Shipping containers have become increasingly popular in Australia for everything from home storage and workshops to creative housing projects. Unfortunately, this demand has also attracted scammers who set up fake businesses or impersonate real ones to trick unsuspecting buyers.
Before you transfer money for a container, it’s important to know how to spot the red flags. Here’s what to look out for.
Common Signs of a Shipping Container Scam
- Prices That Seem Too Good to Be True
If you see containers advertised at a fraction of the market price (e.g. $1,000 for a 20-foot container delivered), be cautious. The going rate for a used container in Australia is generally much higher. Unrealistically cheap listings are a classic bait tactic.
- Fake or Stolen Business Identities
Scammers often copy the ABN, name, or branding of a legitimate Australian company to appear trustworthy. Always cross-check the business details on the ASIC Business Register or ABN Lookup to confirm they’re genuine.
- No Physical Yard or Inspection Options
A real container supplier will let you view the stock in person or at least provide legitimate photos of their yard. If the seller refuses inspections or only sends stock photos, that’s a major red flag.
- Pushy or Unusual Payment Requests
Be wary if the seller insists on:
- Direct bank transfers only (no credit card or PayPal options)
- Sending funds to an overseas account
- Paying urgently to “secure a limited deal”
Legitimate businesses in Australia generally provide secure and traceable payment options.
- Poor Communication or Suspicious Websites
Scam websites often have:
- Spelling and grammar errors
- No clear contact details (no phone number, no physical address)
- A recently registered domain name (you can check this with a simple WHOIS search)
If communication feels rushed, vague, or overly aggressive, trust your instincts.
How to Protect Yourself
✅ Research the company – Search for online reviews, check their ABN, and confirm their phone number and address.
✅ Ask for photos of stock – Genuine sellers can show containers with identifiable yard markings or logos.
✅ Verify payment methods – Use traceable, secure options and avoid direct transfers to unknown accounts.
✅ Trust official directories – Look for suppliers listed by reputable Australian industry associations.
✅ Be sceptical of urgency – Scammers rely on pressure. Take your time to verify.
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
If you believe you’ve been caught in a shipping container scam:
- Report it to Scamwatch (run by the ACCC) via scamwatch.gov.au.
- Contact your bank immediately to see if payments can be reversed.
- File a police report through your local station or online with the Australian Cyber Security Centre.
Final Word
Shipping containers can be a fantastic investment, but only when purchased through reputable Australian suppliers. By staying alert to the warning signs and doing a few quick checks, you can protect yourself from falling victim to container scams.
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Photo by Tara Winstead: https://www.pexels.com/photo/close-up-shot-of-paper-money-and-numbers-on-a-gray-surface-7111957/
