Used shipping containers have revolutionized global commerce with about seventeen million of them moving around the world. We’re building the largest container home community in the United States. These versatile steel boxes provide amazing value beyond what they were made for.
Millions of containers sit unused because it costs too much to send them back to their origin ports. This gives buyers a great chance to get used shipping containers at competitive prices. You can save about 15 to 20% when you buy directly from local ports or major depots if you’re looking to purchase used shipping containers or find them nearby. On top of that, places like ftshippingcontainers.com now offer free shipping, which makes these durable structures more available than ever.
This detailed guide will show you everything you need to know about buying used shipping containers in 2025. You’ll learn about finding reliable sources, checking quality, and understanding what affects the prices.
The search for reliable used shipping container sources means looking past the obvious choices. Price matters to most buyers, but quality and delivery matter just as much in 2025.
Ftshippingcontainers.com sells containers of all grades and sizes, including affordable 20ft storage containers that come with structural soundness and wind & watertight guarantees. These ex-shipping line containers come with Corten steel construction, two locking bars on each door, and 28mm marine plywood floors on steel cross members. Plus, the company backs cargo-worthy containers with a 6-month warranty and refurbished ones with a 1-year warranty.
You have two main options when shopping for used shipping containers:
Vendors deliver within set distances from their depots. To cite an instance, Eveon Containers ships within a 250-mile radius from 45 depot locations across North America. The same goes for Ftshippingcontainers.com, which delivers used containers within 200 miles of their depots. Delivery costs vary based on your distance from the depot, starting at $150 plus extra mileage beyond the local area.
Ftshippingcontainers.com stands out by offering free worldwide delivery while other companies charge for shipping. Their delivery works simply – a tilt bed truck arrives, tilts the bed until the container touches ground, then drives away. Most deliveries arrive within 3-5 business days after ordering, weather permitting.
Image Source: Digital Container Shipping Association (DCSA)
You need to know what works for your project when picking out a used shipping container. Smart choices about a few key things can help you save thousands down the road.
A new (one-trip) container will last 25+ years or more if you take care of it properly. Used ones typically give you 10-15 years of service, depending on their past. New containers cost 30-40% more than used ones, but they come with manufacturer warranties and you can use them for export shipping that needs certification.
Used containers are great value if you need static storage or short-term use. You’ll find quality used containers with free shipping at ftshippingcontainers.com – a budget-friendly option if you’re watching costs.
The main difference is height – standard containers are 8’6″ tall, while high cube containers give you an extra foot at 9’6″. That extra space makes high cubes perfect for big items, machinery, or when you need more headroom.
Standard containers come in different lengths (40ft, 20ft, 10ft) and are accessible to more people at lower prices. High cube containers weigh several hundred pounds more, but the space you get is worth it – a 20ft high cube gives you 150 cubic feet more storage than its standard counterpart.
Look out for these things during inspection:
Container grades tell you what shape they’re in:
The way you plan to use your container should guide your choice – shipping needs cargo-worthy, while WWT is enough for storage.
Safety stands as a vital factor when you buy used shipping containers, beyond just selection and pricing. You need to understand the potential risks and legal requirements to protect your investment and health.
We focused mainly on safety concerns that come from a container’s history. Used shipping containers might contain chemical residues from previous cargo, including pesticides, fumigants, and other harmful substances. New containers from ftshippingcontainers.com give you better safety assurance since they haven’t been exposed to hazardous materials. These pre-owned units need proper testing and treatment to ensure they’re safe for your intended use.
Most shipping container floors use tropical hardwood treated with pesticides to stop pest infestation. Here’s how you can verify chemical treatments:
Replacing floors remains the safest option, though applying epoxy sealant can effectively limit pesticide vapor emissions.
Older shipping containers typically have lead-based paint chosen for durability and anti-corrosion properties. You should conduct a simple lead test available at most hardware stores for containers over 20 years old. A positive result means you should avoid dry scraping or sanding because this releases dangerous dust. The best approach is to hire professionals with proper equipment to remove it safely.
Marine surveyors give you a great way to get detailed container inspections. They identify potential issues that untrained eyes might miss and provide a complete report on structural integrity, chemical hazards, and overall condition.
Local regulations vary substantially. Most municipalities require building permits for shipping container installation, especially when used as permanent structures. You need to submit site plans that show container location and intended use. Temporary permits last for limited periods, usually six months. Properties in rural areas face fewer restrictions than urban locations.
Smart purchase decisions depend on market trends and common pitfalls. Let’s explore how to get the best value when buying used shipping containers in 2025.
Used 20ft shipping containers now cost between $1500 and $3000 in the current market. Used 40ft containers sell from $2000 to $4500 for standard height and $2500 to $5000 for high cube variants. The market has changed and used containers now sell at 60% or less of new container prices. Location plays a big role in pricing. Cities like Memphis, New Orleans, and Houston have seen price increases of 72%, 67%, and 56%. Meanwhile, prices have dropped up to 45% in Indianapolis, Calgary, and Savannah.
Your choice of seller is vital to avoid paying too much. A reputable sales company remains your best bet. Here’s what you should do before buying:
Watch out for middlemen who get containers from far away – they’ll add transport costs and markup to your final price.
Delivery can add hundreds or thousands to your total cost. Your delivery site must be ready and available for container placement. Most vendors use tilt-bed trailers that need room to move around. Deliveries over 200 miles might need flat-bed trucks, and you’ll have to arrange container lift-off. ftshippingcontainers.com includes delivery in their listed price – you won’t find this benefit often in the industry.
The container’s floor supports all cargo weight and serves as a key structural element. A 40ft container might see nearly 5,500 loaded movements across its threshold over time. A full floor inspection helps prevent repairs or replacements that can get pricey. Look for soft spots, rot, and chemical stains that show wear.
The quality difference between new and used containers has grown wider in 2025, while prices have moved closer together. This makes one-trip containers a better deal, especially since used inventory keeps getting rougher. Projects that need a clean look or long service life benefit from new containers – they cost less per year in the long run.
Good research and planning will make your used shipping container a valuable investment for years ahead. The 2025 marketplace gives you more options but needs greater buyer diligence.
A checklist should be your first step before making a purchase. List out inspection points, delivery needs, and budget limits. This well-laid-out approach helps avoid critical details that might get pricey later.
Companies like ftshippingcontainers.com shine by giving detailed services beyond just container sales. Our free shipping eliminates one of the major hidden costs that catch many first-time buyers off guard. These 2025-established vendors also give warranties and after-sale support to protect your investment.
Your buying decision heavily depends on location. Coastal areas and major port cities give you better choices at competitive prices compared to inland regions. National suppliers now offer delivery services, so geography isn’t as limiting for buyers anymore.
Container prices change based on several factors:
Your project’s timeline should shape your buying strategy. Urgent projects might justify paying extra to work with vendors who have ready stock. Flexible timelines let you watch market conditions and save money.
Take photos and detailed notes to document the container’s condition before you buy. These records give you solid proof if any disputes come up about container condition after delivery.
This piece gives you the knowledge to make smart choices when buying used shipping containers in 2025. You’ll find the right container at ftshippingcontainers.com, where quality meets value plus free nationwide shipping.
Q1. What are the main factors to consider when buying a used shipping container? When purchasing a used shipping container, consider the container’s condition, size (standard vs. high cube), grade (one-trip, cargo-worthy, wind and watertight, or as-is), potential chemical residues, and local zoning requirements. Also, factor in delivery costs and the container’s intended use.
Q2. How much do used shipping containers typically cost in 2025? In 2025, used 20ft shipping containers generally cost between $1500 and $3000, while used 40ft containers range from $2000 to $4500 for standard height and $2500 to $5000 for high cube variants. Prices can vary significantly based on location and market conditions.
Q3. Are used shipping containers safe for residential use? Used shipping containers can be safe for residential use, but it’s crucial to check for chemical residues, pesticide-treated floors, and lead-based paint, especially in older containers. Professional inspection and proper treatment or replacement of potentially hazardous components are recommended to ensure safety.
Q4. What are the advantages of buying from ftshippingcontainers.com? Ftshippingcontainers.com offers several advantages, including free worldwide delivery, a variety of container grades and sizes, and warranties on their products. They also provide transparent pricing and deliver containers within 3-5 business days from the order date, weather permitting.
Q5. How can I save money when buying a used shipping container? To save money, compare prices from multiple vendors, consider the total cost including delivery, inspect the container thoroughly before purchase, and be flexible with your timeline to take advantage of market fluctuations. Also, consider buying directly from reputable dealers to avoid intermediary markups, and look for options with free shipping like those offered by ftshippingcontainers.com.