Containers for shipping are in high demand, even among homeowners, as evidenced by the growing popularity of shipping container homes and the construction of new storage sheds in backyards.
When purchasing or renting a shipping container, you have a lot of choices. These sturdy steel structures were designed to transport a variety of goods by land and sea. They have a variety of standard sizes and constructions, as well as add-ons like insulation, doors, and refrigeration.
Depending on its size, age, and condition, the shipping container’s price may change. It can cost as much as $50,000 to fully convert a highly modified shipping container into a usable house.
You should also remember that there are expenses associated with leasing, shipping, and permits that need to be taken into account.
Continue reading below to learn more about the various kinds of shipping containers and their prices.
What Are the Uses of Shipping Containers?
Nowadays, people use shipping containers for more than just transporting goods. Previously considered an unconventional idea, shipping container homes have gained popularity among the general public due to their strong construction, adaptability, and visual appeal as homes for both temporary and permanent residents.
However, shipping containers can be used for much more. Joining the trend, people all around the world are utilizing these adaptable rectangular boxes for structures like hotels, movie theaters, shopping centers, swimming pools, and so on.
Some common (and creative) applications include:
- Transporting supplies and products
- Storage and warehousing facilities
- Apartments or emergency shelters
- Mobile offices and makeshift job site trailers
- Retail establishments and pop-up shops
- Events and exhibition areas, such as pop-up galleries and trade show booths
- Food trucks, coffee shops, and restaurants
- Jacuzzis, steam rooms, and swimming pools
- Sustainable and eco-friendly residences or commercial buildings
Knowing the prices for shipping containers as well as any additional modification fees will help you make an informed decision that fits your needs and budget. However, let’s first examine the different kinds of shipping containers before delving into the variables that influence their price.
What Are the Types of Shipping Containers?
Though dimension-wise and structurally there are many different types of shipping containers, the two main types are new ones and used ones.
Buying a new container typically indicates that it is a one-trip container that has only been used once to ship cargo before being offered for sale.
(Note: New shipping containers are frequently manufactured in China with the intention of being shipped to the United States. As a result, these containers are commonly known as “one-trip containers.”)
The cost of a new shipping container is determined by several factors, including the delivery location, the modification options you prefer, the size of your new shipping container, and so on.
There is also a lot of demand for used shipping containers, especially for business and personal storage. Used shipping containers are a common storage option for businesses looking to keep their tools, equipment, and other work-related supplies.
Compared to new shipping containers, used shipping containers are less expensive. This is a result of the container’s condition, value, and cost gradually declining over time. The condition of a used container may be causing you concern.
Being worried about the robustness and security of used shipping containers is reasonable, especially if you’re not working with a reliable shipping container company. However, it is definitely possible to find well-maintained used shipping containers with sturdy doors and longevity that will fulfill your needs for both transportation and storage for a very long time.
Factors Affecting Shipping Container Costs
As you can guess considering the information above, the question, “How much do shipping containers cost?” has no simple answer. The cost of shipping containers is never constant in the ever-changing shipping sector. Numerous factors affect a shipping container’s cost. Below, we will discuss some of the most important ones:
Container Size
The container’s size, dimensions, and capacity rank first on the list of factors that affect shipping container costs.
To meet the wide range of needs, shipping containers are available in various sizes and shapes. Larger 40- or 45-foot containers cost more than smaller ones.
Keep in mind that certain shipping containers may also offer an additional option for a higher ceiling. That type of container is called a high-cube container (HC). They are usually more expensive to purchase and ship than a regular container, and they require an additional foot of space for clearance.
Container Condition and Age
The single biggest factor affecting cost is the state of your container.
Used containers are available for a fair price, while brand-new boxes and one-way containers are typically more expensive.
Examining dents, corrosion, and the condition of accessories like refrigeration is crucial before making a purchase.
Delivery Costs
Selecting the appropriate supplier is crucial because delivery charges can surpass the cost of the container.
Delivery time, number of containers, and distance all affect pricing. Higher transportation costs can be the result of longer shipping distances, which demand more fuel and time.
Costs may also vary depending on the cargo ship’s particular route. While some routes might be more efficient and direct than others, others might require more stops or detours, which would raise the total cost of shipping.
Geographical Location
The supply and demand of a container in a particular area determines its price. It is important to remember that shipping container prices can be greatly impacted by a region’s steel prices. For example, the cost of a shipping container in Australia will be substantially different from that in India.
You should also consider whether the area you are thinking about is landlocked. Transit expenses will be higher in landlocked areas without direct access to the sea.
Seasonal Demand
Costs associated with shipping containers can be greatly impacted by seasonal demand and availability. Peak times, like the holidays or certain business-related occasions, see an increase in demand for containers, which drives up costs.
Container supply may also change in response to consumer demand. Where there is a shortage of containers, businesses may have to pay more.
Customization of Shipping Containers
The total cost of shipping containers may increase with the addition of extra services and customization. For certain goods, businesses might need specialized containers. For perishables, they might need refrigerated containers; or for oversized cargo, they might need open-top containers, etc.
Because of their special features and capabilities, these specialized containers are frequently more expensive.
Find High-Quality and Budget-Friendly Containers in CMG Containers
If you want to buy shipping containers to use as needed, you should look into CMG Containers’ catalog, where you can find one that meets all of your specifications. CMG Containers offers high-quality, brand-new shipping containers for your business’s transportation, storage, and other requirements.
CMG Containers has been serving clients in a variety of industries for two decades. Their cost-effective and innovative solutions continue to meet customer demand, motivating them to deliver the best products to market. For high-quality and budget-friendly shipping containers, contact CMG Containers today!
