A used 40ft shipping container is the cheapest way to get 67 m³ of lockable, weatherproof storage. These are standard 8 ft 6 in dry containers that have finished their working life with shipping lines and been sold off the fleet. They show their age on the outside, but the steel box, the floor and the doors still do the job. Prime Cargo Box sells every used 40ft shipping container wind and watertight, and we tell you honestly what condition the unit is in before you pay.
If you mainly need storage and don’t care whether the paint is perfect, this is usually the best value container we sell. Here is what to expect, the full specification and how to choose the right grade.
What You Get With a Used 40ft Shipping Container
Shipping lines typically keep a container in service for 10 to 15 years. When it is retired, it has carried cargo across oceans many times and been lifted on and off ships, trucks and trains. That shows up as dents in the side panels, surface rust in places, faded paint and old company logos. None of that stops the container keeping your goods dry and secure.
What matters on a used box is the structure and the seal: a sound floor, a roof with no holes, doors that close and lock, and gaskets that keep water out. Those are the things we check on every used 40ft shipping container before it leaves our depot.
Used 40ft Shipping Container Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Container type | 40ft standard dry container (40′ GP) |
| Condition | Used, wind and watertight |
| External length | 40 ft (12.19 m) |
| External width | 8 ft (2.44 m) |
| External height | 8 ft 6 in (2.59 m) |
| Internal length | Approx. 39 ft 5 in (12.03 m) |
| Internal width | Approx. 7 ft 8 in (2.35 m) |
| Internal height | Approx. 7 ft 10 in (2.39 m) |
| Door opening | Approx. 7 ft 8 in wide x 7 ft 6 in high (2.34 x 2.29 m) |
| Cubic capacity | Approx. 2,390 cu ft (67.7 m³) |
| Tare weight | Approx. 8,200 to 8,800 lbs (3,700 to 4,000 kg) |
| Maximum gross weight | Typically 67,200 lbs (30,480 kg); some units are rated higher |
| Construction | Corten steel, corrugated walls and roof |
| Floor | Marine-grade plywood or hardwood, sound but with signs of use |
| Doors | Double cargo doors at one end, four locking bars |
Older containers were built to slightly different specs, so tare weight and ratings vary from unit to unit. We give you the figures from the actual container’s data plate when we quote.
Cargo Worthy vs Wind and Watertight
Used containers are sold in two broad grades, and it is worth knowing which one you need.
- Wind and watertight (WWT): the container keeps out wind, rain and pests, and the doors lock properly. It is ideal for storage on your own site. It may not hold a current CSC plate for shipping.
- Cargo worthy (CW): a WWT container that has also been inspected as structurally fit to carry cargo at sea and can be plated under the International Convention for Safe Containers.
If you only want storage, a wind and watertight used 40ft shipping container is all you need. If you plan to load it and ship it overseas, tell us at quote stage and we will supply a unit with a valid CSC plate.
What Wear Is Normal?
| Area | Normal on a used container | Not acceptable |
|---|---|---|
| Walls | Dents, scrapes, old logos, surface rust | Holes or rust right through |
| Roof | Shallow dents, faded paint | Pin holes, standing-water rust holes |
| Floor | Stains, scuffs, minor patches | Soft, rotten or broken boards |
| Doors | Stiff hinges, worn paint | Doors that won’t close or lock |
| Seals | Aged rubber that still seals | Torn gaskets letting in light |
The easy test: stand inside with the doors shut. If you see daylight anywhere, the container isn’t watertight. We do this check before every used unit goes out.
Who Buys a Used 40ft Shipping Container?
- Farmers storing feed, tools and machinery
- Builders who need cheap site storage that may get knocked about
- Businesses needing overflow storage on a budget
- Homeowners clearing out a garage or storing belongings during a move
- Anyone planning a project where the outside will be clad or painted anyway
As a rough guide, a used 40ft shipping container takes about 24 standard pallets on the floor, or the contents of a large house.
Used, One Trip or New?
Before you decide, think about how long you need the container and where it will sit. A used 40ft shipping container on a farm or a building site where looks don’t matter will give years of service for the lowest outlay. A container that sits in front of customers, or that you plan to convert into an office, is often worth the extra spend on a newer unit, because you start with straight panels and fresh paint.
Used is the right call when price matters most. If you want a container that looks close to new and will last longer without maintenance, compare the 40ft one trip shipping container or the new 40ft shipping container. For extra height on a budget, there is the used 40ft high cube container, and for a smaller site the used 20ft shipping container.
See all our second-hand stock on the used shipping containers for sale page or in the used containers category.
Why Prices Vary Between Used Containers
Two used 40ft shipping containers can be priced quite differently. Age, the amount of rust and dent repair, the floor condition and whether the unit holds a current CSC plate all affect value, and so does local supply. A very cheap offer usually means a lower grade, so always ask what grade you are being quoted.
Making a Used Container Last
A used 40ft shipping container can give many more years of service with a little care. Sit it on a level base of gravel, concrete or blocks so the frame stays square and the doors keep sealing. Keep the roof clear of standing water and leaves, because that is where rust starts on older units. Wire brush and paint any rust spots once a year, and grease the door hinges and locking bars so they keep moving freely.
If condensation is a concern, add vents and keep goods on pallets off the floor. A repaint is also an option if you want the container to look tidier on site; ask us and we can arrange it before delivery.
Delivering Your Used 40ft Shipping Container
A 40ft container needs a long, straight approach for the truck, firm ground and a level spot about 12.5 m by 2.5 m. It has no forklift pockets, so it is unloaded by tilt-bed truck, side-lifter or crane. Check gates, branches and overhead cables on the route. Our shipping and delivery policy explains how delivery is quoted.
Using It for Export
Some buyers want to load a container with their own goods, ship it, and keep or sell the box at the other end. That works well with a cargo worthy unit. Before loading, check the CSC plate for a valid examination date, make sure the doors seal, and spread heavy items evenly across the floor. Your freight forwarder will also need the container number and tare weight for the booking, both of which are marked on the doors.
How to Buy a Used 40ft Shipping Container
- Tell us what you need. Quantity, location, and whether it is for storage or shipping.
- Get your quote. We describe the grade and condition and quote delivery separately.
- Confirm and pay. See our billing and payment policy.
- Receive and inspect. Check the doors, floor and roof on delivery day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is a used 40ft shipping container?
Most are between 10 and 15 years old. The manufacture date is shown on the data plate fixed to the door, along with the container number and its original weight ratings. Age alone matters less than condition, so judge the floor, roof and doors first.
Will a used 40ft shipping container leak?
Not if it is wind and watertight, which is the minimum standard we sell. Keep it level so the doors seal.
Can I choose the colour of a used 40ft shipping container?
Used containers come in whatever colour the previous owner used. A repaint can be arranged at extra cost.
Can I ship goods in a used 40ft shipping container?
Only if it is cargo worthy with a valid CSC plate. Ask for a cargo worthy unit when you order.
Do you deliver worldwide?
Yes. Contact Prime Cargo Box for a delivered price to your location.
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