And relatively cheap, too. Locally, I can buy a trailer with the wheels and landing gear still attached for $500. If I remove the wheels and axle and the landing gear they will give me back $200. The trailers are used Roadway thirty footers. Shipping containers are more expensive. https://www.howmuchisit.org/cargo-containers-cost/
The price of cargo containers usually depends on the size of container, if there are any amenities inside, the condition it’s in and the number you purchase at once. On average, cargo containers can cost anywhere from $1,500 to as much as $4,500+ for just the container. Since it’s too expensive to ship the containers back to where it originated from, most will sell after they have been unloaded. Cargo containers near a popular port will be much cheaper to transport than one that’s not. A 20-foot container can cost $1,700 to $3,400. A 40-foot container can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $4,700, while a hi-cube reefer refrigerated container can cost $8,000 to $9,500. A Conex box, which is often a popular brand purchased online, can cost about $1,500 to $2,500 used for a 20-foot container. A smaller 10-foot container can sell for as little as $1,500 to as much as $3,400. A 60-foot x 60-foot steel container, made of a heavy duty BLUFF steel and full-width stiffener for added strength and stability, can cost $1,200 to $1,500. For example, EquipmentTrader.com lists a 2002 A-plus grade A cargo container for $2,000 to $2,400. WikiHow claims an as-is container can cost $1,500 and a like-new or a modified container can cost $5,000 to $8,000. Modified shipping containers, which may have at higher prices, and these containers could have air conditioners, heaters, skylights, vents, fans or fully customized to be livable. Due to the many customizations, it’s hard to price these because it’s like a home — there are a lot of factors involved. What is going to be included?
Cargo containers will commonly be 20 or 40 feet long and common heights will include 8.5 and 9.5 feet. Most will be 8 feet wide, but extra wide containers are available and can measure up to 48 feet in length. Common names you will see will be either standard, which will have a standard 8.5-foot height, or high cube, which will have a 9.5-foot height. Most cargo containers are going to be considered a “dry van” with double doors. Higher-end premium cargo holders can have a refrigeration system to keep the items cool inside the container. What are the extra costs?
Due to the size, shipping/freight fees will apply. Based on recent quotes on UShip.com, the average shipping cost was $500 to more than $3,000, depending on the size. Because of size, bigger lots may be required to store them if you don’t have space. One way to keep the containers from rusting and in good shape will be with a simple paint job. While optional, it’s highly recommended you pay with an industrial-based alkyd enamel. Shipping containers can take a beating as they arrive at its destination, and repairs may be needed upon arrival. Some common repairs include the doors not shutting properly, the seals breaking, holes on the sides or a flooring issue. Doors, depending on the size, can cost $300 to $900, while a new lockbox will cost about $50 to $200. Lockrods and newer handles can cost about $100 per set, while rubber gaskets, which fitted to the container to prevent water damage, can cost about $45. These are all prices for the parts only and won’t include professional labor. To have a professional fix the issue, this can be two to three times the amount.