There's no real difference — CONEX is just an older term, mostly used in military and government surplus contexts. The actual hardware is the same ISO-spec steel shipping container you'd buy under any other name.
| Factor | CONEX | Shipping Container |
|---|---|---|
| Origin of name | Military term ("Container Express", 1952) | ISO standard (1956+) |
| Construction | ISO-spec steel — same as commercial | ISO-spec steel — same as CONEX |
| Common sizes | 20ft and 40ft (also 8ft, 10ft historic) | 20ft, 40ft, 45ft, high-cubes |
| Where you'll see "CONEX" | Military surplus, government auctions | Civilian sales |
| Functional difference | None | None |
| Buy from us as | A shipping container | A shipping container |
If you grew up in the military or in a job that used the term, CONEX is fine — but the seller probably doesn't differentiate. Ask for sizes and conditions; the name doesn't change the spec.
Surplus units can be a deal — but they're usually older (WWT or AS-IS grade), and the surplus market doesn't include delivery or placement. We sell newer containers with the delivery and condition guarantees baked in.
All four words describe the same product. Sea can comes from "sea cargo container." ISO container references the international shipping standard. Conex is military lineage. Pick whichever feels right; we know what you mean.
Tell us what you're storing and where. We'll pick the right size + condition, confirm the site can support it, and lock the price — no payment until we know we can place it.
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