How Much Does a Shipping Container Cost? (2026 Prices)
One of the most common questions we hear at StackCrateCo is simple: how much does a shipping container cost? The honest answer is “it depends”, but this guide gives you real 2026 price ranges so you know what to budget before you buy.
Shipping container prices in the U.S. depend on four main factors: size (10ft, 20ft or 40ft), condition (new “one-trip” vs. used), type (standard, high cube, refrigerated) and delivery distance.
Shipping Container Price Ranges (2026)
| Container | Used | New (one-trip) |
|---|---|---|
| 10ft | $2,500 to $4,000 | $3,500 to $5,500 |
| 20ft standard | $1,500 to $3,000 | $3,000 to $5,000 |
| 40ft standard | $2,000 to $3,500 | $4,000 to $6,000 |
| 40ft high cube | $2,300 to $3,800 | $4,500 to $7,000 |
| Refrigerated (reefer) | $8,000 to $15,000+ | $12,000 to $25,000+ |
Prices are typical U.S. ranges and move with the market, your region and availability. For a firm, current price, call (312) 998-4030.
Container Sizes and Dimensions at a Glance
Price tracks size, so confirm the footprint you need before you buy:
| Container | Exterior (L x W x H) | Interior (L x W x H) | Door Opening (W x H) | Tare Weight | Max Payload | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10ft | 10′ x 8′ x 8’6″ | 9’3″ x 7’8″ x 7’10” | 7’8″ x 7’5″ | ~2,850 lb | ~19,150 lb | ~560 cu ft |
| 20ft | 20′ x 8′ x 8’6″ | 19’4″ x 7’8″ x 7’10” | 7’8″ x 7’5″ | ~4,850 lb | ~48,060 lb | ~1,172 cu ft |
| 40ft | 40′ x 8′ x 8’6″ | 39’6″ x 7’8″ x 7’10” | 7’8″ x 7’5″ | ~8,300 lb | ~58,900 lb | ~2,390 cu ft |
| 40ft HC | 40′ x 8′ x 9’6″ | 39’6″ x 7’8″ x 8’10” | 7’8″ x 8’5″ | ~8,750 lb | ~58,450 lb | ~2,694 cu ft |
For the full breakdown of every size, including 45ft and metric figures, see our shipping container dimensions and sizes chart.
New vs. Used Shipping Containers
Used containers (also sold as “cargo-worthy” or “wind & watertight”) are 8 to 15 years old, fully functional and the most budget-friendly choice. One-trip containers have made a single ocean voyage, look near-new, and cost more but offer the best appearance and longevity. Read our full new vs used shipping containers comparison, or browse all shipping containers for sale.
How Much Does Container Delivery Cost?
Delivery is usually quoted separately and depends on distance from the nearest depot and truck type (tilt-bed vs. flatbed with crane). Local deliveries often run a few hundred dollars; long hauls cost more. We deliver nationwide from our St. Louis area hub. See our delivery service areas and our container delivery guide for site prep tips.
Tips to Save Money on a Shipping Container
- Choose used/cargo-worthy over one-trip if appearance isn’t critical.
- Buy a 20ft if you don’t truly need 40ft: easier to place and cheaper to deliver.
- Ask about delivery bundling if you need more than one container.
- Confirm your site allows tilt-bed delivery to avoid crane fees.
Shipping Container Cost FAQ
How much is a 20ft shipping container?
A used 20ft container typically runs $1,500 to $3,000; a new one-trip 20ft runs about $3,000 to $5,000, plus delivery.
How much is a 40ft shipping container?
Used 40ft containers usually cost $2,000 to $3,500, while new 40ft high cube units run roughly $4,500 to $7,000, plus delivery.
Why are 10ft containers sometimes more than 20ft?
10ft containers aren’t made for ocean shipping, so they’re cut down from larger units. That extra labor can make them cost as much as or more than a 20ft.
Ready to buy? Call StackCrateCo at (312) 998-4030 for current shipping container prices and a delivered quote anywhere in the USA.