Cost is one of the most important factors in global shipping with a significant impact on your bottom line. So, how much does a shipping container cost? Here’s everything you need to know.
Before you buy a shipping container, it’s important to ask the right questions to understand the total cost of a container. Whether you’re using your container for a pop-up shop, storage, or an office, here’s what you should know before you buy.
Shipping container prices are determined by factors like size, condition, location, demand cycles, and market fluctuations. Global trade volumes, steel prices, and seasonal demand can drive prices up or down, and add-ons like locks and paint can also increase container costs.
Used shipping containers can be significantly cheaper than new containers, but choosing between a new, used, or rental container depends on the application. Container rentals are commonly used for one-time global shipments.
Used and new containers are more commonly used for applications like storage and pop-up shops. As long as a used container is in good condition, there’s nothing wrong with using it for these applications.
Larger shipping containers are more expensive, but those costs increases aren’t necessarily linear. While 20’ containers are half the size of 40’ containers, they’re typically about 75–80% of the price.
The condition of shipping containers also impacts costs, with used container prices varying widely depending on condition.
Shipping container size is one of the biggest determining factors in container costs. 20’ containers are typically about 75–80% of the cost of 40’ containers, with high-cube units adding an extra foot of height at a cost increase of 10–15%.
Container grades also impact container costs, with new and used shipping containers being the most affordable options. New ISO units and cargo-ready units with sealed doors are among the most expensive container options.
Standard shipping containers are more affordable than customized units, with cost increases varying based on the type of customization. Modifications like windows, doors, insulation, HVAC, shelving, and roll-up doors increase container costs.
Deciding between purchasing and renting a shipping container is a matter of what you’re using it for. After several months, rental costs eclipse the cost of purchasing a new or used container. Hidden fees like cleaning fees, overage charges, and relocation fees can further increase rental costs.
Domestic purchase and delivery fees include per-mile trucking rates, local drayage fees, and set-up charges. Site accessibility, special permits, and crane requirements can also impact delivery costs.
Import fees include customs duties, documentation fees, port handling charges, demurrage and detention costs. There are also different import charges for less than container loads (LCL) vs. full container loads (FCL).
Shipping container costs can vary a lot based on region and market demand. For example, coastal markets with repeat container returns tend to have a surplus of shipping containers which leads to lower costs.
In inland and remote areas, one-way rentals and repositioning costs drive prices up. Seasonal spikes can also impact container prices, with holiday retail ramp-ups and harvest season increasing demand and driving up prices.
Common delivery fees include the mileage rate, crane or forklift control, and loading/unloading labor. Steep driveways, rural access roads, and oversized load escorts can also lead to higher delivery costs.
It’s important to verify that the delivery company you’re using provides insurance for damage in transit.
Site preparation includes leveling the ground, compacting a gravel pad, and using concrete piers or foundation blocks to create a solid foundation. Costs also vary depending on the type of foundation you use, with simpler sleeper foundations being on the low end and concrete pads being on the high end.
Zoning clearance, building permits, and electrical and plumbing inspections are also costs to consider. Some areas may waive fees for temporary storage, and historic district restrictions and homeowners association rules can be obstacles that result in additional costs.
Adding windows, doors, electrical, plumbing, or HVAC to a shipping container makes it more expensive. If you’re planning on modifying your shipping container, include these costs in your total cost estimate.
Moisture control is crucial because a large percentage of cargo damage is caused by moisture. Using desiccants to trap moisture can prevent costly issues like mold and corrosion.
Hybag desiccant bags trap moisture from the surrounding air. The simple design allows Hybags to be installed throughout your shipping container , so you can get even coverage for maximum moisture control.
Hyblankets are designed to be laid over the top of your cargo to trap moisture before it causes damage. One side of the blanket traps moisture rising from cargo, while the other side traps moisture in the surrounding air.
Hypads are designed for leaks and spills. Simply place a Hypad beneath your cargo and you’re good to go. Hypads lock in moisture so it doesn’t collect beneath your cargo.
Temcore blankets are easy to use and effective. All you have to do is drape a thermal blanket over your cargo and you’re good to go.
Temcore container liners are designed to insulate entire shipping containers, with various sizes to choose from. You can use Temcore Liners with other Temcore products for maximum temperature control.
Temcore Cover and Temcore Max Cover fit snugly over pallets, providing protection for individual pallets of cargo. Temcore Max Cover is capable of holding temperatures within 1 degree per hour.
Container liners are available in various materials including polyethylene, polypropylene, and aluminum-faced kraft paper. These materials are designed to combine affordability and durability.
Liners are installed by attaching rails, snapping in each panel, and sealing the seams to create a tight seal. Using liners results in easier cargo cleanup, split load flexibility, and better thermal performance.
While container liner costs can drive up the total cost of a container, investing in liners can lower insurance premiums and reduce spoilage. Amortizing liner cost over multiple trips gives you a better idea of the per-shipment cost.
Assuming flat trucking rates can lead to inaccurate estimates. While trucking rates may be flat in some cases, site restrictions can double delivery costs. Examples include narrow streets, the need for permits, and crane vs. forklift lifting requirements.
Moisture and temperature damage can result in significant damage that far outweighs the cost of protecting your cargo. It’s a lot smarter to spend $200 on a desiccant blanket than to risk $5,000 in cargo damage to save money.
When permits are obtained late or foundations aren’t ready, it costs you time and money. If local rules aren’t followed, you may even face fines or container removal.
A 20’ shipping container should cost between $1,500 and $3,500, but it depends on the condition of the container, delivery costs, and modifications.
Shipping container delivery fees can range from about $300 to $1,000+, depending on factors like location and site restrictions.
Custom container modification costs vary depending on the type of modification, with most modifications ranging from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.
You should use desiccants and other moisture control solutions any time you’re shipping sensitive cargo or shipping cargo during a wet season.
Yes, thermal liners are a smart investment despite the cost. Investing a few hundred dollars in a thermal liner can prevent thousands of dollars in cargo damage.
Shipping container costs vary widely depending on the specifics, but prices typically range from about $1,500 to $3,500.
If you need help protecting the cargo inside your shipping container, Eurolog Packing Group can help. Reach out to get a quote or discuss custom solutions for your next shipment.
Sandra Malouf is the President of Eurolog Packing Group and has spent her career focused on Industrial Packaging. With a proven track record of helping businesses avoid supply chain disruptions, Sandra’s visionary leadership elevates the industry. She’s committed to developing sustainable practices and continues to shape the future of industrial packaging by listening to the customer and offering unique solutions applicable to various industries across the world. The company’s main focus is temperature stabilization and moisture damage prevention in exports affected by extreme variations in global temperatures.
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