How much does a shipping container cost? Typically, a used 20 ft container runs about $1,500 to $4,000 and a used 40 ft runs about $2,500 to $5,500, while new or one-trip units cost more. At Queen Container, quotes depend on size, condition and delivery location, so treat the numbers below as general market ranges rather than a price list.
Prices move with steel costs, shipping demand and your region, so two buyers in different states can get very different quotes for the same box. The goal of this guide is to help you understand what you are paying for before you ask for a quote.
How much does a shipping container cost by size and condition?
Here are the ranges most buyers see across the US market. They are estimates, and your actual price will vary by location, grade and current demand.
| Container | Used | New or one-trip |
|---|---|---|
| 20 ft standard | $1,500 to $4,000 | $3,500 to $6,500 |
| 40 ft standard | $2,500 to $5,500 | $5,000 to $9,000 |
High cube units, which stand 9.5 ft tall instead of 8.5 ft, usually cost a bit more than standard height. Specialty boxes such as insulated or refrigerated units cost more again because of the added equipment and construction.
What drives the price up or down
Four things explain most of the gap between a cheap quote and an expensive one.
- Condition: Dents, surface rust and worn floors lower the price, while cargo-worthy boxes cost more than wind-and-watertight ones.
- Age and grade: One-trip containers have crossed the ocean once and look nearly new.
- Modifications: Extra doors, insulation, windows or shelving add cost.
- Location: Inland buyers often pay more than buyers near a major port.
Do not forget delivery
Delivery is the cost many first-time buyers overlook. It commonly runs $2 to $6 per loaded mile, which often works out to roughly $150 to $500 for a local drop and $1,000 or more for long distances. Check whether your site has room for the truck, and look at the container delivery areas page to see where units ship.
How to decide between new and used
If you need a container for basic dry storage on your property, a used wind-and-watertight unit is usually the best value. If you plan to ship goods overseas, build a home, or want a clean finish, a new or one-trip unit can be worth the premium. A 20 ft box is easier to place and move, while a 40 ft box gives you much more space per dollar. You can see the main options in the shipping containers category.
Whichever route you take, ask for photos of the actual unit, the grade, and the door seals. A fair price means little if the container leaks or the doors will not close properly. Sellers who answer these questions clearly and put the details in writing are usually the ones worth buying from.
Ways to keep your total cost down
Be flexible on condition if the container is only for storage, since cosmetic wear does not affect function. Confirm your delivery address and access early so the driver can quote accurately. Compare quotes in writing, and make sure each one lists the size, grade, delivery fee and any taxes so you are comparing like with like.
Finally, think about site prep, because the question of how much does a shipping container cost should include the ground it sits on. A level bed of gravel or a few concrete blocks under the corners protects the floor and keeps the doors working for years. Skipping this step is one of the most common reasons a good container ends up with sticking doors a year later.
Next steps: get a quote
Asking how much does a shipping container cost is the right first step, and since the answer depends on size, grade and delivery, the quickest way to get a real number is to ask. Browse the 20 ft double door container or the 40 ft high cube container, then send your delivery location through the contact page. You can also explore all the shipping containers for sale to compare sizes side by side.
