4.9 Stars, 700+ Reviews

  • Wind & watertight containers

  • Large stocks ready to go

Used Shipping Containers in stock

We stock Used General Purpose and Specialised Shipping Containers, including Refrigerated, Side Opening, Open Top and Flat Rack. All affordable and ready for delivery Australia-wide.

Not ready to buy? Hire from $2.96 a day

Need container storage for a few weeks or months? Hiring a Shipping Container is often the most affordable way to get a container on site fast.

Budget friendly second-hand Shipping Containers for sale

Cargo worthy Shipping Containers are a budget friendly storage solution when you want something tough, lockable, and ready to use. For the price, you’re getting a reliable Used Container that keeps gear dry and secure. We mainly stock 20ft and 40ft used Shipping Containers because they are the most consistently available.

What does “cargo worthy” mean?

Cargo Worthy Containers are typically around 8 to 15 years old and have spent years in overseas freight. That’s why you’ll see dents, surface rust and welded patches. Those marks are normal on second hand containers and don’t stop the unit being wind and watertight, vermin proof, structurally sound and lockable for storage. See our grading page for more info.

3 x 20ft New Build Shipping Containers delivered
3 x 20ft New Build Shipping Containers delivered

Why buy a Used Container from Container Traders

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Best value in shipping containers

Used Shipping Containers cost less than new, which is why most people start here when budget matters. You still get tough, lockable storage, without paying a high price.

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Wind and water-tight units

A Used Shipping Container is perfect for keeping your gear dry and secure. Container Traders sources quality used containers that are structurally sound and lockable.

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Containers ready for delivery

We keep a large range of used containers across Australia, so you’re not stuck waiting. Talk to our team today and we’ll quote our best price, and organise delivery straight to your site.

Recent Used Shipping Container customer deliveries

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On a budget? Shop our monthly container specials

Speak with a shipping container specialist

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Shop our monthly shipping container specials

Speak with a shipping container specialist

Get a quote from Container Traders

Send us the details below and we’ll come back within two business days with our best price. For a quicker answer, call our container specialists on 1300 89 89 70.

Your Used Container quote

Explore our full range of shipping containers for sale in Australia

Explore our full range of new & used 10ft, 20ft and 40ft shipping containers for sale in Australia, from standard storage to specialised units.

Used Shipping Container buyers guide

How much is a used shipping container?

Buying a second hand shipping container from Container Traders starts from $2,100 - $3,200+ 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.

Popular Used Shipping Container price list

Shipping Container Used Pricing
20ft Container $2,100 - $3,200
40ft Container $2,700 - $3,700
40ft High Cube Container $2,900 - $3,300
20ft Refrigerated Container $9,400 - $13,400
40ft Refrigerated High Cube Container $11,700 - $17,300
20ft Insulated (Non Operational) Container $5,600 - $9,800
40ft Insulated (Non Operational) High Cube Container $7,400 - $13,600
20ft Flat Rack Container $6,700 - $8,000
40ft Flat Rack Container $8,000 - $10,500
20ft Open Top Container $6,600 - $8,000
40ft Open Top Container $8,500 - $10,500

*Prices exclude GST and delivery. Last updated: 1 August 2026

Should I buy a New or Used Shipping Container?

It depends on what you actually need. Some customers want a visually appealing New Build Shipping Container that will last 30+ years. Others just need affordable storage and are happy to save money with a used unit. It comes down to your budget, how important appearance is, and how long you plan to use it.

New Build Single-Trip

0-2 years old
  • Top-condition, virtually flawless containers

  • Perfect for modifications

  • Can typically last 30+ years

  • Minor scuffs and dents only

  • No damage to structure, floor or doors

40ft Cargo Worthy Shipping Container

Cargo Worthy

8-15 years old
  • Suitable for Shipping, Rail, or Quality Storage

  • Structurally sound and stackable

  • Scratches

  • Scuffs

  • Surface rust

Common uses for Used Shipping Containers

Used containers are usually bought for practical, private storage where looks do not matter. New or one trip containers get picked more for public facing builds like cafés, kiosks, and retail where presentation matters.

  • On site tool and materials storage

  • Farm storage for equipment, feed, or parts

  • Backyard shed replacement

  • Workshop or hobby space

  • Business overflow storage

  • Moving, renovating, or short term storage

Guides on buying a Used Container

  • Container Traders Blog Post: Top 5 budget shipping containers for sale
    Top 5 budget shipping containers for sale

    May 6, 2026

    5 Min Read

  • Container Traders Blog Post: Container Ownership: Why It pays off in the long run
    Container Ownership: Why It pays off in the long run

    April 24, 2023

    2 Min Read

Buying a Used Shipping Container FAQ’s

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Call the Container Traders team on 1300 89 89 70 and we will guide you through the buying process.

  • It depends on how long you need it and what you’re using it for. If you want a permanent storage setup, buying a used container usually gives better long-term value because you own it outright.

    If you only need storage for short-term like a renovation, or moving interstate, hire is often the smarter move. Lower upfront spend, and we organise delivery then pick it up when you’re done. Hire starts from $2.96 a day*.

  • Yes, Shipping Container prices fluctuate with the market, so there’s potential for a good return on sale in your local market once you’ve finished using it.

  • All Shipping Containers can be modified, but we recommend investing in a New Build Shipping Container. New Shipping Containers have straight, unbent walls, which provide a better foundation and a more polished result once fitted out.

  • Delivery of a used shipping container depends on distance from the nearest depot and what truck is needed for your site. As a guide, Container Traders delivery can start from around $410 for metro areas >30kms from our depots. For the most accurate delivery quote it’s best to contact the team at Container Traders with your delivery postcode.

  • Any steel structure, including Shipping Containers, is prone to corrosion over time. Typically, Shipping Containers will experience roof corrosion before the side walls, as water tends to pool in this area. Without proper maintenance, the roof will eventually corrode, leading to leaks.

  • Used Shipping Containers require minimal maintenance, but it’s important to regularly check the roof for water pooling and debris buildup, such as damp leaves, as well as monitor for any signs of corrosion. If corrosion is detected, it should be addressed promptly by removing it and applying rust treatment to prevent leaks.

    Additionally, the door hinges should be lubricated regularly to ensure they remain functional and do not seize.

  • Used Shipping Containers are more affordable than New Shipping Containers, while still offering the same functionality. If you’re on a budget and need a secure, dry storage solution, a Used Shipping Container is the perfect choice.

  • A Used Shipping Container offers the same benefits as a new one, keeping your belongings secure and dry, as long as it’s properly locked and in good condition.

  • Only if the Shipping Container is being transported by rail or sea. If the Used Shipping Container is going to remain in a static position (stay in one place), then the answer is no.

  • Yes, but used 10ft Shipping Containers are hard to come by in 2026 in Australia. The 10ft isn’t a standard size made at the factory like 20ft and 40ft Shipping Containers. Most are custom-fabricated by cutting a 20ft Shipping Container down and welding on a new end wall, which is why they’re almost always bought new and built to order. They’re usually kept by the original buyer too, so very few come up on the second-hand market.

    That’s why we typically recommend buying a new 10ft Shipping Container, or a used 20ft Shipping Container, which is often better value.

Delivering Used Shipping Containers Australia-wide to homes & businesses

We deliver Used Shipping Containers right across Australia’s major cities and regional areas. Our delivery network uses trusted local transporters and rail where it makes sense to keep costs down. When stock is available, we can often deliver within a week. Whether you’re in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide or beyond, we can get your Shipping Container to your doorstep or work site.

Unsure where to get started buying a Used Shipping Container?

Read our shipping container guides, or talk directly to a shipping container specialist
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Talk to Container Traders

Call our Australian team for straight answers and a fast quote.

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Grading Guide

Blemishes to expect when buying a used container including surface rust & dents.

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Delivery Guide

Everything you need to know about how we get containers to your door.

FAQ’s

Answers to the questions we hear most about containers and our services