How to Buy a Shipping Container in 7 Steps, From Quote to Delivery

Most people only buy one shipping container in their life, so it's easy to miss a step. The process is simple when you take it in order: work out what you need, check your site, compare delivered quotes, confirm the actual unit, pay safely and get the ground ready.

Here's how to buy shipping container storage the right way, from first quote to the day the truck arrives. When you're ready, start from our catalog to buy shipping container units in every size, new or used.

Step 1: Decide what the container is for

Your use decides almost everything else:

• Storage of household goods, tools, stock or equipment: a standard container in a wind and watertight grade is usually enough.
• Shipping your own goods overseas: you'll need a cargo-worthy unit, often with a survey certificate.
• An office, workshop or home: a new (one-trip) or very good used box, probably a high cube, plus modifications.
• Temperature-sensitive goods: an insulated or refrigerated container.

Write down the biggest item you'll store and roughly how much you need to fit. It makes the size decision easy.

Step 2: Measure your site and check the rules

Before you choose a size, make sure it fits, and that the truck can get to it:

• The spot: a container's footprint plus a few feet on each side for access and doors.
• The approach: most containers arrive on a tilt-bed truck that needs a long, straight run to slide the container off. A 40ft needs far more room than a 20ft.
• Overhead: no wires, branches or roofs above the drop zone.
• The ground: firm and level, or you'll need to prepare it.
• Rules: call your city or county about permits and setbacks, and check your HOA rules if you have one.

Step 3: Choose the size, type and condition

With your use and site in mind:

• Size: 8ft and 10ft for tight spaces, 20ft for most jobs, 40ft for big inventories or conversions, 45ft for the most room. Compare sizes.
• Type: standard for most uses; high cube for extra height; open side, open top, reefer, insulated or flat rack for special jobs.
• Condition: new (one-trip) for conversions and appearance, used to save money on storage.

Step 4: Get delivered quotes

Ask each seller for a quote that includes:

• Size, height, type, condition and grade
• The delivery charge to your ZIP code
• Any fees for access, waiting time or a missed delivery
• Sales tax
• How long until delivery

Compare the delivered total for the same size and grade. A low box price with a high delivery charge often costs more than a fair price delivered. Our conex price guide explains what goes into each line.

Step 5: Check the seller and the actual unit

Container scams are common, so take a few minutes to check:

• The seller: a real phone number you can call, a business address you can verify and reviews that go back more than a few weeks.
• The unit: for a used container, ask for current photos of the actual box, including the roof, floor, door seals and the CSC plate, plus its unit number. Make sure the unit number in the photos matches the one on your quote.
• The grade, in writing: cargo-worthy, wind and watertight, or as-is.

Step 6: Pay safely and get the paperwork

• Pay with protection where you can, such as a credit card. Be very wary of sellers who only accept wire transfers, payment apps, gift cards or crypto.
• Get an invoice or bill of sale showing the seller's details, the unit number, size, grade, price and delivery terms.
• Keep everything in writing, including any promises about condition or delivery dates.

Step 7: Prepare for delivery day

1. Choose the door direction. Decide whether the doors should face toward or away from the truck's cab when it's loaded, so they end up facing the way you want. Containers are hard to turn once they're down.
2. Prepare the base. Compacted gravel, concrete pads, railroad ties or blocks under the corners keep the container level and off wet ground.
3. Clear the path. Move vehicles, mark obstacles and trim branches.
4. Be there if you can. You'll want to show the driver exactly where the container goes.
5. Inspect on arrival. Check the doors open and close, do the light test inside, and confirm the unit number matches your paperwork before the driver leaves.

After delivery

• Secure it: a lock box shields the padlock from bolt cutters.
• Ventilate it: vents help reduce condensation if you're storing anything that dislikes damp.
• Look after it: keep the roof clear of standing water and touch up rust spots once a year.

FAQ

How long does it take to get a shipping container?

It depends on stock near you and the delivery schedule. Many orders deliver within days to a couple of weeks; custom builds take longer. Ask for a delivery window with your quote.

Do I need to be home for delivery?

It's best to be there to show the driver where the container goes and check it before they leave. Ask the seller whether unattended delivery is possible.

Can I pick up a container myself?

Sometimes, if you have a suitable trailer and equipment. Most buyers choose delivery, since containers are heavy and awkward to move.

What paperwork should I get?

An invoice or bill of sale with the seller's details, the container's unit number, size, grade and price, plus the delivery terms.