How much do used shipping containers cost to buy? Usually roughly $1,500 to $4,000 for a 20 ft and roughly $2,500 to $5,500 for a 40 ft, but the sticker price is only one part of the bill. This checklist from Queen Container walks through every cost to expect so your budget holds up.
Step 1: The container itself
Start with size and grade. A used 20 ft is the easy, popular option. A 40 ft costs more but gives roughly twice the volume. Grades range from as-is to wind-and-watertight to cargo-worthy, and each step up generally costs more. Prices also shift by region and by season, so treat any range as a guide.
Step 2: Delivery
Trucking is commonly $2 to $6 per loaded mile. Many local deliveries land around $150 to $500, and long-distance moves often reach $1,000 or more. Rural addresses, tight turns and soft ground can add cost. Review our container delivery areas to see how we serve different regions.
Step 3: Site preparation
A container needs level, stable support. Many owners use compacted gravel, concrete blocks or a poured pad. Budget for materials, labor and possibly a permit, because some towns treat containers as structures. Rules vary, so call your local zoning office before you buy.
Step 4: Extras and modifications
- Locks and lock boxes: a good lock protects your investment.
- Ventilation: vents reduce condensation inside steel boxes.
- Shelving or lighting: useful if you will work inside.
- Paint: protects the steel and can match your property.
- Cutting doors or windows: requires welding and reinforcing the frame.
How much do used shipping containers cost to buy in total?
| Cost item | Rough range |
|---|---|
| Used 20 ft container | $1,500 to $4,000 |
| Local delivery | $150 to $500 |
| Gravel or block base | Varies by site |
| Lock and ventilation | Varies by product |
These numbers are general market estimates and will change with your situation. Long-distance delivery or a 40 ft container will raise the total.
Add a cushion of ten to fifteen percent for surprises. Weather delays, a failed delivery attempt or a last-minute change in the drop location can each add charges, and having room in the budget keeps the project moving.
Hidden costs buyers miss
Sales tax, delivery fees, a second truck for a hard-to-reach site, and time spent waiting at delivery can all appear late. Ask for an itemized quote so nothing is a surprise. A quote should state the grade, the size, and the full delivered price in writing.
Making the numbers work
The honest answer to how much do used shipping containers cost to buy is that the delivered, ready-to-use price is often a good deal higher than the container alone. Add up each step above before you commit. If the budget is tight, choose a basic 20 ft wind-and-watertight unit and prepare the site yourself. If you will keep valuable items inside, spend more on a better grade and a strong lock. For projects that need climate control, our insulated containers are worth a look, though they cost more than standard boxes.
Picking a seller matters as much as picking a box. Look for clear photos of the exact unit, honest descriptions and quick answers to questions.
Next steps
List your must-haves, measure the space and request written quotes. You can start with our storage containers for basic needs, or browse every option among our shipping containers for sale. To get a price that includes delivery to your location, contact us and tell us your size and timeline.
