Can you buy a shipping container? Yes, individuals, farms and businesses buy them every day for storage, workshops and even homes. You pick a size and condition, get a quote with delivery, and have the container trucked to your site. Queen Container sells new and used units and delivers nationwide.
Can you buy a shipping container? Step-by-step
- Define the job. Storage, an office, a workshop or a build project each call for different features.
- Pick a size. The common choices are 10 ft, 20 ft and 40 ft, with a 40 ft high cube for extra height.
- Choose new or used. One-trip containers look nearly new, and used ones cost less.
- Ask for a written quote. It should include the grade, photos and delivery.
- Prepare the site. You need a firm, level spot and room for the truck.
- Schedule delivery. Someone should be on site to direct the driver.
What it costs
Pricing varies by location, condition and grade, but general ranges help you plan. Used 20 ft containers typically cost $1,500 to $4,000, and used 40 ft containers $2,500 to $5,500. New or one-trip units generally run $3,500 to $6,500 for a 20 ft and $5,000 to $9,000 for a 40 ft. Delivery is separate and commonly costs $2 to $6 per loaded mile.
Can you buy a shipping container with modifications?
You can, and many buyers do. Many sellers offer extra doors, windows, vents, insulation and electrical packages, and some sell finished office or home units. Modifications raise the price, so decide what you really need. Browse the office containers if you want a ready-to-use space.
Do you need a permit?
Rules depend on your city, county and neighborhood. Many rural areas allow storage containers freely, while cities may require a permit, specific setbacks or screening, and homeowner associations can ban them. If you plan to live in a container, building codes will apply. Call your local planning office before the order goes in, since moving a delivered box later is costly.
Payment and paperwork are usually simple. Expect a written invoice with the container details and delivery terms, and keep it with any photos you received. If you are buying for a business, ask whether the unit has a clear ID number on the door so you can match it to the paperwork on arrival.
Choosing the right condition
Condition is where buyers save or lose money. Cargo-worthy boxes are sound enough for ocean shipping, while wind-and-watertight units are good for stationary storage. Ask for photos of the roof, floor, door seals and corners, and check for rust-through, big dents and doors that close smoothly. When in doubt, ask the seller to confirm the exact unit you will receive.
Delivery logistics deserve attention too. A truck usually needs about twice the container length in clear space to tilt and slide the box off. Overhead wires, tight gates and soft ground can complicate the drop, so share photos of your site with the seller when you request pricing.
Next steps
If you are asking can you buy a shipping container for your property, the answer is yes, and the process is simpler than most people expect. Start by browsing our shipping containers for sale, compare the 20 ft open side container with a standard door model, then contact us for a quote with your ZIP code. You can also confirm coverage on our delivery areas page. For the full range, visit the Queen Container home page.
