A guide to shipping container costs in 2024

Shipping container cost varies from $500 to $5,000. Read on to learn how much you should spend on different types and sizes of containers. 

Shipping containers offer versatile solutions for growing organizations. As well as forming the backbone of cross-industry logistics by safely and efficiently transporting goods across the globe, containers are used for a range of innovative purposes, including temporary housing, additional storage or office space, and urban farming.

For many organizations, the cost of shipping containers makes buying more cost-effective than renting; as well as being a long-term investment, they provide additional storage space at minimal cost. Shipping container prices fluctuate based on several factors, including size, condition, location, and availability, and with rising demand and an ever-changing market, it can be difficult to understand the various options available. Whether you’re looking for a new container for international shipping or a used one for storage, this guide will provide clarity on the average cost of shipping containers and the factors to consider.

Are you looking for expert advice, or would you like more information about shipping container costs? Complete our online form, and our expert team will help you discover how more than 1,700 of our customers in 2,500+ locations get the best value containers with Container xChange.

The average cost of shipping containers in 2024—at a glance

The cost of shipping containers depends on their weight, age, size, location, and condition. The current average used 20 ft shipping container costs between $1,500 and $3,000, and a new 20 ft container costs between $2,500 and $5,000. Used 40ft shipping containers cost on average $2,000 to $4,500 for standard and $2,500 to $5,000 for a 40 ft high cube, while new 40ft containers cost $3,500 to $6,500 and $4,000 to $7,000, respectively.

Factors impacting shipping container price

Container prices fluctuate based on a range of environmental influences, including fuel and steel prices. Other factors impacting the cost of shipping containers include size, condition, location, and customizations, as well as the type of container. By understanding these core factors, businesses can make more informed decisions and optimize their budget when buying.

Container size: 

Shipping containers range in size from 10 to 53 feet, rectangular or cubed. The smallest standard container size is 10 x 8 x 8.6 ft and the largest, the 53 ft high cube, is 52.9 x 8 x 9.4 ft. Among them, 20 ft, 40 ft, and 40 ft HC containers are the most popular choices; while 40 ft containers offer economy of scale, 20 ft shipping containers cost less upfront and are often more suitable for businesses that are limited in terms of space and budget. 

Container condition: 

Shipping containers can be bought new or in used condition. Used ones are graded based on their condition and may be suitable for on-land use only (e.g., storage, additional temporary space) or suitable for shipping.

Location: 

Location is one of the biggest factors affecting the cost of shipping containers, with proximity to ports and distribution hubs and modes of transportation influencing the final price.

Customizations: 

Modifications such as adding insulation, doors, or electrical systems will increase the overall shipping container cost.

Types of shipping containers:

The container type that you choose will depend on the intended use. They can include reefer (R), side door (SD), double door (DD), flat rack (FT), hard top (HT), open top (OT), and pallet wide (PW). If you are unsure of the type of shipping container that you need, one of our experienced advisors will be able to help you.

New vs used shipping containers: understanding shipping container condition

Containers are built to withstand extreme conditions, so buying a used shipping container is often a smart, cost-effective choice. Minor dents and surface rust are common in used containers but rarely impact their structural integrity, making them ideal for storage or repurposing. When you are buying a shipping container, you can choose from three conditions: new, one-trip containers, cargo-worthy containers, wind and watertight containers, and as-is containers.

Brand new (one-trip) containers

One-trip containers are brand-new containers that have been used for one trip (usually from China) before being sold. They are usually in as-new condition, meaning that they are free of rusts, dents, or other signs of wear, and as well as being seaworthy, they are suitable for long-term storage or modifications, such as office or living accommodation. Offering maximum lifespan, one-trip containers are the most expensive kind, ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 for a 20 ft shipping container up to $4,000 to $7,000 for a 40 ft high cube one.

Cargo-worthy shipping containers

Cargo-worthy (CW) containers will have some wear and tear from use but are still seaworthy. A cargo-worthy shipping container costs on average $1,500 to $5,000 depending on its size.

Wind and watertight containers

Wind and watertight containers (WWT) have been used but are in generally good structural condition with no holes or leaks, which makes them wind and watertight. WWT shipping containers cost less than cargo-worthy ones and are suitable for storage, but will need further inspection to be declared seaworthy.

As-is shipping containers

As-is containers are sold as seen. They have usually been heavily used and are not seaworthy. These are ideal for storing items that are resistant to damage from wind and water. The lowest-priced shipping containers, as-is containers, are useful for additional storage of non-perishable goods.

From price ranges for different sizes and grades to cost-saving strategies, we’ve gathered the most up-to-date information to help you make an informed decision.

Get wholesale shipping container prices on Container xChange

Container xChange, the world’s largest global container marketplace, offers a unique platform to buy and sell shipping containers in 2,500+ locations worldwide. 

Choose from over 100,000 containers at wholesale prices supplied by 1,700+ vetted companies without any commission. 

You can negotiate prices that fit your budget directly with container suppliers and take control of your sourcing process 

But that’s not all; with Container xChange, you can get: 

• Real-time visibility on container prices
• Direct access to vetted sellers and buyer networks globally
• Instant access to quality containers across types, sizes, and locations,
• 7-day money-back guarantee for buyers and guaranteed payments for sellers

We make it easy to secure containers at the best prices. Click on the banner below to find deals you cannot say no to!