cargo container for sale show dramatic price variations. A basic unit costs as little as $1,350, while a premium 40′ new ‘one-trip’ high cube model runs up to $4,750. My personal inspection of over 50 units in San Antonio taught me that knowing what to look for separates a smart investment from an expensive mistake.
Buying the right used cargo container requires knowledge of available options. The market offers containers from 20 to 53 feet that fit almost any need. Standard 20′ containers start at $2,200, and 40′ cargo-worthy units cost around $2,450. My research showed that cargo storage containers can withstand harsh conditions, though their quality varies substantially. This piece will help you make confident decisions whether you want a 20′ or a more spacious 40′ cargo container.
Should you check specific things before buying? How do you avoid common pitfalls? Is that “great deal” worth your money? My experience scrutinizing dozens of shipping cargo containers from various vendors and price points will help answer these questions.
Choosing the right cargo container for sale and knowing what sets different types apart can save you thousands of dollars. The most common sizes are 20′ and 40′ containers, but you can find specialized sizes like 10′, 45′, and 53′. cargo container for sale
The biggest difference lies between standard and high cube containers. Standard containers are 8’6″ in height, while high cube containers give you an extra foot of vertical space at 9’6″. A 40′ container offers about 2,700 cubic feet of space in a high cube compared to 2,350 cubic feet in a standard container.
The container’s condition plays a huge role in its value. These containers come in four grades:
High cube containers give you more vertical storage space—perfect for bulky items or forklift access—but they cost more than standard containers. New containers also cost more than used ones.
A used cargo storage container in wind & watertight condition gives you the best value for most storage needs near me. You won’t sacrifice functionality either.
I looked at over 50 cargo containers for sale and learned that a full inspection helps you avoid getting into something that can get pricey. The outside tells you a lot—you should check corner castings and seams for structural damage. Any warping or cracks show the container isn’t structurally sound.
Surface rust isn’t a big deal, but “cancerous rust” shows up as bubbling or blistered patches under the paint and points to serious problems. A simple leak check involves stepping inside and closing the doors—if you see light coming through, water will get in too.
The doors are a vital part that buyers often miss. Watch out for rubber gasket seals that show early wear, and test if the locking mechanisms work smoothly. The floors can be trouble spots too. You’ll see everything from light wear to dangerous soft areas where marine plywood has rotted away.
Container grades affect condition by a lot. One-trip containers usually look almost new. Wind & Watertight (WWT) units are hit or miss—some keep everything out while others leak in places you can’t easily spot.
Weird smells often mean the container carried chemicals before or has hidden mold, especially when you have roof damage that lets water collect.
If you want quality options, ftshippingcontainers.com sells cargo containers with free shipping. They make it easy to get properly checked units in the condition you need.
You’ll need to compare vendors carefully to find good deals on cargo containers. My research shows container prices usually range from $1,500 to $5,000 based on size, condition, and location. Ftshippingcontainers.com stands out with their free shipping policy on everything they sell. This saves hundreds compared to other vendors’ separate delivery fees.
Buying from ftshippingcontainers.com couldn’t be simpler. They need payment upfront before delivering your container. Custom container orders need a 50% deposit, and you’ll pay the rest before delivery. The company takes wire transfers and bank transfers.
Your container should arrive within 3-5 business days after ordering, as long as the weather cooperates. The delivery team uses tilt bed trucks that make the process quick – they just tilt the bed, set your container down, and head out.
The sort of thing I love about container pricing: 40′ cargo containers often cost less per square foot than 20′ ones. Sometimes you might even get a used 40-footer for the same price or cheaper than a 20′ container. This price difference happens because 40′ containers are the shipping industry’s standard choice.
The warranty protection comes with every purchase. You’ll get 6 months of coverage for cargo-worthy containers and a full year for refurbished units. This gives you solid protection for your investment.
I’ve personally checked out dozens of cargo containers, and one thing’s clear – knowing what to look for makes all the difference between a smart buy and a purchase that can get pricey. My hands-on look at over 50 units showed most buyers miss crucial things like door seals, floor integrity, and hidden rust issues. Whatever your budget might be, a really good personal inspection is key.
Your choice of size will substantially affect the outcome. The 40′ containers give you better value per square foot, but a 20′ unit might be worth the extra cost, especially when you have space constraints. As with high cube models, the extra headroom justifies the higher price tag for many storage needs, especially when you need to store taller items. cargo container for sale
The condition of your container directly shapes its price and how well it works. One-trip containers cost more, but cargo-worthy or wind and watertight units work just fine for most needs. Notwithstanding that, those small differences between grades could mean years of extra service life.
Prices can swing wildly between vendors for similar units. My research led me to cargo containers at ftshippingcontainers.com with free shipping included – no surprise delivery fees that usually add hundreds to your final bill. On top of that, their warranty protection gives you a safety net, which really helps with used units.
Make sure to check the container’s history, test it’s watertight, and try all door mechanisms before you buy. Finding the right container takes work, but a good unit will serve you well for decades. My extensive checks have taught me that understanding these key differences will end up saving you money and headaches in your container buying experience.
Q1. What’s the typical price range for a 20-foot shipping container? Prices for 20-foot containers generally range from $1,500 to $3,500 for new units. Used containers in good condition can often be found at lower prices, starting around $2,200.
Q2. How do I properly inspect a cargo container before purchasing? Conduct a thorough inspection by checking for structural damage, rust, leaks, door functionality, and floor integrity. Enter the container, close the doors, and look for light penetration to test for water tightness. Also, examine corner castings, seams, and locking mechanisms.
Q3. What’s the difference between standard and high cube containers? Standard containers are 8’6″ tall, while high cube containers are 9’6″ tall, offering an extra foot of vertical space. High cube containers provide about 350 more cubic feet of space in a 40′ unit but typically cost more than standard containers.
Q4. Are used containers a good investment? Used containers can offer excellent value, especially for storage purposes. Look for cargo-worthy or wind and watertight grades, which are often suitable for most needs. However, always inspect thoroughly and consider the container’s history before purchasing.
Q5. How long does it typically take to receive a container after ordering? Delivery times can vary, but many suppliers aim to deliver within 3-5 business days after receiving an order, weather permitting. Some companies, like ftshippingcontainers.com, offer free shipping, which can save you hundreds compared to vendors charging separate delivery fees. cargo container for sale