Container type & size

A shipping container is a container strong enough to withstand transport, storage, and handling. Shipping containers come in a wide variety of types, ranging from large, reusable steel boxes used in multimodal transport to ubiquitous corrugated cardboard boxes. In the international shipping trade, a "container" or "transport container" is almost synonymous with a "multimodal freight container" (sometimes informally referred to as a "sea container"), a type of container designed to facilitate transfer from one mode of transport to another without requiring unloading and reloading. This article provides a detailed introduction to container types, factors affecting container costs, and container shipping costs from China to the United States, helping customers with container needs to better understand containers and choose the right one for their specific needs.

• Used shipping container

The condition of used shipping containers varies widely. The most common types are cargo-ready containers (CW) and windproof/waterproof containers (WWT). Cargo-ready containers (CW) are waterproof and typically have a service life of 5 to 15 years. Although they may show some wear, they are still sturdy and durable enough to withstand harsh weather, making them ideal for multimodal transport. Windproof/waterproof containers (WWT) effectively protect goods from wind and rain, making them ideal for on-site storage. These containers are usually older and show obvious signs of wear. In addition, there are "as is" containers, which are of the lowest quality and are usually damaged, so no guarantee can be given. They are suitable for reuse or temporary storage. Single-trip containers are the closest to brand new in terms of second-hand containers. These containers have only been transported once on a container ship and are the most expensive type of second-hand containers.

• Brand-new container

Disposable shipping containers (often referred to as new containers) are manufactured in China and are intended for a single shipment to the UK. These are among the newest containers currently available. They can be used for export goods, on-site storage, or converted for other special purposes, such as container houses, offices, retail units, etc. These containers also feature designs not found in "used" containers, such as side-opening containers, tunnel containers, smaller 6-9 ft and 10 ft containers, and containers for storing hazardous chemicals. Brand new disposable containers are the best choice for long-term storage use of 10 years or more. For fixed on-site storage purposes, they have a lifespan 2-3 times that of used containers, and they are also more aesthetically pleasing and have a higher resale value.

• Containers of different sizes

40-foot and 20-foot containers are the most common sizes for shipping goods to e-commerce logistics and distribution centers. Both sizes are large enough to hold large quantities of cargo and fit into the loading and unloading bays of container ships. Trailers and railcars used for land transport are also designed to carry 20-foot and 40-foot containers. While smaller 10-foot standard or custom-sized containers may have lower overall shipping costs, they can be more expensive than 20-foot and 40-foot containers due to their non-standard size and the greater difficulty in loading them. 

The cost of shipping a container

The price of a shipping container varies depending on its size, condition (new or used), and customized features. Different choices will result in different container prices, which in turn will affect transportation costs. Contact ChinaDivision to let our professional logistics team customize the most suitable and cost-effective container solution for you. Below, I will detail the prices of new and used standard 20-foot and 40-foot containers: the average price of a used 20-foot container is between $1,500 and $3,000, while the price of a new 20-foot container is between $2,500 and $5,000. The average price for a used 40-foot standard container is between $2,000 and $4,500, while the average price for a 40-foot high cube container is between $2,500 and $5,000; and the prices for brand new 40-foot containers are between $3,500 and $6,500 and $4,000 and $7,000, respectively. 

Factors affecting container shipping prices

Container shipping costs depend on numerous factors, including bulk discounts, the use of freight forwarders, and market conditions. For example, during the pandemic, container shortages and surging demand strained shipping capacity, causing container shipping prices to double or even triple compared to a few months prior. Other factors influencing pricing include the weight of the cargo and any special handling requirements, such as for wet cargo or hazardous materials. However, the primary factors affecting container shipping costs are container size and the origin and destination of the shipment. These are explained in detail below:

Container Sizes:

Prices vary depending on container size. 40-foot and 20-foot containers are the most common sizes for shipping goods to e-commerce logistics and distribution centers. Both sizes are large enough to hold large quantities of cargo and fit into container ship loading/unloading bays. Trailers and railcars used for land transport are also designed to carry 20-foot and 40-foot containers. However, the price difference between a 20-foot used standard container and a 40-foot used standard container can be about 34%. While the overall transportation cost of a small 10-foot standard or custom-sized container may be lower, it may be more expensive than 20-foot and 40-foot containers due to its non-standard size and greater loading difficulty.

Container Condition and Usage History:

The condition and usage history of a container are also major factors affecting cost. Dents, corrosion, and the condition of additional equipment, such as refrigeration units, are crucial before purchase. Containers are divided into new and used. New containers are more expensive, while used containers are more common and mainly come in three types, each with varying degrees of wear and tear, resulting in different prices. New containers are typically used only once or never, and their prices range from $5,000 to $9,500, while used containers can be as low as $1,400.

Distance and Route:

The most common way to transport goods from China to the United States is by sea. From China, these cargo ships take approximately two to four weeks to reach the west coast of the United States and three to five weeks to reach the east coast. Cargo ships from China to the United States typically take the Pacific route, also known as the Pacific Seaway. Ships first pass through the southern East China Sea, then head north through the Sea of Japan and the Sea of Okhotsk into the North Pacific Ocean. From there, they can reach ports in western Latin America, the west coast of the United States, New Zealand, Australia, and western Canada. Different freight companies choose different routes. If you plan to use a freight company, you need to inquire about this information in advance when shipping containers to consider price and reliability.

Of course, other factors also affect container shipping costs, such as the mode of transport (air freight will definitely be more expensive than sea freight); the delivery method (door-to-door, port-to-port, or a combination of both); different types of goods may also affect the cost; and there are also insurance, customs clearance, packaging, and so on.

FAQs

1、How long do shipping containers last?

The average lifespan of a shipping container is 15 to 25 years. If you are looking to buy a used shipping container to save money, be sure to avoid containers sold "as is," as these are often severely corroded and cannot guarantee the safety of your goods during transport. Alternatively, you can consult with container companies to find out which type of container best meets your needs and is most affordable, based on your specific circumstances and intended use.

2、How much does it cost to ship a 40ft container from China to the US in 2025?

The shipping cost for a 40-foot standard container from China to the US West Coast is between $3,500 and $6,000. Shipping to the East Coast costs between $4,500 and $7,500. These prices include basic ocean freight and surcharges, but do not include destination charges, customs clearance fees, or inland transportation costs. During peak demand periods, shipping costs can increase by 30% to 50%.

Reference:

1、Shipping Container
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shipping_container

2、Shipping Container Transport Cost: 2025 Calculator & Chart
https://www.conexwest.com/blog/shipping-container-transport-cost-2025-calculator-chart