The Complete Container Purchasing Guide
All the information you need before placing your order. Dimensions, condition grades, costs, and tips for selecting the right unit.
Available Container Dimensions
20ft Standard
The essential compact shipping unit. Well suited for smaller loads, household storage, and situations where a minimal footprint is important. Features standard rear-opening double doors.
20ft High Cube
A taller version of the standard 20-foot unit featuring an additional foot of vertical clearance. Delivers 12% greater interior volume on the same ground footprint. Great for oversized cargo or comfortable walk-in access.
40ft Standard
Provides twice the length of a 20-foot unit with roughly 2,390 cubic feet of capacity. The go-to solution for sizable shipments, high-volume cargo, and large-scale storage requirements.
40ft High Cube
The most widely available container on the resale market. Matches the 40-foot standard in length but adds an extra foot of height, delivering 2,694 cubic feet - the largest capacity of any standard container configuration.
Condition Grades Explained
| Feature | One-Trip | Cargo Worthy | Wind & Water Tight | As-Is |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sealed Against Elements | Yes | Yes | Yes | Maybe |
| Certified for Export | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Structural Warranty | 5 Years | 5 Years | 3 Years | None |
| Typical Age | 6-18 months | 5-15 years | 15+ years | 18+ years |
| Recommended Use | Premium, Residences, Resale | Export, Storage, Residences | Storage, Work Spaces | Custom Builds, Salvage |
Container Price Reference
| Container | One-Trip | CWO | WWT | As-Is |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20ft Standard | $3,200 | $2,100 | $1,650 | $1,200 |
| 20ft High Cube | $3,500 | $2,400 | $1,950 | $1,400 |
| 40ft Standard | $4,200 | $2,850 | $2,450 | $1,800 |
| 40ft High Cube | $4,500 | $3,250 | $2,850 | $2,200 |
Listed amounts are starting prices and may differ depending on your region. Delivery is separate. Try our cost calculator for a complete estimate.
Selecting the Right Container
Match by Intended Purpose
- Storing equipment or goods: WWT — most affordable weather-sealed option
- Overseas freight: CWO — carries the required CSC export certification
- Residential conversion: One-Trip High Cube — pristine condition with added ceiling height
- Custom build or art project: As-Is — rock-bottom pricing for units you plan to modify
- Workspace or studio: High Cube WWT — full standing room at a reasonable cost
Match by Spending Range
- Under $1,500: 20ft Standard As-Is or WWT
- $1,500-2,500: 20ft CWO or 40ft WWT
- $2,500-3,500: 40ft CWO or High Cube WWT
- $3,500+: One-Trip units or 40ft High Cube CWO
Need Help Deciding?
Drop us an email describing your project. We will suggest the best container match for your goals and budget.