How much is a metal shipping container

Tags: Containers, Storage

There are many factors to keep in mind when considering a commitment to purchase or rent a specific storage container (also referred to as a shipping container or cargo container). Ultimately, these considerations will help you choose the right container for the right price. Among the price, variants to examine include a container’s size, condition, age, quantity, location, modifications, and vendor.

Factors That Influence Shipping / Storage Container Price

Let’s explore the elements that will have the greatest impact on shipping container prices.

Size of the Shipping / Storage Container

Shipping and storage containers are typically 20 to 40 feet in length. A 40 foot container typically carries a 20%-30% higher price tag than a standard 20 foot container. 

Hale Trailer carries several storage and shipping container sizes, including:

  • 53 foot Dry Van
  • 20 foot
  • 40 foot
  • 40 foot high cube
  • 40 foot with side door
  • 45 foot

You can also choose from standard shipping containers and high cube shipping containers, so be sure to browse our inventory for a range of options.

As you might imagine, the larger the container, the higher the cargo container price. While other variables can affect the overall cost, average prices for new 20-40 foot shipping containers stand as below:

New 20 foot Shipping / Storage Container

A new 20 foot shipping container will set you back around USD $6,000. Of course, model, manufacturer, and additional fees will run the price higher or lower based on what you select.

New 40 foot Shipping / Storage Container

A new 40 foot standard shipping container on average costs around $8,000, but again, pricing can vary depending on all factors.

Shipping / Storage Container Condition

You can purchase shipping and cargo containers in new or used condition. New or one-use containers are typically more expensive and, as mentioned previously, these containers can range in price from $6,000 to $8,000.

Used shipping container prices range between $3,500 up to $5,000, but this price range can vary.

The shipping container price will also vary depending on the cost of the raw material used to make it. Most manufacturers make shipping, cargo, or storage containers from corrugated steel. When the price of steel is low, new shipping containers will be cheaper. However, rising costs of steel and increased demand for these containers over the last few years means that new shipping container prices are often double that of used containers at present. If you don’t see the need to buy a brand-new container, there’s always the option to rent.

While you should always inspect a used shipping container before making a deal, it’s pretty simple to determine its physical state. When a container is retired, it is assigned a grade marked with a specific label (e.g., lightly worn, ISO approved). Make sure the container is approved by International Organization for Standardization (ISO). From that, you can gather if the used container is suitable for your needs. However, customers often prefer new containers for international transport or sensitive cargo.

Another consideration to keep in mind regarding the condition of a used shipping container is its age. For the same reason a used car’s old age should give buyers pause, the same is true for containers. The older a container is, the more use and abuse it’s had to endure over the years.

Now that you know what to look out for when shopping around for used shipping containers, let’s look at some common pricing you’ll come across.  

Used 20 foot Shipping / Storage Container

A used 20 foot shipping container averages a cost of $3,500. Depending on the condition and custom features, prices will vary. But, purchasing a used shipping container is a viable option if you don’t mind slight wear and tear.

Used 40 foot Shipping / Storage Container

A used 40 foot shipping container averages a cost of $5,000. Again, features and the state of the container could inflate or decrease that final price. It’s important to note that buying a used container does not mean it will be in poor condition as they are an excellent way to maximize cost savings.

Quantity

If you are buying more than one container, many suppliers will offer a discounted price per unit or bulk deal. Be sure to get a quote from your vendor beforehand to ensure you are getting the best rate on multiple shipping containers.

Modifications

There are many options for customizing or modifying your shipping container. Whether you hire a professional or make the modifications yourself, additional features have the potential to increase your container’s cost. Contractors typically charge anywhere from $50-$150 per hour. Fortunately, buying your shipping container from a supplier specializing in custom add-ons can save you time and, likely, money.

Vendor and Delivery Rate

Choosing the right vendor can also mean getting the best delivery rate. Depending on where you’re located, shipping container prices and delivery rates will vary. The quote on your delivery rate may include the accessibility of your drop-off location. Some companies will charge extra if you need the container delivered to a hard-to-reach location. For example, a drop-site that requires driving a long distance on a dirt road may cost you extra—another upcharge to avoid stems from being unprepared for the delivery. If the driver has to wait for you to clean or prepare the drop-site, the company may charge you extra. 

To avoid any upcharges, look for a supplier that charges a flat rate. Many charge a flat rate within a reasonable mile radius. However, purchasing a container from a distant location will almost always result in an inflated delivery rate. Sometimes buying local can save you money, even when the container’s initial cost is more expensive.

Get a Quote From Hale Trailer

Hale Trailer Brake & Wheel Inc. offers a large variety of mobile shipping containers. You’ll find 20 foot to 40 foot shipping containers in any size and configuration you need. We specialize in creating customized storage solutions so you can get everything you need in one place—our industry-leading customer service and expertise to help you find the right container at the right price.

How much is a 40ft container cost?

A new 40ft high cube container will cost you an average of US $5,318. If you're looking for a 20ft reefer container, you can get one at US $12,835. The 40ft alternative costs an average of US $18,819. A typical 20ft open top container costs US $4,013.

How much does a 20 ft container cost?

For a 20ft container, the average pick-up rate that you've to shell out can be anywhere between US $100 to US $150.

How much is a whole shipping container?

This is because your costs of shipping will vary depending on several number of factors, amongst which the type of transport, distance, and volume of your shipment is the most important ones. On average, the cost of shipping a full-container load costs between $2,000 and $3,000.

How much is a brand new shipping container?

Used shipping container prices vary and are usually in the range of $1500-$5000. New or one trip shipping containers are usually more expensive and are usually in the range of $3000-$5000. For example, a basic bare-bones used container is much cheaper than a modified, custom-designed new container.