What is the cost of a shipping container? Plan on roughly $1,500 to $4,000 for a used 20 ft and $2,500 to $5,500 for a used 40 ft, with new or one-trip units typically $3,500 to $9,000, and then add delivery and site costs. The sticker price is only part of what you will actually spend. Queen Container sells new and used containers nationwide, so here is a checklist of every cost to expect.
The Container Itself
This is the number most people compare. It depends on size, age, grade and features. A basic used box costs the least, a high cube or double door costs more, and a refrigerated or insulated unit costs more still. All of these ranges move with the market, so always ask for a written quote.
It also helps to decide early whether you want a used, one-trip or new unit. Used containers save money up front, while newer units usually need less repair work and look better if the container will be visible to customers or neighbors. Think about how long you plan to keep the box, because a container you will use for ten years may justify paying more today.
What Is the Cost of a Shipping Container Once Delivery Is Included?
Delivery is the first add-on. It commonly runs $2 to $6 per loaded mile, which often comes to $150 to $500 locally and $1,000 or more over long distances. Fuel, driver availability and how hard your site is to reach can raise it. If the truck must wait or make multiple attempts to place the container, you may also pay extra fees.
Check the delivery areas we serve and give the seller your exact address so the quote is accurate.
Site Preparation Costs
A container weighs about 5,000 lb empty for a 20 ft unit and about 8,000 lb for a 40 ft unit, and it needs level, drained ground. Common prep items include:
- Leveling and gravel for a pad.
- Concrete blocks, railroad ties or piers under the corners.
- Clearing trees, branches and fence sections along the truck route.
- Permits or zoning approval where your town requires them.
These costs vary widely. A flat gravel yard may need almost nothing, while a sloped lot can require real excavation.
Modifications and Extras
Many buyers modify their containers. Added doors, windows, vents, shelving, lighting, electrical and insulation can quickly exceed the cost of the box. If you need temperature control, look at our insulated containers rather than adding insulation later. For secure storage, a lock box or upgraded latch is a modest extra worth considering.
Ongoing and Hidden Costs
Used containers can need touch-up paint, rust treatment or new door gaskets over time. Insurance may be worth looking into if you store valuable items. If you ever want to sell or move the container, factor in the cost of a second delivery.
When someone asks what is the cost of a shipping container, the honest answer is a range, because two buyers with the same box can pay very different totals depending on location and prep.
Next Steps
List your size, grade, ZIP code and any modifications, then send them through our contact page for a quote that includes delivery. If you want to browse first, see our storage containers or the full set of shipping containers for sale, and use this checklist to compare quotes line by line.
