Warranty

1. Introduction and Defined Terms

National Containers LLC (“National Containers,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) provides this Limited Structural Warranty (“Warranty”) to the Original Purchaser of qualifying shipping containers, subject to the terms, conditions, exclusions, and procedures set forth below.

1.1 “Container.” Any new (“One-Trip”) or used (Cargo Worthy, Wind & Water Tight) steel intermodal shipping container sold by National Containers LLC.

1.2 “Original Purchaser.” The individual or entity identified as the buyer on the original sales invoice issued by National Containers LLC.

1.3 “Service Life.” For the purposes of this Warranty, the structural service life of a steel ISO shipping container in static, ground-level storage applications refers to the period over which such a container may reasonably be expected to remain structurally serviceable—generally recognized in the industry as up to twenty-seven (27) years from the date of manufacture under proper placement, maintenance, and environmental conditions. Service Life describes general industry life expectancy only and does not establish, extend, or guarantee any warranty period. The applicable warranty period is governed exclusively by Section 2.

1.4 “Static Storage Use.” Use of the Container as a stationary storage structure placed on a properly prepared foundation at a single location, without movement, transport, relocation, or use as a logistical or cargo-mobility asset after initial delivery.

1.5 “Structural Defect.” A defect in the original manufacturing or material of the Container’s frame, corner castings, walls, roof panels, or floor cross-members that compromises load-bearing function. The Original Purchaser acknowledges that steel ISO shipping containers are engineered to ISO 1496 standards for stacking nine units high fully loaded under sea conditions, and that structural failure of the frame or corner castings under static, ground-level storage use is not consistent with manufacturing defect and is presumed to result from external causes including but not limited to: improper foundation, point loading, modification, transport after delivery, impact, or environmental exposure.

1.6 “Reasonable Maintenance.” Routine care and inspection consistent with the National Containers LLC Container Care Guide, including keeping the roof clear of debris and standing water, addressing surface rust before it perforates, and maintaining proper foundation drainage.

 

2. Warranty Coverage by Container Grade

Coverage terms vary by container grade, reflecting the condition and remaining service life of the Container at time of sale. The warranty start date varies by grade as specified below:

2.1 One-Trip (New) Containers

Warranty start date: Date of manufacture (as indicated on the CSC plate)

       Structural Warranty: Ten (10) years from date of manufacture

       Wind & Water Tight Guarantee: Ten (10) years from date of manufacture

2.2 Cargo Worthy (CW) Containers

Warranty start date: Date of delivery to Original Purchaser

       Structural Warranty: Five (5) years from delivery

       Wind & Water Tight Guarantee: Five (5) years from delivery

2.3 Wind & Water Tight (WWT) Containers

Warranty start date: Date of delivery to Original Purchaser

       Structural Warranty: Two (2) years from delivery

       Wind & Water Tight Guarantee: Two (2) years from delivery

2.4 Economy / As-Is Grade

       No warranty. Sold “as-is, where-is.”

Coverage is strictly limited to:

       Frame (corner posts, corner castings, top and bottom rails) — subject to Section 4.2(a)

       Walls (corrugated steel side and end panels)

       Roof (corrugated steel roof panels)

       Floor structure (steel cross-members; wooden or composite flooring excluded)

2.5 Scope of Structural Coverage

In recognition of the engineering characteristics of steel ISO shipping containers, structural coverage under this Warranty is calibrated to defects that can plausibly result from manufacturing or material failure in static storage use:

 

 Component Realistic Failure Mode Covered
Roof panels Premature corrosion-through perforation from manufacturing thinness or original material defect (not paint, coating, or finish failure—see Section 2.6) Yes — perforation addressed via Wind & Water Tight Guarantee
Wall panels Premature corrosion-through perforation from manufacturing thinness or original material defect (not paint, coating, or finish failure—see Section 2.6) Yes — perforation addressed via Wind & Water Tight Guarantee
Floor cross-members

 

Premature corrosion or weld failure


Yes
Frame (corner posts, rails) Manufacturing defect (rare); presumed external cause if failure occurs in static use Yes, subject to Section 4.2(a) presumption
Corner castings Manufacturing defect (extremely rare); presumed external cause if failure occurs in static use Yes, subject to Section 4.2(a) presumption

 

The Original Purchaser acknowledges that the practical likelihood of frame or corner casting manufacturing defect is extremely low, and that the Wind & Water Tight Guarantee (covering roof and wall integrity) represents the primary functional protection under this Warranty.

2.6 Paint, Coatings, and Markings Not Covered

This Warranty does not cover paint, factory or applied coatings, primer, finish, or any decals, stickers, markings, or identification plates, including their fading, chalking, peeling, blistering, flaking, oxidation, discoloration, or other degradation. The factory paint and coating system applied to a Container originates at the point of manufacture and reflects the condition of the Container as manufactured; National Containers LLC does not manufacture the Container, does not apply the original coating system, and has no ability to control, predict, or remedy the long-term performance of that coating once the Container is placed into service.

The Original Purchaser acknowledges that paint and coatings are sacrificial, maintenance-bearing surfaces and that the ongoing protection of the Container’s steel against corrosion is the responsibility of the Original Purchaser. Once coating degradation, surface rust, or bare steel becomes apparent, the Original Purchaser is responsible for promptly cleaning, treating, and recoating the affected area with an appropriate anti-corrosion coating before the steel perforates, consistent with the Reasonable Maintenance obligations set forth in Sections 1.6 and 8. Corrosion-through perforation that results from, or is worsened by, the Original Purchaser’s failure to maintain and recoat the coating system is excluded from coverage under Section 4.4. For the avoidance of doubt, the Wind & Water Tight Guarantee addresses corrosion-through perforation of roof and wall panels as set forth in Section 6.7(a) and does not cover the appearance, condition, or degradation of paint, coatings, or markings.

 

3. Warranty Activation

To activate this Warranty, the Original Purchaser must:

(a) Be present, or have a designated representative authorized in writing be present, at the time of delivery;

(b) Conduct a visual inspection of the Container before the delivery driver departs;

(c) Sign the National Containers LLC delivery acceptance document confirming the Container’s condition; and

(d) Note any visible defects or condition concerns on the delivery document at the time of signing.

Defects visible at delivery and not noted on the delivery document at the time of receipt are deemed waived as to delivery condition. The Warranty for latent (non-visible) defects remains in effect.

 

4. Exclusions

This Warranty does not cover:

4.1 Cosmetic and Wear Items

       Paint, paint fade, surface oxidation, and surface rust that has not perforated the steel

       Doors, hinges, locking bars, locking rods, cam handles, and door gaskets

       Decals, markings, and identification plates

       Ventilators and vents

       Floor surface materials (plywood, bamboo, or steel decking) — including floor rot, warping, staining, and wear

       Cosmetic appearance of any kind

4.2 Use-Based Damage

       Overloading beyond the Container’s rated capacity or point loads exceeding manufacturer specifications

       Damage from loading, unloading, or material handling equipment

       Modifications of any kind, including cutting, welding, drilling, painting with improper preparation, or any structural alteration

       Use of the Container for transport, logistics, cargo mobility, or any non-static application after delivery

       Relocation of the Container after initial delivery

4.2(a) Presumption Regarding Frame and Corner Casting Failure

Steel ISO shipping containers are engineered and tested to withstand structural loads vastly exceeding any foreseeable static storage application, including stacking nine units high fully loaded at sea. Accordingly, in the event of any reported frame distortion, corner casting failure, or structural deformation in a Container used in static storage:

(i) Such failure is rebuttably presumed to result from one or more excluded causes, including: improper foundation or placement, settling or sinking of the support surface, point loading exceeding rated capacity, post-delivery transport or relocation, modification or alteration, impact damage, or environmental causes excluded under Section 4.3;

(ii) The burden is on the Original Purchaser to demonstrate by a preponderance of evidence that the failure resulted from an original manufacturing defect rather than an external or excluded cause;

(iii) Evidence of improper foundation, drainage failure, sinking or settling, post-delivery movement, modification, or environmental exposure inconsistent with Section 7 is sufficient grounds for denial of a frame-related claim.

This presumption does not apply to wall panel perforations, roof panel perforations, or floor cross-member corrosion, which are evaluated under their respective coverage provisions.

4.3 Environmental and External Causes

       Acts of nature, including hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, tornadoes, hail, lightning, and wildfires

       Direct saltwater immersion or submersion in any liquid

       Placement within direct, continuous saltwater spray exposure (less than 100 feet from continuous tidal saltwater)

       Placement on uneven, unstable, sinking, or improperly prepared foundations

       Placement in standing water, pooling water, flood-prone areas, or below-grade locations

       Exposure to industrial chemicals, agricultural chemicals, fertilizers, or corrosive substances

       Vandalism, theft, fire, or third-party damage

4.4 Neglect-Based Damage

Damage attributable to failure to perform Reasonable Maintenance, including but not limited to:

       Roof corrosion resulting from accumulated debris, leaves, or standing water

       Structural rust resulting from untreated surface rust progression

       Damage from vegetation growth on, around, or over the Container

       Damage from foundation degradation, settling, or drainage failure that the Original Purchaser failed to address

       Damage caused or worsened by delayed reporting under Section 6

4.5 General Exclusions

       Normal wear and tear

       Any defect not reported in accordance with Section 6

       Consequential damages, loss of use, loss of stored contents, or damage to third-party property

 

5. Conditions That Void the Warranty

This Warranty is void in its entirety if any of the following occur:

(a) The delivery acceptance document is not signed at the time of receipt;

(b) The Container is used for transport, logistics, cargo mobility, or any non-static application after delivery, even on a single occasion;

(c) The Container is modified, altered, cut, welded, or structurally changed;

(d) The Container is relocated from its original delivery point;

(e) The Container is sold, transferred, assigned, or conveyed to any party other than the Original Purchaser, or the Original Purchaser entity undergoes a change in ownership;

(f) The Container is placed or maintained in conditions inconsistent with Section 7;

(g) The Original Purchaser intentionally conceals, alters, or removes evidence relevant to a claim, including but not limited to cleaning, painting, sandblasting, or removing surrounding conditions (such as overhanging vegetation, debris, or drainage obstructions) after a defect becomes apparent and before National Containers LLC has had a reasonable opportunity to inspect the affected area in its as-discovered condition.

 

6. Claim Process and Timelines

6.1 Notification Window

(a) Visible defects (including surface rust progression, perforations visible from outside the Container, door or frame distortion, and water intrusion): The Original Purchaser must notify National Containers LLC in writing within thirty (30) calendar days of the defect becoming apparent or reasonably discoverable through Reasonable Maintenance.

(b) Latent structural defects (non-visible defects in the frame, corner castings, or structural welds discoverable only upon close inspection): The Original Purchaser must notify National Containers LLC in writing within sixty (60) calendar days of the defect becoming apparent or reasonably discoverable.

(c) Effect of delayed notification: Defects reported outside these windows will be reviewed at National Containers LLC’s discretion, but coverage may be reduced or denied to the extent the delay caused, contributed to, or worsened the alleged defect, or to the extent the delay impaired National Containers LLC’s ability to inspect the defect in its as-discovered condition.

6.2 Preservation of Evidence

The Original Purchaser must preserve the Container and its surrounding conditions in the as-discovered state from the time the defect is observed until National Containers LLC has reviewed the claim or expressly authorizes remediation. This includes refraining from:

       Cleaning, pressure washing, sandblasting, or painting the affected area

       Removing surrounding vegetation, debris, or drainage conditions

       Performing any repair, patch, or temporary fix that obscures the defect

       Discarding any displaced material from the defect area

If the Original Purchaser must take temporary protective measures (e.g., tarping a leaking roof to protect contents), the Original Purchaser must photograph and document the condition before doing so and notify National Containers LLC in writing within forty-eight (48) hours.

Failure to preserve evidence may result in denial of the claim where the alteration prevents reasonable assessment of the defect’s cause.

6.3 Submission Address

All warranty claims and supporting documentation must be submitted to:

warranty@national-containers.com

6.4 Required Claim Documentation

A complete claim submission must include:

(a) Proof of original purchase: Original sales invoice from National Containers LLC, including Original Purchaser name, container serial number, grade, and delivery date;

(b) Signed delivery acceptance document from the date of original delivery;

(c) Container identification: Serial number from the CSC plate, with photograph;

(d) Written defect description, including:

(i) Date the defect was first observed;

(ii) Specific location on the Container;

(iii) Approximate dimensions of the defect;

(iv) Description of how the defect affects structural function;

(e) Photographic evidence showing:

(i) All four exterior sides of the Container;

(ii) The roof from above (or as accessible);

(iii) Close-up images of the defect from at least three angles;

(iv) The Container’s foundation, drainage, and surrounding conditions;

(v) Overhead conditions (trees, structures, utilities);

(f) Current location of the Container, including address and photograph showing it has not been relocated;

(g) Reasonable site access for National Containers LLC or its designated representative to physically inspect the Container within a mutually agreed window not to exceed sixty (60) days from claim submission, if National Containers LLC requests such inspection.

6.5 Maintenance Records (Recommended, Not Required)

While maintenance records are not a precondition to filing a claim, the Original Purchaser is strongly encouraged to retain dated records of inspections, cleaning, rust treatment, and foundation maintenance. In evaluating claims — particularly those involving rust, corrosion, or environmental damage — the absence of maintenance records will be considered alongside other evidence in determining whether the defect resulted from manufacturing or material failure (covered) or from neglect, environmental exposure, or improper care (excluded under Section 4.4). Maintenance recommendations are detailed in the National Containers LLC Container Care Guide.

6.6 Claim Review Timeline

National Containers LLC will acknowledge receipt of complete claim submissions within ten (10) business days and provide a final claim determination within sixty (60) business days of receiving all required documentation and completing any requested inspection. National Containers LLC may request additional documentation or extend the review period for complex claims with written notice to the Original Purchaser.

6.7 Remedy

If a claim is approved, the remedy depends on the nature of the defect:

6.7(a) Wind & Water Tight (Leak) Claims

For approved leak claims under the Wind & Water Tight Guarantee, the standard remedy is provision of an ISO-certified fiberglass repair kit sufficient to address perforations up to 8 inches by 11 inches in size. The repair kit will be shipped to the Original Purchaser at the delivery address on file at no charge. Application of the repair kit is the responsibility of the Original Purchaser. Written instructions and application guidance will be included with the kit.

The fiberglass repair kit cures under UV light or sunlight in approximately 5–10 minutes, can be drilled, sanded, machined, and painted within one hour, and is rated for permanent repair when properly applied per the included instructions.

For perforations exceeding 8 inches by 11 inches that are not the result of impact, modification, or excluded causes under Section 4, National Containers LLC may, at its sole discretion: (i) provide additional repair kits; (ii) authorize a third-party repair at a cost not to exceed the depreciated value of the Container; or (iii) replace the affected component or Container.

Provision of the repair kit constitutes full discharge of National Containers LLC’s obligations under the Wind & Water Tight Guarantee for the reported defect.

6.7(b) Structural Defect Claims

For approved Structural Defect claims, National Containers LLC’s sole obligation shall be, at its option:

(i) Repair of the structural defect using new or refurbished materials;

(ii) Replacement of the affected structural component;

(iii) Replacement of the Container with a comparable unit; or

(iv) Refund of the prorated purchase price based on a straight-line depreciation schedule over the applicable warranty term.

6.7(c) General Limitations on Remedy

In no event shall National Containers LLC’s total liability under this Warranty exceed the original purchase price of the Container. Labor for site work, transportation, removal, reinstallation, site preparation, permits, and consequential damages are excluded from all remedies. National Containers LLC is not obligated to provide repair kits or other remedies for the same defect more than once if the Original Purchaser declines the offered remedy or performs unauthorized repairs.

 

7. Placement Requirements

The Container must be placed and maintained on a foundation meeting one of the approved standards below. Placement that does not meet these standards voids this Warranty.

7.1 Approved Foundation Types

       Concrete blocks or steel beams at each corner and along the length, evenly spaced, capable of supporting the Container’s weight, providing minimum 4 inches of ground clearance for ventilation;

       Compacted gravel or crushed rock base at minimum 4–6 inches depth, extending beyond the Container’s footprint, properly graded for drainage; or

       Reinforced concrete slab extending at least 12 inches beyond the Container’s footprint, properly graded for drainage.

7.2 Site Requirements

       Site must be level, stable, and capable of supporting the Container without sinking or settling

       Site must drain water away from the Container; no pooling or standing water

       Site must not be located within continuous saltwater spray exposure (less than 100 feet from continuous tidal saltwater)

       Site must not be located in flood-prone or seasonally saturated areas

       Site must not be located in industrial zones with continuous chemical or corrosive atmospheric exposure

       Overhead conditions should be reasonably clear of trees, branches, and vegetation that drop debris onto the roof

Placement guidance is detailed in the National Containers LLC Container Care Guide, available at [URL].

 

8. Reasonable Maintenance Expectations

The Original Purchaser is responsible for performing Reasonable Maintenance to preserve the Container’s structural integrity. While maintenance records are not a precondition to filing a claim (see Section 6.5), the following practices are required to maintain coverage:

       Roof: Keep clear of leaves, branches, snow, debris, and standing water. Inspect periodically.

       Surface rust: Address with appropriate anti-corrosion treatment before perforation occurs.

       Foundation and drainage: Maintain so that water drains away from the Container.

       Vegetation: Prevent vegetation growth on, against, or overhanging the Container in a manner that traps moisture or drops continuous debris.

       Doors and seals: Inspect and lubricate door hardware periodically.

Damage attributable to failure to perform Reasonable Maintenance is excluded under Section 4.4, regardless of whether maintenance records were kept.

 

9. Non-Transferability

This Warranty is personal to the Original Purchaser and is strictly non-transferable, non-assignable, and non-conveyable. Any sale, transfer, assignment, conveyance, gift, lease, or change in possession of the Container, or any change in ownership of the Original Purchaser entity, automatically terminates this Warranty.

 

10. Disclaimers and Limitation of Liability

10.1 EXCLUSIVE WARRANTY. THIS LIMITED STRUCTURAL WARRANTY IS THE SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE WARRANTY PROVIDED BY NATIONAL CONTAINERS LLC. EXCEPT AS EXPRESSLY STATED HEREIN, ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ARE DISCLAIMED TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW. To the extent any implied warranty cannot be disclaimed under applicable law, such implied warranty is limited in duration to the applicable warranty period set forth in Section 2. Notwithstanding the foregoing, where the Container is a “consumer product” sold to a consumer in a transaction governed by the federal Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (15 U.S.C. § 2301 et seq.), nothing in this Section shall be construed to disclaim or limit implied warranties to any extent prohibited by that Act, and implied warranties on such sales shall remain in effect for, and limited in duration to, the applicable warranty period set forth in Section 2.

10.2 LIMITATION OF LIABILITY. IN NO EVENT SHALL NATIONAL CONTAINERS LLC BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES, INCLUDING LOSS OF USE, LOSS OF PROFITS, LOSS OF STORED CONTENTS, OR DAMAGE TO THIRD-PARTY PROPERTY. NATIONAL CONTAINERS LLC’S TOTAL LIABILITY UNDER THIS WARRANTY SHALL NOT EXCEED THE ORIGINAL PURCHASE PRICE OF THE CONTAINER.

10.3 STATUTORY RIGHTS. Some jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation of certain warranties or damages. To the extent any such limitation is held unenforceable, the limitation shall be applied to the minimum extent permitted by applicable law, and other provisions of this Warranty shall remain in full force and effect.

 

11. Governing Law and Dispute Resolution

11.1 Governing Law. This Warranty is governed by the laws of the State of Florida, without regard to conflict-of-laws principles.

11.2 Mandatory Arbitration. Any dispute arising out of or relating to this Warranty, including the validity, enforceability, scope, or breach thereof, shall be resolved exclusively through binding arbitration administered by the American Arbitration Association (AAA) under its Commercial Arbitration Rules. The arbitration shall be conducted in Miami-Dade County, Florida, before a single arbitrator. Judgment on the award may be entered in any court of competent jurisdiction.

11.3 Class Action Waiver. The Original Purchaser waives any right to participate in a class action, collective action, or representative proceeding arising from this Warranty.

11.4 Costs. Each party shall bear its own attorney’s fees and costs, except as otherwise required by applicable law or as awarded by the arbitrator.

 

12. Severability and Entire Agreement

If any provision of this Warranty is held invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect. This Warranty constitutes the entire warranty agreement between the Original Purchaser and National Containers LLC and supersedes all prior representations, oral or written.

 

13. Contact

National Containers LLC

Warranty Claims: warranty@national-containers.com