How much is a 40 ft shipping container? A used 40 ft container typically costs about $2,500 to $5,500, while a new or one-trip unit commonly runs about $5,000 to $9,000, before delivery. Your actual price depends on condition, height, location and market demand. Queen Container sells 40 ft containers nationwide, and each quote reflects the exact unit and where it needs to be delivered.
Standard and high cube 40 ft containers
A standard 40 ft container is about 8.5 ft tall and holds roughly 2,390 cubic feet. A high cube is 9.5 ft tall and holds about 2,700 cubic feet. High cube units often cost a little more, but the extra foot of height helps with racking, tall equipment and home conversions. Weight is about 8,000 lb empty, which matters for delivery and placement.
| Condition | Typical 40 ft price range |
|---|---|
| Used | $2,500 to $5,500 |
| New or one-trip | $5,000 to $9,000 |
These are general market ranges that vary by grade and region. If you want the extra height, take a look at our 40 ft high cube shipping container.
Costs on top of the container price
The sticker price is rarely the final price. Plan for these add-ons before you compare offers:
- Delivery: commonly $2 to $6 per loaded mile, with local drops often $150 to $500 and long hauls $1,000 or more.
- Site prep: a level, compacted surface such as gravel, pads or blocks.
- Taxes and fees: sales tax and local permits may apply.
- Modifications: doors, windows, vents, shelving or insulation.
A 40 ft container also needs generous straight-line clearance for the truck to back in and unload, often much more than the length of the box itself. Walk the route and the drop zone before delivery day.
How much is a 40 ft shipping container compared with two 20 ft units?
Two 20 ft containers usually cost more in total than one 40 ft, but they offer flexibility. You can place them in separate spots, deliver them onto tighter sites and use one for storage while the other becomes a workshop. A single 40 ft box typically gives you a lower price per cubic foot and one continuous space. If you want wide access, a 40 ft double door container opens at both ends, which makes loading long items much easier.
Buying tips for a 40 ft container
- Ask for photos of the actual unit, including the roof and floor.
- Confirm the grade in writing, such as cargo-worthy or wind and watertight.
- Request a delivered price so you can compare offers fairly.
- Check how the truck will unload and whether you need a tilt-bed or crane.
Many buyers ask how much is a 40 ft shipping container before they have settled on a use, but your plan shapes the answer. Storage buyers often accept wind and watertight condition and save money, while buyers planning a conversion, workshop or home usually pay more for a cleaner floor, straighter walls and fewer dents. If you plan to cut openings or add insulation, ask whether the unit is a good candidate, because heavy rust or earlier damage can add repair costs. The cheapest box is not always the cheapest project once freight and preparation are included. Finally, check how quickly the seller can deliver, since availability can affect your timeline.
Next steps
Choose between standard and high cube, then decide whether you need doors on one end or both. If you need temperature control, review the 40 ft insulated container or browse the full shipping containers category. Visit our shipping containers for sale page, then contact us for a quote with delivery included.
