FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Why should I purchase a container from Alberta Containers?
Alberta Containers is a family business owned and operated by life-long Albertans. Your purchase ensures the proceeds of sales remain in Alberta. Most importantly, we are confident you will receive the best price in the industry.
2. Does Alberta Containers have a business mission statement/philosophy?
Simply, we begin with - 'Is it the truth?' Will it be beneficial to all parties involved? And most importantly, will it build long term relationships? These are our guiding principals.
3. Why does Alberta Containers grade containers as grade 'A' , grade 'B' and grade 'C'.
All the containers we sell are sold as 'wind and water tight', meaning they will not leak nor should the wind be able to blow water into the container. Our grading system reflects the different states of condition the containers arrive in. The appearance of the container is an important consideration when grading containers. If they were all priced the same, the container with external rust would be the last unit to sell. Hence, although it provides the same service as any container, the customer determines its value to be less than one without external rust. We acknowledge and respect the customer's opinion.
4. If I purchase a container from Alberta Containers and do not need the container months or years later, will Alberta Containers purchase the container back?
Yes, we will set the price for purchase so Alberta Containers can retrieve the container and return it to our yard and sell it for a small profit. As an example, if we purchase your container for $500.00 less than the price paid 2 years ago, please keep in mind your monthly storage fees were about $20.00 per month.
5. Will a container 'sweat' and leave moisture on the contents.
Most commodities from food to electrical components are moved in containers. The vast majority come from the Asia block. These containers will often start off in plus 30 degree temperature and can arrive in Canada at minus 30 degrees. The goods in these containers are not damaged by moisture. The venting system of a container is designed to squeeze the interior air from the container, preventing the clash of hot and cold air. The clash of hot and cold or moist and dry air under normal conditions results in condensation. The venting system of a container overcomes this clash of air masses. Make sure your container vents are unobstructed. Leaving a container door open will result in white frost if high humidity enters the container. Be careful not to bring moisture into a container and you should avoid condensation within.
6. Can mice get into my container?
Before purchasing your container, ensure there are no holes in the floor and make sure the door seals are not compromised. This will prevent penetration of the container by rodents. A door has an external and secondary internal seal.
7. Will insects get into my container?
A container will have from 2 to 8 vents. The only entrance to the container will be these vents. A piece of screen applied to the interior of the vent will prevent insect penetration.
8. What ground preparation is required for placement of the container?
A container can be placed on the ground. Be mindful that the container will become a 20' or 40' or 48' water diversion wall. If this disrupts the flow of water on your property, this may be a problem. If water pools under the container, you may eventually encounter a musty smell in the container, even though the floor is treated to prevent moisture and insect penetration. Ideally a 40' container should be elevated and levelled on blocks or timbers. Blocks or timbers placed at the back, middle and front of the container will mitigate the sinking of one corner, which may twist the container slightly, making the doors difficult to open. An elevated container facilitates cooling of the container.