How Much Does a Shipping Container Cost?

Understanding the factors that influence shipping container costs is an essential part of making an informed purchasing decision. In this guide, we break down the factors that affect shipping container pricing to help you understand what contributes to the cost. Taking these factors into consideration will make sure you get the best value for your money when buying a used or new (one-trip) container from USA Containers .

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Factors That Affect the Cost of a Shipping Container

Several key factors affect the cost of a shipping container, including size, condition, special features, modifications, and delivery costs:

Container Size

The size of a shipping container is a major factor in determining its cost. Standard shipping containers come in 20’ and 40’ lengths and are available in standard (8’6”) and high cube (9’6”) heights. You might find companies advertising shorter or longer lengths, but anything other than 20’ and 40’ containers are specialty containers and generally come at a much higher cost. Typically, 40’ containers are more expensive than 20’ containers, but the price difference is not as much as you might expect. If you have space for a 40’ container and don’t mind paying a little more money for twice the space, be sure to ask your sales agent for current pricing or click here to compare costs .

Types of Containers

Different types of containers are available, including standard shipping containers and specialized units like containers with side doors or doors on both ends, refrigerated containers (reefers), or flat rack containers. Specialized containers will always be more expensive than standard shipping containers. At USA Containers , we don’t sell refrigerated containers or flat rack containers, but we have new (one-trip) containers
with doors on both ends in our inventory and can source containers with side doors for our customers (though these come at a premium price).

Condition of the Container

Shipping containers are available in used and new condition. New (one-trip) containers will be more expensive than used containers of the same size. Containers purchased from USA Containers are inspected at the depot to be sure there are no holes in the container, the floors are in good shape, and the doors work properly. They come with a 10-year frame/structure warranty and a lifetime wind and watertight warranty! Don’t be fooled by companies offering used containers at a significantly lower price. Often, these containers are “as-is” containers without a warranty. Be sure to read their terms and conditions to see if that is the case before spending your hard-earned money. Another sneaky tactic used by other companies to convince you to buy at different price points is assigning a “grade” to used containers. Containers that have been decommissioned and sold as used containers are no longer assigned a letter grade and prices between reputable companies should generally be within several hundred dollars of each other when comparing “apples to apples.”

Container Modifications

Custom modifications will have a significant impact on the cost of a shipping container. We can customize containers by adding doors, windows, vents, lock boxes, insulation, dividing walls, etc. We can also paint containers for customers. Reach out to your sales agent for an estimate on container modification costs.

Delivery Costs

The cost of delivery will also affect the overall price. Standard delivery costs are calculated based on the distance from the depot to the delivery location, but delivery costs may vary depending on special circumstances. If our driver needs to take a ferry to get to your location, for example, the cost of the ferry would be added to our standard delivery fee.

How Much Will Your Shipping Container Cost?

How Much Will Your Shipping Container Cost?

Request Quotes

Contact reputable suppliers like USA Containers to get detailed quotes. Be sure that the quotes list all relevant factors, including size, type, condition, modifications, and delivery costs so you can compare “apples to apples.”

Compare Options

Compare not only the overall cost, but also the quality and value of the containers each company is offering you. Do they offer a wind and watertight warranty or are they trying to sell you an “as-is” container for the price they quoted you? Are they only offering you a 20’ container when you can get twice the space by buying a 40’ container for not much more money?

Consider Long-Term Value 

Think about the durability, longevity, and potential resale value of the container. Sometimes the higher upfront cost of a new (one-trip) container can be justified by its like-new condition and longer lifespan. New (one-trip) containers are more likely to have better resale value than used containers as well. The overall price of a shipping container is based on a number of factors, including size, type, condition, modifications, and delivery costs. At USA Containers , we are dedicated to providing detailed information and competitive pricing. Whether you need a standard container or a customized solution, our team is here to help you understand the costs and find the best option for your needs. Click here for an automated quote or call us today at 1-800-304-0981 to discuss your container purchase with one of our experienced sales agents.

USA Containers

Measurements of Our 20 and 40 ft Shipping Containers

FAQs About Shipping Container Costs

What factors affect how much a shipping container costs?

The cost of a shipping container is influenced by several key factors, including size, condition, type, and any custom modifications. For instance, the price of a shipping container increases with size; a larger container generally costs more. The condition of the container—whether it’s new, used, or refurbished—also affects the price. Specialized containers, such as refrigerated or high-cube units, have higher costs compared to standard models. Additionally, custom features and modifications can impact the overall cost. To understand how much a shipping container costs for your specific needs, consider all these variables.

How can I find the best prices for shipping containers?

To find the best prices for shipping containers, start by obtaining quotes from multiple suppliers. Look for detailed quotes that include not only the cost of the container but also any additional charges such as delivery and modifications. Comparing quotes from different companies will give you a clearer picture of how much a shipping container costs in the current market. Additionally, consider reaching out to USA Containers for competitive pricing and comprehensive information on how much a shipping container costs, tailored to your needs.

What is the typical cost range for different types of shipping containers?

The cost of shipping containers varies widely based on type and size. Generally, a 20-foot standard container costs between $2,000 and $4,000, while a 40-foot standard container ranges from $3,500 to $6,000. High-cube containers, which offer extra height, typically cost between $4,000 and $7,000. Refrigerated containers, designed for temperature-sensitive goods, can range from $10,000 to $25,000. Understanding how much a shipping container costs for each type will help you choose the best option based on your requirements.

How do additional features and modifications impact the cost of a shipping container?

Additional features and modifications can significantly increase the cost of a shipping container. Customizations such as insulation, shelving, ventilation, or extra doors add to the overall price. When calculating how much a shipping container costs with these modifications, be sure to factor in these additional expenses. At USA Containers, we offer various customization options and can provide detailed quotes to help you understand how these enhancements affect the total cost of your shipping container.