Overseas container, ship container, ocean container, shipping container, ISO container – these terms almost always mean the same thing: the standardised steel container for international freight, which can be used for storage, as a conversion base or as a transport unit. This page explains the terms and shows what matters when buying.
Overseas container, ship container, shipping container – what is the difference?
In trade and in everyday language, these terms are used interchangeably:
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Overseas container | emphasises use in overseas transport – technically identical to the shipping container. |
| Ship container | emphasises transport by ship – likewise the same container. |
| Ocean container | highlights seaworthiness (watertight, with a valid CSC plate). |
| Shipping container | the most common umbrella term. |
| ISO container | the technically correct designation: standardised under ISO 668 (dimensions) and ISO 6346 (marking). |
The real difference lies not in the name, but in the design (Standard, High Cube, Open Top, Open Side, Flat Rack, refrigerated container) and the Condition. How ISO containers are standardised and marked is explained in ISO containers explained simply.
Sizes and designs
The most common overseas containers are 20 ft (approx. 6,06 m) and 40 ft (approx. 12,19 m), each as Standard or as High Cube with 30 cm more interior height. There are also special designs for bulky or heavy cargo. All exterior and interior dimensions compared: Container dimensions and sizes.
- Buy a 20 ft container – the most flexible format for storage, construction sites and conversion.
- Buy a 40 ft container – Standard and High Cube for large-volume goods.
- Buy an 8 ft container – the compact size when space is limited.
New, one-way or used?
For most purposes, a used Überseecontainer im Zustand „Wind and Watertight“ – dicht und stabil, mit sichtbaren Gebrauchsspuren. Ein One-way container has made only one sea voyage and looks almost new. Brand-new containers are mainly worthwhile when appearance or a specific colour matters. The condition grades in detail: buy used shipping containers.
How much does an overseas container cost?
The price depends on size, condition and design; containers are a globally traded commodity, so prices fluctuate with exchange rates and freight rates. Current guide prices and cost factors:
| Size | used | One-way | brand new |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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.
All details: How much does a shipping container cost.
What to look out for when buying
Check Floor, door seals and roof for watertightness, and for seaworthiness the CSC plate. Buy from a registered dealer who has a depot and issues an invoice – how to spot disreputable sellers is explained under Buying shipping containers safely. On delivery and a suitable base: Have a shipping container delivered and offloaded.
Buy overseas containers from Coin
Coin Container supplies overseas containers in all common sizes and conditions – new, one-way and used, across Europe. Tell us the size, condition and delivery address; you will receive the price including transport. Request a quote · Overview: Buy a container
Frequently asked questions
Are overseas containers, ship containers and shipping containers the same thing?
In trade and everyday use, yes: the term almost always refers to the standardised steel container used for international freight. The differences lie in design and condition, not in the name.
What sizes are available?
The most common are 20 ft (approx. 6,06 m) and 40 ft (approx. 12,19 m), each available as standard or High Cube with 30 cm more interior height. There are also special designs such as Open Top, Open Side and Flat Rack.
Is a used overseas container sufficient?
Für die meisten Zwecke ja, im Zustand „Wind and Watertight“: dicht und stabil, mit sichtbaren Gebrauchsspuren. Ein One Way Container hat erst eine Seereise hinter sich.
Zuletzt aktualisiert: 7. November 2026 · Redaktion: Coin Container Team, Hamburg