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How Much Does a Shipping Container Cost?
Shipping containers run $2,600 to $5,500. Most buyers pay around $3,200 for a standard used 20ft unit.
Container price tracks length and condition above all else -- every container is built to the same ISO specs regardless of origin. A small used 10ft box sits at one end of the range, a new 40ft high cube at the other, with the 20ft container as the standard middle-ground buy.
Price by type
| Type | Typical price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 10ft container (used) | $2,600–$3,400 | Smallest footprint, fits tight lots and light storage. Expect cosmetic wear. |
| 20ft container (used, cargo-worthy) | $3,000–$4,200 | Most popular size and price point -- fits most driveways and job sites. |
| 20ft container (new/one-trip) | $4,000–$4,900 | Minimal rust or dents -- made one ocean voyage before resale. |
| 40ft container (used to new) | $4,200–$5,500 | Roughly double the interior space of a 20ft unit for conversions and bulk storage. |
What affects the price
Size
Price steps up from 10ft to 20ft to 40ft, though not in a straight line with length.
Condition grade
Used/cargo-worthy units cost less than one-trip or new containers, which show little to no rust or denting.
High cube vs standard height
High cube containers (9'6" tall) run a bit more than standard 8'6" units of the same length.
Delivery/freight
Delivery is quoted separately at checkout based on distance from the depot and site access -- it's not folded into the item price above.
Modifications
Cut-in doors, windows, shelving, or paint add to the base container price beyond these ranges.
Bottom line
For straightforward storage, a used 20ft container in the $3,000-$4,200 range covers most needs. Step up to new or 40ft only for minimal wear or maximum capacity. Get a delivery quote for the address before ordering.
Shop Shipping ContainersCost FAQs
Is it cheaper to buy a used or new shipping container?
Used containers cost less -- typically $2,600-$4,200 versus $4,000-$5,500 for new or one-trip units. Used units may show surface rust or dents that don't affect structural integrity.
Does the shipping container price include delivery?
No -- the prices above cover the container itself. Delivery and freight are quoted separately at checkout based on distance and site access.
Why do 40ft containers cost less than double a 20ft container?
Manufacturing and steel costs don't scale in a straight line with length, so a 40ft unit usually runs 30-70% more than a 20ft unit rather than a full 100% more.
Prices shown are item prices from Steelhaul Co.; freight delivery is quoted to your ZIP at checkout.