Where do I buy shipping containers without getting burned? Start with a dealer that shows photos of the actual unit, names the grade and puts a delivered price in writing. The most common mistakes involve skipping those steps. Queen Container sells new and used containers nationwide, and the tips below apply to any seller you consider.
Where do I buy shipping containers? Mistakes to avoid
Mistake 1: Comparing only the sticker price
A cheap container that costs a lot to haul is not a deal. Delivery commonly runs about $2 to $6 per loaded mile, with local drops around $150 to $500 and long trips above $1,000. Compare delivered totals, not lot prices.
Mistake 2: Ignoring the grade
Cargo-worthy means certified to carry freight. Wind-and-watertight means sound for storage but not rated for shipping. Paying for the higher grade when you only need storage wastes money, while buying the lower grade for export can cause trouble. Ask which grade you are getting.
Mistake 3: Buying without current photos
A catalog image tells you nothing about dents, rust or door seals. Request recent photos of the exact container, including the roof, floor and corner posts.
Mistakes with size and site
Mistake 4: Choosing the wrong size
A 20 ft container holds about 1,170 cubic feet and a 40 ft about 2,390. A high cube adds height, about 9.5 ft overall. Measure what you need to store, then add room to walk around inside. Think about future use as well, because a business that grows or a hobby that expands can outrun a small container in a year or two. Many people regret buying the smaller box. Browse our 40 ft double door container if you want a larger option with access from both ends.
Mistake 5: Forgetting site preparation
The truck needs a level, firm spot and a clear approach, often 100 feet or more for a 40 footer. A 20 ft weighs about 5,000 lb empty and a 40 ft about 8,000 lb. Use gravel or concrete blocks under the corners so the doors keep working. Our delivery areas page explains how shipping works.
Mistake 6: Skipping local rules
Some towns and associations restrict containers or require permits. Check before you order, since moving a container later costs money.
Mistake 7: Paying before you have a written quote
Never send a deposit on a verbal promise. A written quote should state the size, grade, condition, delivery address and total price. It protects you, and it protects an honest seller too. If a seller will not put the details on paper, treat that as a warning and move on to the next option.
A quick price reminder
As general ranges, used 20 ft containers cost about $1,500 to $4,000 and used 40 ft about $2,500 to $5,500. New or one-trip units are higher, around $3,500 to $6,500 for a 20 ft and $5,000 to $9,000 for a 40 ft. Your price will vary by location, grade and condition.
So where do I buy shipping containers at a fair price? From a seller who is open about all of the above and quotes in writing.
Next steps
Write down your size, your grade and your address, then ask two or three sellers for a delivered written quote. Browse our storage containers and our full list of shipping containers for sale, or contact us to get a quote.
