How Much Does Shipping Container Rental Cost? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $75 - $200
The average shipping container rental cost is $125 per month, or between $75 and $200 monthly depending on size, rental duration, and special features.
The average shipping container rental costs an average of $125 per month, with costs ranging from $75 to $200. Whether you’re looking for short-term storage or a mobile vessel for your belongings, renting a shipping container can be a budget-friendly solution. Plus, you can hire local movers to help you pack and unpack it. Let’s take a look at shipping container rental prices based on size, rental duration, and more.
- Average
- $125
- Low end
- $50
- high end
- $500
Shipping Container Rental Cost Factors
When renting a shipping container, these are the main cost factors to consider.
Size
The most common shipping container sizes are 10 feet, 20 feet, and 40 feet. Assessing the size you’ll need beforehand can save you big on your rental costs.
| Shipping Container Size in Feet | Shipping Container Rental Cost per Month |
|---|---|
| 10 | $50–$125 |
| 20 | $100–$150 |
| 40 | $150–$250 |
Rental Duration
Many shipping container rental companies will offer price breaks for longer rental durations. Consider these average costs when planning out your rental period.
| Rental Duration | Shipping Container Rental Cost per Month |
|---|---|
| 1 month | $75–$300 |
| 3 months | $200–$900 |
| 6 months | $400–$1,800 |
| 1 year | $900–$3,600 |
Delivery and Pickup Fees
Depending on the shipping container rental company, you may incur a separate fee for the delivery and pickup of your storage container. Be sure to ask about any additional fees when requesting a quote from your local moving company.
Permits
Permitting fees range between $15 to $500, depending on the local regulations and the duration of time you’ll have a shipping container on your property. Depending on your location, you may need a temporary-use permit to have a shipping container on your property, particularly if your property is close to a residential zone. Permit regulations in rural areas tend to be more lenient and flexible than urban and suburban areas.
Special Features
If you need your shipping container to have special features such as refrigeration, air conditioning, insulation, or heating, these can cost significantly more. Not all shipping container providers will offer these perks, and prices vary based on the feature.
Labor
If you’re simply renting a shipping container, there won’t be a labor charge aside from delivery and pickup. However, if you need the services of a local moving company to help you move your belongings into the shipping container, the average hourly rate ranges from $25 to $50 per hour per mover.
Renting vs. Purchasing a Shipping Container
The average shipping container cost varies from $1,800 to $8,300, depending on its age, size, and condition. If you plan on renting for longer than one year or if you have significant conversion plans, you may want to consider purchasing a shipping container rather than renting. Keep in mind that reselling the container is an option when you’re done with it (if it’s still in good condition).
Shipping Container Rental Ongoing Expenses
Renting a shipping container also comes with these potential ongoing costs to consider.
Maintenance and Repair
Though upkeep costs are generally low, you may be responsible for maintaining the container in rentable condition. If you convert the shipping container into a living space or a business space, you should budget for additional costs to return the shipping container to its original condition.
Insurance
Some rental companies or your insurance carriers may require coverage for damage or loss of the container and its contents. If you’re storing valuable items in the shipping container, you should consider an insurance plan to protect your belongings from damage or theft.
Utilities
If you need lighting, refrigeration, or climate control in your shipping container, plan for additional costs on your utility bills.
Cost of Common Shipping Container Rental Add-Ons
When budgeting for your shipping container rental cost, you may want to plan for additional expenses for site prep and move-out. Here are a few common add-ons and their associated costs:
Move-out cleaning costs: $120–$420
Cost to hire professional painters: $20–$50 per hour
Cost to clear land: $500–$5,600 per acre
Lawn leveling service costs: $1–$2 per square foot
Tips to Reduce Shipping Container Rental Costs
Here are some of the best tips to save on your shipping container rental cost:
Get multiple quotes from different shipping container companies to find the best deal.
If you know you'll need the container for an extended period, ask about locking in a long-term rate to save money.
Avoid paying for unused space by accurately assessing how large of a shipping container you need.
Consider negotiating the rental price, especially for extended rental periods.
Pick up the container yourself to save on delivery fees.
Consider purchasing a used container if you anticipate long-term use.
Look for deals or discounts during off-peak rental seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most shipping containers are designed to be highly water-resistant to protect their contents from rain and sea spray during transit. However, they aren’t always completely waterproof. Over time, wear and tear, rust, and damage to seals can lead to leaks. Depending on the condition of the shipping container you’re renting, it may be susceptible to leaks, so always address this concern with your shipping container rental company before you rent.
Shipping a moving container costs around $3,000 on average, but it can range anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000. Prices fluctuate based on demand, fuel prices, and specific service features, so it’s essential to get multiple quotes from at least three different companies for the best deal.
Yes, you can have a shipping container in your backyard in many areas, but it often depends on local zoning laws, building codes, and homeowner’s association rules. Some regions require permits for containers, especially if you plan to convert one into a living space or office. Be sure to check with your local authorities to understand the specific requirements and restrictions of hosting a shipping container on your property before booking your rental.