Understanding Used Shipping Container Conditions: Cargo Worthy (CW) vs. Wind and Water Tight (WWT)
When buying used shipping containers, understanding the condition of the container is crucial to ensuring that you get a container that meets your needs. There are three different conditions that used containers are sold in: ASIS, Cargo Worthy, and Wind and Water Tight (WWT). In this blog post, we’ll focus on the difference between Cargo Worthy and Wind and Water Tight conditions.
Cargo Worthy Cargo Worthy containers are those that can safely ship cargo overseas. If you’re purchasing a shipping container to ship your product or cargo overseas, you’ll need a Cargo Worthy container that has been inspected by a marine/maritime surveyor. The surveyor will ensure that the container meets the International Convention for Safe Containers (CSC) requirements for shipping. If the container passes the inspection, the surveyor will issue a certificate stating that the container is seaworthy or Cargo Worthy. This certificate is required by port authorities before the container can be loaded onto a vessel for transport.
Cargo Worthy containers are generally considered to be of higher quality than other conditions. They have no significant damage and meet specific structural standards required for safe transport of cargo.
Wind and Water Tight Wind and Water Tight containers, on the other hand, have some patches or repairs from shipping but do not have any leaks or holes. They do not meet the CSC requirements for shipping overseas but are still sufficient for storage purposes. WWT containers are often purchased for use as storage units and are priced lower than Cargo Worthy containers.
It’s important to note that the visual difference between a Cargo Worthy and a WWT container can be difficult to distinguish. A container may look fine on the outside, but only a surveyor can confirm its condition and determine whether it is truly Cargo Worthy or WWT.
When purchasing a used shipping container, it’s important to consider the purpose of the container. If you plan to ship cargo overseas, a Cargo Worthy container is required. However, if you only need the container for storage purposes, a WWT container may be a more cost-effective option.
In conclusion, understanding the difference between Cargo Worthy and Wind and Water Tight conditions is essential when purchasing a used shipping container. Whether you’re shipping cargo or using the container for storage, knowing which condition you need will help ensure that you get a container that meets your needs.
