possible for you.
Boxman source and stock high quality containers
Because of our quality buying programme, the majority of shipping containers we sell sit in the highest IICL5 or CW structural categories, and we rarely hold container stock in the lower C and D grades. All container companies should be operating to an International Convention for Safe Containers (IICL), and you can be assured that all containers sold by Boxman graded CW (Cargo Worthy), WWT (Wind and Water Tight) or better, meet the relevant standards.
With respect to repairs and patches, as long as these are completed to meet the IICL requirements this may not necessarily alter a particular grading. The images supplied below give an idea of the different container grades applied by Boxman.
Container grading for shipping and storage
Structural standards are used in the container shipping industry and relate to the physical condition of the container:
IICL5
This is the international leasing inspection/repair standard, generally regarded as the most stringent.
CW (Cargo Worthy)
This is the standard used by most shipping lines.
WWT (Wind and Watertight)
This is a common standard used by container traders to classify containers that do not have a valid CSC Plate for shipping. Although watertight, these containers are not suitable for shipping for any number of inspection criteria.
AI (As is)
This grade classifies containers that have no guarantee that they are, or will remain, watertight or cargo worthy for any extended period of time. Often they have sustained damage that is not easily repaired such as large dents, holes or extensive, deep-seated corrosion.
Aesthetic grades are used to describe the cleanliness and visual appearance of the container.
Food Grade
Used to denote the highest standard of internal cleanliness.
Furniture Quality
Generally, a very clean container that won’t transfer marks to cargo.
General Quality
Scuffed and marked with some rust showing.
Industrial Quality
Quite badly marked with widespread rust showing.
Shipping a container overseas?
If you are buying a container to ship overseas, then it must be fitted with a current and valid CSC Plate. CSC stands for Convention for Safe Containers and is similar to a motor vehicle warrant of fitness.
Ask our team about validating the CSC Plate on your container if you believe it will be shipped overseas in the future.
As always, we’re here to help you with all your container needs:
Shipping container grading
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F (Food) grade container
A grade container
B+ grade container
B grade container
B- grade container
C grade container
D grade container
Nationwide Guidance on Container Grading
Choosing the right grade of container doesn’t need to be complicated. Boxman provides expert advice and a full range of options, helping you match container quality to your needs and budget. Whether you require a new unit, a reliable used container, or a certified grade for export, we can help. Contact our team today for clear, practical support on container grading across New Zealand.
