20ft Container Prices: New vs. Used vs. Modified

The 20ft is the most popular container size, so it's also the one with the widest range of prices. A battered as-is 20ft and a fully fitted 20ft office are both "20ft containers," but they're worlds apart in price and purpose.

Here's how 20ft prices compare across new, used and modified units, and what moves the price within each, so you can spot real value in any 20 foot shipping container sale.

The price ladder for a 20ft container

From lowest to highest, for the same size:

1. Used, as-is: known damage; the lowest price
2. Used, wind and watertight: sound for storage
3. Used, cargo-worthy: fit to ship
4. Used, IICL or premium: very good condition
5. New (one-trip): close to factory condition
6. Specialty types: open side, open top, insulated, flat rack, reefer
7. Modified: doors, windows, insulation, power and fit-out added

Our conex price guide shows current starting prices.

Used 20ft prices

Used 20ft containers are the most affordable way to get secure storage. Within used, the price depends on:

• Grade: as-is, wind and watertight, cargo-worthy or premium
• Age and condition: especially the roof, floor and doors
• Local stock: areas near ports and rail hubs usually have more choice
• The market: when shipping is busy, fewer containers are retired and prices rise

Best value for storage: a wind and watertight standard 20ft.

New 20ft prices

New (one-trip) 20ft containers cost more than used, but you get:

• Clean, even paint and straight panels
• Tight seals and a clean floor
• The full working life of the container

The price depends on height (standard or high cube), color availability, and how far the nearest new stock is from you.

Best value for: offices, workshops, homes, retail and anywhere appearance or long life matters.

Specialty 20ft prices

Specialty 20ft types cost more than a standard box of the same condition:

• High cube: somewhat more, for an extra foot of height
• Open side: more, for full-length side doors
• Open top and flat rack: built in smaller numbers
• Insulated: insulation adds cost
• Reefer: the highest, because of the refrigeration unit

Modified 20ft prices

A modified 20ft is priced as the base container plus each change:

A simple storage upgrade adds little; a finished office can cost several times the base container. See 20ft office containers.

Delivery: the line that changes everything

Every 20ft price is before delivery unless stated. Delivery depends on the distance from the depot to your site and how easy your site is to reach. Compare delivered totals for the same grade and type, not box prices.

How to get the best value from a 20ft

• Match the grade to the job. Don't pay for cargo-worthy or new for plain storage.
• Choose standard height unless you need the extra foot.
• Make delivery easy with a clear, level spot and a straight approach.
• Bundle modifications into one quote instead of adding them later.
• Consider rent-to-own to spread the cost; see conex rental and rent-to-own.
• Ask about specials on common 20ft units.

Example: comparing three 20ft quotes

Imagine you get three quotes for "a 20ft container":

• Quote A has the lowest box price, but it's for an as-is unit, and delivery is extra.
• Quote B is for a wind and watertight standard 20ft, delivered, with tax shown.
• Quote C is for a new high cube, delivered, with a lock box included.

They aren't comparable yet. To compare fairly, ask each seller to quote the same size, height and grade, such as a wind and watertight standard 20ft, delivered to your ZIP code with fees and tax. Then the cheapest delivered total for that specification is your best price, and you can decide whether an upgrade, like a high cube or a new unit, is worth the difference.

Is a 20ft or 40ft better value?

A 40ft usually costs well under twice as much as a 20ft, so it's cheaper per square foot. But if you only need 20ft worth of space, or your site can't take a 40ft, the 20ft is the better buy.

FAQ

Why do 20ft container prices vary so much?

Condition, grade, type, modifications, local stock and delivery distance all affect the price. Compare delivered totals for the same specification.

Is a new 20ft worth it over used?

For conversions, offices and anywhere appearance matters, often yes. For storage, a used wind and watertight unit is better value.

How much does a 20ft high cube cost compared with standard?

Usually somewhat more. Whether it's worth it depends on whether you need the extra height.

Do 20ft prices include delivery?

Often not. Ask for a delivered price to your ZIP code.