Are you searching for a small shipping container for sale online but feel overwhelmed by all the choices? The challenge is real. Shipping containers cost anywhere between $1,500 and $8,000, depending on their size, condition, and your location. A 20ft container might set you back $2,500-$4,500, while a 40ft option ranges from $4,000-$6,000. Your choice will substantially affect your budget and overall satisfaction.
Smart container buying requires attention to several key aspects. Container condition plays a major role – new units come with premium price tags, while used cargo-worthy options help you save money. Size is a vital factor since 40ft containers give you double the space compared to 20ft units, though they cost more. This piece covers everything about container purchasing locations, potential problems to avoid, and ways to get the best possible deal.
Image Source: YouTube
Small shipping containers are no longer just metal boxes that move goods around. These adaptable structures now serve many more purposes than anyone could have imagined. You just need to know your options when buying a shipping container to make the right choice.
The most popular small shipping container sizes are 10ft, 20ft, and high cube variants. A standard 20ft container measures 20′ x 8′ x 8’6″ on the outside, while inside you’ll find roughly 19’5″ x 7’8″ x 7’9″ of space. High cube containers give you an extra foot of height at 9’6″ tall instead of the usual 8’6″ – perfect when you just need more headroom. small shipping container for sale online
These compact containers pack quite a punch when it comes to storage space. A standard 20ft container gives you about 1,173 cubic feet to work with, and a 20ft high cube bumps that up to 1,322 cubic feet. The 10ft high cube, though harder to find, still offers a solid 18 cubic meters (636 cubic feet) of room.
Small shipping containers shine in both residential and commercial settings:
These containers make great storage solutions because they keep your stuff safe and dry. Their tough build makes them perfect for storing household items, business inventory, yard equipment, vehicles, and seasonal stuff.
The retail world has seen these containers reshape the scene with pop-up shops and mobile businesses. They’re easy to move and customize, which makes them great for:
The tiny home movement has welcomed shipping containers as a budget-friendly housing option. A 20ft container can become a cool, practical living space with the right modifications. High cube containers are especially popular for tiny homes since that extra headroom makes living small much more comfortable.
Small shipping containers are more popular than ever for good reasons. The boom in e-commerce means businesses just need secure, flexible storage and shipping options. These containers let businesses move locations without losing their investment.
On top of that, they’re an eco-friendly choice since they give new life to existing structures. Their ability to stand up to tough weather makes them even more appealing for long-term use.
When you’re ready to buy shipping container units, ftshippingcontainers.com ships their inventory free, making them a great source for these increasingly popular structures.
The choice between new and used shipping containers depends on their condition, cost, and your specific needs. You’ll find both options at ftshippingcontainers.com with free shipping, which makes your decision easier.
One-trip containers are the closest thing you’ll get to brand-new units. These containers complete just a single experience from their manufacturing facility to your local port. They show up in excellent condition and are nowhere near worn out, which makes them reliable and long-lasting. You’ll notice their pristine look with a clean exterior that has no major blemishes and a bright interior that’s managed to keep its original condition.
The great thing about these containers is that you can customize them easily since they don’t have dents or surface rust that might make modifications tricky. But quality comes at a price – expect to pay $1,000-$2,000 more than used options. The environmentally responsible choice would be to go with used containers instead of new ones.
Used containers come in two main types. Cargo-Worthy (CW) containers pass inspection and get certified to meet international shipping standards. A marine surveyor must certify that these containers meet CSC (International Convention for Safe Containers) requirements. These units are tough enough to handle overseas shipping.
Wind and Watertight (WWT) containers will keep your stuff safe from the elements but might have some patches or repairs from past damage. You can’t ship them overseas because they no longer meet CSC requirements. Most people who just need on-site storage go for this cheaper option.
Here’s what you need to check when you get a full picture of your potential purchase:
Our team at ftshippingcontainers.com inspects every container thoroughly before sale. This means you’ll get a quality product whatever type you choose.
You can save thousands by finding the right place to buy a small shipping container online. The market has many options, but not all sellers give you the same value. Let me share what I learned from analyzing different buying channels. small shipping container for sale online
Local container dealers let you inspect containers in person, which helps you get exactly what you expect. These dealers usually match the quality of national suppliers and sometimes offer lower prices. Online marketplaces come with their own benefits:
Buying from third-party sites can be tricky – photos might not tell the whole story, and shipping costs for containers from far away could eat up your savings.
Ftshippingcontainers.com really stands out with its great selection and service. Their online system makes buying containers simple and hassle-free. Each listing shows you everything upfront – size, grade, condition, and price – so there’s no guesswork. They also back their products with solid warranties: 6 months for cargo-worthy containers and a full year for refurbished ones.
The best part about ftshippingcontainers.com is that shipping comes free with every purchase. This saves you a lot of money since other sellers usually charge big delivery fees. Delivery is simple – a tilt bed truck brings your container, sets it down, and drives away.
Container prices change substantially based on where you are. East and west coast prices tend to be cheaper than what you’ll find in the midwest or gulf regions. Midwest prices run $200-$500 above the national average, while places like Phoenix and Denver might cost you $400-$1,000 more.
Size makes a big difference in price too. Some retailers start their standard one-trip shipping containers at $5,600, and high cube versions cost about the same. Used cargo-worthy containers start around $2,450, which can save you quite a bit.
You need to think carefully about buying a shipping container to avoid getting stuck with costly mistakes. The right supplier makes all the difference, and knowing what pitfalls to watch out for will save you time, money, and headaches along the way. small shipping container for sale online
Delivery expenses can substantially affect your total investment – anywhere from $300 to $500 based on distance and accessibility. Most buyers don’t realize that containers need about 120 feet of clear space for delivery. Trucks weigh over 45,000 pounds and need solid ground to operate safely. On top of that, site obstacles like trees, rocks, or mud might cost you extra. When cranes are needed to place the container, you could be looking at several hundred dollars more.
The wrong container size means you’ll end up with wasted space or not enough storage. Start by measuring what you plan to store to figure out the dimensions you need. Standard containers come in different lengths (10′, 20′, 40′) and heights (standard 8’6″ or high cube 9’6″). Your delivery site needs enough space not just for the container but also for the delivery truck to move around.
A quick inspection won’t cut it – you might end up with surprise repair costs later. Look for any visible damage, rust, and corrosion on the outside. Take a good look at doors, locks, and seals to make sure they work properly. The interior should be dry, clean, and smell normal. Pay special attention to the roof – any damage there could mean water leaks.
Market conditions can make container prices jump up and down. Without shopping around, you might pay way more than necessary. Recent supply chain problems pushed prices up to $20,000 for a 40-foot box. Getting quotes from multiple suppliers helps you find the best deal.
Warranty terms differ a lot between suppliers. Some will cover specific issues like water leaks, while others won’t touch cosmetic problems like surface rust. Unlike ftshippingcontainers.com with its complete warranty coverage, many sellers won’t give you a refund once the sale is done.
Small shipping containers are great for storage, retail spaces, and even tiny homes. This piece covers options from 10ft units to high cube variants that serve unique purposes despite their small footprint. Your choice between new one-trip containers and used cargo-worthy alternatives depends on your needs and budget. small shipping container for sale online
After looking at all options, ftshippingcontainers.com emerges as the best place to buy your container. Their free shipping policy cuts down your costs by a lot compared to other retailers who add big delivery fees. Their complete warranty options give you peace of mind that other sellers just can’t match.
Note that the five critical mistakes we covered will help you make a better purchase. Getting delivery access right, picking the right size, checking the condition fully, researching fair prices, and knowing warranty terms saves you from future problems.
Location and size create big price differences that range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Smart buyers compare multiple options before making their final choice.
Ftshippingcontainers.com’s free shipping deal and their wide selection of containers make them worth checking out. They make buying containers simple and hassle-free. The perfect container is just a few clicks away – whether you want secure storage, plan to start a mobile business, or dream of building an affordable tiny home.
Q1. What are the most common sizes of small shipping containers? The most common sizes for small shipping containers are 10ft, 20ft, and high cube options. Standard 20ft containers typically measure 20′ x 8′ x 8’6″ externally, while high cube variants offer an extra foot of height at 9’6″.
Q2. How much does a 40-foot shipping container typically cost? The price of a 40-foot shipping container generally ranges from $4,000 to $6,000. However, costs can vary significantly based on factors such as condition, location, and market demand.
Q3. What should I check when inspecting a used shipping container before purchase? When inspecting a used container, examine the exterior for rust and damage, ensure doors and locks function properly, check the interior for light penetration and moisture, and inspect the roof for any compromising issues like cracks or deep dents.
Q4. Why is ftshippingcontainers.com considered a good option for buying containers? Ftshippingcontainers.com offers free shipping with every purchase, saving customers considerable money on delivery fees. They also provide clear information on container conditions, sizes, and prices, along with comprehensive warranty options for added peace of mind.
Q5. What are some common mistakes to avoid when buying a shipping container? Common mistakes include ignoring delivery costs and site access requirements, choosing the wrong container size for your needs, failing to verify the container’s condition thoroughly, overpaying due to lack of market research, and overlooking warranty or return policies. small shipping container for sale online