shipping container chassis for sale can be a major financial decision for any logistics operation. You might want to think about the Chassis King Model DD-432 with its 24″ center deck height or a GN-302 30 GN tandem axle Container Chassis. The market’s options can seem overwhelming. The decision often boils down to a simple choice: used or new?
Container chassis investments need careful evaluation of both upfront costs and future value. Our website ftshippingcontainers.com offers both used and new models from leading manufacturers, and we ship them free. Your choice between a pre-owned chassis or a new one ended up depending on your operation’s needs and budget limits.
This piece breaks down the financial impact of both options. We’ll help you figure out which choice—used or new—saves more money when you buy a container chassis. The complete picture includes everything from purchase price to maintenance costs, giving you the facts you need to decide.
A container chassis is the backbone of intermodal shipping – a specialized wheeled frame that carries shipping containers on roads. This equipment creates a vital connection between sea, rail, and road transportation networks, letting containers move naturally through the supply chain.
The structure consists of a strong steel frame that has tires, axles, brakes, and suspension systems. Today’s container chassis come with advanced features like weight sensors, LED lights, and GPS tracking.
These chassis serve as stable platforms to secure standardized shipping containers during transit. Standard chassis with two axles can carry 20ft and 40ft containers. Heavier loads need tri-axle chassis, especially for 20ft containers weighing more than 36,000 lbs or 40ft containers over 44,000 lbs.
Container chassis play a bigger role than just moving containers. They are the foundations of our global logistics system. The movement of goods from ships to their final destinations would stop completely without these specialized frames.
Need a shipping container chassis? ftshippingcontainers.com offers various options with free shipping. They have standard and specialized chassis that meet transportation needs of all sizes in the logistics industry.
The price difference between used and new container chassis plays a key role when transportation businesses make purchase decisions. At ftshippingcontainers.com, which offers free shipping on all chassis, used container chassis prices range from $8,500 to $12,000 for models that work well. New chassis cost much more – you’ll pay between $19,000 and $24,000 based on what features you want.
The prices change with size too. A 20ft container chassis costs between $6,800-$12,600, and 40ft models sell for $9,800-$15,000. Right now, you can find several “roadworthy” gooseneck chassis models from 2003-2006 for about $8,900 in different locations.
The real cost goes beyond just the purchase price. You’ll need to factor in delivery charges of $200-$800 based on where you are. Used chassis might also need fixes right away that can cost anywhere from $200 to over $2,000 depending on their condition.
New equipment makes more sense when you think about long-term value. After 10 years, new container chassis keep 60-70% of their value, while used ones only maintain 30-40%. New models come with better features too – they have factory-fitted lock boxes, more vents (up to 10 compared to 2-4 in older models), and fresh rubber door seals.
The market itself affects prices too. Container chassis are in high demand through 2025. Supply remains tight and prices keep going up, which makes buying now from ftshippingcontainers.com a smart move.
The true cost comparison between used and new container chassis goes well beyond the price tag. You need to scrutinize the long-term operational realities. Older chassis (often 20-25 years old) might seem cheaper at first, but they create big hidden expenses through breakdowns, worn components, and outdated designs.
These budget-friendly options end up getting pricey with maintenance headaches. Worn-out parts need constant repairs. Recapped tires fail more often. Remanufactured components can’t match new equipment’s durability. The problems don’t stop at repair bills – they affect your whole operation. Your drivers waste hours, shipments get delayed, and your team’s satisfaction takes a hit.
New chassis bring major long-term benefits to the table. Modern features like radial tires, ABS systems, and LED lighting cut down maintenance costs and deliver reliable performance. The tax benefits make new equipment even more attractive. The 2024 Section 179 deductions allow up to $1,220,000 in deductions, though this reduces for purchases over $3,050,000.
The resale numbers tell an interesting story. New container chassis keep 60-70% of their original value after 10 years. Used options only hold onto 30-40%. Transportation businesses that crunch the total ownership numbers find that newer chassis deliver better returns through less downtime, fewer repairs, and improved efficiency.
ftshippingcontainers.com ships quality container chassis free of charge. They offer both new and used options that match your operational needs and budget goals.
The choice between used and new container chassis goes way beyond the original price tag. Used chassis might look tempting with their upfront savings—costing $8,500 to $12,000 compared to $19,000+ for new models. But these savings can quickly disappear through unexpected repair costs. Older chassis need frequent repairs, sit idle more often, and their resale value drops nowhere near what you’d expect over time.
New chassis offer better value despite the higher upfront cost. First-time buyers can take advantage of big tax deductions through Section 179. Owners also spend less on maintenance, get better reliability, and enjoy stronger resale value—keeping 60-70% of their original value even after ten years. The reliability alone saves countless hours you’d otherwise waste on breakdowns and delays.
Your specific needs and budget should guide this decision. Companies with tight capital might do well with quality used chassis. Businesses that need reliability and want better long-term value usually pick new equipment. Whatever you choose, ftshippingcontainers.com has both options available with free nationwide shipping. The right chassis balances your current budget against future needs—a choice that will affect your profits for years.
Q1. What are the main differences between used and new container chassis? Used container chassis typically cost between $8,500 to $12,000, while new ones range from $19,000 to $24,000. New chassis offer better reliability, advanced features, and higher resale value, retaining 60-70% of their original value after 10 years compared to 30-40% for used ones.
Q2. How do maintenance costs compare for used vs. new container chassis? Used chassis often require more frequent repairs and maintenance, which can lead to higher long-term costs. New chassis generally have lower maintenance expenses due to modern features like radial tires, ABS systems, and LED lighting, resulting in reduced downtime and improved operational efficiency.
Q3. Are there any tax benefits to purchasing a new container chassis? Yes, new container chassis qualify for substantial tax benefits. As of 2024, Section 179 deductions allow up to $1,220,000 in deductions (reduced for purchases exceeding $3,050,000), which can significantly offset the initial higher cost of new equipment.
Q4. What factors should I consider when choosing between a used and new container chassis? Consider your budget, operational needs, long-term cost efficiency, and potential downtime. While used chassis offer lower upfront costs, new chassis provide better reliability, advanced features, and potentially lower total ownership costs over time. Your specific situation and priorities will determine the best choice.
Q5. How does the resale value differ between used and new container chassis? New container chassis typically retain about 60-70% of their original value after 10 years of use. In contrast, used chassis generally hold only 30-40% of their value over the same period. This difference in resale value is an important factor to consider when calculating the total cost of ownership.