Shipping containers for sale in St. Louis, MO

Industries that frequently use these containers include:

• Manufacturing: For transporting machinery, automotive parts, and raw materials.
• Agriculture: Missouri’s grain and soybean exporters rely on larger containers for bulk shipments.
• Logistics: Firms use these containers to connect goods between the port and national destinations.
• Construction: For storing and moving large equipment and building materials.
• Retail/wholesale trade: Businesses handling bulk inventory like furniture and electronics.

These industries rely on the additional capacity and height of 40ft and high-cube containers to streamline their operations.

1. Handling Fees: Charges for loading/unloading containers, varying by size (e.g., 20ft or 40ft containers) and type (e.g., refrigerated).
2. Dockage Fees: Fees are based on how long vessels dock at the port.
3. Storage Fees: If containers exceed the free storage period, businesses will face demurrage or detention charges.
4. Drayage Fees: Fees for moving containers within the port or to nearby locations, often depending on transport mode.
5. Customs Fees: Additional costs for inspections or customs holds.

For more information on port fees and specific charges, visit the official website of the Port of St Louis.  

• Cargo volume: For smaller loads, a 20ft container may suffice, but a 40ft or high-cube container is more cost-effective for larger shipments.

• Container condition: Decide which condition (new or cargo-worthy) is apt for your cargo. New containers, also known as one-trip containers, are more durable and require less maintenance, but used containers can be more budget-friendly and usually quite durable too.
  
• Budget: Different container sizes come with varying costs. Businesses must understand and be clear about their budget and their shipping needs. Sometimes, larger containers like the 40ft can be more cost-effective than two 20fts due to their prevalence.
• Storage space: Ensure the container size fits your available storage areas or warehouse capacity.

By considering these factors, businesses in St Louis can select the most efficient shipping container size for their logistical and storage needs.

Here’s how to get started:

• Search by size and location: Look for popular options like 20ft and 40ft containers, which are generally the most affordable due to their wide availability.
• Compare pricing trends: Container xChange provides real-time data, so you can track local price fluctuations and secure the best deal when demand is lower.
• Consider your specific needs: If you need more space, high cube containers, which offer extra height, can still be a cost-effective option.
• Leverage St Louis’ logistics: With easy access to major highways like I-70 and I-55, along with railways and the Mississippi River port, you can reduce transportation costs, further increasing savings.

By regularly monitoring prices on Container xChange, you can ensure you’re getting the most value for your money in the St Louis area.

1. Cheaper inland waterway transport: When using the Mississippi River, the port enables cost-effective shipping of large volumes of goods via barges, which is cheaper than trucking or rail transport. Barges can carry more containers at a lower cost per ton-mile, reducing overall shipping expenses, especially for bulk goods like agriculture and raw materials.
2. Reduced overland transportation costs: St Louis’ location along the river allows businesses to minimize the need for longer overland transport routes, such as by truck or train, which tend to be more expensive. Containers can move more efficiently between the port and intermodal hubs, cutting down on fuel and labor costs.
3. Access to Gulf Ports: The Mississippi River provides direct access to the Gulf of Mexico, making it easier and cheaper for businesses in St Louis to connect with international shipping routes. This reduces costs for businesses exporting or importing goods to and from global markets.

By leveraging the river’s strategic position, businesses can significantly lower their overall container shipping costs.

• Post-Chinese New Year (March to April): After factories in China shut down for Lunar New Year, container flows stabilize, and a temporary surplus often reduces container prices.

• Late Spring and early Summer (May to June): Before the summer construction and retail rush, container demand typically drops, making this a favorable time to buy.

• Post-harvest season (late fall): In agriculture-heavy areas like Missouri, demand for containers spikes during harvest (August to November). After the season ends, prices often fall due to reduced container needs.

Avoid buying during late summer and fall (July to November), as this is when demand for containers surges due to the retail season and agricultural exports. Additionally, major holidays like Black Friday, Christmas, and Golden Week (October) also drive up container prices.

• Refrigerated (reefer) containers: Ideal for businesses transporting perishable goods, such as food or pharmaceuticals. With St Louis being a hub for agriculture and food distribution, reefer containers are commonly used for cold chain logistics.
• Open-top containers: If you’re handling oversized equipment or construction materials, open-top containers offer flexibility for easy loading, particularly useful for industries in manufacturing and construction.
• Flat rack containers: Perfect for transporting heavy machinery or vehicles. Given Missouri’s strong industrial base, flat racks are a great option for businesses moving large equipment.
• Tank containers: Best for companies handling bulk liquids, chemicals, or fuel. Missouri’s central location makes tank containers essential for transporting liquids across the region.

By investing in the right specialized container, you ensure safe, efficient handling of your goods while leveraging St Louis’s robust logistics network.

For comparison:

• A 20ft container can hold up to 50-60 refrigerators or 200 full-sized mattresses. It’s ideal for smaller cargo like household items, machinery, or small shipments.
• A 40ft container can accommodate up to 100 refrigerators or 400 mattresses, making it more efficient for larger volumes or bulky cargo​.
  

In terms of space efficiency:

• The 40ft container is more efficient for larger shipments, helping reduce transportation costs by maximizing cargo per trip.
• The 20ft container is more practical for smaller shipments or for businesses with limited storage space, which may be relevant in urban areas like St Louis.

Choosing the right container size depends on your specific cargo needs and available storage space.

Buying is best for long-term use:

• Cost-effective: Cheaper in the long run if you need containers for consistent use.
• Always available: Useful for businesses with regular shipping via St Louis’ logistics hubs (port, railways, highways).
• Customization: Easier to modify for specific purposes.

Renting is best for short-term or seasonal needs:

• Flexible: Ideal for temporary projects like construction or agriculture during harvest season.
• No maintenance: Avoid repairs from St Louis’ extreme weather conditions.
• Lower upfront cost: No large initial investment, perfect for short-term needs.

The Container xChange marketplace offers both rental and purchase options, giving you the freedom to choose based on your needs. The marketplace provides a wide range of containers, helping you make the right decision for short-term flexibility or long-term investment. For more information on buying vs. leasing, head to our blog on how to buy a shipping container.

• Pristine condition: New containers are free from rust, dents, and structural wear and tear, making them ideal for transporting sensitive or high-value goods, like medical supplies or food products.

• Longer lifespan: In Missouri’s varying climate, new containers are better equipped to handle extreme weather, ensuring a longer lifespan and reducing long-term maintenance costs.

• Customization potential: If you plan to modify the container for specific uses (like adding insulation or electrical systems), a new container offers a better foundation for durable customizations.
• Regulatory compliance: New containers meet the latest ISO standards and are less likely to encounter issues with global shipping regulations, saving time and avoiding delays.

However, if your business can manage with minor cosmetic imperfections or prior use, a used container may offer a more cost-effective option. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your specific operational requirements and budget​.