9 Ways to Lower the Delivered Cost of a Used Container

The cheapest used container isn't always the one with the lowest box price. What you actually pay is the delivered cost: the container, plus delivery, fees and tax. Lowering that total is about smart choices on every line, not just haggling over the box.

Here are nine ways to cut the delivered cost, all without ending up with a container that leaks. For current starting prices on used shipping containers for sale cheap, see our price guide.

1. Buy the grade you need

For storage, a wind and watertight container keeps your things just as dry as a cargo-worthy one, for less. Only pay for cargo-worthy if you'll ship goods by sea. See the used container grades.

Typical saving: the difference between grades is often one of the biggest on the quote.

2. Accept cosmetic wear

Dents, faded paint, mismatched colors and old logos don't affect how a container works. Telling the seller you don't mind cosmetics can open up cheaper units.

3. Choose standard height

A high cube costs more than a standard container of the same length. Unless you need the extra foot for tall items or a conversion, stick with standard.

4. Pick the right size, once

Buying a 10ft that turns out too small means paying for a second container and second delivery. A 40ft usually costs much less per square foot than a 20ft, so if your site has room and you'll use the space, compare both.

5. Make delivery quick and easy

Delivery charges reflect distance and effort. You can't change the distance, but you can reduce the effort:

• Prepare a firm, level spot in advance
• Clear the route of vehicles, branches and obstacles
• Make sure there's a straight approach and room overhead
• Be on site to direct the driver

That avoids waiting-time charges and failed-delivery fees.

6. Be flexible on door direction and timing

Specific requests can sometimes add cost. If either door direction works for you, say so. If your date is flexible, ask whether a different delivery day or a unit at another depot is cheaper.

7. Buy from stock near you

Delivery distance is part of every price. A container from a depot closer to you saves on delivery, even if the box price is similar.

8. Skip extras you don't need, and bundle the ones you do

A lock box is worth having, and vents help in humid climates. But add-ons you won't use add up. If you do want modifications, quote them with the container so they're done in one go, rather than paying for separate trips later.

9. Spread the cost

If paying up front is the problem, rent-to-own lets you pay monthly toward owning the container. Compare the total of all payments with the purchase price to see what the convenience costs.

What not to do to save money

• Don't buy as-is unless you'll repair it. Holes and soft floors cost more to fix than you save.
• Don't skip the base. A container on bare, uneven ground rusts faster and the doors bind.
• Don't chase prices far below market. They're often scams.
• Don't pay by wire to an unverified seller to get a "discount."

A message that gets you the best delivered price

Sellers can only offer savings they know you'll accept. Try something like:

I'm looking for a used 20ft container for storage, delivered to ZIP code 11798. Wind and watertight is fine, cosmetic dents and mismatched paint don't bother me, either door direction works, and my delivery date is flexible within the next few weeks. My site is level with a clear, straight approach. What's your best delivered price, including fees and tax?

That tells the seller exactly where they can save, and gives you a delivered total to compare.

A delivered-cost checklist

• Grade matches my use
• Standard height unless I need more
• Right size the first time
• Site prepared and route clear
• Flexible on door direction and date
• Stock is near me
• Only the extras I'll use
• Compared delivered totals in writing

FAQ

What's the cheapest way to buy a used container?

A standard-height, wind and watertight container from stock near you, delivered to an easy-to-reach, prepared site.

Can I negotiate the price of a used container?

Sometimes, especially on cosmetic issues or if you're flexible on timing. Focus on the delivered total.

Is it cheaper to pick up a container myself?

Only if you have the right truck or trailer and equipment to load and unload it. For most buyers, delivery is cheaper overall.

Are cheap used containers safe for storage?

Yes, if they're wind and watertight. Check the roof, floor and doors, and get photos of the actual unit.