How to Buy a Shipping Container: A Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Buyers

Looking to buy a shipping container but not sure where to start? Whether you need one for home storage, a job site, or a custom project, the process is easier than you might think—especially when you understand what to look for and how to avoid common mistakes.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about buying a shipping container, including sizes, condition types, pricing factors, delivery prep, and more.

Step 1: Decide What You’ll Use It For

Before browsing container listings, be clear on your intended use. This helps you choose the right size and condition, and prevents you from overspending on features you may not need.

Common reasons to buy a container:

Home storage (furniture, tools, excess inventory)
Construction or commercial job sites
Retail overflow or equipment storage
Container homes or custom builds
Workshop or pop-up business projects

Understanding your use case will help guide the rest of your buying decision.

Step 2: Choose a Size (20ft vs. 40ft)

Shipping containers come in various sizes, but 20ft and 40ft are by far the most common.

20ft Container

Fits in most residential driveways or backyards
Holds the contents of a one-car garage
Easier to deliver and reposition
~1,170 cubic feet of internal space

40ft Container

Ideal for large equipment, construction materials, or long-term commercial use
Offers nearly double the volume of a 20ft container
Requires more delivery space
~2,390 cubic feet of internal space

Not sure which one fits your needs?
Compare container dimensions here.

Step 3: Pick a Condition (New vs. Used)

Shipping containers are sold in different conditions. Here’s what each means:

Condition	Description	Best For
New / One-Trip	Brand new, only used once to ship goods overseas. Dent-free, clean, long lifespan.	Modifications, workshops, container homes
Cargo Worthy (CW)	Structurally sound and suitable for international shipping. May have cosmetic wear.	Businesses, long-term storage
Wind & Watertight (WWT)	Not certified for shipping but sealed from wind and rain. Still very durable.	Budget buyers, home storage

Real-World Use Cases

A construction company might choose CW containers for job site storage.
A homeowner looking to store furniture long-term might go for a WWT unit.
A retail store expanding inventory space might invest in a new container for a cleaner presentation.

Step 4: Know What’s Included in the Price

Not all container sellers offer the same services. Before purchasing, ask:

Is delivery included in the quote?
Are there additional fees for tilt-bed delivery or taxes?
Do I need to pay upfront, or do you offer Pay After Delivery?
What is your return or cancellation policy?

What We Offer at Used Conex:

Pay After Delivery
Five-Star Delivery Nationwide
No Hidden Fees
Highly Reviewed by Thousands of Customers

Transparent pricing is key. We always send a full quote before anything is finalized.

Step 5: Plan for Delivery

Delivery is one of the most overlooked steps when buying a shipping container. Here’s what to keep in mind:

What to Expect

Delivery is typically done using a tilt-bed truck.
The truck backs up to your desired drop-off point and lowers the container to the ground.
You don’t need a forklift or crane—just enough room for the truck to maneuver.

Site Requirements

Flat, firm and level ground (gravel, concrete, or level dirt)
At least 80–100 feet of clearance in front of the delivery spot
No low-hanging wires, tree limbs, or narrow gates

If you’re unsure about space or terrain, our team can help you evaluate your site before scheduling delivery. You can also check out our delivery guidelines here.

Step 6: Request a Quote (It’s Fast & Easy)

Ready to move forward?
The fastest way to get started is to request a quote. We’ll send you a detailed price based on your:

Zip code
Container size
Preferred condition

We make the process simple and pressure-free. No pushy sales tactics—just helpful service from people who know containers inside and out.

You can also browse:

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Container

Avoiding a few common pitfalls can save you hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars.

Be Careful Who You Buy From

There are great deals online but not all sellers are equal. Look for sellers who are transparent about container conditions, provide delivery options, and offer a secure payment method. If you’re buying through a platform, check that the company has a real website, positive reviews, and clear contact details.

2. Choosing the Wrong Size

Some buyers order a 40ft container and realize too late it won’t fit on their property. Measure your available space and review delivery clearance before ordering.

3. Not Checking the Condition Rating

WWT and CW containers serve different purposes. Make sure you understand what you’re buying and whether it suits your needs.

4. Paying Upfront Without Protection

Always work with a company that offers Pay After Delivery or at least provides a formal invoice, delivery window, and written terms.

Final Thoughts

Buying a shipping container is a smart solution for secure, flexible storage. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to expand your business storage, understanding your options will help you get the best value.

At UsedConex.com, we’ve helped thousands of customers across the U.S. find the right container with clear pricing, nationwide delivery, and a pay-after-delivery option for peace of mind.

Click here to request your quote now and take the first step toward owning your own shipping container.

FAQs

Can I pay after delivery?
Yes. UsedConex.com offers Pay After Delivery for added security and peace of mind.

How long does delivery take?
Most containers are delivered within 5–10 business days depending on your location and availability.

Do I need a permit for a container?
Some cities and counties require a permit, especially if the container will be placed long-term. Contact your local zoning office for guidelines.

How long do shipping containers last?
New containers can last over 20 years with minimal maintenance. Used containers typically last 10–15 years depending on condition and exposure.

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