The biggest single factor in what you pay for a container is whether it is new or used. This guide to used shipping container prices UK buyers pay compares typical new and used prices, explains what you get for the extra money and helps you decide which is better value for your project.
Prices below are typical UK guide prices for 2026 before delivery and VAT. Live prices for every unit are shown on our shipping containers for sale pages.
New vs used shipping container prices
| Container | Used (wind & watertight) | New / one-trip |
|---|---|---|
| 10ft | From around £1,300 | Typically a few hundred pounds more |
| 20ft standard | Roughly £1,400 to £2,200 | Roughly £1,850 to £2,700 |
| 40ft standard | Roughly £2,200 to £3,200 | Typically more than used |
| 40ft high cube | Typically less than new | Roughly £2,800 to £3,800 |
For a full breakdown including refrigerated and specialist units, see our shipping container cost UK guide.
What you get for the extra money
New / one-trip containers
- Near-new condition with clean paint and minimal marks
- Sound seals, a good floor and smooth-operating doors
- A longer working life before maintenance is needed
- A better base for painting, branding and conversions
- Better resale value later
Used containers
- Lower purchase price
- Still wind and watertight and secure
- Dents, surface rust and patched paintwork from service at sea
- More maintenance over time
What else affects the price?
- Size and height: larger containers cost more, but 40ft units are cheaper per square metre. High cubes cost a little more than standard height.
- Grade: cargo-worthy containers usually cost more than wind and watertight ones. See container grades explained.
- Door type: double door, side-opening and open top containers cost more than standard units.
- Specification: refrigeration, insulation and fit-outs add significantly to the price.
- Delivery: distance from the depot and the type of lorry needed affect the delivered price.
- Market conditions: global shipping demand affects container supply and prices.
Which is better value?
- Choose used if you need straightforward, secure storage on a site, farm or yard and appearance is not a priority.
- Choose new / one-trip if the container will be converted, painted, on show near a home or business, or used for many years.
- Choose cargo-worthy if you plan to ship goods overseas.
Read more about the pros and cons in new vs used shipping containers.
Tips to get the best price
- Buy the size you actually need. Paying for a 40ft when a 20ft will do wastes money on the container and delivery.
- Ask for a delivered price so you can compare quotes fairly.
- Check what the grade includes, especially for used containers.
- Prepare your site in advance to avoid failed deliveries and extra charges.
- Consider buying rather than hiring if you need the container for more than a few months.
Used shipping container prices UK: what affects the cost
Used shipping container prices UK buyers see can vary widely by size, age, grade and location. A larger or newer container costs more, a higher grade costs more than an as-is unit, and delivery distance can add a significant amount. Always check whether a quote includes delivery and VAT; current rates are published on gov.uk.
To compare used shipping container prices UK suppliers quote fairly, ask for the grade, age, photos and delivery terms in writing, and compare like for like rather than looking only at the headline price.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a used 20ft shipping container in the UK?
A used wind and watertight 20ft container typically costs roughly £1,400 to £2,200 before delivery and VAT, depending on condition.
Is a new container worth the extra cost?
For conversions, visible locations and long-term use, often yes. For basic storage, a good used container is usually the better value.
Do container prices include delivery?
Not always. We quote a delivered price so you know the full cost to your site.
Get a delivered price
Request a quote with the size, condition and your postcode, and we will send you a delivered price for new and used options so you can compare.
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