How to Buy a Shipping Container: A Practical Guide

Step 1 — Decide what the container needs to do

Storage, a job-site tool crib, a conversion project, and cargo transport have different requirements. Ground-level storage tolerates cosmetic wear, so a used wind-and-watertight (WWT) unit is usually the best value. Conversions and customer-facing placements are better served by one-trip units with factory paint and full remaining service life. If the container will ship cargo again, it must be certified cargo-worthy (CW) or better.

Step 2 — Choose a size

Most buyers choose between 20ft and 40ft. A 20ft unit fits residential driveways and tight sites and handles most storage needs. A 40ft unit doubles the floor space for well under double the price. High Cube versions add a foot of height (9'6" external) — the extra volume matters for racking, equipment, and conversions.

• •20ft — easiest to place, ~1,172 cu ft of storage
• •40ft — double capacity, best value per square foot
• •40ft High Cube — extra height for conversions and tall cargo
• •Specialty (open side, double door, tri-door, duocon) — solves specific access problems

Step 3 — Choose a condition grade

Condition drives price more than size. From most affordable to like-new: as-is, WWT, cargo-worthy, IICL, one-trip. For pure storage, WWT is the sweet spot. See our condition guide for what each grade guarantees.

Step 4 — Compare quotes on the delivered price

A container quote is only comparable when it includes transport to your address and all taxes. Ask every supplier for the full landed cost — container, delivery, and tax — in your currency. Our quotes itemize all three, in USD for US deliveries and CAD for Canadian deliveries, and depot pickup is available if you have your own transport.

Step 5 — Prepare your site before delivery day

Delivery trucks need roughly 60–80 feet of straight-line clearance and firm, level ground. Check municipal permit rules for long-term placement, especially in residential areas. If access is tight, say so in the quote request — smaller equipment can often handle constrained sites.