How to Buy a Shipping Container: A Beginner’s Step-by-Step Guide (With Price Tips)

Buying A Shipping Container Here’s something interesting – used shipping containers can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $7,500. And get this – the world’s largest container ships now hold over 20,000 twenty-foot equivalent units.

The range of factors that affect a container purchase often catches newcomers off guard. You might want extra storage space, dream of a container home, or plan to start a business – understanding the simple facts makes all the difference. These steel boxes typically cost between $1,500 and $8,000. The price swings depend on their size, condition, and where you buy them.

Ready to buy a shipping container? Space should be your first priority. A 20-foot container gives you about 160 square feet. The 40-foot version doubles that to 320 square feet with 2,350 cubic feet of storage space. Your location plays a huge role too – the same container’s price can swing hundreds of dollars based on where you make your purchase.

This piece walks you through the must-know details about buying a shipping container. We’ll help you pick the right size and condition, understand what drives the price, and find sellers you can trust. Let’s head over to the key points that make a container purchase worthwhile!

Step 1: Decide Why You Need a Shipping Container

Your specific needs should drive your shipping container purchase. The way you plan to use it and for how long will shape every aspect of your buying decision, from picking the right size to deciding on the condition you need.

Storage, business, or living space?

Shipping containers do much more than move cargo overseas. Storage needs depend on what you’re keeping – equipment, inventory, household items, or documents. Many businesses use containers for secure on-site storage of tools, seasonal inventory, or equipment. These containers protect valuable items effectively because they’re built with heavy-duty, 16-gage corten steel that keeps thieves away.

Businesses can turn containers into pop-up shops, workshops, mobile offices, or self-storage facilities. The containers make great starting points for self-storage businesses. They hold their value better than buildings and need very little upkeep.

A shipping container can become the base for a modern, budget-friendly home. Standard containers give you 160-320 square feet to work with and create comfortable living spaces. But note that the container itself usually makes up less than 10% of your total building costs.

Short-term vs long-term use

Short-term needs under six months – like during renovations, home sales, or seasonal operations – work best with flexible solutions. You’ll find month-to-month rentals that are easy to extend or cancel.

Using containers for longer periods (six months to several years) makes better financial sense for ongoing storage. You’ll get better rates and stability for extended projects. At ftshippingcontainers.com, both options come with free shipping to help you save money.

Buying a shipping container house: what to consider

Container homes come with their own set of factors to think about. Building goes faster because the outer shell exists already. Shipping container homes cost less than traditional construction. Small container homes typically run between $10,000 and $35,000.

Building container homes requires special expertise in metalwork, welding, and foundation prep. You’ll need concrete foundations or piers since containers can’t just sit on the ground. Local zoning laws might have specific rules about container homes, so check those first.

Successful container home projects need professionals who know container modifications. They’ll ensure your home stays structurally sound and properly insulated.

Step 2: Choose the Right Type, Size, and Condition at ftshippingcontainers.com

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The right shipping container selection depends on understanding various types, sizes, and conditions available at ftshippingcontainers.com. The company ships containers free of cost.

Standard vs high-cube vs specialty containers

Height sets standard and high-cube containers apart. Standard containers reach 8’6″ externally, while high-cube containers stand 9’6″ tall. A 40ft high-cube container provides 2,694 cubic feet of space, which is 12% more than a standard 40ft container’s 2,350 cubic feet.

Specialty containers serve different purposes. Open-top containers accommodate oversized cargo, flat racks work for bulky items, refrigerated (reefer) containers handle temperature-controlled shipping, and double-door containers allow access from both ends.

10ft, 20ft, or 40ft: which size fits your space?

The 20ft container serves as the industry standard (TEU – Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit) and offers 1,172 cubic feet of space. This size suits smaller storage needs and limited spaces perfectly.

Larger storage needs call for 40ft containers that provide 2,350 cubic feet. The 10ft container holds 563 cubic feet and fits urban areas with minimal storage requirements.

Space for delivery vehicles matters when picking a size. Containers arrive on tilt-bed trucks at ftshippingcontainers.com, so adequate maneuvering room becomes essential.

New, used, or refurbished: pros and cons

New (or “one-trip”) containers look pristine without dents or rust but cost 30-50% more than used options. These containers work best for projects where looks matter.

Used containers (“cargo-worthy” or “wind and watertight”) pass inspection and maintain structural integrity. They save money while delivering reliable service.

Refurbished containers undergo inspection, repairs, and possible repainting. This option balances cost and condition effectively.

What to look for when buying a shipping container

Key inspection points include:

• Rust and dent levels (expected in all used containers)
• Door operation and seal quality
• Floor and structural integrity
• Corner casting condition (crucial for placement)

Ftshippingcontainers.com backs cargo-worthy containers with a 6-month warranty and refurbished ones with a 1-year warranty.

Step 3: Understand Pricing and Budget Factors

The container you can afford depends on its price. Several factors affect container costs, and buyers should know about them.

Cost of buying a shipping container by size and condition

Container prices depend on their size and condition. A 20-foot standard container costs between $1,800 and $6,500, while a 40-foot standard container costs from $3,200 to $8,300. The 40-foot high-cube containers sometimes cost less than standard 40-foot ones because they’re more accessible to buyers.

The condition makes a big difference in price:

• New/One-trip containers: $5,000-$9,500
• Cargo-worthy containers: $1,300-$6,000
• Wind & watertight containers: $1,800-$4,300
• As-is containers: $1,500-$3,500

How location affects container prices

Location changes container prices in two ways. Living close to major ports like San Francisco means lower delivery costs than inland areas. Local supply and demand can also create big price differences for similar containers.

Extra costs: delivery, modifications, and taxes

Delivery fees usually run around $3,000, but can range from $300 to over $10,000 for remote areas. Site preparation is crucial—you’ll need level, compacted ground, gravel beds, or concrete foundations that add $300-$1,000+ to your budget.

Permits cost between $15-$500 based on your location and how you plan to use the container. On top of that, it costs more to add doors, windows, insulation, or electrical systems.

Tips to get the best deal

Ftshippingcontainers.com sells containers with free shipping, which saves you money. You can get better deals from November to February when international shipping slows down and containers pile up. Make sure to compare prices and check if quotes include delivery, taxes, and other fees.

Used “cargo-worthy” containers are a great value for most projects. Buying multiple containers? Ask about bulk discounts to cut down the cost per unit.

Step 4: Where and How to Buy a Shipping Container at ftshippingcontainers.com

Smart container buying starts with picking the right source that fits your needs. After you know what you want, you’ll need to decide where to buy it.

Where to buy a shipping container: online vs local dealers

Online buying has become more popular, giving you better convenience and ways to compare prices. You can research multiple options from home, get better deals, and look at prices from sellers of all types. Local dealers let you see containers in person before making a purchase. Many local businesses sell containers just as good as national dealers, often with lower price tags.

How to purchase a shipping container safely at ftshippingcontainers.com

The safe way to buy starts with picking your container size and condition at ftshippingcontainers.com. They have many options including standard, high-cube, and specialty containers. Their team will help you discuss specific needs or modifications. Buying is simple – browse what’s available, pick your container, and complete your purchase. Take time to check your container for damage when it arrives.

Why buy from trusted sellers like ftshippingcontainers.com (free shipping)

Trusted suppliers give you quality assurance and expert guidance. Ftshippingcontainers.com includes free worldwide delivery – this saves you money since delivery costs can be high. Their warranty covers 6 months for cargo-worthy containers and 1 year for refurbished ones. Customers love their on-time deliveries and container quality.

Preparing for delivery: space, access, and placement

Good site prep will make delivery smooth. Your level ground needs to support both the container and delivery truck (which can weigh over 45,000 pounds). Remove any overhead obstacles like power lines or tree branches. A 40-foot container needs about 120 feet of clear space for unloading. Mark where you want the container placed and have someone ready during delivery to guide placement.

Conclusion

Buying a shipping container needs you to think about several key factors. Your purpose sets the foundation – whether you need it for storage, business, or living space. This choice will shape all your decisions moving forward. Getting familiar with container types, sizes, and conditions helps you find exactly what you need without spending too much.

Your budget plays a vital role throughout the process. Price differences between new, used, and refurbished containers can get pricey, with gaps of thousands of dollars. On top of that, your location substantially affects both availability and delivery costs. This becomes less of an issue with sellers like ftshippingcontainers.com that offer free shipping.

The right site preparation makes all the difference before you complete your purchase. You’ll need level ground, good access, and solid foundation support to avoid expensive problems during delivery. Even the best container at a great price loses its value if you can’t place and use it properly.

A shipping container ends up being a versatile investment with countless possibilities. The knowledge from this piece helps you direct the buying process and find your perfect container. For top-quality containers with dependable service and free shipping, ftshippingcontainers.com is ready to make your container purchase smooth and satisfying.

FAQs

Q1. What are the main factors to consider when buying a shipping container? The main factors to consider are the container’s purpose (storage, business, or living space), size (10ft, 20ft, or 40ft), condition (new, used, or refurbished), and your budget. Also, consider the delivery location and any necessary site preparations.

Q2. How much does a typical shipping container cost? Shipping container prices vary widely based on size and condition. Generally, a 20-foot standard container costs between $1,800 and $6,500, while a 40-foot standard container ranges from $3,200 to $8,300. New containers are more expensive, while used ones offer significant savings.

Q3. Can I use a shipping container as a living space? Yes, shipping containers can be converted into living spaces. They provide a foundation for modern, economical homes, offering 160-320 square feet of customizable living space. However, remember that the container itself typically represents less than 10% of your total building costs for a home conversion.

Q4. What should I look for when inspecting a used shipping container? When inspecting a used container, check for rust and dents, ensure the doors function properly and seal correctly, examine the floor condition and structural integrity, and verify the corner castings are in good shape. These elements are crucial for the container’s usability and longevity.

Q5. How do I prepare for shipping container delivery? To prepare for delivery, ensure you have level ground that can support both the container and delivery truck. Clear any overhead obstacles like power lines or tree branches. For a 40-foot container, you’ll need approximately 120 feet of clear space for unloading. Mark the exact placement location beforehand and have someone available during delivery to guide placement.