How much is a cargo container? A used 20 ft cargo container typically costs about $1,500 to $4,000, while a new or one-trip 20 ft runs roughly $3,500 to $6,500, with 40 ft units priced higher. Final cost depends on condition, grade and location. Queen Container sells both new and used boxes and quotes by size, condition and delivery address.
How much is a cargo container new versus used?
A cargo container is the same steel box people call a shipping or storage container. The big price split is between new (often called one-trip) and used.
New or one-trip
A one-trip container has crossed the ocean once with cargo and is usually in excellent shape, with minimal dents and rust. Typical ranges are about $3,500 to $6,500 for a 20 ft and $5,000 to $9,000 for a 40 ft. You pay extra for the cosmetics and the long life ahead of it.
Used
Used boxes have more cargo trips behind them. Expect about $1,500 to $4,000 for a 20 ft and $2,500 to $5,500 for a 40 ft. Quality varies widely, so photos and a clear grade matter. A used container that is wind-and-watertight is often perfect for storage, and it costs less than a cargo-worthy one.
When you compare offers, keep asking the same question: how much is a cargo container once it is on my property? The answer should include the box, the grade and the delivery, not just the lot price.
Cargo-worthy or wind-and-watertight?
These two grades explain many price differences. Cargo-worthy means the container is certified to carry freight on ships, so it must pass structural checks. Wind-and-watertight means it keeps out wind and rain but is not rated for sea transport. If your container will stay put on land, you may not need the cargo-worthy certification, which can make how much a cargo container costs fall noticeably.
Choose cargo-worthy if you plan to ship it again, export it, or use it where a certification is required. Otherwise, ask for honest photos instead of paying for a certificate you will not use.
Which size to price
- 10 ft: small and easy to place, often chosen for tight spaces.
- 20 ft: the most common size, around 1,170 cubic feet inside.
- 40 ft: about 2,390 cubic feet, a better price per cubic foot.
- 40 ft high cube: 9.5 ft tall with about 2,700 cubic feet.
Bigger containers cost more overall but usually less per cubic foot. If you have room and truck access, the larger unit can be the better value. A 20 ft high cube double door container is a handy middle option, with extra height and doors at both ends.
Add delivery to your budget
Delivery commonly runs about $2 to $6 per loaded mile in the US. Local trips are often $150 to $500, and long distance can exceed $1,000. A 20 ft box weighs about 5,000 lb empty, and a 40 ft about 8,000 lb, so it arrives on a tilt-bed or with a crane. Make sure the ground is firm and level, and keep overhead lines clear. You can check coverage on the delivery areas page.
If you want to see how much a cargo container really costs for your site, ask each seller to quote the delivered price in writing, not just the price at their yard.
Next steps
Pick a size, decide between new and used, and confirm whether you need the cargo-worthy grade. Then view our buy a container options, browse the full range of shipping containers for sale, or request a quote and we will price it for your location.
