"How much is a shipping container?" is the question we hear most. There is no single price: a used 20ft container for a homestead and a new 40ft High Cube for export can differ several times over. This article explains what drives the price, so you can compare offers and avoid overpaying.
1. Size
A bigger container costs more, but it is worth comparing the price per cubic metre, not just per container. A 20ft (6 m) container holds about 33 m³ and a 40ft (12 m) about 67 m³. If you need a lot of space, one 40ft is often more practical than two 20ft units - one delivery and one spot on the ground. Sizes are compared in Shipping container dimensions.
2. Condition: new, CW or WWT
- New (one-trip) - the most expensive, but near-perfect and with a valid CSC plate.
- Used CW (cargo worthy) - fit to ship cargo, cheaper than new.
- Used WWT (wind & water tight) - the cheapest; keeps out wind and water and is meant for storage.
If you only need storage, paying for a new container rarely makes sense. Grades are explained in Used container grades.
3. Height and version
A High Cube is about 30 cm taller and a Pallet Wide is wider inside, so both usually cost more than a standard unit. Reefers cost more than dry containers because of the cooling unit and insulation, and special containers (Open Top, Flat Rack, Open Side) are priced by design.
4. Quantity
For several or dozens of containers, the price is calculated individually. With more than 100 terminal contracts we can gather larger quantities from different locations.
5. Delivery address and conditions
The final sum also depends on where the container goes, which crane is needed and how easy the access is. 10-20ft containers travel on a small crane truck, 40-45ft on a large one or a side loader. Our quote shows both the container and the delivery price, so you see the total straight away.
6. Market swings
Container prices move with global shipping demand: when ports are short of boxes, used prices rise; when there is a surplus, they fall. An "average price" found online therefore goes out of date fast - only a quote for a given day gives the exact answer.
Where to see actual prices
Units already in our yard are listed with photos, condition, location and often a price under Containers in stock. Prices there exclude VAT. For other sizes and quantities we prepare an individual quote.
Buy or rent?
For a few weeks or months, renting a shipping container may pay off - everything is included in one price. For long-term use, compare the rental cost with the price of a used container.
Beware of prices that look too good
If an advert is far below the market, be careful: scammers often offer containers that don't exist and ask for payment up front. How to spot them is covered in How to avoid shipping container fraud.
How to get an exact quote quickly
- State the size (for example 20 or 40 ft, standard or High Cube).
- State the condition: new, CW or WWT.
- Give the quantity and the delivery address.
- If you can, describe the access and the spot where the container will stand.
Send it via the form, by phone on +370 650 61953 or by email to sales@cway.lt.