Cargo containers for sale cost anywhere from $1,300 to $5,000, based on their condition and age. Standard used containers sell between $1,300 and $3,000, while new ones cost $3,500 to $5,000. These prices make sense too, especially given shipping’s economic effect in places like Ohio, where exports reached $59.9 billion in 2022.
The difference between new and used cargo containers goes beyond just price. A standard 20-foot container has a weight of 2,300 kg and carries up to 24,000 kg of cargo. Buyers who need extra space can opt for a 40-foot container that holds up to 67 cubic meters with a maximum cargo load of 26,730 kg. The 40-foot High Cube container provides even more room with roughly 76 cubic meters of space. Cleveland residents and others can choose from 20-foot, 40-foot, and specialized containers to meet their needs.
This piece will help you compare prices and conditions to find the right container in 2025. FTShippingContainers.com sweetens the deal by offering free shipping with every purchase.
New and used cargo containers differ in more ways than just their price. Buyers need to know these differences to make smart choices. Let’s get into what sets these options apart.
The cargo container market offers several grade classifications that show their condition and usage history:
Wind and Water Tight (WWT) containers are the budget-friendly used option. These containers keep their structural strength and protect contents from moisture but show substantial wear on the outside. They work great for storage even if they don’t look perfect.
Cargo Worthy (CW) containers sit in the middle range. These units have their certification that proves they’re strong enough to ship goods worldwide. You’ll see some wear on them, but they work perfectly for both shipping and storage.
One-Trip containers bridge the gap between new and used. They’ve made exactly one journey from their factory (usually in Asia) to their destination. You get almost-new quality with minimal wear at prices that are easier on your wallet than brand-new units.
Brand new containers come straight from the factory, never having carried cargo. They cost more but look perfect and last the longest.
New and used cargo storage containers are a world apart in durability. A new container can serve you 25-30 years with proper care. Used cargo containers might already have 10-15 years of sea service under their belt before becoming storage units.
Quality used containers still offer great value. Shipping companies often retire containers from ocean duty while they still have plenty of life left. These containers can give you 10-15 more years of reliable service as stationary storage.
Maintenance needs are quite different too. New containers barely need any care for their first ten years. Used units might need some immediate attention to fix:
You’ll spot the difference between new and used cargo containers right away by how they look. New shipping containers sport fresh paint, clean interior walls, and pristine wooden floors.
Used containers show their history through:
These looks don’t affect how well most containers work. But if you’re turning one into a retail space or tiny home, appearances matter more.
FTShippingContainers.com ships all containers free, whether new or used. This helps you predict total costs better and often makes higher-grade containers more attractive since delivery is included.
Your choice between new and used cargo containers comes down to matching your budget with what you need in terms of looks, lifespan, and use. Each grade has its sweet spot depending on your project’s needs.
Price makes all the difference when you’re choosing between new and used cargo containers. At FTShippingContainers.com, the price difference between container types shows both their condition and how well they work. Let’s get into what buyers can expect to pay in 2025 for containers of all types.
The 20ft standard container remains the most popular starter option for many buyers. In 2025, used 20ft standard containers in “as-is” condition start at $1,300-$2,000, based on their grade. Cargo-worthy used containers with valid CSC certification cost between $2,000-$3,000.
One-trip 20ft containers hit the sweet spot between new and heavily used options. These units have made just one trip from manufacturing facilities and cost between $3,000-$4,000. This is a great value for buyers who want near-new quality without paying premium prices.
Brand new 20ft standard containers come with the highest price tag, starting around $4,000 and going up to $5,000 for premium specs. You’ll get pristine surfaces, manufacturer warranties, and the longest possible lifespan.
Market trends show prices staying stable throughout 2025, with small changes based on seasonal demand and local availability.
The 40ft high cube container gives you much more volume with extra height, making it perfect for storage and conversion projects. Used 40ft high cube containers in working condition start at $2,200-$3,500, depending on wear and certification status.
Cargo-worthy used 40ft high cube containers with valid certification usually cost between $3,500-$4,500. These units give you great value for shipping when looks aren’t your top priority.
One-trip 40ft high cube containers typically cost between $5,000-$6,500. You get nearly 76 cubic meters of space with minimal wear – perfect for projects where appearance counts.
New 40ft high cube containers sit at the top end, with prices starting at $6,500 and reaching $8,000 if you want custom options. The extra foot of height over standard containers means more interior volume, and that’s why many buyers don’t mind paying more.
Refrigerated (reefer) containers cost more because of their cooling equipment. Used reefer containers that work properly start at $6,000-$9,000, while new units range from $25,000-$30,000 based on specs.
On top of that, specialty containers like open-tops, flat racks, and insulated units come with premium pricing. Used open-top containers start around $4,000, and new ones can cost more than $10,000 depending on specifications.
Dangerous goods containers with special ventilation and security features usually cost 15-25% more than standard containers of similar size and condition.
Making sure all special features work properly is vital when looking at used specialty containers. That’s why many buyers choose to invest more in new units for specific uses.
Many competitors charge delivery fees up to $1,000 or more, but FTShippingContainers.com includes free shipping with every container. This saves you money, especially if you’re in a location that usually faces big delivery charges.
You’ll get free standard delivery anywhere in the continental United States, whatever type of container you buy. This straightforward pricing eliminates the common trick of showing low container prices but adding hefty delivery fees later.
When you compare vendors, remember to factor in potential shipping costs. A $500 price advantage from another vendor disappears fast when they add $800-$1,200 in delivery charges to your final bill.
Getting free shipping is simple – just order through the FTShippingContainers.com website or call their sales team. The price you see includes delivery to your location, so you know exactly what you’ll pay for your container.
Image Source: Onsite Storage Solutions
Cargo storage containers do more than just transport goods. Their tough build and modular design make them perfect for many uses, creating value for businesses and if you have specific needs.
Shipping containers help businesses save money when managing inventory. Since inventory accounts for approximately 25-35% of a small business’s budget, finding affordable storage is crucial. These containers let businesses store seasonal inventory, extra stock, and equipment safely without paying recurring warehouse rental fees. You can place containers in unused outdoor areas to free up valuable indoor space for customer activities. Seasonal businesses benefit greatly because they can move their entire storage setup when needs change.
Construction sites can quickly turn shipping containers into affordable mobile offices. These containers give teams secure, climate-controlled spaces for project management, meetings, and documentation. The containers also work great as break rooms with built-in restrooms. Workers get comfortable spaces while staying productive on-site. Construction companies can easily move their office spaces between job sites without building new facilities from scratch.
More retail businesses now use cargo containers to create unique pop-up stores that cost nowhere near traditional retail spaces. These mobile shops are perfect for e-commerce brands testing physical locations, seasonal sales, and special events like festivals or holiday markets. Real-life examples show that pop-up container shops set up faster than traditional stores. Businesses can design and prepare their container off-site before quickly moving it to the desired location.
Cargo containers are a great way to tackle housing challenges through innovative conversions. With costs ranging from $25,000 to $250,000 based on size and materials, container homes give people affordable housing options. One nonprofit builds shipping container houses for about $75,000 in just six weeks. They focus on helping veterans who need housing. These projects show how repurposed containers help solve homelessness while giving people modern living spaces with large windows, modern bathrooms, and open kitchens.
Buying cargo containers is straightforward once you understand the ordering process and delivery options. FTShippingContainers.com makes container purchases simple. Their customers get exactly what they need quickly.
The website’s inventory lets you browse cargo containers that are available. You can filter containers by size (20ft or 40ft), condition (new or used), and type (standard, high cube, or specialized). Here’s what you need to do after picking your container:
Most customers receive their containers within 5-7 business days after ordering. Delivery times might vary based on stock availability and your location.
You’ll have two main choices for getting your container. Self-pickup works great if you can handle transportation. This option saves time for customers who already have logistics capabilities.
The ground-level delivery option brings containers right to your doorstep. FTShippingContainers.com’s tilt-bed trucks place containers exactly where you want them without needing a crane. The company’s free shipping policy saves you $800-1,200 compared to other vendors who charge extra for delivery.
International shipping containers need proper paperwork. The Convention for Safe Containers (CSC) certification proves your container meets safety standards worldwide. This document shows inspection dates, structural specs, and approval details.
Export certification proves used cargo containers can handle ocean transport. Shipping lines won’t accept containers without valid certification, whatever their condition looks like. FTShippingContainers.com’s cargo-worthy containers come with these certifications. International shippers won’t face any compliance issues.
Making a choice between new and used cargo containers depends on several significant factors. FTShippingContainers.com ships both options free of charge. Your decision boils down to condition and budget rather than shipping costs.
Used cargo containers can save you substantial money. They cost 30-50% less than new models. These containers make sense if:
Wind and Watertight (WWT) containers still work great for most storage needs. They might be 10-15 years old with plenty of markings and some rust, but that doesn’t affect their functionality.
Cargo Worthy (CW) containers give you the best bang for your buck in long-term storage. These units run between $1,500-$5,000 based on size. They keep their transport certification and serve reliably for years.
One-trip containers are another smart choice. They give you almost-new quality with minimal use. This makes them perfect for projects where looks matter.
The final choice really comes down to matching immediate costs with long-term needs. New containers last longer but cost more. Used containers might need repairs later to stay watertight.
Your specific needs should guide the decision. Retail or housing conversions need pristine conditions more than simple storage or construction site offices do.
The choice between used and new cargo containers in 2025 ended up depending on your specific needs and budget constraints after comparing all options. Used containers are without doubt great value deals, especially when you need simple storage and looks aren’t the priority. These units range from $1,300 to $3,000, making them available to most project budgets.
One-trip containers deserve a second look for their sweet spot between quality and cost. They cost more than standard used options but show minimal wear and save you thousands compared to brand-new ones. This middle option works best for retail conversions or housing projects where looks matter.
Budget-smart buyers will like Wind and Water Tight containers that work perfectly despite their cosmetic flaws. People who need pristine conditions for customer-facing uses might find new containers worth the extra investment.
FTShippingContainers.com stands above other sellers with their free shipping policy on everything you buy. Most companies advertise low container prices but tack on delivery charges that can hit $1,000 or more. Small price differences upfront can mean big savings when you add up the total cost.
Cargo Worthy containers give you the best bang for your buck. These certified units run between $1,500 and $5,000 based on size and stay approved for international shipping while serving reliably for years. Their mix of affordability and function makes them perfect for everything from business storage to construction offices.
Shipping containers do much more than just storage these days. Steel boxes now turn into retail spaces, tiny homes, and budget-friendly housing solutions in Cleveland and beyond. Their adaptability and toughness explain why they’re becoming popular in a variety of industries.
Your choice between used or new doesn’t matter as much as buying from trusted sellers like FTShippingContainers.com. They’ll deliver quality products right to your door with no hidden costs. A container isn’t just a quick fix – it’s a smart investment in flexible space that serves you for years.
Q1. When is the best time to buy a shipping container? The best time to purchase a shipping container is typically during major holiday sales events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and the Christmas/New Year period. Container suppliers often offer significant discounts during these times to boost sales and clear inventory.
Q2. Are used shipping containers a good investment? Used shipping containers can be an excellent investment. They are significantly more budget-friendly than new or one-trip containers while still offering impressive durability. Despite previous ocean voyages, these containers usually have considerable life left and come in various condition grades to suit different needs.
Q3. How much does a 40-foot container typically cost? The price of a 40-foot container can vary widely depending on its condition and market factors. Generally, used 40-foot containers range from $1,750 to $3,500. New containers or those with specialized features may cost more.
Q4. What are the advantages of buying from FTShippingContainers.com? FTShippingContainers.com offers free shipping on all container purchases within the continental United States. This policy can result in significant savings, as many competitors charge delivery fees of $800-$1,200. They also provide a range of container options, from used to new, to suit various needs and budgets.
Q5. What types of containers are available for purchase? Containers come in various types and sizes. Common options include 20-foot and 40-foot standard containers, 40-foot high cube containers for extra height, refrigerated (reefer) containers for temperature-controlled storage, and specialty containers like open-tops and flat racks. Both new and used versions of these containers are typically available.