How Much Does a Container Ship Cost? Prices of New and Used Cargo Ships
By Steve Joury / octobre 22, 2026
How much does a container ship cost? New-build and second-hand prices by size, from feeders to 24,000 TEU giants, plus...
Read More
Last updated: 22 October 2026
Shipping containers have become hugely popular for storage, workshops, site offices, garden studios and container homes. But prices vary a lot depending on size, age, condition and where you live. Here is what a shipping container costs in the UK in 2026, and how to avoid buying a rusty box.
UK shipping container prices (2026 guide)
| Container | Used (wind and watertight) | Used (cargo-worthy) | New (“one-trip”) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10ft | £1,800–£2,800 | n/a | £2,800–£4,000 |
| 20ft standard | £1,500–£2,400 | £1,900–£2,800 | £2,800–£3,800 |
| 40ft standard | £1,800–£2,800 | £2,300–£3,300 | £3,800–£5,000 |
| 40ft high cube | £2,000–£3,200 | £2,600–£3,600 | £4,000–£5,500 |
Indicative prices excluding VAT and delivery. Prices change with global shipping demand and steel costs, so always get current quotes.
What affects the price?
- Size: a 40ft costs more than a 20ft, but less per square metre
- Condition grade: new or one-trip, cargo-worthy, wind and watertight, or “as is”
- Location: prices are often lower near major ports like Felixstowe, Southampton and Tilbury
- Delivery: typically £150–£500+, depending on distance and access
- Modifications: extra doors, windows, insulation, lighting and shelving
Container grades explained
- One-trip (“new”): made in Asia and shipped once with cargo. Near-perfect condition.
- Cargo-worthy: used, but still certified fit for ocean shipping.
- Wind and watertight: no holes, and the doors seal, but there may be dents and surface rust. Ideal for storage.
- As is: may need repairs. Cheapest, but risky.
Delivery: what you need to know
Containers are delivered on a HIAB lorry (with a crane) or a tilt-bed trailer.
- Access: the lorry needs firm ground and enough space. A 40ft delivery needs a lot of room.
- Ground: place the container on level hardstanding, railway sleepers or concrete pads to stop rust and keep the doors aligned.
- Overhead clearance: watch out for trees and power lines.
Buying vs hiring
| Buy | Hire | |
|---|---|---|
| Up-front cost | £1,500–£5,500 | Usually monthly |
| Best for | Long-term use, conversions | Short projects, building sites |
| Resale value | Holds value well | Aucun |
Planning permission
A container used for temporary storage often does not need planning permission, but one used as a dwelling, an office or a permanent building usually does. Check with your local council. See our guide to shipping container homes in the UK.
Tips for buying a used container
- Inspect it in person or ask for recent photos of the inside, roof and floor
- Check the doors open and seal properly
- Look at the roof: dents can hold rainwater and rust through
- Ask about the floor: marine plywood floors should be solid, with no soft spots
- Get delivery included in the written quote
Every container you see on a navire porte-conteneurs may end up as someone’s storage unit or garden office one day.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a 20ft shipping container in the UK?
Used 20ft containers typically cost around £1,500–£2,800, and new ones around £2,800–£3,800, plus VAT and delivery.
How much does a 40ft container cost in the UK?
Used 40ft containers typically cost around £1,800–£3,300, and new high cubes up to about £5,500.
How much does container delivery cost?
Usually £150–£500+, depending on distance and site access.
Do I need planning permission for a shipping container?
Often not for temporary storage, but usually yes for a permanent building or a home. Check with your council.
Where can I buy a shipping container in the UK?
From container depots, often near ports, and specialist container suppliers that deliver nationwide.
See where containers really travel
Join a container ship as a passenger and watch thousands of boxes cross the ocean.
Book a cargo ship voyage →
Steve Joury
Conseiller en voyages Cargo chez Cargoholidays
Passionné par le voyage lent et la mer. Steve connaît la plupart des routes maritimes et des procédures pour découvrir notre beau monde depuis la mer sur un porte-conteneurs. Il a participé à la plupart des voyages, de 7 jours en cargo à 140 jours à bord.
Les derniers articles par Steve Joury (tout voir)
- How Much Does a Container Ship Cost? Prices of New and Used Cargo Ships - octobre 22, 2026
- How Are Container Ships Loaded? Ship-to-Shore Cranes and Port Operations Explained - octobre 22, 2026
- Shipping Container Homes UK: Costs, Planning Permission & Ideas (2026) - octobre 22, 2026
