Used 20ft Standard Shipping Container
Overview
The Used 20ft Standard Shipping Container is one of the most popular and cost-effective storage and transport solutions in the industry. Built to ISO standards with durable CORTEN steel, these containers have seen multiple voyages but remain structurally sound, wind & watertight, and ready for immediate use.
Whether you need onsite storage, temporary warehousing, or mobile equipment shelter, this unit offers serious utility at a fraction of the cost of new builds — making it a go-to choice for businesses, contractors, and landowners alike.
Ideal For:
✅ Job site storage
✅ Farm & ranch supply storage
✅ Inventory overflow
✅ Recreational & event equipment housing
✅ Temporary shipping/export solutions
📐 Technical Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| External Dimensions | 20′ L × 8′ W × 8’6″ H |
| Internal Dimensions | 19’4″ L × 7’8″ W × 7’10″ H |
| Door Opening | 7’8″ W × 7’5″ H |
| Cubic Capacity | Approx. 1,170 cubic feet |
| Tare Weight | ~5,000 lbs |
| Payload Capacity | ~59,000 lbs (varies by road laws) |
| Condition | Used (Wind & Watertight or Cargo-Worthy) |
| Material | CORTEN steel |
| Flooring | Marine plywood, 28mm (forklift safe) |
🧾 Understanding “Used” Condition – What You’re Really Getting
When buying a used 20ft shipping container, it’s essential to understand what “used” actually means — and how it affects performance, appearance, and value. These containers are typically 10 to 15 years old, and during that time, they’ve completed numerous international shipping rotations across oceans, ports, and depots.
That means each unit comes with a history — but also with proven durability, because these containers were built to endure the harshest global transport environments.
✅ What You Can Expect:
- Surface wear like faded paint, dings, dents, or surface rust is common and purely cosmetic.
- All units are inspected prior to sale to ensure they meet industry grading standards (WWT or CW).
- Every container is made from CORTEN steel, designed to withstand decades of use — even in outdoor, off-grid, or exposed environments.
📊 Used Container Grading – Choose What Fits Your Needs
We offer three grades of used containers, so you can choose based on your budget and end-use:
This is our most popular grade for general storage and non-export purposes.
What it means:
- No leaks or holes – completely sealed from rain and pests
- Doors open and close properly
- Floors and roof are intact and structurally stable
- Ideal for farms, job sites, equipment storage, and modifications
✅ Recommended for customers needing affordable, secure, and long-lasting storage without export or certification requirements.
These containers meet the requirements for international shipping and are fitted with a valid CSC (Container Safety Convention) plate.
What it means:
- Includes all the benefits of WWT grade
- Passed certified structural inspection for export
- Eligible for use in maritime and overland international transport
- May have more visible wear but is guaranteed structurally sound
✅ Ideal for businesses, exporters, or customers needing regulatory compliance for shipping abroad.
These are deep-discount units with no inspection, certification, or performance guarantees. They are best for customers who understand the tradeoffs and have flexible expectations.
What it means:
- May have holes, floor damage, or heavy rust
- No warranty or wind/water seal guarantee
- Sold strictly as received from depot
- Limited availability and final sale only
❌ Not recommended for secure storage or modifications. Best for scrap, parts, or non-critical applications.
| Grade | Wind/Waterproof | Structural Soundness | Export Ready | CSC Plate | Appearance | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WWT | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No | Fair | No |
| CW | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Moderate | No |
| As-Is | ❌ Not Guaranteed | ❌ Not Guaranteed | ❌ No | ❌ No | Variable | No |
🧩 Why Choose a Used 20ft Standard Container?
If you’re looking for a cost-effective, reliable storage or transport solution without compromising on structural integrity, the Used 20ft Standard Shipping Container offers one of the best value propositions in the market today. These containers combine rugged durability with budget-friendly pricing, making them a smart and sustainable option across multiple industries.
While they’ve completed several shipping cycles, each unit is inspected and graded to ensure it remains wind and watertight (WWT) or cargo-worthy (CW) — meaning you get performance and protection without the new-build price tag.
💡 Here’s why buyers consistently choose used 20ft containers:
Used 20ft containers offer the lowest cost of ownership compared to one-trip or new builds. They’re the ideal solution when function outweighs aesthetics. For contractors, homeowners, farms, and small businesses, this is the most economical way to acquire safe, lockable, weather-resistant storage.
Because used containers are already circulating through domestic yards, there’s usually no manufacturing lead time. This means faster quotes, shorter delivery windows, and same-week fulfillment in many areas — especially useful for emergency storage or time-sensitive projects.
When properly maintained, used containers retain excellent value in the secondary resale market. Whether you use it for five months or five years, these units can often be sold locally for a substantial portion of your original cost — making it a low-depreciation investment.
For customers who need a temporary storage or transport solution — such as retailers during holiday overflow, construction teams on rotating sites, or agricultural use during harvest season — a used 20ft container delivers the durability you need without overinvesting.
Despite showing some cosmetic wear (dents, rust, or faded paint), these containers maintain their structural integrity and are fully modifiable. Add ventilation, lockboxes, shelving, lighting, or insulation. Many buyers even retrofit them into mobile shops, mini-workshops, or pop-up event spaces.
Used 20ft containers offer maximum utility at minimal cost. Whether you're storing tools, equipment, supplies, or converting for light commercial use, this option gives you a time-tested structure backed by weather resistance, global standardization, and extreme versatility.
It’s not just a storage box — it’s a long-term asset with a short-term price tag.
🔧 Common Applications – Built for Real-World Demands
From urban job sites to remote farmlands, the Used 20ft Standard Container delivers unmatched versatility for nearly every industry. It’s not just a steel box — it’s a ready-made solution for storage, security, and temporary infrastructure. With its compact footprint and forklift-ready build, this container can be adapted to almost any setting where secure, portable, and weatherproof space is needed.
Here are just a few of the most popular use cases:
Contractors, builders, and developers often need on-site storage to protect high-value tools and equipment. A used 20ft container offers the perfect combination of security and mobility, allowing teams to lock up materials overnight or over the weekend without fear of theft or weather damage. Its ground-level access means crews can quickly retrieve gear without needing a ramp or special handling tools.
✅ Rugged enough for job sites
✅ Keeps tools dry, locked, and accessible
✅ Often used as temporary job trailers or "tool cribs"
Farmers and agricultural operators rely on dependable storage that can withstand the elements and resist rodents. These containers are a natural fit for storing feed, seed, fertilizers, irrigation parts, and even small equipment. Their sealed steel structure prevents moisture intrusion, keeping sensitive materials safe during all seasons.
✅ Keeps pests and moisture out
✅ Ideal for rotating seasonal storage
✅ Place directly in pastures, barns, or remote fields
Whether you run a campground, manage park facilities, or operate an outdoor tourism business, used containers offer secure storage for canoes, tents, bikes, grills, and recreational gear. Their lockable design deters vandalism or wildlife tampering — ideal for wilderness-adjacent locations or overnight rental programs.
✅ Protects gear from harsh weather
✅ Organize seasonal supplies by activity
✅ Can be repainted to blend with natural surroundings
Homeowners, warehouse managers, or retailers undergoing renovations often need short-term storage space for inventory, furnishings, or supplies. A 20ft used container fits neatly in a driveway, loading dock, or back lot — offering a clean, movable extension of your storage space without expensive rentals or long-term leases.
✅ Cheaper than storage units or trailers
✅ Delivers right to your site
✅ Quick setup and removal when no longer needed
With some basic interior retrofits (like shelving or lighting), these containers become makeshift workshops, parts rooms, or staging areas. Their solid flooring supports heavy machinery or palletized materials, while vents or lockboxes can be added for better airflow and security.
✅ Works well for small engine repair, fabrication, or handyman use
✅ Customizable at low cost
✅ Portable for off-site projects or events
📍 Nationwide Delivery – Simple, Affordable, Reliable
We deliver used 20ft containers to all 48 contiguous U.S. states through our network of local depots. No matter your location, our team will coordinate a smooth delivery process — including choosing the right truck type for your site.
| Region | Estimated Delivery Time | Depot Zones & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| East Coast | 5–7 business days | NY, NJ, GA, FL; high availability |
| Midwest | 6–8 business days | IL, OH, MO; large rural coverage |
| West Coast | 5–10 business days | CA, AZ, WA, NV; variable terrain flexibility |
⏱️ Average quote-to-delivery window: 5–8 business days
📍 Delivery origin confirmed during final quote
🚚 Delivery Options – Flexible Methods for Every Location
We offer multiple delivery methods to ensure your container reaches your site safely and efficiently — whether you’re located in an urban warehouse, a suburban property, or a remote construction zone. The right method depends on your site’s accessibility, offloading preferences, and available equipment.
This is our most popular and convenient option. The container is loaded onto a tilt-bed or roll-off truck, and once onsite, the driver backs into the designated drop zone and gradually tilts the bed, allowing the container to slide smoothly onto the ground.
Best For:
- Driveways, gravel yards, or industrial lots
- Customers without forklifts or cranes
- Ground-level placement without additional equipment
Requirements:
- Firm, relatively level surface
- Straight approach space (at least 80 feet for a 40ft container)
- 10–12 ft width clearance
With a flatbed trailer, the container arrives secured to a non-tilting trailer. This method is ideal when the receiver has access to offloading equipment, such as a forklift or crane.
Best For:
- Commercial properties with heavy machinery
- Customers planning to lift the container onto a platform or footings
- Rural customers who prefer lower-cost transport and have equipment onsite
Important Note:
Offloading is not provided with this method. You must arrange your own machinery or crew for safe unloading.
Some delivery sites require more precision — such as urban lots, fenced-in yards, or tight job sites. In these cases, we offer crane-assisted delivery, where the container is lifted and placed exactly where you need it.
Best For:
- Sites with narrow driveways or overhead obstructions
- Urban or gated property installations
- Rooftop, stacked, or elevation-based placement
Benefits:
- Exact placement (even over fences or walls)
- No need for truck maneuvering space
- Reduces risk of ground damage or container scraping
📌 Site Access Requirements – Ensure Smooth Delivery
To help us deliver your container safely and avoid additional fees or re-delivery costs, please review the following essential site criteria before confirming your order:
- Minimum 10 feet wide clearance for a 20ft container
- Minimum 12 feet wide for a 40ft container
- Vertical clearance of at least 14 feet (consider trees, power lines, overhangs)
- Ground must be firm enough to support a large truck (weight can exceed 30,000 lbs)
- Acceptable surfaces include:
- Asphalt
- Concrete
- Gravel
- Packed dirt
- Avoid mud, loose sand, or uneven terrain that may cause sinking or misalignment
- Sufficient space for the driver to maneuver into position, especially for tilt-bed trucks
- For 40ft containers, allow 80–100 ft of straight-line access for safe alignment
Area must be free of:
- Vehicles, fencing, or storage items
- Overhead lines or tree branches
- Slopes greater than 5 degrees (containers must sit level)
If you're unsure whether your site meets these requirements, contact our delivery team for a free pre-delivery consultation. We'll assess the logistics and help you avoid any surprises on delivery day.
💰 Pricing
Region | Price Range (Used 20ft Standard) |
|---|---|
| East Coast (e.g., NY, NJ) | $2,200 – $2,700 |
| Midwest (e.g., IL, OH) | $2,300 – $2,800 |
| West Coast (e.g., CA, AZ) | $2,400 – $2,900 |
💡 Final quote depends on container grade, depot availability, delivery method, and fuel costs. Quotes valid for 72 hours.
🧾 What You Receive — More Than Just a Steel Box
At 24/7 Container Inc., we believe your container purchase should come with more than just the physical product. That’s why every order includes end-to-end support, clear communication, and practical extras that ensure a reliable experience from first quote to final delivery.
Here’s exactly what you receive when purchasing a Used 20ft Standard Shipping Container from us:
You’ll receive a wind & watertight or cargo-worthy grade container, verified for structural integrity and sealed for weather protection. Each unit is built from rugged CORTEN steel, features a marine-grade plywood floor, and is inspected before dispatch to meet your selected grade standard.
- WWT (Wind & Watertight): Ensures the container is sealed against moisture, pests, and wind.
- CW (Cargo-Worthy): Includes all WWT features plus CSC certification for international freight use.
We don’t just drop off your container and disappear. Our team handles everything from dispatch to drop-off, ensuring you’re informed and ready for delivery. This includes:
- Choosing the most efficient and accessible depot
- Selecting the right truck for your site (tilt-bed, flatbed, or crane-assisted)
- Communicating driver ETA and drop-off instructions
- Troubleshooting any access concerns in advance
Our goal is a seamless, stress-free delivery — no surprises.
Need extra peace of mind? You can request a welded lockbox add-on to shield your padlock from bolt cutters or tampering. It’s a small investment that goes a long way for construction sites, equipment storage, or remote locations.
- Available upon request at time of purchase
- Installed before delivery, ready to use on arrival
Want to review the unit before it ships? We offer photo condition reports at your request, giving you the confidence of knowing exactly what’s headed your way.
- Ideal for remote buyers or third-party purchasers
- Includes exterior, interior, doors, floor, and roof views
- Available for most depots (depending on availability and location)
Our relationship doesn’t end after checkout. We’re available to answer any questions before purchase, assist during delivery, and follow up afterward to ensure everything meets your expectations.
You’ll receive direct access to:
- 📞 Phone Support: Speak to a real person with container experience
- 📧 Email Support: Timely, detailed responses to technical or delivery questions
- 🧭 Site Planning Help: We assist with pre-delivery planning, site preparation, and access tips
🛡️ Warranty & Coverage – Transparency You Can Trust
Unlike our one-trip containers, used shipping containers are not covered under our 24-month limited warranty due to their prior usage history and age. However, that doesn’t mean you’re buying blind — every used 20ft container we deliver goes through a rigorous inspection and grading process to ensure it meets the industry’s functional standards for either Wind & Watertight (WWT) or Cargo-Worthy (CW) condition.
Our team takes every precaution to verify the container is structurally sound, sealed against the elements, and suitable for its intended use.
Every used container we sell is reviewed by a depot technician to ensure the following:
- Door Seals & Locking Mechanisms:
All doors are inspected to ensure they open and close smoothly, the locking rods are operational, and the door gaskets form a tight weatherproof seal to prevent water intrusion. - Floor Integrity:
Marine-grade plywood floors (typically 28mm thick) are checked for soft spots, rot, or structural damage. All floors must remain forklift-safe. - Roof & Sidewall Soundness:
The steel roof and side panels are examined for signs of corrosion, pinholes, or bending. Surface rust may be present but must not compromise structure or security. - Wind & Watertight or Cargo-Worthy Certification:
Each container must pass its selected grading standard. WWT containers are sealed from wind and water; CW containers must also meet criteria for safe international cargo transport (and typically come with a valid CSC plate). - Photographic Documentation (Available):
Upon request, we can provide inspection photos of your container prior to final invoicing. This gives you a clear view of cosmetic condition and door function before the unit is dispatched.
- Cosmetic Flaws:
Used containers often exhibit cosmetic imperfections such as dents, dings, minor weld marks, surface rust, or faded paint. These are considered normal and not covered under any warranty or return policy. - No Coverage for Aesthetic Preferences:
Requests for “newer-looking” used containers must be made in advance. Once a unit is dispatched, returns based on cosmetic dissatisfaction are not permitted unless pre-arranged. - No Structural Warranty:
While the container is inspected for current fitness, we do not offer ongoing coverage for structural deterioration or rust over time on used units. Buyers are responsible for future maintenance.
Though used containers are sold “as-is”, our process ensures you receive a container that meets or exceeds its stated grade — backed by professional inspection and transparent documentation. You’re never left guessing about what’s arriving on your site.
If you require warranty protection, longer lifespan, or like-new condition, we recommend exploring our One Trip Container options, which are all eligible for the full 24-month warranty.
⚙️ Optional Add-ons & Customization
Upgrade your used container for even more functionality:
- Exterior paint (basic or custom colors)
- Lockbox installation
- Vent kits or passive airflow solutions
- Shelving brackets
- Roll-up or personnel door retrofits
- Spray foam insulation (available in select locations)
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