If you’ve been thinking about buying a shipping container, now is the best time to do it. Prices are still fairly low, but that won’t last for long. Tariffs that the United States are applying to goods from China are about to make shipping containers much more expensive. Buying now could save you a lot of money later.
What Are Tariffs, and Why Do They Matter?
Tariffs are a form of taxes that governments charge on products coming from other countries. In March 2025, the U.S. raised tariffs on Chinese goods from 10% to 20%. Soon after that, even higher tariffs (up to 145%) were announced for products made in China. So if a company in the U.S. wants to buy something from China, they now have to pay up to 145% more because of the tariff.
Let’s say a company buys a product from China for $100. If there’s a 20% tariff, they now have to pay $120 for that same item. That’s $100 for the product and $20 in tariff tax. If there’s a 145% tariff, they will now have to pay $245 for the same product.
Because it costs the company more to bring the product into the U.S., they usually raise their prices to cover those extra costs. That means most goods coming from China will cost a lot more and the extra cost will get passed down to you, the customer.
As the trade war escalates, the cost of goods will continue to increase. That means if you wait too long to buy a container, you could end up paying hundreds or even thousands of dollars more.
While there’s still a lot of uncertainty about the extent to which this will affect shipping container prices, the knowledgeable team at USA Containers recommends that you buy now to get the best price.
Shipping Containers Are in High Demand
People and businesses are finding new ways to use shipping containers.For example:
Tiny homes—Some people build small, affordable homes out of containers.
Pop-up shops—Businesses turn them into coffee shops or stores.
Storage—Shipping containers are great for storing tools, supplies, or equipment.
Emergency use—Nonprofits and local governments use them for mobile clinics or shelters.
Swimming pools—Shipping containers make great DIY pools
Movie theaters—Stack two containers on top of each other and paint them white for a movie screen
Home gym—All it takes is a shipping container and gym mats for a simple home gym
Because more people want shipping containers for these and other creative projects, demand is going up — and when demand goes up, so do prices.
Prices Are Still Low (For Now)
A few years ago, during the COVID-19 pandemic, shipping container prices went through the roof. Some people paid more than $10,000 for a single container. Prices have dropped since then, and now you can find them for around $2,000 to $5,000 depending on the size, condition, and location.
But with the added tariffs and growing demand, that price will rise again soon. If you buy now, you can still get a good deal.
Delivery Costs Are Also Rising
Buying a container is just part of the cost — you also have to pay to have it delivered. As gas prices increase, delivery costs go up. Getting your container now helps you avoid extra delivery costs.
A Smart Investment
Shipping containers are useful, durable, and hold their value. With prices going up, it’s smart to invest in something useful now and containers are a solid, long-term option.
Don’t Wait to Get Your Container!
With the ongoing trade war, increased gas prices, and rising demand, shipping containers are about to cost a lot more. But for now, prices are still manageable.
If you’ve been thinking about getting one, don’t wait. Buy your shipping container using our Pay Now or Pay on Delivery options to lock in today’s prices.