Used 40ft Standard Shipping Container
Overview
If you’re looking for a practical, budget-conscious solution for secure storage or freight, our Used 40ft Standard Shipping Containers are built to perform. These containers may show visible signs of wear from years of international transport — but structurally, they’re rock solid and guaranteed to be wind and watertight (WWT).
Engineered from heavy-duty CORTEN steel, each unit has stood the test of time and is ready for continued use in commercial, agricultural, or private settings.
Ideal For:
✅ Job site storage
✅ Agricultural tools and feed
✅ Warehouse overflow
✅ Export use (if cargo-worthy certified)
✅ Modified workshops or garages
📐 Technical Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| External Dimensions | 40′ L × 8′ W × 8’6″ H |
| Internal Dimensions | 39’5″ L × 7’8″ W × 7’10” H |
| Door Opening | 7’8″ W × 7’6″ H |
| Cubic Capacity | Approx. 2,390 cubic feet |
| Tare Weight | ~8,000 lbs |
| Payload Capacity | ~59,000 lbs (varies by road laws) |
| Condition | Used (WWT or Cargo-Worthy) |
| Material | CORTEN steel |
| Flooring | Marine-grade plywood (28mm) |
🛠️ What to Expect From a Used Container
When purchasing a Used 40ft Standard Shipping Container, it’s important to set the right expectations. While these containers have seen years of service in international cargo fleets, they remain structurally sound, secure, and functional for a wide range of storage and transportation needs.
All our used 40ft containers are sold in Wind & Watertight (WWT) condition — unless otherwise specified — which guarantees core functionality and environmental protection. Here’s what that truly means in practical terms:
🚫 No Holes or Structural Breaches
Each unit is thoroughly inspected to ensure that no light passes through the walls, roof, or doors. You can store goods confidently knowing they’ll remain protected from the elements and pests.
🚪 Doors Open and Close Properly
Container doors are heavy, and their hinges and locking bars need to be in working order. We ensure all units have doors that swing open and shut smoothly, and without excessive force.
🔒 Locking Mechanisms are Functional
The original shipping container locking rods, cams, and handles are intact and operable. You can add a lockbox or padlock for additional protection, especially in remote or job site locations.
💨 Seals Keep Out Water, Pests, and Debris
Rubber gaskets around the doors are intact, and weld seams are sealed — keeping rain, rodents, and dust out. These units perform well in most outdoor conditions, including rain, snow, and fluctuating temperatures.
🧱 Floor and Walls Remain Solid and Durable
The flooring is typically 28mm marine-grade plywood, designed to support heavy loads such as equipment or palletized goods. While there may be surface wear, these floors remain forklift-safe and structurally capable of handling high static and dynamic weight.
Please understand that cosmetic blemishes are expected in used units. This includes:
- Surface rust (especially at joints and door frames)
- Dents or scuff marks from container handling
- Patches or small weld repairs from prior service
- Faded paint or shipping line logos
These do not impact performance, but they do tell the story of global transport use. For most customers using the container for storage, agriculture, job sites, or modification, these cosmetic factors are of little to no concern.
If appearance matters for your specific use case (e.g., customer-facing projects), ask us about:
- Premium used units (less wear)
- Repainted containers
- One Trip alternatives
🧩 WWT vs. Cargo-Worthy — What’s the Difference?
When purchasing a used 40ft shipping container, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing between Wind & Watertight (WWT) and Cargo-Worthy (CW) condition. While both grades refer to structurally sound containers, the difference lies in their intended use, certification level, and cost implications.
WWT containers are ideal for on-site storage, construction, or farm use — anywhere you need secure, sealed, and dry space but don’t plan to ship internationally.
Here’s what you can expect from a WWT-rated container:
- ✅ Fully sealed against wind, rain, and pests
- ✅ No holes, cracks, or major rust
- ✅ Doors open and close with secure locking
- ✅ Structurally sound floors, walls, and roof
What it doesn’t include:
- ❌ An official marine surveyor inspection
- ❌ CSC certification for overseas shipping
Best For:
🔧 Job sites, agricultural use, warehousing, home/garage overflow, and general long-term storage.
Cargo-Worthy containers meet the additional inspection standards required for overseas shipping. These units are still used, but they’ve been professionally evaluated and certified to handle the rigors of international transport.
Included with CW certification:
- ✅ Structural inspection by a licensed surveyor
- ✅ Verified as safe and compliant for ocean freight
- ✅ Valid CSC plate or inspection certificate
- ✅ Seals, gaskets, and locking mechanisms fully operable
- ✅ Decking and corner castings ready for crane or forklift lifting
Upcharge Notice:
CW-certified containers often cost $200–$400 more than their WWT counterparts due to the added certification process and inspection paperwork.
Best For:
🚢 Exporters, freight forwarders, manufacturers, or buyers who may ship goods internationally in the future.
We get it — not everyone’s familiar with shipping container grades. Our team is here to help.
📞 Let us know how you plan to use your container, and we’ll guide you to the right option — whether it’s an affordable WWT unit for ground storage or a certified CW container for international shipment.
🧰 Use Cases for a Used 40ft Standard Container
With an impressive 2,390+ cubic feet of interior volume, the Used 40ft Standard Shipping Container offers tremendous flexibility across industries. Its size, structural durability, and affordability make it a popular choice for both short-term needs and long-term operations — especially for buyers who value cost-efficiency without compromising on functionality.
Here’s how various sectors make the most of this container:
Construction and infrastructure crews often use these containers to safely lock away power tools, generators, scaffolding parts, and materials right on the job site. It provides a secure, weatherproof option that saves time and reduces theft. The 40ft length makes it ideal for staging materials directly on-site while keeping them protected from rain, dust, or vandalism.
Why it works: Ground-level access, security, and capacity for oversized tools or bundled supplies.
In agricultural settings, this container serves as an effective farm-side storage unit for machinery parts, seed bags, fertilizers, irrigation tools, or feed stock. Its steel build keeps pests out and provides shelter from extreme weather.
Why it works: Portable, pest-resistant, and cost-effective for off-grid or rural locations.
Developers and general contractors often use these units to secure lumber, sheetrock, piping, insulation rolls, and electrical fixtures. The watertight seal ensures that delicate materials remain dry and undamaged during construction delays.
Why it works: Cuts down on material loss and theft while allowing for controlled inventory access.
Businesses facing seasonal surges or warehouse limitations use these containers to extend their inventory holding capacity. They’re particularly useful in e-commerce, retail, and manufacturing sectors for storing packaged goods, pallets, or returns overflow.
Why it works: Scalable and mobile solution without committing to warehouse expansion.
For hobbyists, mechanics, or small business owners, a used 40ft container offers a cost-friendly way to set up a workshop, equipment bay, or backyard garage. With simple modifications, it can house power tools, workbenches, and even light-duty machinery.
Why it works: Easily converted into functional workspaces with insulation, lighting, and ventilation add-ons.
Retailers, event companies, and landscaping businesses often use these containers to store off-season inventory, decorations, display sets, or unused equipment. The 40ft container’s long body accommodates even the bulkiest items — such as artificial trees, tents, or outdoor furniture.
Why it works: Great for items that require weather-resistant storage with minimal day-to-day access.
Thanks to its generous dimensions and durable frame, the Used 40ft Standard Container also serves as a modular shell for customization. Whether you need temperature control, personnel access, or improved lighting, these containers are easy to adapt using cost-effective upgrades.
Popular modifications include:
- Roll-Up or Personnel Doors
Improve accessibility by installing side-access roll-up or walk-in personnel doors — great for frequent entry points or mobile workshops. - Spray Foam Insulation
Add thermal protection and moisture control for sensitive contents, or prepare your unit for use as a working interior space. - Electrical Panels or Lighting Kits
Bring power to your container with full wiring setups, LED lighting, exterior plugs, and switch panels — ideal for hobby shops, labs, or mobile units.
Note: All modifications are completed prior to delivery or shipped as kits with easy install guides. Request a quote for any custom add-on.
📍 Nationwide Delivery – We Ship Anywhere You Are
Our logistics team handles deliveries across the continental U.S. using a nationwide depot network. Containers are dispatched from the nearest location to save time and reduce shipping cost.
| Region | Estimated Delivery Time | Depot Zones & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| East Coast | 4–6 business days | NY, NJ, PA, GA depots with fast dispatch |
| Midwest | 5–7 business days | IL, OH, MO locations with rural coverage |
| West Coast | 6–9 business days | CA, AZ, NV, WA hubs; high stock availability |
🕐 Delivery windows are confirmed at quoting
⏱️ Average lead time: ~6–7 business days post-payment
🚚 Delivery Methods – Tailored to Your Site
At 24/7 Container Inc., we understand that every delivery site is different. Whether you’re in a major city, a rural construction zone, or a remote agricultural property, we offer flexible delivery methods to match your site’s access conditions and equipment availability.
Here’s how we get your container on the ground — safely and efficiently:
This is our standard and most requested delivery method, ideal for customers who want a hassle-free, ground-level drop-off.
- The truck bed tilts, allowing the container to slide off gently onto your prepared surface.
- No forklifts or cranes are needed at your location.
- Best suited for sites with enough space to drive in, back up, and unload.
Recommended for: residential areas, construction sites, and storage yards with open access.
Flatbed trailers are a cost-effective delivery option, but they do require you to handle the unloading on your end.
- The container arrives strapped onto a flatbed truck.
- You must have equipment such as a crane or heavy-duty forklift available to safely offload the unit.
- Ideal for industrial yards, ports, and commercial warehouses with machinery on-site.
Recommended for: customers with access to offloading equipment or 3rd-party rigging services.
If your site has limited turning radius, vertical obstructions, or is located in an urban zone with tight access, we can arrange crane delivery.
- Our logistics team coordinates a mobile crane that can lift and position your container precisely.
- Ideal for placements behind fences, on raised platforms, over buildings, or on rooftop surfaces.
- Crane charges are billed separately and quoted based on site complexity and local crane availability.
Recommended for: city projects, rooftop installations, or locations with tight or restricted access paths.
📌 Site Requirements – Help Us Help You
To ensure a safe and timely delivery, please review the following site access guidelines before scheduling your container drop-off. The smoother the access, the faster your delivery can be completed.
- Containers must be placed on stable surfaces: compact dirt, gravel, concrete, or asphalt.
- Avoid mud, soft sand, or soggy grass — these can cause the delivery vehicle to get stuck or tilt during offload.
- The delivery truck needs at least 12 feet of clear width to maneuver and align for container drop-off.
- Be mindful of trees, poles, fences, and vehicles that may restrict clearance.
- Whether delivered via tilt-bed or crane, containers need sufficient vertical clearance to lift and offload.
- Watch out for power lines, tree limbs, awnings, or signage.
- A fully loaded 40ft tilt-bed truck can be up to 65 feet long, requiring ample room to turn or reverse into position.
- Sites with tight corners or limited turnaround space may require a crane or flatbed delivery with offload support.
If you're unsure whether your site meets the requirements, our team is happy to review site photos or Google Earth coordinates in advance. We’ve delivered containers to thousands of unique locations — from remote farms to downtown construction sites — and we’ll help you get it right the first time.
💰 Pricing
Region | Price Range (Used 40ft Standard) |
|---|---|
| East Coast (e.g., NY, NJ) | $2,700 – $3,300 |
| Midwest (e.g., IL, OH) | $2,900 – $3,400 |
| West Coast (e.g., CA, AZ) | $3,100 – $3,600 |
💡 Final quote varies based on distance, condition, and current stock. All pricing includes quote validity of 72 hours.
🧾 What’s Included — Everything That Comes With Your Purchase
When you purchase a Used 40ft Standard Shipping Container from 24/7 Container Inc., you’re not just buying a steel box — you’re investing in a dependable, supported, and hassle-free experience from order to offload. Here’s exactly what’s included with your purchase:
You’ll receive a fully inspected, structurally sound 40ft container in your selected condition:
- Wind & Watertight (WWT): Guaranteed free of holes or leaks. Ideal for storage and general use.
- Cargo-Worthy (CW): Certified for international freight use, complete with CSC plate and inspection documentation.
Every container is made of durable CORTEN steel and includes marine-grade flooring, making it a long-term solution for demanding environments.
Transparency matters. If requested, we’ll provide a detailed pre-sale condition report featuring:
- Internal and external photos of the exact unit
- Notes on cosmetic condition (rust, dents, paint)
- Functional checks on doors, gaskets, and locking bars
- Verification of floor strength and structural integrity
This gives you the confidence to buy sight unseen, knowing what you’ll receive before it arrives.
No more surprises or missed deliveries. Our logistics team will:
- Coordinate a delivery window that fits your schedule
- Confirm delivery method based on your site conditions (e.g., tilt-bed, flatbed, crane)
- Communicate estimated arrival times and dispatch status
- Offer clear instructions on site readiness and access requirements
You’ll always know what’s happening, when, and from which depot your container is shipping.
Need added security? We offer the option to include a welded-on steel lockbox — professionally installed prior to dispatch.
Lockboxes help:
- Shield your padlock from bolt cutters and tampering
- Deter unauthorized access to stored goods
- Protect tools, equipment, or inventory from theft
Let us know during checkout or quoting, and we’ll include it.
From your first inquiry to after your container hits the ground, our team is here to help. You can count on:
- 📞 Direct phone and email support for product questions
- 📝 Assistance with documents or condition claims
- 🚛 Help with delivery updates or post-sale modification requests
- 🔁 Follow-up to ensure your satisfaction
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or seasoned bulk purchaser, we offer a customer-first approach that ensures a smooth, stress-free buying experience.
🛡️ Warranty & Inspection – Your Peace of Mind, Guaranteed
We understand that buying a used shipping container is a significant investment — and with visible wear being part of the package, you want assurance that the core structure still delivers performance and protection. That’s why every Used 40ft Standard Container we sell is backed by our 14-Day Wind & Watertight Guarantee.
This policy ensures that your container meets or exceeds the condition we promised — or we’ll make it right.
We inspect each unit prior to dispatch to ensure it passes all functional and structural checks required for WWT (Wind & Watertight) certification. Upon delivery, you are protected under the following terms:
✅ No Holes or Leaks: The container must be fully sealed against water and daylight. Roof, walls, and floor panels are thoroughly inspected for integrity.
✅ Operational Doors: Both doors must open and close smoothly, with locking rods and handles functioning correctly.
✅ Sound Floor Structure: Marine-grade plywood must be intact, forklift-safe, and free from major delamination or rot.
✅ Weatherproof Seals: Door gaskets and seams must effectively block wind, dust, and rain intrusion.
Once your container arrives and is placed at your site, you’ll have 14 full calendar days to complete your inspection. If any issue arises that falls within the warranty scope, simply notify us within that window.
We'll promptly coordinate one of the following resolutions:
- 🔁 Replacement with a comparable unit from the same depot
- 🛠️ On-site repair by a certified technician or container partner
- 💵 Partial refund (in specific, minor cases, if agreed upon in writing)
- Cosmetic wear (dents, scratches, surface rust, shipping decals) is not covered under warranty — these are standard characteristics of used units.
- Any modification, relocation, or improper offloading before the claim voids the warranty.
- All warranty claims must be accompanied by photographic evidence and your invoice/order number.
⚙️ Optional Add-Ons
Need to customize your used container? We offer:
- Roll-up doors or personnel access
- Vents, louvers, and insulation kits
- Interior lighting + electric
- Paint touch-ups or full repainting
- Branding decals or ID markings
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