Shipping container FAQ — answers about pricing, delivery, and conditions

Shipping Container Questions, Answered

Every question we get from buyers — pricing, delivery, sizing, conditions, warranty, and returns. Straight answers from United States Container Express.

Buying & Pricing

How much does a shipping container cost in the United States?+

Prices at United States Container Express start at around $1,495 for a used Wind & Water Tight 20ft and run to roughly $7,800+ for a brand-new 40ft High Cube with options. Specialty units (refrigerated, side-door, flat rack) are quoted individually. Every quote includes the unit, taxes, and delivery to your ZIP code.

What is the difference between New, Cargo-Worthy, Wind & Water Tight, and As-Is?+

New (One-Trip) containers are less than 12 months old and near factory-fresh. Cargo-Worthy units are CSC-certified for ocean shipping. Wind & Water Tight (WWT) units are guaranteed dry but not ocean-rated. As-Is units are sold without warranty for repair or salvage projects.

Do you offer financing or payment plans?+

Yes. We accept all major credit cards, ACH bank transfer, and wire transfer. Financing is available on qualifying orders — call +1 (727) 699-2766 or email sales@usaconex.com for current terms.

Do you offer military, veteran, or first-responder discounts?+

Yes. United States Container Express offers active-duty, veteran, and first-responder discounts on most in-stock units. Mention eligibility when requesting your quote.

Delivery & Site Preparation

How fast can I get a container delivered?+

Most orders ship within 1–3 business days from the nearest depot using a tilt-bed truck. Specialty and modified units may take 2–4 weeks. We deliver to all 50 U.S. states.

How much room do I need for delivery?+

A 20ft tilt-bed delivery needs roughly 65 ft of straight clearance and 12 ft of width. A 40ft tilt-bed needs about 100 ft of straight clearance and 14 ft of overhead clearance. Surface should be firm: gravel, concrete, or compacted dirt.

How much does delivery cost?+

Delivery is quoted by ZIP code. Typical ranges are $300–$900 for a 20ft and $500–$1,400 for a 40ft. Long-haul, remote, and difficult-access deliveries are quoted individually.

Do you ship to Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico?+

Yes, by quote. These deliveries require ocean freight and lead times of 3–6 weeks. Contact our sales team for a written quote.

Container Specifications

What sizes of shipping containers do you sell?+

We sell 6ft, 8ft, 10ft, 20ft Standard, 20ft High Cube, 40ft Standard, 40ft High Cube, and 45ft High Cube. We also stock specialty units: refrigerated reefers, open-top, side-door, double-door, flat rack, insulated, and modified office and pool containers.

What is a High Cube container?+

A High Cube container is 9 ft 6 in tall, one foot taller than a Standard (8 ft 6 in). The extra height is valuable for insulated conversions, tall equipment storage, and office or living modifications.

Are your containers wind and watertight?+

Every container we sell, except units explicitly listed as 'As-Is', is guaranteed wind and watertight on delivery. New and Cargo-Worthy units carry additional structural and CSC certifications.

Can a shipping container be used as a permanent structure?+

Yes. Shipping containers are commonly converted into offices, retail pop-ups, workshops, tiny homes, and storage units. Most jurisdictions require a building permit and proper foundation; consult your local code office.

Returns, Warranty & Compliance

What is your return policy?+

Containers that arrive damaged or not as described are eligible for replacement or refund per our Refund & Returns Policy. Inspect every unit at delivery and note any issues on the delivery receipt before signing.

Do you provide a warranty?+

New (One-Trip) and CSC-certified Cargo-Worthy containers carry a wind & watertight guarantee on delivery. Specific warranty details are listed on each product page and on our Refund & Returns Policy page.

How do I verify the container I receive matches my order?+

Before shipping, we provide photos, the serial number, and CSC plate details (when applicable). On delivery, verify the serial number against your purchase documentation.

Are your prices and product descriptions accurate?+

Yes. Every product page lists the brand, condition, dimensions, included features, and final price (or 'Quote on Request' for custom units). United States Container Express does not use bait pricing or hidden fees.

Still have a question?

Call a U.S.-based specialist or send your ZIP code for a written quote within one business day.