Differences in Cost of Used and New Shipping Containers

Cargo-worthy

If you’re planning on shipping your container, you need to make sure it’s fit to transport goods. It shouldn’t have any holes, and it should have a solid structure so substances can’t get in or out. A used container won’t last as long as a brand new one, but you’ll be able to get a lot of use out of it. 

If you’re looking for one step below new, you can get a premium shipping container. It will only be used for a few years, up to eight. It’ll still be in great condition and shippable. The cost is between $4,000 and $8,000.

You can also get a Grade-A container and see significant savings. It’s still able to store and ship goods, but it’s more than eight years old. It could have some rust and exterior damage and the cost will be from $3,200 to $6,500. 

Winder and Water Tight

A Grade-B shipping container has a cost starting at $2,900. It’d be more than eight years old. The vessel will be wind and water-tight, but it won’t be in a condition to travel across the sea. 

You can also purchase containers that have been previously repaired. The price will be determined based on what type of repairs were performed and how old it is. 

If you want the cheapest option, you can buy a damaged shipping container and make the repairs yourself. Be sure to inspect the vessel thoroughly so you know if you can fix it or not. 

A retired shipping container can still be in good condition even if it’s not fit to ship across the ocean. If you’re looking to use it for storage or to convert it, then this is going to be the most affordable option. The container should still be without holes and major damage and if you take care of the container it will last you a long time.  

Size 

You first need to decide how big you need your container to be. The size will contribute to the price you pay. A 20-foot container is 20’ x 8’ x 8′ and typically costs between $2500 to $6500. It’s one of the smaller sizes and isn’t too difficult to move around. 

A 40-foot container will likely cost between $3000 and $6000. It’s significantly bigger than a twenty-foot container with the following dimensions 40’ long x 8’ wide x 8’6” high. 

As the size increases so will the price. However, there is an exception. A 10-foot or cubed container isn’t as popular, making it more expensive. 

If you’re running your business out of the container or using it for storage, you might need a taller-than-average vessel. A high-cube container is available and will add to the price. If you want a 20-foot container but taller than the standard eight feet, you’ll pay around $300 more.

To get a 40-foot container taller than 8’6″ you can add about $450-$500 to the price. 

Delivery 

You’ll likely need to have your container delivered, which comes with a fee. The distance traveled and size will make a difference in the price. Many freights have a weight limit.

If your container is empty, the freight will be able to load more and the cost won’t be as much for you. If you’ve loaded up your container, the cost will be more due to the fact that the cargo ship or plane won’t be able to load as many containers. 

The mood of delivery is also important to consider. Shipping a container by air will be faster but also much more pricey than by sea. 

If you’re having your container shipped to or from overseas, you can expect to pay a few thousand dollars. If it’s coming from another state, you’ll pay an average of $2 per mile. 

Location 

Similar to other products, the cost of shipping containers is determined by supply and demand. If the state or country you’re buying your container from has a shortage of steel or containers themselves, you’ll see the price increase. If you’re trying to decrease the cost, consider choosing a location close to a large port and not a landlocked country. 

Life Span

A great benefit to shipping containers is that they have a long life span. If a container is taken care of it can be used for 25+ years. One that has traveled across the ocean multiple times has some wear and tear that may decrease the lifespan to 10 or so years. 

Modification 

When you are calculating the cost of shipping containers, you must factor in if you want to customize your vessel. Adding electricity and water is a great option if you want to keep your container stationary.

It may be beneficial to get quotes from a local electrician but plan to spend $50 to $100. If you need chairs or cubicles, those will also need to be factored into your budget. 

Container Uses

There are many ways to use your container. If you’re only planning to use it a few times to ship products, then you might want to find another use for it.

Many people are using containers as home offices or converting them into tiny houses. You can also use them on construction sites as mobile offices. Many medical facilities and schools use them when they are low on space. 

Make It Your Home

Many people are choosing to convert and live in their containers. Before you decide to do this, you need to know how much it’ll cost you in total.

A new container is probably the best option if you plan to live in it long term. You’ll want to guarantee it is durable and not compromised. Depending on your height and preferences, you might want to opt for a taller vessel.

You’ll likely spend anywhere from $10,000 to $35,000, not including the price of the land. If you want to build a larger shipping container home with multiple vessels, you could spend up to $100,000. 

While the more a shipping container is used it’s possible to make a profit using your container. If you live in a popular tourist area, you could use your vessel as a rental home or short-term vacation rental. You could also buy a container to slip into a home and sell it for a profit.