New or used? It is one of the biggest choices when buying a shipping container, and it affects price, appearance and how long the container will look its best. This guide explains the difference between new (one-trip) and used shipping containers, compares prices, and helps you decide which is right for your project.
Quick answer
- Buy new (one-trip) if appearance matters, such as for a site office, retail space, workshop conversion or a container that will be visible from the street.
- Buy used if you mainly need secure, affordable ground storage and do not mind cosmetic wear.
- Check the condition grade on any used container: Cargo Worthy and Wind & Watertight units are suited to different uses.
What is a new (one-trip) shipping container?
A new shipping container is built new and typically shipped once with cargo before it is sold, which is why it is often called “one-trip”. Expect minimal wear, uniform paint and clean flooring. New containers are the best choice for site offices, retail, visible installations and conversions where a clean finish matters.
What is a used shipping container?
A used container has served in transport before sale. Used containers may show ordinary signs of prior use, including dents, scratches, surface rust, faded paint and possible repairs. They cost less than new units and are a practical choice for storage on farms, job sites, businesses and homes.
Used containers are sold by condition grade:
- Cargo Worthy (CW): structurally sound for shipping cargo.
- Wind & Watertight (WWT): sealed against wind and water for ground storage, but not rated for shipping cargo. Expect dents, surface rust and patched panels.
Read our guide to Wind & Watertight vs Cargo Worthy containers for more detail.
New vs used shipping containers compared
| New (one-trip) | Used | |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Minimal wear, uniform paint | Dents, scratches, surface rust and faded paint possible |
| Best for | Offices, retail, conversions, visible sites | Storage on farms, job sites, homes and businesses |
| Price | Higher | Lower |
| Condition grades | New | Cargo Worthy or Wind & Watertight |
| Warranty from LEV | 10-year limited structural warranty | 5-year limited structural warranty |
Price difference: what to expect
At the time of writing, prices on our store for standard containers are:
| Container | Used | New |
|---|---|---|
| 20ft standard | From $1,650 (Wind & Watertight) | $4,000 |
| 40ft standard | From $2,050 (Wind & Watertight) | $4,750 |
Prices exclude delivery and sales tax and can change with availability. Standard delivery is $350 per order to eligible addresses in our 28-state service area.
Warranty: new vs used
We offer a 10-year limited structural warranty on new containers and a 5-year limited structural warranty on used containers, both from the delivery date. Cosmetic wear is not covered. See our Product Condition and Warranty Policy for full terms.
How to decide
- Will the container be seen by customers or neighbors? If yes, consider new.
- Are you converting it into an office, workshop or living space? New is usually easier to work with.
- Is it for basic storage on a budget? A used container is often the better value.
- Do you need it for shipping cargo? Choose new or a Cargo Worthy used unit, not Wind & Watertight.
Shop new shipping containers or used shipping containers.
Need help choosing?
Tell us what you plan to store, your delivery ZIP code and any site access limits. We will confirm availability, the condition grade and your delivery quote before you pay anything.
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