Wondering how much do shipping containers cost used? A used 20 ft container typically runs roughly $1,500 to $4,000, and a used 40 ft container roughly $2,500 to $5,500, before delivery. The spread is wide because condition, location and market timing all matter. At Queen Container, quotes depend on size, condition and where the container is going.
20 ft versus 40 ft used prices
The 20 ft container is the most common choice. It is easy to move, fits on most lots and offers about 1,170 cubic feet of space. The 40 ft gives roughly 2,390 cubic feet, and a 40 ft high cube adds a 9.5 ft ceiling for about 2,700 cubic feet. Per cubic foot, the larger boxes are usually the better value, but they need a longer, wider delivery path.
If you want to see how the 20 ft stacks up on details, our complete guide to the 20 ft shipping container goes deeper.
How much do shipping containers cost used, by grade?
- As-is: lowest price, expect dents, rust and possibly leaks.
- Wind-and-watertight: a solid choice for storage, with sealed walls and roof.
- Cargo-worthy: certified for ocean shipping, usually priced higher.
- One-trip: used once, looks nearly new, costs closest to new.
For a backyard shed or job-site storage, wind-and-watertight is typically plenty. If you plan to ship the container overseas or build with it, paying more for a higher grade makes sense.
What else changes the price
Location
Containers are cheaper near ports and more expensive inland, where trucking has to be added. Prices also swing with shipping demand and steel costs, so a quote from last year may not hold today.
Features
Standard doors are cheapest. Double doors, open sides, insulation or refrigeration cost more. Browse our insulated containers if you need to control temperature.
Delivery
Plan for delivery of about $2 to $6 per loaded mile, which often means $150 to $500 locally and $1,000 or more for long hauls. This is frequently the surprise cost, so ask for it up front. You can see coverage on our delivery areas page.
One more factor is timing. Prices tend to loosen when supply is high and tighten when ports are busy, so if your project is flexible, ask a seller whether waiting would help. Even so, do not delay a purchase just to chase a small saving, because delivery scheduling can also take days or weeks.
Buying tips for used containers
Before you ask a seller how much do shipping containers cost used, decide what the box must do. A container that sits empty in a field has different needs from one that stores equipment or becomes a workshop. Knowing this keeps you from paying for grade you will not use, or saving money on a unit that fails you in a year. Ask for photos of the actual unit, inside and out. Look at the floor, the roof and the door gaskets. Confirm the grade in writing and request an itemized quote that separates the container, delivery and any fees. If something is unclear, ask before paying. Walk away from anyone who will not show the unit or put the price in writing.
Also think about how you will unload. A tilt-bed truck needs a clear, level path, and a 20 ft box weighs about 5,000 pounds empty, with a 40 ft near 8,000 pounds.
Next steps
Decide your size, choose the grade that fits your use, and request written quotes. You can compare a 40 ft high cube container against a 20 ft if you need more room. When you want pricing based on your location, contact us for a quote, or look at all the shipping containers for sale we offer.
