Moving costs depend on your project and location. Check with a local pro for your specific job.
Shipping container costs range from $1,800 to $8,300 for your purchase, with size, age, and condition determining your final price.
The design of your container affects weatherproofing and access, with options like dry, reefer, flat rack, and open side configurations available.
Account for delivery fees averaging $3,000 and site preparation costs between a few hundred to over $1,000 when budgeting for your project.
Hiring a local moving company handles the transportation safely and saves you the hassle of arranging specialized equipment like cranes or forklifts.
In 2026, the national average cost of a shipping container is $5,000, with most homeowners spending between $1,800 and $8,300 depending on size, age, and condition. A highly modified shipping container can cost up to $50,000, particularly if you're converting it into a fully functional home.
Shipping containers are durable steel units available in several sizes and configurations, with add-ons like doors, refrigeration, and insulation that all influence your final price. Start by deciding whether to buy or lease: leasing works well for short-term storage needs, while purchasing makes more sense if you plan to modify the container or keep it for several years.
If you need the container transported as part of a move, you'll need to hire a moving company near you to handle logistics safely. The sections below break down how each cost factor affects your total price.
The size and dimensions of the container rank as the top cost driver, with prices ranging from $950 to $8,900. How much the unit can hold is a significant cost factor. Here is how costs break down by container size and weight:
| Shipping Container Size | Weight | Average Cost in 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| 10 x 8 x 8.6 feet | 2200 pounds | $950–$5,000 |
| 20 x 8 x 8.6 feet | 4500 pounds | $1,800–$6,500 |
| 40 x 8 x 8.6 feet | 8500 pounds | $3,200–$8,300 |
| 20 x 8 x 9.6 feet | 5181 pounds | $2,000–$6,900 |
| 40 x 8 x 9.6 feet | 8750 pounds | $3,500–$8,900 |
Always measure your space when you prepare to get a shipping container. Even the smallest versions can take up a lot of room, and they should be placed on level ground when possible (more below), whether you are planning on using them for construction or shipping them when you move. The smallest versions at 10 feet are often collapsible, but don’t expect this feature on larger containers.
Notice that the larger sizes also have an additional option for a higher ceiling in the container. That’s known as a HC or high-cube container with a customized size. These typically add a foot of extra space for clearance, and will cost more to buy and ship than a standard container.
New containers, which have taken one or no trips, cost between $5,000 and $9,500, while a used shipping container can start as low as $1,400, depending on its history of wear and tear.
Container condition is the single largest cost factor, so inspect for dents, corrosion, and the condition of any add-ons, such as refrigeration, before committing to a purchase.
The condition may also include some shipping lingo, such as cargo-worthy (CW) and wind and watertight (WWT). Talk with the shipping container seller about the details of these grades and whether they qualify for your needs:
A, B, and C
New through As-Is (AI)
Food-grade through industrial-grade
The type of shipping container impacts your budget:
| Container Type | Average Cost in 2026 |
|---|---|
| One-Trip Containers | $2,800–$7,000 |
| Cargo-Worthy Containers | $1,300–$6,000 |
| Wind & Watertight Containers | $1,800–$4,300 |
| As-is Containers | $1,500–$3,500 |
One-trip shipping containers cost between $2,800 to $7,000, depending on size and manufacturer, and carry a premium price because they have only completed a single voyage on a container ship.
Cargo-worthy containers typically cost between $1,300 to $6,000 and are certified fit to withstand the harsh conditions of a sea voyage. Expect visible signs of wear, such as dents, dings, or rust, which account for the lower price compared to one-trip units.
Wind and watertight containers cost between $1,800 and $4,300 and are completely sealed against water and air infiltration. They may require additional maintenance or inspections before they qualify as seaworthy, so factor that into your total budget.
As-is shipping containers are the most budget-friendly option in the used market, typically costing between $1,500 and $3,500. Because they may have openings or damage that allow water and wind to enter, they are best suited for storing items that are not vulnerable to the elements.
In addition to various grading systems used, shipping containers can also be described by different design options, which will also affect their cost. These designs are related to shipping conditions, but don’t let that fool you: They’re also important for weatherproofing, letting light in, and other considerations. Standard design options include:
Dry containers are the most common type, built as basic sealed boxes that protect goods from rain and saltwater but offer no temperature control and are not entirely leakproof. They are used across hauling, storage, and landscaping applications, and the standard price ranges cited throughout this guide apply primarily to dry containers.
Reefer containers are fully sealed units with advanced temperature controls that allow safe storage of perishable goods, and a new unit runs around $18,000. Because of their specialized function, they are rarely used for landscaping, construction, or adding living space.
New flat rack containers start around $6,000 due to their specialized design. Flat rack containers have raised walls at the front and back with open sides, giving you a stable base and some protection while allowing much greater freedom for transporting bulky products.
Despite using fewer materials, open top containers start at around $4,900 and are commonly used to transport livestock and oversized machinery, though they can serve many other purposes. Open top containers keep all four walls intact but remove the roof entirely, eliminating height constraints at the cost of weather exposure.
Open side container prices are comparable to dry containers, typically starting around $4,000 for a 20-foot unit. They feature doors along the broad side for maximum access and are well-suited for use as a shed or landscaping shelter.
You'll also need to budget for delivery costs, permitting fees, and site preparation, as detailed in the following section.
Delivery fees average $3,000 to ship a moving container, and your location plays a direct role in that figure. Homeowners near major ports like San Francisco typically pay less for delivery than those in landlocked areas, so factor your proximity to a port into your overall budget before deciding whether to buy or rent.
Permit costs for a shipping container typically range from about $15 to $500, with every town, county, and state setting its own rules and fees. High-traffic and residential areas generally impose stricter zoning requirements than rural areas, and your final permit cost will depend on where you live, where the container is placed, and how you intend to use it.
Site preparation costs range from a few hundred dollars to over $1,000, depending on the method you choose. Shipping containers are extremely heavy, so placing one directly on ground soil for the long term will cause it to sink or tilt as it settles. At minimum, the site should be leveled and compacted, with many installations using a gravel bed, concrete piers, railroad tie beams, or a full concrete slab for stability.
Transporting a shipping container costs anywhere from $1,400 to $9,100, with an average price of $3,000, driven primarily by the size and weight of the container and the distance it needs to travel. Domestic shipping breaks down to around $2.50 per mile, so a smaller load like an apartment's worth of belongings will cost noticeably less than a full three-bedroom home. International shipments follow a different pricing structure, averaging $6,000 to $9,100.
Shipping containers are built with transportation in mind, so many add-ons with your container refer back to the original use. For example, the cost of a refrigerated container will start at about $13,000.
Other modifications include doors, special security, electricity, plumbing, insulation, flooring, and windows. Most importantly, always work with a licensed and experienced local contractor when making major modifications, especially when working from the ground up. Here are a few common shipping container add-on costs:
New flooring: $3 to $22 per square foot
Wiring for electricity: $600 to $2,300
Add a bathroom: $5,000 to $35,000
Add a kitchen: $100 to $300 per square foot
Install insulation: $4 to $16 per square foot
HVAC and ventilation: $5,000 to $12,500
Add a door: $500 to $1,600
Shipping containers are built to withstand extreme conditions but are prone to rust, so ongoing maintenance follows a similar pattern to any permanent structure. You will need to budget for rust-proof protection, weatherproofing insulation where appropriate, and the upkeep of any plumbing or electrical systems you have installed.
Buying in bulk isn’t usually an option for the average homeowner looking for a shipping crate, so what options can help save money on these massive containers? We have a few steps that can help you reduce costs:
Settle for a lower grade or quality: While you don’t want your shipping container rusted or falling apart, choosing an older version that’s still “cargo-worthy” can be an excellent way to save compared to new models.
Look for local dealers: Search local listings and shipping businesses for any leads on containers. You can find discounts for older containers that are still usable. If a supplier wants to get rid of a container, they may let you take it for free if you’re willing to pay transportation costs.
Shop around for delivery options: You will typically need to move shipping containers by forklift or crane. However, you can save on delivery with a chassis-only delivery, which means you’ll have to arrange a crane or other method to offload the container upon delivery. Or you can choose to arrange for pickup from a nearby depot yourself. But local rates for that work are often lower than going through the seller.
Renting a shipping container is a practical option for short-term projects, with monthly costs ranging from $50 to $500 per month depending on size and condition. Many rental companies offer structured lease schedules, typically one to two years, and bundle delivery and pick-up into the deal, which can simplify logistics and reduce your overall cost. You can learn more about what to expect through this guide on how to rent a shipping container.
Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
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I recently moved to another state and chose United Trust Van Lines after comparing several companies. Their team was punctual, professional, and extremely careful with my belongings. I was especially impressed with how they handled my home office setup and fragile items. Everything arrived on...
United Trust Van Lines, LLCShowed up on time and cleaned carpets well, but didn?t move furniture.
Voda Cleaning & Restoration of ColumbusA reliable team for moves across state. My switch to a new place needed careful lifting through tight hallways. The movers checked the doorway first, then carried heavier pieces with slow, controlled movements. Their patience helped prevent damage, and I?d choose them again.
**Would rate a 0 if i could** NEVER USE THIS COMPANY!!!!! They shattered my tv console and dresser, lost a mirror, and never finished the move. The broken furniture cost me over $600 to replace. They left me with 6+ hours of personal labor moving my 1BR apartment, when I was quoted a FULL...
All My Sons Moving & StorageI could not have moved without the help of Jen Stover! I was in my house for nearly 20 years, so the thought of clearing it out while working full time was overwhelming. Jen takes great joy in sorting and organizing while asking the hard questions with patience and compassion. Jen is...
Go and Stow Home OrganizingCouldn't have been a worse experience. 3 of my belongings were lost and 5 belongings were damaged. My furniture was clearly dragged across the ground. The movers couldn't move the furniture I paid extra heavy weight fees for so I had to help them move my own furniture. The manager gave me...
US Interstate and RailExcellent experience for me! They helped me a lot with my move. very reasonable price. Good communication with the office manager is excellent.
Goodview Moving and StorageI was concerned about my possessions safety throughout the move but Bridge View Van Lines took all necessary security measures to make sure everything arrived in mint shape I am really appreciative of their effort and commitment They made my long distance move seem simple
Bridgeview Van LinesThis moving company is the best in Columbus, Ohio! They rescued me when my movers didnâ t show up. Do not ever use Plane Movers! They never showed up for my move, claiming that I never signed the contract. They didnâ t call me to follow up, communication was awful. The people that work for...
All My Sons Moving & StorageOzie and Tyquese were great and worked fast. It was a good move
All My Sons Moving & StorageFrom average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
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