Shipping Container Price Breakdown: Box, Grade, Delivery & Fees

Two quotes for "a 20ft container" can be hundreds of dollars apart, and both can be fair. That's because a ship container price is really several prices added together: the box, its condition, the trip to your site, and whatever extras you choose.

This breakdown explains each part, what moves it up or down, and how to compare quotes line by line. For our current starting prices, see the ship container price guide.

The parts of a container price

1. The container: size, height and type

Size sets the baseline. A 40ft costs more than a 20ft, but usually well under twice as much, so it's cheaper per square foot. Small 8ft and 10ft units cost less in total but more per square foot.

Height adds a little: a high cube usually costs somewhat more than a standard container of the same length.

Type matters more. Open side, open top, flat rack and insulated containers are built in smaller numbers, so they cost more. Refrigerated containers cost the most, because they carry a refrigeration unit.

2. Condition and grade

For the same size and type, condition moves the price the most:

1. New (one-trip): highest price, best condition.
2. IICL or premium used: close to new, priced between new and standard used.
3. Cargo-worthy: structurally fit to ship.
4. Wind and watertight: fit for storage.
5. As-is: known damage, lowest price.

Only pay for the grade you need. For storage, a wind and watertight box does the job for less than cargo-worthy. See used conex grades.

3. Delivery

Delivery is often the line that makes the difference between two quotes. It depends on:

• Distance from the depot holding the container to your site.
• Truck type: most containers come on a tilt-bed truck that slides them onto the ground. Some sites need a crane or a different setup, which costs more.
• Access: a long, straight, firm approach makes delivery quick. Tight turns, soft ground or low wires can add time or require different equipment.
• Placement requests: a specific door direction or an exact spot may affect how the truck is loaded.

4. Fees to ask about

Not every seller charges these, but ask so there are no surprises:

• Fuel surcharge or extra mileage beyond a base distance
• Waiting time if the driver has to wait on site
• Failed delivery if the truck can't reach the spot
• Special loading, such as doors facing a particular way
• Pickup fee for rentals

5. Sales tax

Whether you pay sales tax depends on your state and how the container will be used. Tax-exempt organizations can often buy without tax by providing a certificate. Ask how tax is calculated on your quote.

6. Add-ons and modifications

• Lock box: a steel shield around the padlock that makes cutting it much harder.
• Vents: reduce condensation inside.
• Shelving, lighting and power: turn a box into a usable store or workshop.
• Doors, windows and insulation: for offices and conversions. See custom and office conex.

How to compare quotes fairly

1. Match the specs: same size, height, type and grade.
2. Ask for the delivered total, including fees and tax, in writing.
3. Check what's included: door direction, lock box, delivery window.
4. Confirm the actual unit: for used containers, ask for photos and the unit number.
5. Be wary of outliers: a price far below everyone else's is a common sign of a scam.

Questions to ask about each line

The box

• Is this a standard or high cube, and which type exactly?
• New, or used? If used, what grade, and can I see photos of this unit?

Delivery

• Which depot is it coming from, and how far is that?
• What truck will deliver it, and what does the driver need on site?
• Is there an extra charge if the truck can't reach my spot, or has to wait?

Fees and tax

• Are there fuel surcharges or mileage charges beyond a base distance?
• Is sales tax included, and is delivery taxed in my state?

Extras

• Does the price include a lock box or vents?
• Can you load the container so the doors face the way I want?

Asking the same questions of every seller is the easiest way to make quotes comparable.

Ways to bring the price down

• Choose wind and watertight instead of cargo-worthy for storage.
• Choose a standard height if you don't need the extra foot.
• Make the site easy to reach so delivery is quick.
• Be flexible on color and cosmetic condition.
• Ask about current specials, or spread the cost with rent-to-own.

FAQ

Why do container prices vary so much?

Because each quote combines a different box, grade, delivery distance and set of fees. Compare delivered totals for the same size and grade.

Is delivery included in a container price?

Often not. Many listings show the box price only. Ask for a delivered price to your ZIP code.

Does a high cube cost much more than a standard container?

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

What's the cheapest way to get a container?

A used wind and watertight standard container, delivered to an easy-to-reach site. Rent-to-own can spread the cost if you'd rather not pay up front.