Thinking about buying a shipping container? Whether you’re looking for a storage container, portable office, or custom mobile unit, it’s easier than ever to get started online — but it’s also easier than ever to get scammed.
Every week, we speak with people who almost lost money — or already have — to fraudulent sellers offering cheap shipping containers through sketchy websites, social media, or Facebook ads. Before you purchase anything, read this.
❌ Real Stories From Real Buyers
A recent caller had found an online company offering two 20’ containers delivered for the price of one. Sounds great, right? The catch? No business name, no real location, and the seller was based out of state. Something didn’t feel right — and for good reason.
Another shopper came to us after receiving a quote from someone on Facebook Marketplace. The seller couldn’t clearly explain delivery logistics, warranty terms, or even where the container was located. After we walked them through what to look for, they decided to go with a reputable provider they could verify.
🚩 Common Shipping Container Scam Red Flags
Here are the warning signs we see over and over again:
🏷️ Unrealistically low prices (“2 for 1” or “Limited time only!” deals)
🚫 No business name or website you can verify
🖼️ Stock images or vague photos — not actual container units
📍 Out-of-state “sellers” with no office or storage yard
💰 Requests for Zelle, Venmo, gift cards, crypto, or wire transfers
🤐 No one available to answer your questions directly
💸 High-pressure tactics — “Buy today or lose the deal”
Unfortunately, many of these scammers pose as real container dealers and even steal photos from legitimate companies to build fake listings.
🧠 Questions to Ask Before You Purchase a Container
To protect yourself, ask the seller:
Can I see the exact container before I buy?
Do you offer a warranty or after-sale support?
How is delivery handled — and who’s responsible?
Are there additional fees for delivery, permits, or placement?
Where are you located, and can I visit or verify your business?
Will I get to choose my container, or is it “dealer’s choice”?
If they can’t answer — or they try to dodge the questions — walk away.
✅ What Makes A-Verdi a Trusted Source for Containers
At A-Verdi Storage Containers, we’ve been helping customers throughout New York State with container rentals, container sales, and mobile office solutions for over 40 years. Here’s why thousands of homeowners, contractors, and businesses trust us when they’re ready to purchase:
🧭 Family-owned and operated in Upstate NY
🛠️ You choose your unit — view photos or visit in person
🚛 In-house delivery team — no third-party surprises
🛡️ Warranties and real support after delivery
📞 Our team answers the phone — you talk to real people
🔁 We offer both used and refurbished containers with transparent pricing
🏗️ Site prep support and container placement advice
Whether you need a 20-foot container for your farm, a 40-foot unit for commercial storage, or an office container for a job site, we help you get the right fit — not a scam deal that disappears after payment.
⚠️ A Note on Facebook Marketplace & Online Listings
Many container scams originate on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and online classified sites. While some sellers may be legitimate, others use those platforms to pose as container companies — including stealing brand names or photos from companies like ours.
📞 If you find a deal online and want to verify it’s real, call us. We’re happy to help you confirm what’s legit — even if it’s not through us.
🔍 Looking to Buy a Container in New York?
A-Verdi offers a full line of container sales and rentals, including:
Refurbished and Recon Containers
Used Container Units
Custom Container Modifications
Residential, Construction, and Commercial Use
📦 Buy with Confidence, Not Regret
Shopping for a storage container should give you peace of mind — not a pit in your stomach. If you’re not sure what you need or who to trust, reach out. We’ll give you the facts, walk you through your options, and make sure you’re getting exactly what you’re paying for.