Shipping container store: Benefits & popular ideas [+how to find containers for shops

Shipping container stores offer a cost-effective and unique alternative to traditional shops. Find out the uses of container shops, get new ideas, and know how to source containers at low prices in 2,500+ locations easily.

To build a shipping container store, you need to buy containers at low prices. Not only does this reduce your raw material acquisition costs, but it also leaves more funds to invest in container modifications. 

One easy way to get low-cost containers is through the Container xChange marketplace, where you can access 100,000+ containers in 2,500+ locations globally. All sellers on our platform are vetted, so you can ensure you’re engaging in safe business transactions. 

Simply use the public search below to browse and compare offers that fit your budget and requirements today.

Find containers to build a shipping container store 

If it’s part of your business to create shipping container stores or do other container modifications, you know how important it’s to get containers at the best prices. On the Container xChange trading marketplace, you can choose from 100,000+ containers. Here are the benefits of choosing xChange over your local sourcing channel.

-Vetted suppliers: All our members undergo a mandatory background check before they join our platform. Every supplier has a public profile with reviews and ratings visible, so you can be sure you’ll find the containers you need without worrying about shipping container scams.

-Negotiable prices: Once you’ve found the right seller, reach out to them directly through the marketplace to negotiate the final container price. It’s quicker and more convenient than pursuing sellers via emails and phone calls.

-Safe payment: We understand that it can be quite intimidating to make payments to new partners. That’s why we’ve introduced standard container definitions and xChange wallet. Once you’ve set the terms with the seller, we secure your payment for 7 days to allow you to inspect the container. If you are unsatisfied, you’ll get your money back.

Want to check out containers for your store projects in your location? Simply click the banner below to get started!

What are container stores? 

Shipping container stores are innovative retail shops built using shipping containers. These shops offer a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to the traditional spaces, often with a unique, industrial aesthetic. They’re popular as shipping container retail stores, pop-up shops, and flexible retail solutions for established brands.

What are the uses of a shipping container shop? 

Here are some of the most popular uses of shipping container shops.  

-Brick-and-mortar expansion: Container stores can easily be added to existing brick-and-mortar structures as a container storefront to provide extra space for seasonal products, promotions, or quick expansion without needing permanent construction.

-Shipping container pop-up store: You can easily modify a container into a shipping container pop-up shop. Pop-up shops offer mobility and flexibility for seasonal events, weddings, and corporate settings. Businesses can quickly set up shop at high-traffic locations, like beaches in summer or outdoor ice rinks in winter, to maximize visibility and sales.

-Test stores: A shipping container shop is perfect for testing new markets, especially for start-ups. They allow businesses to gauge customer interest with a low-cost, temporary setup before committing to a permanent location, minimizing your financial risk.

Storage container shop: Shipping containers provide excellent storage solutions, offering extra storage space for inventory or seasonal items. Their durable, weather-resistant design makes them ideal for businesses needing both retail space and on-site storage.

Shipping container shopping mall: Container shopping malls are built by stacking multiple containers, each leased to different retailers. These modular malls allow for flexible layouts and easy expansion and offer a unique shopping experience to customers.

To use shipping containers for any of the above-mentioned use cases, you need to keep your container procurement cost to a minimum. Read on to know how you can do that with xChange. 

How much do shipping container shops cost?

Shipping container shops typically cost anywhere between $10,000 and $50,000, depending on the modifications, size, and finishes required. The price largely depends on the container itself, with additional costs driven by custom features like insulation, windows, and interior design.

For building container stores, you can opt for new or cargo-worthy containers. The price of a new 40ft container is $3,350 in Chicago. However, a cargo-worthy unit will only cost you $1,350 in Houston. Find more offers on shipping containers for sale in Houston here.

If you’re looking to build a smaller store, opt for 20ft containers. The average price of a new 20ft container is $2,110 in New York, and the price of a cargo-worthy container is $1,380 in Los Angeles. 

Want to check out offers in your preferred location? Click the banner below to choose from 100,000+ containers at wholesale prices.

Benefits of a shipping container store

There are multiple benefits of setting up a Conex box shop, like less investment, fast turnaround time, and portability. Let’s explore this in detail below.

Low initial cost

Shipping container stores offer a lower initial cost than traditional retail spaces, making them a budget-friendly option for startups and small businesses. Their affordability allows for quicker setup and a lower financial commitment. 

Fast turnaround time

Building a container store offers a fast turnaround time, enabling you to set up and start operations quickly. This efficiency helps you get your business up and running without lengthy construction delays.

Portable 

The portability of a container store allows you to relocate your business operations to different locations as needed conveniently. This helps you reach new markets and adapt to changing conditions with minimal hassle.

Customizable

Container stores offer incredible versatility, and you can choose from different container shop ideas like shipping container retail shops, mobile stores, clothing and merchandise outlets, or even bookstores.

Retailers also have the option to stack and combine containers, creating a visually appealing shipping container store with a rooftop deck. Additionally, the interiors of these containers are highly adaptable, supporting a wide range of design styles and project requirements to perfectly match your business vision.

Increased brand awareness 

You can create a unique and eye-catching space using a shipping container, helping to boost brand awareness. Several companies have already leveraged this approach, attracting more customers with their standout designs and memorable retail experiences. Let’s explore this in the next section. 

Popular examples of shipping container shop ideas 

Here are some popular companies that have used shipping containers as stores for their businesses. 

Superdry 

Superdry, an internationally recognized fashion brand, utilized shipping containers to create flexible retail units in the US. The brand used two 20ft containers that could be easily transported between different pop-up locations worldwide, allowing them to seamlessly adapt to various markets while maintaining their signature style.

Aether 

Aether’s flagship store in Hayes Valley, San Francisco, is a unique concept space crafted from stacking three 40-foot shipping containers. The standout design features a custom glass-encased cantilevered lounge, reclaimed oak floors, and a belt-driven conveyor system. This critically acclaimed store showcases how creative container architecture can deliver a memorable retail experience.

Evergreen Brick Works 

The Welcome Hut at Evergreen Brick Works is a 98-square-foot sustainable space crafted from a single container and other reclaimed materials. This vibrant, green structure, outfitted with barn-like doors and a bumped-out steel frame window, serves as a welcoming hub for visitors.

Now that you know how some popular brands are using containers for their shops, let’s explore how you too can convert a shipping container into a functional store. 

How to build and customize container stores?

Building and customizing a container store starts with selecting the perfect-sized container for your project. Once you have that at hand, you select or conceptualize a design that aligns with your desired aesthetic. This can be a minimalist look, an industrial vibe, or a vibrant pop-up style. You can also customize the shipping container storefront to include glass or a wide gate to welcome customers.

Once you choose the design, you’ll need to plan for essential elements like ventilation units, plumbing, and electrical setups. Depending on your business or your client’s needs, you may also need to include features like shelves for retail displays and specialized storage for perishable goods.

In all of this, the most important factor to consider when building your container store is to buy containers from a reliable supplier at low prices. That’s where xChange can help you. Let’s see how. 

Buy containers for a store from vetted suppliers on xChange

Finding containers for your next shipping container store modification is easy on the Container xChange marketplace.

All you have to do is select the container type and condition you want. Then, browse through multiple offers from vetted sellers. Once you find a good deal, connect directly with the seller to negotiate prices and purchase containers at the best rates. 

Here are some other benefits of joining xChange over traditional sourcing channels.

• Gain access to a wide selection of containers available online, ensuring a continuous supply of containers. By subscribing to our platform, you can easily buy containers whenever they are needed in your desired locations. This way, you save on container storage costs and can spend money on modifications instead.
• Unhappy with the containers on inspection? You’ve got 7 days to return them and get your money back. Because your satisfaction is our top priority.
• If you’re tired of buying containers for high prices, it’s time to cut out the
  middleman. On our platform, connect directly with the sellers and buy units at wholesale prices. We don’t charge any commission on your deals! 

Here’s what Jérémy, the co-founder of MG-Atlantic, a new player in the container trading market, has to say about xChange:

“xChange helped us understand market prices for buying containers and provided a central place to find good opportunities. We now use xChange more and more.”

Do you also want to find good container deals for your next container store project? Simply click the banner below to choose from 100,000+ containers in 2,500+ locations globally. 

Shipping container stores: Common FAQs

What is the cost of a shipping container?

The average cost of a 20ft cargo-worthy container is $1,570 in the US. The price of a 40ft cargo-worthy container is $1,740. The price depends on the size and condition of the containers.

What can you store in a shipping container?

Shipping containers can store a variety of items, from inventory and tools to equipment and furniture, making them a versatile solution for both business and personal storage needs.

Where to store a shipping container?

A shipping container can be stored on private property, in a designated storage yard, or in a rented lot, ensuring it's placed on level ground with sufficient space for easy access and ventilation.