Shipping Container Cost Guide: New vs Used Prices Compared [2025]

Shipping containers cost to buy ranges from $500 for used units to $7,000 for new specialized models. Making the right choice about this investment is vital whether you plan to use it for storage, construction, or business.

Size and condition affect a container’s price by a lot. A used 20ft container costs between $1,500 and $3,000. New ones sell from $2,500 to $5,000. Larger 40ft containers come with different price tags – used ones go for $2,000 to $4,500, while new models cost between $3,500 and $6,500. Your location, customization needs, and market conditions can change these prices.

This piece breaks down shipping container prices in 2025. You’ll learn about new and used options, and what drives their costs. We’ll also show you how to get the best deals on shipping containers, which you can buy with free shipping at ftshippingcontainers.com.

Average Shipping Container Prices in 2025 at ftshippingcontainers.com

Secondly, The shipping container market shows varied pricing based on size, condition, and features. Ftshippingcontainers.com aligns with market trends while staying competitive. Here’s what you should expect to pay in 2025.

20 ft container: new vs used

New and used 20 ft containers have a notable price difference that affects your budget choices. Used 20 ft containers at ftshippingcontainers.com start at USD 1050.00 in wind and watertight condition. These containers work great as simple storage solutions.

New or “one-trip” 20 ft containers cost between USD 2500.00 to USD 5000.00. The higher price brings several benefits:

• Almost no dents or scratches
• Smooth door operation
• Rust-free surfaces
• 25+ year lifespan with good maintenance
• Light-colored paint that helps reduce heat

Used 20 ft containers show signs of wear with dents, rust spots, and doors that might stick. Notwithstanding that, they’re budget-friendly and usually cost USD 1500.00 to USD 3000.00 in the market.

40 ft container: new vs used

Storage needs double with 40 ft containers. Used versions at ftshippingcontainers.com begin at USD 2900.00, making them an affordable option for larger storage requirements.

Market prices for used 40 ft standard containers range from USD 2000.00 to USD 4500.00, varying by condition and location. New 40 ft containers cost USD 3500.00 to USD 6500.00.

New 40 ft containers stand out with:

• Smooth-operating doors
• 10–15° cooler interior than darker used units
• Enhanced airflow through multiple vents
• Built-in forklift pockets for easy moving
• 20–30 years or longer potential lifespan

Many businesses buy containers instead of renting them. A second-hand container purchase can save thousands compared to monthly storage costs.

High cube container pricing

High cube containers stand 9’6″ tall compared to standard 8’6″ height, which explains their premium pricing. A 20 ft high cube one-trip container at ftshippingcontainers.com costs USD 1375.00.

Market prices for used 40 ft high cube containers range from USD 2500.00 to USD 5000.00. New ones cost USD 4000.00 to USD 7000.00. These taller containers work well for storing large equipment or creating workspace.

Ftshippingcontainers.com offers specialized options like:

• Double door containers
• Side door containers
• Refrigerated (reefer) containers
• Open-top options

Location plays a big role in pricing. A used 40 ft high cube container costs USD 1850.00 in Los Angeles and USD 3400.00 in Phoenix due to demand and transport costs.

Note that ftshippingcontainers.com includes free shipping, which helps you avoid unexpected delivery charges and plan your investment better.

New vs Used Shipping Containers: What’s the Difference?

Shipping container prices vary based on their condition. The market offers everything from brand new units to weathered ones, and the price reflects what you get.

New (One-trip) containers

These containers have only made one trip from their factory (mostly in China) to where they’re sold. You won’t find better quality than these in the market.

Key characteristics:

• Almost no dents, scratches, or rust
• Looks fresh from the factory with original paint
• Doors that line up perfectly and work smoothly
• Clean inside without any smells or contamination
• Lasts 25+ years with good maintenance

New containers cost between $3,000-$5,000 for 20ft models and $4,000-$7,000 for 40ft units – about double the price of used ones. The higher original cost makes sense for businesses that need food storage, want to protect sensitive equipment, or care about looks.

The premium containers at ftshippingcontainers.com come with free shipping, which adds even more value to your purchase.

Cargo-worthy containers

Cargo-worthy (CW) containers are the middle-range option. These pre-owned units still meet international shipping standards and have proper certification.

Each container passes inspection to confirm:

• Good structural integrity
• Doors that work and seal properly
• No holes that could let water in
• Strong floors that can handle heavy cargo

You’ll find cargo-worthy containers priced between $1,800-$3,200 for 20ft sizes and $2,300-$4,000 for 40ft options. Their certification means you can use them for both storage and shipping.

Wind and watertight containers

Wind and watertight (WWT) containers are a step below cargo-worthy. They can’t go on ships anymore but work great for storage on land.

These containers will:

• Keep your stuff dry and safe from weather
• Have some dents and surface rust
• Come with working doors that might need extra muscle
• Show their age from years of shipping

WWT containers are popular because they’re affordable. Prices range from $1,500-$2,800 for 20ft and $2,000-$3,500 for 40ft sizes. They hit the sweet spot between cost and function for most storage needs.

As-is containers

As-is containers are at the bottom of the quality ladder. These units show heavy wear, might have structural problems, or damage that affects how well they work.

Look out for:

• Leaks or bad seals
• Heavy rust or corrosion
• Dents that affect use
• Doors that don’t seal right
• Weak spots or damage in the floor

These containers are much cheaper, usually between $500-$1,500 depending on condition. They work best for temporary storage of items that don’t need weather protection, DIY projects, or situations where waterproofing isn’t crucial.

If you’re shopping online at ftshippingcontainers.com with free shipping, ask for detailed pictures of any areas that concern you. This helps ensure you know exactly what you’re getting.

Factors That Affect Shipping Container Cost

The final price you pay for shipping containers depends on several factors. Physical attributes and market conditions play a vital role in determining costs. Let’s look at how you can budget and avoid unexpected expenses.

Size and dimensions

A shipping container’s dimensions affect its price. Standard sizes come in 20ft and 40ft lengths, with standard and high cube height options. You might think smaller containers cost less, but that’s not always true.

The original weight calculation is a vital part of pricing. Heavier cargo needs more space, uses more fuel, and causes more wear and tear. To name just one example, 20ft containers weigh around 4,500 pounds while 40ft containers come in at approximately 8,500 pounds.

Here’s something interesting – 40ft high cube containers sometimes cost less than standard 40ft or even 20ft containers. This happens because sellers usually have more of them available. Market supply and demand creates these unexpected price patterns.

Condition and age

The container’s condition is a big deal as it means that cost varies. Older containers lose value, yet storage-focused buyers still want them.

Three main grades affect pricing:

• One-trip (new): A 20ft unit costs USD 3,500-4,000
• Cargo-worthy (CW): These 5-15 year old waterproof containers range from USD 1,500-4,000
• Wind and watertight (WWT): Older units showing wear cost USD 500-3,000

In fact, newer containers cost 30% more upfront but hold their value better over time.

Location and delivery fees

Your distance from shipping hubs changes container pricing. Containers near major ports usually cost less than those in inland areas.

Delivery costs change based on:

• Distance: Local deliveries (within 30-50 miles) have flat rates. Cross-state transport adds hundreds or thousands of dollars
• Delivery method: Tilt-bed/roll-off delivery costs more but requires no customer effort
• Site accessibility: Poor infrastructure or hard-to-reach locations increase shipping costs

These fees range from USD 300 to over USD 1,000. That’s why ftshippingcontainers.com’s free shipping offer provides great value.

Customization and modifications

Modified containers cost extra. Popular changes include:

• Windows and doors
• Insulation and electrical systems
• Ventilation solutions
• Flooring upgrades

Each change costs differently based on materials and installation complexity. Adding air conditioning for office containers requires significant investment.

Container type (standard, reefer, etc.)

Special containers come with premium prices. New refrigerated (reefer) containers can cost up to USD 18,000, nowhere near standard dry unit prices.

Special types include:

• Double-door containers (doors at both ends)
• Side-open containers for easier access
• Open-top containers for oversized cargo
• Flat rack containers for unusual shapes

Reefer containers might cost USD 1,700 more per 40ft container than standard dry units.

Think over these factors before buying a container from ftshippingcontainers.com. This helps you find the best value and avoid surprises.

Specialty Container Types and Their Prices at ftshippingcontainers.com

_{Image Source: iContainers}

Specialty containers go beyond standard shipping options to provide unique solutions for specific needs. Each specialized unit comes with distinct features and applications that affect its price point.

Double door containers

Double door containers let you access cargo from both ends, which creates a convenient tunnel effect when both doors are open. This design makes loading and unloading much easier, especially for longer items.

A new 20ft double door container at ftshippingcontainers.com costs approximately USD 5499.00. The price runs about USD 400-600 more than standard shipping containers. This makes them a budget-friendly alternative to adding a second door later as a modification.

You can get these containers in both 20ft and 40ft lengths. Delivery takes 3-5 business days for pickup and 15-20 business days for complete delivery. Many suppliers stock these containers in beige and gray colors.

Side door containers

Finally, Side door containers come with openable sections along their length that let you access goods without crawling to the back. These units have standard end doors plus a side opening system with four-leaf doors that open partially or fully.

Side opening containers cost about 40-60% more than standard containers. Their versatility makes this investment worthwhile for many buyers. The side doors split evenly—50% opens to the left and 50% to the right—which gives you flexible access options.

Reefer and open-top containers

Refrigerated (reefer) containers keep temperatures steady between -20°F to 70°F. New 20ft reefer containers range between USD 30,000-40,000 while 40ft versions cost USD 35,000-45,000.

Open-top containers replace conventional steel roofs with removable bows and weatherproof tarpaulins. Used 40ft open-top containers work great for machinery transport since the removable roof allows crane loading from above. These containers have lashing rings to secure cargo during transport.

Flat rack and pallet-wide containers

Flat rack containers feature collapsible or fixed end walls designed for oversized cargo that won’t fit in standard containers. Pallet-wide containers maintain the same external dimensions as standard containers but give you approximately 4 inches (10.2cm) more internal width.

A 40ft pallet-wide container holds 30 Euro-pallets in one tier (5 more than a standard 40ft) or 24 Standard Pallets (3 more than standard). The 45ft high cube pallet-wide container leads the pack in size and fits 33 Euro pallets.

Visit ftshippingcontainers.com to explore these specialty options with free shipping and find the perfect container that meets your needs.

How to Get the Best Deal When Buying a Container at ftshippingcontainers.com

Smart planning helps you find the best deals on shipping containers. You can get great value without cutting corners on quality.

Compare prices by location

In addition, Container prices change a lot depending on where you look. Port cities like Los Angeles sell units $1,500 cheaper than inland locations. Check prices in nearby areas – even with delivery costs, buying from ports saves you money.

Use online marketplaces like ftshippingcontainers.com

Online marketplaces make it easy to shop around. ftshippingcontainers.com is a great example that shows detailed pricing and container specs in one place. This saves you time from asking multiple vendors separately.

Negotiate with sellers

The first price isn’t always the best price. These negotiation tactics work well:

• Ask for discounts on containers with cosmetic damage
• Show them competitor prices
• Ask about end-of-month deals when sellers need to meet quotas

Buy in bulk for discounts

Buying several containers at once usually gets you 5-15% off per unit. You might also get preferred customer status for future purchases.

Check for free shipping offers

Shipping costs add $300-$1,000 to your container purchase. Look for vendors that offer free delivery. ftshippingcontainers.com ships containers free with purchase, which saves you money on your total investment.

Conclusion

Your specific needs and budget constraints will determine the right shipping container choice. Container prices can vary substantially based on size, condition, location, and special features. A new 20ft container at $5,000 costs more than a used one at $1,500 because of quality and longevity differences.

The duration of use and storage requirements should guide your decision. New containers offer clear advantages for long-term investments or sensitive storage needs despite higher upfront costs. Used wind and watertight containers give great value for simple storage needs at a lower price point.

Your location affects the final price. Port cities offer lower container prices compared to inland locations. You could save hundreds or thousands of dollars by comparing prices in different regions, especially with ftshippingcontainers.com’s free shipping offer.

Specialty containers cost more but serve unique purposes. Refrigerated units, side-access containers, and other specialized options are pricier than standard dry boxes. The extra functionality makes them worth the investment for specific business needs.

Container grades make a big difference for new buyers. Cargo-worthy containers differ from as-is units in more than just price – they last longer and work better. A full inspection before buying helps avoid problems later.

Better deals come from negotiating with sellers, buying in slow seasons, or getting multiple units at once. On top of that, free shipping offers from retailers like ftshippingcontainers.com help avoid surprise delivery costs and keep your total investment predictable.

Lastly, These versatile assets serve storage, construction, and business needs well. Good research and planning turn your container purchase into a valuable long-term investment rather than just an expense.

FAQs

Q1. What factors influence shipping container prices in 2025? Shipping container prices in 2025 are influenced by size, condition, location, and customization. New containers cost more but offer better quality, while used containers provide budget-friendly options. Prices also vary based on container type, with specialty containers like refrigerated units commanding higher prices.

Q2. How do prices compare between new and used shipping containers? New 20ft containers typically cost between $2,500 to $5,000, while used ones range from $1,500 to $3,000. For 40ft containers, new units are priced between $3,500 to $6,500, and used ones from $2,000 to $4,500. The price difference reflects quality, lifespan, and condition variations.

Q3. What are the advantages of buying a new shipping container? New shipping containers offer minimal dents and scratches, smooth-operating doors, virtually no rust, and a longer expected lifespan of 25+ years with proper care. They also typically have cleaner interiors and lighter-colored paint that reflects heat better, making them ideal for sensitive storage needs.

Q4. How can I get the best deal when buying a shipping container? To secure the best deal, compare prices across different locations, use online marketplaces for easy comparison, negotiate with sellers, consider buying in bulk for discounts, and look for free shipping offers. Purchasing during sales periods or from port cities can also lead to significant savings.

Q5. What types of specialty containers are available and how do their prices differ? Specialty containers include double door, side door, refrigerated (reefer), open-top, flat rack, and pallet-wide containers. These specialized units are priced higher than standard containers due to their unique features. For example, reefer containers can cost up to $18,000 for new models, while side door containers are typically 40-60% more expensive than standard ones.