A shipping container costs roughly between the low and the high four-figure range, depending on size and condition (net, excluding transport). A used 20 ft container is at the lower end, an as-new 40 ft High Cube at the upper end. In addition, there are one-off transport costs, which are calculated individually based on distance and offloading conditions. This page breaks down what determines the price – with guide values by size and condition, a worked example of the total cost and the factors that influence the price.
Shipping container prices by size
The following guide values are net depot prices, excluding transport. They indicate the range in which prices typically fall – the binding price for a specific container is stated in the quote.
| Size | used | One-way | brand new |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 ft | approx. 1.400–2.400 € | approx. 1.900–2.600 € | on request |
| 10 ft | approx. 1.600–2.800 € | approx. 2.600–3.400 € | on request |
| 20 ft | approx. 850–1.200 € | approx. 1.800–2.300 € | on request |
| 20 ft High Cube | approx. 1.400–2.800 € | approx. 2.600–3.500 € | on request |
| 40 ft | approx. 1.100–1.400 € | approx. 3.000–3.300 € | on request |
| 40 ft High Cube | approx. 1.400–1.800 € | approx. 2.700–3.300 € | on request |
↔ Swipe table left/
As of October 2026. Indicative net prices (plus VAT) at the depot, excluding transport. Containers are a globally traded commodity — prices move with exchange rates, freight rates and the season. We give binding prices in our quote.
Small containers (6–10 ft) are more expensive per cubic metre than 20 and 40 ft containers because they are custom-built – the 20 ft container is the most cost-efficient format. If you are still looking for the right size, you will find the full dimensions under Container dimensions and sizes.
Prices by condition
Die Zustandsklasse macht bei gleicher Größe schnell 1.000 Euro Unterschied. Ein gebrauchter Container im Zustand „Wind and Watertight“ reicht für ein trockenes Außenlager völlig aus; ein One Way Container lohnt sich, wenn die Optik zählt oder der Container umgebaut wird.
| Condition | Features | Price level |
|---|---|---|
| Brand new | never loaded, flawless, colour of your choice available | highest |
| One-way / as new | one sea voyage, almost like new in appearance, minimal handling marks | high |
| Cargo Worthy (CW) | seaworthy, watertight, valid CSC plate | medium |
| Wind & Watertight (WWT) | rain- and windproof, with signs of wear | lower |
| "As Is" | no guarantee of condition, sold as viewed | cheapest |
Details on the condition grades and an inspection checklist for your purchase: buy used shipping containers.
Prices for refrigerated and special containers
Refrigerated and special containers follow their own pricing logic:
- Refrigerated containers (reefers): are priced significantly higher than standard containers. The condition of the refrigeration unit and the latest PTI inspection are decisive. A used, inspected unit offers the best value for money. View the category: Refrigerated containers.
- Special containers (Open Top, Open Side, Flat Rack, Double Door, Pallet Wide): surcharge compared with the standard container depending on design and availability. View the category: Special containers.
Transport and additional costs
The container price is only part of the total cost. Additional costs include:
- Transport: depends on the distance from the nearest depot, vehicle type and offloading conditions – the second-largest item after the container itself. Typical figures and process: Container transport – costs and delivery times.
- Crane offloading: if the container has to be positioned precisely (truck with loader crane instead of tilt chassis).
- Foundation / base: compacted gravel or concrete slabs under the four corner fittings are usually sufficient – no poured foundation is needed, but a load-bearing, level surface is.
- Permit: usually not required for storage-only use; a building permit may be required for permanent installation or conversion. Details: Shipping container building permit.
Worked example: total costs
20 ft container, used (WWT), delivery 120 km, crane offloading
Container (low four-figure range) + transport for 120 km + crane offloading → we will give you the total in our quote, broken down by item. This lets you see immediately what share of the cost is the container and what share is logistics.
What influences the price?
- Condition – the biggest factor (see table above)
- Size – 20 ft is the most efficient; special sizes and High Cube cost more
- Availability at the nearest depot – if the container you want is on site, there are no transfer costs
- Equipment – ventilation grilles, lock box, paintwork, floor refurbishment
- Market situation and season – around Chinese New Year and during harvest time, availability tightens and prices rise because containers become scarcer worldwide
- Transport distance – from the Hamburg depot to the destination region
Buy or rent – which is cheaper?
As a rule of thumb: from around 12 to 18 months of use, the rental total exceeds the purchase price – then buying pays off. For shorter, fixed-term uses, renting is more flexible and involves no resale effort. The full comparison with a worked example: Buy or rent a container. To the rental page: Rent a container.
Frequently asked questions about shipping container prices
How much does a 20 ft container cost?
A used 20 ft container costs in the low four-figure range, while a one-way container costs more (current guide prices in the table above). The exact price depends on the condition and availability at the nearest depot.
Why do prices fluctuate so much?
Because containers are a globally traded commodity: exchange rates, freight rates, depot stocks and seasons (Chinese New Year, harvest time) all move prices – sometimes by several hundred euros within a few months.
Are delivery costs included in the price?
No. Transport is calculated individually based on distance and offloading conditions and is shown separately in the quote.
Is a brand-new container worth it?
Only if flawless appearance or a specific RAL colour matters. For storage and most conversions, a one-way or good used container is the more economical choice.
Are prices with or without VAT?
All prices on this page are net (plus statutory VAT).
Can I get a volume discount?
If you need several containers or have regular requirements, please contact us – we will clarify this in your quote.
Current prices and availability
Up-to-date prices for specific containers are available in the shop – or you can enquire directly and we will give you a fixed price including delivery. Buy shipping containers · Request a quote
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 7. November 2026 · Redaktion: Coin Container Team, Hamburg