People searching for “can containers” usually want a steel shipping or storage container, the kind often called a conex or connex box. A standard used 20 ft unit typically costs roughly $1,500 to $4,000, and a 40 ft unit roughly $2,500 to $5,500, depending on condition and location. Queen Container sells these boxes new and used and ships them nationwide.
What people mean by can containers
The phrase is vague, and search results for can containers can wander from food cans to trash cans. In the container world, the intent is almost always a large steel box built to stack on ships, trains and trucks. The name “conex” comes from the US military CONEX box, and it stuck as a nickname for any intermodal container.
If you actually need something smaller, such as a portable shed or a waste bin, a steel container may be more than you need. If you want secure, weatherproof, long-lasting space, it is hard to beat.
Common sizes you will see
- 10 ft: compact, good for tight yards and tool storage.
- 20 ft: about 8 ft wide and 8.5 ft tall inside a standard profile, roughly 1,170 cubic feet.
- 40 ft: roughly 2,390 cubic feet, a favorite for large inventory or workshops.
- 40 ft high cube: 9.5 ft tall, about 2,700 cubic feet, with extra headroom.
- 45 ft: available for long loads and big layouts.
A 20 ft container weighs around 5,000 pounds empty and a 40 ft around 8,000 pounds, so plan for a delivery truck and level ground.
Typical uses for these steel boxes
Most buyers use them for storage on farms, job sites, businesses and homes. Others convert them into workshops, offices, pop-up shops and even homes. Special versions include insulated units, refrigerated reefer units and open-side containers. Our storage containers category is a good place to see what a basic box looks like.
New, one-trip or used
New or one-trip units are cleaner and straighter. Typical ranges are roughly $3,500 to $6,500 for a 20 ft and $5,000 to $9,000 for a 40 ft. Used units cost less and often work perfectly well for storage, though dents, surface rust and older floors are common. Grades such as cargo-worthy and wind-and-watertight describe how sound a used box is, so ask which one you are getting.
What affects the final price
Several things move the number beyond size and age. Your region matters because containers are cheaper near ports. Delivery is a separate cost, commonly $2 to $6 per loaded mile, often $150 to $500 locally and $1,000 or more for long distances. Modifications such as extra doors, windows or insulation add cost too. All of these figures vary, so treat them as starting points, not quotes.
Where to buy and what to ask
Buy from a seller who shows photos of the actual unit, states the grade in writing and gives an itemized quote with delivery. Ask about door seals, floor condition and whether the box has been inspected. You can read our complete guide to the 20 ft shipping container if you are leaning toward the most popular size. If you are unsure whether we deliver to you, check the delivery areas page.
Next steps
Decide what you will store or build, pick a size, and measure the spot where the truck will set it down. Then compare a couple of written quotes. You can look through our 20 ft double door container or see the full range of shipping containers for sale. When you are ready, contact us for a quote with your size, condition preference and delivery location.
