How much does it cost to buy a used storage container?

Most people think the price of a used storage container is simple to determine. The truth is, it’s affected by many factors we can’t ignore.

A used storage container usually costs between $1,300 and $4,500, depending on size, age, condition, location, and market timing. Extra modifications or delivery costs can push prices higher.

If you have ever tried to buy a used storage container, you know there is no single fixed price. I have seen price swings of hundreds, even thousands of dollars for the same size container. Let’s break down why.

What does a used 20 foot shipping container cost?

People often expect a single answer. In my experience, the reality is more like a range.

A standard used 20-foot shipping container costs about $1,300 to $3,000, depending mostly on its age, condition, and location.

When I buy 20-foot containers, the price changes a lot with condition. “One-trip” 20-foot containers are almost new. They usually cost $2,500 to $3,000. They have minimal wear, no major rust, and clean interiors. Containers that have been in service for over a decade can drop to $1,300-$1,800. These often have dents, heavy surface rust, and repairs—but they can still be fully functional. Where you buy also matters. In port cities like Los Angeles or New York, there is strong supply, so prices are often at the lower end. Inland areas can be costlier. When I helped a customer in Nevada, transport cost alone made up 30% of the total purchase price.

Condition Type	Age Range	Price Range (20ft)	Best For
One-trip	New to 2 years	$2,500 – $3,000	Long-term projects, modifications
Wind & Water Tight	8–15 years	$1,500 – $2,200	Budget storage, short-term use
AS-IS	12+ years	$1,300 – $1,800	Temporary, non-critical storage

How much is a refurbished shipping container?

Refurbished containers sound like a safe bet. But not all are as good as the seller claims.

A refurbished container usually costs $2,500 to $4,000 depending on size and the quality of the refurbishing work.

I have seen genuine refurbishments—sandblasted, primed, painted, with new seals—that last many years. These are worth paying for. They are ideal when appearance matters, such as for offices or public installations. However, I have also seen “refurbished” containers with a quick coat of paint over hidden rust. One customer paid $2,800 for such a container; the roof leaked within a week. So I always inspect the corner fittings, understructure, and lock rods before transferring any money. If you cannot inspect, hire a trusted local contact to do it. True refurbishment often adds 25-35% to the cost compared to an unrefurbished container of the same age.

Refurb Type	What’s Done	Typical Price Impact
Cosmetic Paint	Surfaces cleaned and painted	+$200 – $500
Structural Repair	Replacement of panels, floors, doors	+$500 – $1,200
Full Refurbishment	Sandblast, prime, repair, repaint, reseal	+$1,000 – $2,000

What is the price of a container used in shipping?

Many people assume all used shipping containers are priced the same. But current market demand changes everything.

The price for a used shipping container depends on global trade cycles, with seasonal peaks and drops influencing costs by hundreds of dollars.

Container pricing reacts to supply and demand in global trade. For example, during the 2021 supply chain crisis, I saw standard used containers sell for over $4,000 each. That was 60% above normal market rates. Seasonal patterns are clear too. August to November—global trade’s peak season—pushes prices up. From January to March—when trade slows—prices fall. Your purchase timing can save you a lot. For customers without deadlines, I suggest buying in low season. Location remains a deciding factor too. If you buy inland, transport costs make up a major share of the final price, so timing and location together can make or break your budget.

Season	Demand Trend	Price Impact
Aug–Nov	High	+10–25%
Apr–Jul	Medium	Stable or slight change
Jan–Mar	Low	−5–15%

Conclusion

Buying a used container is never just about the headline price. Condition, location, timing, and seller quality decide what you really pay.