Where can you buy a shipping container? You can buy from container dealers, port-area resellers, online marketplaces and direct sellers that deliver to your address, and the safest choice is usually a seller who puts every detail in writing. A used 20 ft typically costs about $1,500 to $4,000, and a new or one-trip unit commonly runs $3,500 to $6,500. Queen Container sells containers nationwide, and the vetting tips below apply to any seller.
Where can you buy a shipping container: the main sources
Dealers and direct sellers
Dealers typically offer a range of sizes and grades, written quotes and delivery in one transaction. This route suits buyers who want one point of contact for the box and the truck.
Port-area resellers and depots
Yards near ports may carry large inventories of used units at lower prices. The tradeoff is that many focus on bulk buyers, and you may have to arrange your own trucking.
Marketplaces and classifieds
Listings can be inexpensive, but condition claims are harder to verify. Insist on photos of the exact container, and never pay before confirming that the seller and the unit are real.
Specialty builders
If you need an office, insulated unit or finished home, a builder that handles modifications can save you from hiring a separate contractor. Browse our office containers for a ready-fitted option.
How to vet a seller
A reliable seller is easy to check. Look for a real business address, a working phone number and clear written policies. Ask how they define each grade, because terms such as cargo-worthy and wind-and-watertight can differ slightly between companies. Request current photos of the roof, floor, doors and corners, and ask what happens if the container arrives different from the listing. Compare at least two quotes, and keep all messages in writing.
Warning signs
- Pressure to pay quickly or by an untraceable method.
- Only stock images and no photos of the actual unit.
- Prices far below the typical range with no explanation.
- Vague answers about grade, delivery or fees.
Plan for delivery and site access
Delivery is part of the real cost. It commonly runs $2 to $6 per loaded mile, often $150 to $500 locally and $1,000 or more for long distances. A 20 ft weighs around 5,000 lb empty and a 40 ft around 8,000 lb, so the truck needs a firm approach and room to maneuver. Prepare a level spot with gravel or blocks under the corners, and check zoning rules before the drop. Our delivery areas page shows where we ship.
Choose the size and grade first
Sellers can quote faster when you know what you need. A 20 ft holds about 1,170 cubic feet and suits most storage, while a 40 ft holds about 2,390 cubic feet and a high cube about 2,700. Wind-and-watertight is usually enough for storage, and cargo-worthy matters if the box will go back to sea. Settling these points early makes quotes easier to compare and keeps you from paying for features you do not need.
Next steps
Now that you know where can you buy a shipping container with confidence, pick your size and grade, then request two or three written quotes. Start with our buy a container options or the 20 ft open side container, and send your address through the contact page. You can also see all of our shipping containers for sale.
