Anyone looking to buy used shipping containers can get wind and watertight steel containers from Coin Container at a fraction of the price of a new one – inspected, with the condition grade stated and available for delivery. For storage, construction sites, conversions or overseas shipping, a used container is in most cases the economically sensible choice. This page explains the condition grades, gives price ranges by size and condition, and provides a checklist for your purchase.
How much does a used shipping container cost?
Used shipping containers cost significantly less than new ones – a used 20 ft container is in the low four-figure range, a 40 ft container somewhat above that. The price depends mainly on the condition grade: the difference between an "As Is" container and an inspected "Cargo Worthy" container of the same size can easily be 1.000. €
| 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 |
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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.
Detailed information on all cost factors, including transport: How much does a shipping container cost. Transport is calculated by distance and offloading conditions – guideline values in the guide Container transport – costs and delivery times.
Condition grades made simple
The condition grade is the most important piece of information when buying used. It tells you how watertight and how sturdy the container is – and determines the price.
| Grade | Features | Price level | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|---|
| One-way / one-trip | exactly one sea voyage, visually almost new, only slight handling marks on edges and corners | high | conversion, visible placement, long-term use |
| Cargo Worthy (CW) | technically sound, watertight, valid CSC plate – approved for overseas use | medium | overseas shipping, high-quality storage |
| Wind & Watertight (WWT) | wind and watertight, visible signs of use, surface rust without rust-through | lower | dry outdoor storage, construction site |
| "As is" | no condition guarantee, sold as viewed – may have minor leaks | cheapest | only with your own on-site inspection |
| IICL-5 | strict rental standard, very good condition, hardly any repair marks | high | High demands on appearance and technical condition |
For most stationary uses, WWT is sufficient. If you want to ship it, you need at least CW with a valid CSC plate – for what this plate means and why it is mandatory, see the guide ISO containers explained simply.
Used, new or one-way – which is worth it?
- Used (WWT/CW): the best choice when function and price matter and the container is used in a fixed location. Entirely sufficient for an outdoor storage area or a construction site.
- One-way: when appearance matters or the container is going to be converted – almost as good as new at a price below new stock. Details: Buy a one-way container.
- Brand new: only if you require flawless condition or a specific RAL colour from the factory.
The complete overview of all buying options: Buy shipping containers.
Checklist: inspecting a used container
- Underfloor – check from below and inside: solid, with no rotted or rusted-through areas; the plywood floor is load-bearing and not swollen.
- Side walls and roof – surface rust is normal; rust-through and dents with cracks are not. Check the roof after rain: standing puddles in one spot indicate a dent with a leak.
- Doors – both door leaves open and close smoothly, the four locking rods run cleanly in their guides, and the door gaskets are elastic and complete.
- CSC plate – present and valid if you want to ship the container. Without a valid plate, the container will not be loaded.
- Smell and previous use – a chemical, fish or strong paint smell points to previous use that is problematic for food, living space or sensitive goods.
- Previous damage and repairs – steel panels welded in afterwards are not a reason to rule a container out, but they should be neatly done and watertight.
Common mistakes when buying and how to avoid them: costly mistakes when buying a container. And how to spot dubious sellers before you transfer any money: Buying shipping containers safely. For every used container we state the condition grade and, on request, send additional photos of the specific unit.
Available used containers
Our stock changes constantly – you can find the currently available containers in the shop:
- Standard containers – 20 and 40 ft, standard and High Cube
- Special containers – Open Top, Open Side, Flat Rack, Double Door
- Refrigerated containers – Reefer and insulated containers
Delivery and offloading
We deliver from Hamburg across Europe. Depending on the container and destination, by standard truck, by truck with a loader crane (sets the container down in one piece) or by low-loader. Self-collection from the depot is possible if you have a suitable vehicle. Beforehand, we check access, the placement area and the ground – the container needs a load-bearing, level surface under the four corner castings. Details: Container transport and logistics.
Used shipping containers in Hamburg, Bremen and Cuxhaven
In the Greater Hamburg area, the Bremen region and on the North Sea coast, delivery is particularly fast and affordable:
- Buy shipping containers in Hamburg
- Buy shipping containers in Bremen
- Used shipping containers in Cuxhaven
Frequently asked questions
How old are used shipping containers?
Usually 8 to 15 years. Age alone says little – what matters is the condition of the floor, seals and welds.
Are used containers watertight?
Yes, from the "Wind and Watertight" condition grade upwards. "As Is" containers without a condition guarantee may have small leaks.
Can a used container still be shipped overseas?
Nur mit Zustandsklasse „Cargo Worthy“ und gültiger CSC-Plakette.
Is there a warranty?
We clarify this in the quote – different rules apply in business transactions than in consumer sales.
Is delivery possible without a crane?
Yes, by tilt chassis – the container then rolls off backwards and needs some free space behind it. Pinpoint offloading is only possible with a loading crane.
Buy a used shipping container now
Tell us the size, condition and delivery location – we will tell you which containers are available and give you a fixed price including transport. Request a quote · Overview: Buy shipping containers
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 7. November 2026 · Redaktion: Coin Container Team, Hamburg