How much does a shipping container cost?
How much does a shipping container cost?
$2,000 – $4,500 average cost (20' container)
$2,700 – $8,200 average cost (40' container)
Shipping container cost
A shipping container costs $1,700 to $8,200 on average, depending on the size and condition. A standard 20' shipping container in like-new condition costs $2,000 to $4,000 with delivery, while a 40' container costs $2,700 to $8,000. Custom features like refrigeration or insulation increase the cost.
| Size (L x W x H) | Square feet | Average cost* |
|---|---|---|
| 10' x 8' x 8.5' | 80 | $1,700 – $3,000 |
| 20' x 8' x 8.5' | 160 | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| 20' x 8' x 9.5' (high cube) | 160 | $2,200 – $4,500 |
| 40' x 8' x 8.5' | 320 | $2,700 – $8,000 |
| 40' x 8' x 9.5' (high cube) | 320 | $3,000 – $8,200 |
*For a one-trip shipping container with delivery
Shipping container condition
Shipping containers are classified based on their condition and usage. If you're building a shipping container home, look for a one-trip container. For other purposes like onsite storage, a used container may be more budget-friendly.
| Container condition | Average cost | Circulation age |
|---|---|---|
| One-trip / "new" | $1,700 – $8,500 | Only transported once before sale |
| Cargo-worthy (CW) | $1,300 – $4,500 | Typically 5+ years old |
| Wind and Watertight (WWT) | $1,300 – $4,300 | Typically ranges from 10 to 15 years old |
| IICL | $1,750 – $7,200 | Typically ranges from 2 to 7 years old |
One-trip container
One-trip containers cost $1,700 to $8,500, depending on the size, and are the newest containers available for purchase. They are built overseas and used only once to transport goods to the U.S. before they're put up for sale.
Because one-trip shipping containers make an ocean voyage lasting up to 90 days and get moved around shipping yards with heavy equipment, they may have minor dents and scratches. However, they are typically still in excellent condition and offer the highest level of quality and durability.
Used container
Unlike one-trip containers, used shipping containers have been in circulation to transport cargo for 2 to 15 years. Used containers are classified by their current condition.
Cargo Worthy (CW) containers cost $1,300 to $4,500 and still meet the structural requirements for international shipping by sea, road, and rail. They typically have their original paint with surface rust, scratches, and dents.
Wind and Watertight (WWT) containers cost $1,300 to $4,300. These containers have typically been retired from cargo transport after 10 to 15 years in circulation. They usually have the original paint with surface rust, dents, and scratches.
IICL containers cost $1,750 to $7,200 and meet the strict inspection requirements set by the Institute of International Container Lessors (IICL). These containers have typically only been in circulation for 2 to 7 years and cost more due to their better condition and appearance.
Shipping container sizes
Shipping containers come in 10', 20', and 40' lengths. The exterior of a standard container is 8' wide x 8'6" high. A "high cube" container is 9'6" tall and provides more interior space, allowing for higher ceilings or ductwork when using the container to build a home, office, or ADU.
| Container length | Exterior dimensions (L x W x H) |
Interior dimensions (L x W x H) |
Door opening (W x H) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10' | 9' 10.5" x 8' x 8'6" | 9' x 7'8" x 7'10" | 7'8" x 7'6" |
| 20' | 19' 10.5" x 8' x 8'6" | 19" x 7'8" x 7'10" | 7'8" x 7'6" |
| 20' high cube | 19' 10.5" x 8' x 9'6" | 19" x 7'8" x 8'10" | 7'8" x 8'6" |
| 40' | 40' x 8' x 8'6" | 39'5" x 7'8" x 7'10" | 7'8" x 7'6" |
| 40' high cube | 40' x 8' x 9'6" | 39'5" x 7'8" x 8'10" | 7'8" x 8'6" |
Shipping container dimensions vary slightly by manufacturer. However, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) requires that all shipping containers be built within a few millimeters of the standard dimensions so they can be stacked on container ships.
Shipping container types
Shipping containers come in different types, depending on their purpose. Standard 20' and 40' dry van containers are the most popular type used for onsite storage or for building homes, construction site offices, or temporary classrooms. Other types, like refrigerated or open-top containers, are designed for specific cargo transport needs.
Dry van containers are the most common type and come with either a set of double doors at one end, double doors at both ends or double doors on one side.
Refrigerated containers, also called "reefers", are insulated containers with built-in refrigeration equipment and temperature controls to safely transport perishables and other temperature-sensitive goods. These specialized containers cost $4,000 to $22,000, depending on their condition.
Open-side containers have double doors on one end but feature bi-fold doors instead of a wall on one side. The bi-fold doors are typically removable. These containers are also called "side-access" or "side-opening" containers and typically cost more than standard dry van containers.
Open-top containers are similar to standard dry van containers but have a tarpaulin roof instead of a metal roof.
Flat rack containers are open on the sides and have walls only on each end. These containers can be loaded from the top or sides and are designed to transport oversized goods or cargo with unique dimensions.
Shipping container price factors
In addition to the shipping container size, condition, and type, these other factors affect the cost:
Age & usage history: The container's age has a major impact on the price. Costs are lower for containers that have been in circulation longer, but these older containers typically have more damage, rust, and corrosion.
Modifications & features: Containers with custom features like refrigeration or HVAC systems, electrical outlets, insulated walls, raised flooring, or other modifications cost more than standard containers. Modifications can increase the container's price by $500 to $3,000+.
Location & delivery fees: Container prices vary depending on your location and the distance to the nearest container depot, as the seller must load the container onto a tilt-body or flatbed truck and deliver it. If the delivery involves a flatbed truck, expect to pay extra fees for a crane to lift the container off the truck onsite.
Shipping container FAQs
Where can I buy a shipping container?
Many shipping container dealers sell one-trip and used containers online. To minimize delivery fees, purchase a container from a dealer that has a depot near your location.
Are shipping containers waterproof?
Shipping containers are weather- and water-resistant but not necessarily waterproof. Making the container watertight requires sealing all the interior and exterior surfaces along with any holes created during the construction process.
What are shipping containers made of?
Shipping containers are made from atmospheric corrosion-resistant Corten steel, also called weathering steel or Cor-Ten steel. Corten is a steel alloy that also contains copper, chromium, manganese, and nickel.
How long do shipping containers last?
A shipping container lasts 25 to 30 years with proper maintenance once the container is retired from cargo service. Containers that are still in use for transporting cargo at sea last 10 to 15 years before being retired.
How much is a shipping container home?
A shipping container home costs $25,000 to $80,000 for a single-container house or $80,000 to $250,000+ for a multi-container house. Multiple shipping containers can be stacked on top of each other or placed side-by-side to create a larger home. The total cost depends on the home size, features, number of stories, and interior fixtures and finishings.
A shipping container pool costs $35,000 to $65,000 with delivery and installation.
A shipping container can also be used to build a tiny home or accessory dwelling unit (ADU).
Getting quotes from shipping container companies
Follow these tips to ensure you choose a reputable container dealer or shipping container home builder near you:
Get quotes from at least 3 shipping container companies.
Read online reviews from their previous customers.
Choose a company that has been in business for at least 5 years.
Ask if you can inspect the container in person before purchasing.
Request information about the specific container's history.
Review the company's delivery options and fees.
Questions to ask shipping container dealers
Ask shipping container providers these questions before placing your order:
How many years have you been in the shipping container industry?
What condition is the shipping container in?
What was the container used to transport before it was put up for sale?
Can I inspect the container in person before purchasing it?
Does the container have forklift pockets?
What kind of warranty does it come with?
What customizations or modifications do you offer?
How much do you charge for delivery?
How soon will you deliver the container?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.