Introduction

Best Photos for Shipping Container Listings (What Converts) is a practical framework for container dealers, yard managers, and logistics teams. You’ll learn the exact angles buyers expect, the proof shots that reduce objections, the export sizes that maximize reach on Marketplace/Craigslist/OfferUp, and caption patterns that trigger “Quote” and “Delivery” messages.

Policy & Safety: Keep language neutral and factual, disclose condition (One-Trip/Cargo-Worthy/WWT/As-Is), note taxes/fees, and avoid heavy text overlays. Photograph safely—stabilize ladders and watch for wind when shooting roofs.

1) Why proof beats slogans

• Trust first: Buyers want to see doors seal, floors are solid, and roofs aren’t dented through.
• Speed: Clear proof shots prevent “Can you send…” loops and move straight to quotes.
• Delivery-ready: Photos of truck type and space needed reduce cancellations and reschedules.

2) The 10-Angle Shot List (use in this order)

1. Front 3/4 exterior (doors visible) at chest height
2. Opposite rear 3/4 exterior (doors away)
3. Straight-on doors closed (show lockbox if present)
4. Doors open wide from 3/4 (interior depth)
5. Interior wide from doors (to front wall)
6. Interior wide from front wall (to doors)
7. Floor planks close-up (2–3 spots)
8. Door gaskets & locking rods close-up
9. Roof condition from ladder (2 corners + center)
10. CSC plate/serial and corner casting detail

Optional: undercarriage edge, vent detail, forklift pockets, and paint/patch close-ups.

3) Proof-of-Condition shots that convert

4) Lighting & timing

• Mid-morning or late afternoon: softer shadows on corrugations.
• Overcast = friend: reduces glare on glossy One-Trip units.
• Avoid backlight: step to keep doors and gaskets well-exposed.

5) Phone vs DSLR settings

6) Export sizes for listing sites

7) One-Trip vs Used: adjust the story

• One-Trip: emphasize paint uniformity, floor immaculate, gasket crisp, roof near-perfect; include interior scent/cleanliness hint.
• Used (WWT/CW): show honest dents, patch welds, and paint fade; highlight functional seals and solid floors.

8) Mods & accessories

• Roll-up/man-door: exterior + interior view, latch detail
• Windows/vents: close-ups + inside corners
• Insulation: show thickness and seams
• Electrical/HVAC: panel label, outlets, mini-split lineset
• Lockbox: door closed/open with lock engaged

9) Delivery photos that answer logistics

• Tilt-bed unloading sequence (bed up → slide → set)
• Space diagram photo: driveway width, turning radius
• Door orientation shot (doors to cab vs to rear)
• Ground condition: gravel/pad examples; block placement

10) Caption templates (policy-safe)

20ft One-Trip • Doors/Gaskets Excellent • Floor Like New
Pickup or Delivery (zones A/B/C). Want dimensions or delivery ETA?
Comment "SPECS" or DM your ZIP for a quote.

40ft High Cube • WWT • Doors Seal • Solid Floor
Honest exterior wear shown. Delivery available. 
DM "QUOTE" with ZIP + door orientation (cab/rear).

11) A/B testing hero & opener

• Hero: exterior 3/4 vs doors-open interior depth
• Opener: “One-Trip” first vs “WWT/CW + delivery today”
• Decision rule: promote image with higher saves + DM rate across 3 dayparts

12) KPIs that actually predict sales

UTM suggestion: ?utm_source=marketplace&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=container_q4

13) 30–60–90 day rollout plan

Days 1–30

1. Photograph 10 hero units (20, 40, 40HC)
2. Create export presets (1:1, 4:5, 4:3)
3. Publish daily; log DM, quote, ZIP, delivery

Days 31–60

1. A/B hero & opener; add delivery sequence photos
2. Build FAQ reply snippets
3. Standardize door-orientation questions

Days 61–90

1. Template all captions; train staff to replicate shots
2. Boost only top 10% performers 48–72h
3. Automate weekly KPI scorecard

14) Troubleshooting common issues