Last Updated: September 22, 2026

How much does a shipping container cost?

Buying a shipping container from Container Traders starts from $2,050 – $3,100 + GST for a used 20ft shipping container, with delivery from major cities starting from $410. Costs vary based on container type, size, condition and local availability. If you require short term storage, we have flexible hiring options from as little as $2.96 a day*.

Most popular shipping containers in 2026

We have a large range of 10ft, 20ft and 40ft shipping containers available new and used. Below are the current 2026 prices of our most popular shipping containers:

Shipping Containers Price list (Updated September 2026)

Shipping Containers Buy New Buy Used
20ft Standard Container $3,050 - $3,500 $2,050 - $3,100
40ft 2-Door Side Opening (HC) Container $10,500 - $12,000 Request a Price
20ft Side Opening Container $9,250 - $10,200 Request a Price
20ft Double Door (HC) Container $4,150 - $5,800 Request a Price
20ft Refrigerated Container $46,500 - $50,500 $9,400 - $13,400
40ft Standard Container $6,100 - $7,500 $2,700 - $3,700

*Prices exclude GST and delivery. Last updated: 24 September 2026

Shipping containers for sale prices list

Below is our latest 2026 shipping container price list of the most popular units we sell to homes and businesses every day. You’ll see specialised shipping containers in 10ft, 20ft and 40ft sizes, along with budget-friendly options in our standard range. Find a container that fits your budget? Get in touch for an exact price delivered to your region.

40ft high cube shipping container

Add extra height with high cube containers (HC)

High Cube shipping containers are just like a standard container, but with roughly an extra foot of height. That additional headroom is perfect for bulky gear, storage and for modifications like workshops and offices.

Standard Shipping Container Prices

Explore the Range
Container Type Buy New Buy Used
10ft Standard Container $6,300 - $7,500 $3,600 - $4,900
10ft High Cube Container $6,350 - $7,350 Request a Price
20ft Standard Container $3,050 - $3,500 $2,050 - $3,100
20ft High Cube Container $4,150 - $5,800 Request a Price
40ft Standard Container $6,100 - $7,500 $2,700 - $3,700
40ft High Cube Container $5,100 - $6,300 $2,800 - $3,300

*Prices exclude GST and delivery. Last updated: 24 September 2026

Why do shipping containers often change in price?

Most buyers don’t know that the Australian shipping container market often fluctuates. A 2022 report by the U.S. Federal Maritime Commission found around 95% of world’s shipping containers are manufactured in China. This heavy overseas supply can drive prices up and down, which can impact the local costs state-by-state. Container Traders has frequently updated price ranges to match these market trends and ensure that you’re not overpaying for your shipping container. Calling our team is the best way to get an up-to-date price tailored to your region.

Shipping Containers in Perth
Shipping Containers available from our local Perth depot

Double Door Shipping Container Prices

Explore the Range
Container Type Buy New Buy Used
20ft Double Door Containers $4,150 - $5,800 Request a Price
20ft Double Door (HC) Container Request a Price Request a Price
40ft Double Door Container $7,000 - $9,000 Request a Price
40ft Double Door (HC) Container $6,290 - $8,190 Request a Price

*Prices exclude GST and delivery. Last updated: 24 September 2026

Side Opening Shipping Container Prices

Explore the Range
Container Type Buy New Buy Used
40ft 2-Door Side Opening (HC) Container $10,500 - $12,000 Request a Price
40ft 3-Door Side Opening (HC) Container $10,500 - $12,500 Request a Price
40ft 4-Door Side Opening (HC) Container $12,500 - $14,000 Request a Price
20ft Side Opening Container $9,250 - $10,200 Request a Price
20ft Side Opening Dangerous Goods Container $19,000 - $22,000 Request a Price
20ft Side Opening (HC) Container $8,700 - $9,200 Request a Price
40ft Side Opening (HC) Container $18,000 - $21,000 Request a Price

*Prices exclude GST and delivery. Last updated: 24 September 2026

Pricing on 2 x 20ft High Cube Side Opener Containers

Refrigerated Shipping Container Prices

Explore the Range
Container Type Buy New Buy Used
20ft Refrigerated Container $46,500 - $50,500 $9,400 - $13,400
20ft Refrigerated (HC) Container $57,500 - $62,500 $11,500 - $15,500
40ft Refrigerated (HC) Container Request a Price $11,600 - $13,800
Refrigerated ISO Tank Container Request a Price Request a Price

*Prices exclude GST and delivery. Last updated: 24 September 2026

Dangerous Goods Shipping Container Prices

Explore the Range
Container Type Buy New Buy Used
10ft Dangerous Goods (HC) Container $11,200 - $12,800 Request a Price
20ft Side Opening Dangerous Goods (HC) Container $19,000 - $22,000 Request a Price

*Prices exclude GST and delivery. Last updated: 24 September 2026

Open Top Shipping Container Prices

Explore the Range
Container Type Buy New Buy Used
20ft Open Top Container Request a Price $6,500 - $7,800
20ft Open Top (HC) Container Request a Price $6,500 - $8,800
40ft Open Top Container Request a Price $8,500 - $10,500
40ft Open Top (HC) Container Request a Price $8,600 - $9,600

*Prices exclude GST and delivery. Last updated: 24 September 2026

Flat Rack Shipping Container Prices

Explore the Range
Container Type Buy New Buy Used
20ft Flat Rack Container Request a Price $6,700 - $8,000
40ft Flat Rack Container Request a Price $8,000 - $10,500

*Prices exclude GST and delivery. Last updated: 24 September 2026

Shipping containers for hire prices list

Popular shipping containers for hire

Container Hire Prices
Container Type 20ft Hire 40ft Hire
Standard Container $90-$120 p/mth $150-$190 p/mth
Refrigerated Container $540-$590 p/mth $840-$890 p/mth
Side Opening Container $250-$270 p/mth $560-$580 p/mth
Double Door Container $140-$160 p/mth $210-$230 p/mth
Open Top Container $260-$280 p/mth $360-$380 p/mth
Flat Rack Container $260-$280 p/mth $360-$380 p/mth

*Prices exclude GST and delivery. Last updated: 24 September 2026

Should I hire a shipping container?

Customers who only need a shipping container for 3-6 months are usually better off hiring as it’s a more affordable option. Buying a shipping container is better suited to long-term storage and gives more flexibility in how you use or modify the container.

When buying makes more sense:

  • You want the shipping container for over 2 years

  • More affordable than hiring the longer you keep the container

  • You live far from a capital city, which makes hire delivery expensive
  • You want to modify the shipping container
  • You fully own the shipping container

When hiring makes more sense:

  • You don’t want the upfront cost
  • Great for flexibility, with hire terms from 3 months
  • We pick it up when you no longer need it
  • You’re looking to move interstate with a shipping container
  • No maintenance on the shipping container

How much does it cost to deliver a shipping container in Australia?

Container Traders delivers to metro areas >30km from our depots starting from around $410 + GST. If you’dre outside that area, delivery is usually charged per km from our nearest depot, starting from $4.50 p/km + GST.

Because every site is different, your delivery price will also depend on the truck type needed e.g. tilt tray, side loader, Hiab or super tilt. We use local transport partners and rail for longer distances, each with their own rates. The easiest way to get an exact shipping container delivery cost is to call our delivery specialists with your postcode and site details.

Get a price to deliver my shipping container

How we’ve kept delivery prices down during the fuel crisis

Higher fuel prices in 2026 have pushed up the cost of shipping container delivery across Australia. We review our delivery pricing every week to stay competitive, and work with local transporters to find the most affordable route to your site. Often that means booking backload space on a truck already making the run, or moving your shipping container by rail on longer routes. For more ways to save, read our guide to shipping container delivery during the fuel crisis.

Price of a 40ft side loader container delivery
Regional delivery using a Side Loader Truck direct from Sydney Depot
Price Guide
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Shipping Container Pricing FAQs

  • New Shipping Containers generally cost 60-70% more than Used Shipping Containers. However, considering their longer lifespan, lower maintenance needs, and higher resale value, they offer excellent value for money.

  • Yes. Through our partner Finapps, you can finance a shipping container with simple weekly, fortnightly or monthly repayments instead of paying the full amount upfront. You can use our online finance calculator to estimate your repayments.

  • In 2026, a 20ft standard shipping container in Australia typically falls into an affordable entry-level price range for most buyers. Used 20ft containers generally range from $2,050 – $3,100 + GST, while new (one-trip) 20ft containers usually sit between $3,200 – $3,550 + GST, depending on condition, local stock and delivery to your region.

  • In 2026, a 40ft high cube shipping container in Australia typically ranges from $2,900 – $3,300 + GST for used units to $5,800 – $6,500 + GST for new (one-trip) containers. Final pricing depends on container condition, local availability and delivery to your postcode, so it’s best to check our latest 2026 price list or request a quote for an exact figure.

  • Shipping container prices in Australia change based on market conditions and local availability, plus the size, type and condition of the container. Delivery distance and the truck type needed can also influence the final price. Because these factors move with supply and demand, the best way to get an accurate 2026 price is to call our team for an up-to-date quote for your region.

  • It feels backwards, but 10ft shipping containers are often priced higher than 20ft containers because there’s far less supply and demand is very specific. The 20ft size is the global industry standard for freight, so it’s produced in much higher volumes and is much cheaper per unit.

    We still sell 10ft containers as they’re a great option when you need compact storage or a small modification without taking up much space.

  • Delivery costs depend on your distance from the nearest capital city port and the type of truck required for your site.

    Shipping Container Delivery Prices (Last Updated 24 September 2026)
    • Metro Areas: If you are within 30km of a major city depot, delivery starts from approximately $410 + GST for a Tilt Tray (20ft) or $700 + GST for a Side Loader or HIAB.
    • Regional Areas: Pricing is calculated per kilometre, starting from $4.50/km + GST for Tilt Trays and $12/km + GST for Side Loader or HIAB trucks.
    Let Container Traders Help

    We handle the logistics for you by selecting the most cost-effective local transporters and truck types to suit your specific property.

    Since rates can vary based on backload availability and site access, the best way to get a fast, accurate quote is to give us a call on 1300 89 89 70.

  • Buying a shipping container online in 2026 is difficult because scammers now use AI-generated content and sophisticated impersonation to create highly convincing fake websites. Protecting your investment requires looking past polished ads and verifying the actual business history and customer experiences.

    • Audit Real Reviews: Check independent platforms like ProductReview.com.au or Google Reviews for consistent, long-term feedback. Container Traders, for example, has an established track record with customers frequently praising specific staff members and reliable delivery.
    • Verify Identity & History: Cross-reference the seller’s ABN and physical yard location on Google Maps to ensure it’s a real facility, not just a virtual office. Scammers often copy the details of legitimate businesses to appear trustworthy.
    • Secure Payment & Contact: Use our phone number 1300 89 89 70 to confirm any quote; legitimate Australian companies will never demand payment via cryptocurrency or untraceable wire transfers.
    • The “Too Good” Rule: If a price for a 20ft container is thousands below market rates, it is almost certainly a scam.

  • High Cube Shipping Containers are usually worth the extra cost if you’re using the shipping container regularly and value the extra headroom.

    • Best value when: you’re modifying it into a workshop or office, working inside with crew, or storing bulky goods that benefit from extra height.
    • If your budget’s tighter: a Standard Shipping Container is still a solid choice for general storage and everyday site use.

    It really comes down to what you’re storing and how you plan to use the space.