What does a shipping container cost? In the US, a used 20 ft container typically runs about $1,500 to $4,000, and a new or one-trip 20 ft unit is more often $3,500 to $6,500. At Queen Container, pricing is quote-based, so the final number depends on size, condition and where the box has to go.
Typical price ranges by size
The figures below are general market ranges, not Queen Container prices. They shift with location, grade and market conditions, so use them to set a budget rather than as a fixed price list.
| Size | Used | New or one-trip |
|---|---|---|
| 20 ft | $1,500 – $4,000 | $3,500 – $6,500 |
| 40 ft | $2,500 – $5,500 | $5,000 – $9,000 |
Notice that a 40 ft box does not cost double a 20 ft box. You get roughly twice the floor area (about 2,390 cubic feet inside versus about 1,170 for a 20 ft) for a smaller jump in price, which is why many buyers with the room for it choose the longer unit.
High cube and specialty models
A 40 ft high cube stands 9.5 feet tall and offers about 2,700 cubic feet of space. Expect a modest premium over a standard-height box. Insulated, refrigerated and office-ready containers cost noticeably more because of the added equipment and build work. You can browse options such as the 40 ft high cube shipping container to see what is available.
What moves the price up or down
- Condition: cargo-worthy boxes cost more than wind-and-watertight ones, and both cost more than a unit with heavy dents or rust.
- Age and wear: a one-trip container looks nearly new, while an older unit may show patches and surface rust.
- Local supply: containers are cheaper near busy ports and pricier in inland areas with fewer sellers.
- Modifications: doors, vents, windows and lock boxes all add cost.
What does a shipping container cost once delivery is added?
The sticker price is only part of the bill. Delivery commonly runs $2 to $6 per loaded mile in the US, which often works out to roughly $150 to $500 for a local drop and $1,000 or more for a long haul. A 20 ft container weighs about 5,000 pounds empty and a 40 ft about 8,000 pounds, so the truck type matters too.
Your site matters as well. A truck needs a firm, fairly level path and enough room to tilt and slide the box off. If your property is tight or soft, ask about the delivery method before you commit. You can also check the container delivery areas page to see where Queen Container ships.
How to get an accurate number
If you keep asking what does a shipping container cost in your area, the honest answer is that prices change week to week, so a written quote beats any online average. Give the seller your ZIP code, the size you want, whether you prefer new or used, and what you plan to use the container for. Ask for photos of the exact unit and for the grade in writing.
It also helps to decide your must-haves first. If you only need dry storage, a basic used box is usually enough. If you are planning a workshop or living space, think about insulation, ventilation and the number of doors before you ask for pricing, since those choices change the total more than anything else.
Next steps
Start with the size you need, then compare a few quotes with delivery included. Browse our shipping containers for sale or look at the 20 ft double door container, then contact us for a quote with your delivery location and we will help you find a fit. More options are on the Queen Container home page.
