A 40-foot shipping container costs between $3,500 and $10,000 in 2026. Used standard containers start around $3,500, while new one-trip high cube containers can exceed $10,000. Delivery typically adds $300–$900.
40-Foot Shipping Container Prices by Type
| Type | Condition | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Standard (8’6″ tall) | Used WWT | $3,500 – $5,000 |
| Standard (8’6″ tall) | One-Trip | $6,000 – $8,500 |
| High Cube (9’6″ tall) | Used WWT | $4,000 – $6,000 |
| High Cube (9’6″ tall) | One-Trip | $6,500 – $10,000 |
| Open Top | Used | $5,000 – $8,000 |
| Refrigerated (Reefer) | Used | $5,000 – $12,000 |
Standard vs High Cube: What’s the Difference?
A standard 40-foot container is 8 feet 6 inches tall, giving you 8 feet of interior height. A high cube is 9 feet 6 inches tall, with 9 feet of interior clearance. High cubes cost $500–$1,500 more but are strongly recommended for container homes, offices, and any livable space — the extra foot of headroom makes a major difference.
How Much Does Delivery Cost?
Delivery for a 40-foot container typically runs $300–$900 for local delivery within 50 miles. Long-distance delivery can reach $2,000+. You need a truck with a tilt-bed or roll-off trailer and enough clear space to set the container — usually 80–90 feet of straight-line access.
Is a 40-Foot Container Worth It?
A 40-foot container gives you 320 square feet of floor space — double a 20-foot container — for about 30% more money. For most buyers, the 40-foot is the better value. Common uses include large storage, workshops, container homes, retail pop-ups, and farm storage.
How to Save Money on a 40-Foot Container
- Buy WWT condition if you only need basic storage
- Pick up from the depot instead of paying for delivery
- Compare quotes from at least 3 local dealers
- Look for containers coming off lease — often priced below market
- Buy in winter when demand is lower
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