How much to shipping containers cost in total, not just on the price tag? A realistic budget for a used 20 ft is often $2,000 to $5,000 or more once delivery and site prep are included, because the box itself is typically $1,500 to $4,000. Queen Container quotes by size, condition and delivery location, so your total will depend on where the container goes.
How much to shipping containers cost: line by line
| Cost item | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Used 20 ft container | $1,500 – $4,000 |
| Used 40 ft container | $2,500 – $5,500 |
| New or one-trip 20 ft | $3,500 – $6,500 |
| New or one-trip 40 ft | $5,000 – $9,000 |
| Delivery | $150 – $500 local, $1,000+ long distance |
These are general market ranges that vary by region, grade and market conditions.
How delivery is calculated
Truckers usually charge by loaded mile, commonly about $2 to $6 per mile in the US. A short local move can be a few hundred dollars, and a cross-country haul can pass $1,000 easily. Fuel prices, driver availability and the type of truck all change the number. A 20 ft container weighs roughly 5,000 pounds empty and a 40 ft about 8,000, so a 40 ft often needs a larger rig and more room to maneuver.
Does your site work for delivery?
Before you accept a quote, check that a truck can reach the spot. You need a clear path, enough width at gates and no low wires overhead. Tilt-bed trucks need extra space in front, often about twice the length of the container. If access is tight, ask about a smaller container or a different delivery method. You can see our coverage on the container delivery areas page.
Site prep and extras
Your container should sit on level, well-drained ground. Many owners use compacted gravel, concrete blocks or railroad ties, and the cost can range from small to several hundred dollars depending on the labor and materials. If you want to work out how much to shipping containers cost beyond the basics, add these extras to your list.
- Padlock or lock box for security
- Vents or a roof ridge to limit condensation
- Shelving, racks or wall anchors
- Permits or zoning fees where required
- Paint or rust protection for long-term care
Think about the long term as well. A container sitting on your property for years may need repainting, a new lock or minor patching, so setting aside a small maintenance fund is wise. Asking how much to shipping containers cost over ten years, rather than just on day one, gives a truer picture of the investment.
Where costs can climb
Modified containers raise the total. Cutting in doors, windows or insulation takes labor and materials, and finished units for offices or homes cost far more than a plain storage box. If you want a ready-built space, look at the 20 ft office container. For living space, container homes typically run from $50,000 to $150,000 or more depending on size and finish.
Seasonal timing and local demand can also nudge prices. Ask whether a quote has an expiration date, and get terms in writing, so you are not surprised by a change before delivery.
Next steps
Add up the container, delivery, site prep and extras, then ask for a quote with everything spelled out. Browse our storage containers to pick a size, and contact us for a quote with your ZIP code. When you need a refresher on the options, the shipping containers for sale on our home page are a good place to start.
