YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – The Better Business Bureau of the Mahoning Valley is urging consumers to use caution when purchasing shipping containers online. 

The BBB has received multiple complaints and BBB Scam Tracker reports involving Midwest Shipping Containers, which also operates under the names M-W Containers and M-W Shipping.

Consumers have reported finding the business online, where it advertised used shipping containers at attractive prices, a news release states. According to reports submitted to the BBB, consumers paid for containers using wire transfers but never received their purchases.

The BBB has attempted to contact Midwest Shipping Containers regarding the complaints but has not received a response to emails or phone calls, the release states.

Midwest Shipping Containers claims to be located at 650 W. Main St., Canfield, but the BBB has determined that the business is not located at that address.

“Each of these consumers received instructions to pay by wire transfer, which should be a red flag,” said Melissa Ames, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau of the Mahoning Valley. “Payments made by wire transfer can be extremely difficult, and often impossible, to recover. BBB advises consumers to research a business before making a significant purchase and, whenever possible, use a credit card, which may provide additional protections and the ability to dispute a charge if there is a problem.”

The BBB offers the following tips to help consumers avoid shipping container scams:

  • Double-check the business’s contact information. Carefully review the company’s website and independently verify its address and phone number. Don’t assume that a listed physical address means the business is legitimate. Search the address on an online map and compare it with what appears on the company’s website. An address that leads to an empty lot, a residence or an unrelated business should be a warning sign.
  • Research the business and read reviews. Don’t rely solely on reviews posted on the company’s own website. Check BBB.org for the business’s BBB Business Profile, Complaints and Customer Reviews. Search online for additional information and reports from other consumers.
  • Be skeptical of unusually low prices. Compare prices from several established sellers. A price that is significantly lower than competitors may be a warning sign. If a deal seems too good to be true, take additional steps to verify the seller before sending money.
  • View the container before you buy. Whenever possible, inspect high-dollar items in person before making a purchase. Be cautious if a seller refuses to allow you to see the container or pressures you to make full payment before you can inspect it.
  • Use a secure payment method. Be especially cautious when a seller requires payment by wire transfer, prepaid card, cryptocurrency or another payment method that may offer little or no recourse. For significant purchases, consider using a credit card, which may provide additional protection if something goes wrong.
  • Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics. Scammers often create a sense of urgency to pressure consumers into making quick decisions. Take time to research the seller, verify the product and understand the terms of the transaction before sending payment.