Answers to the questions we hear most about buying, delivering and using mini shipping containers. Can’t find what you need? Call us on (606) 215-4428 or request a free quote.

Buying and pricing

How much does a mini shipping container cost?

Mini shipping containers at First Choice Containers start at $990 for a 6ft unit. An 8ft container is $1,000, 10ft containers start at $1,050, and 12ft containers range from $1,050 to $3,250 depending on condition and features. Standard delivery is free within the USA.

What sizes of mini shipping containers do you sell?

We sell 6ft, 8ft, 10ft and 12ft mini shipping containers, plus full-size 20ft containers. Mini containers suit homes, job sites and businesses that need secure storage without the footprint of a 20ft or 40ft unit.

How much does a 10ft shipping container cost?

A standard 10ft shipping container starts at $1,050. New 10ft units start at $2,100. Modified 10ft containers, such as offices, workshops, accommodation units and concession stands, range from $3,200 to $7,850. Refrigerated 10ft containers cost $6,050 to $8,700.

How much does a 12ft shipping container cost?

A 12ft mini shipping container costs from $1,050 on sale. A used 12ft container is $1,500, a new 12ft container is $2,400, and a 12ft container with a roller door is $3,250. A used 12ft refrigerated container is $3,000.

How much does a 20ft shipping container cost?

A 20ft shipping container from First Choice Containers costs $2,250, with free standard delivery in the USA. Contact us for high cube, side-opening, open-top or flat rack 20ft options.

Should I buy a new or used shipping container?

Buy a new “one-trip” container if appearance and the longest warranty matter most. Buy a used cargo-worthy container to save money: it is still wind and watertight and comes with a 5-year warranty. Both are suitable for storage.

What is the difference between a standard and a high cube container?

A high cube container is about one foot taller than a standard container. That extra height gives more storage space and headroom, which makes high cube units better for offices, workshops and living spaces.

Can I rent a shipping container instead of buying one?

Yes. First Choice Containers offers rental, purchase and rent-to-own options. Rentals of 24ft and smaller are delivered and collected by tilt-bed truck.

Are there any hidden fees?

No. Prices are transparent with no hidden fees, and standard delivery is free within the USA. Custom modifications, special placement such as crane delivery, and late cancellations may cost extra, and we confirm these before you pay.

Delivery and site preparation

How long does shipping container delivery take?

Most orders are delivered within 1 to 3 business days of payment confirmation: up to 1 business day to prepare the container, then 1 to 2 business days in transit (see our shipping policy). Orders placed before the daily cut-off ship faster, and next-day delivery is available on most standard sizes.

Do you deliver shipping containers nationwide?

Yes. First Choice Containers delivers across the USA through a nationwide logistics network, and standard delivery is free. Send us your delivery address and we will confirm the timeline for your location.

How is a shipping container delivered?

Most containers are delivered on a tilt-bed truck. The truck backs up to your chosen spot, tilts its bed, and the container slides off into position. Longer containers come on a tilt-bed truck with a trailer, and a crane truck is used for precision placement.

How much space is needed to deliver a shipping container?

A tilt-bed truck needs at least 60 feet of straight-line clearance for containers up to 24ft. A tilt-bed truck with a trailer needs 100 feet for containers up to 45ft. Tell us about narrow roads, gates or low wires and we can preview the route before delivery.

Can a container be placed over a fence or on a raised platform?

Yes, with crane delivery. Our crane truck, run by a certified operator, can place a 20ft container about 25 feet from the truck: over a fence, onto a platform, or on top of another container. Each placement is assessed case by case.

Can I choose which way the container doors face?

Yes. When you book delivery, tell us whether the doors should face the truck’s cab or its rear. That decides which way the doors face once the container is set down on your site.

How should I prepare my site for a shipping container?

Choose firm, level ground with good drainage, such as gravel, concrete or compacted soil. Clear a straight path for the truck (60 to 100 feet depending on container size) and check for overhead wires and tight turns. Placing the container on blocks keeps it level and dry.

Can I track my container delivery?

Yes. You receive an email when your payment is confirmed and your order is being prepared, and delivery tracking is available until the container reaches you.

Condition, quality and warranty

Do your shipping containers come with a warranty?

Yes. Every container comes with a limited warranty and a leakproof guarantee. New ISO containers are covered for 10 years and used cargo-worthy containers for 5 years, both against defects in materials and workmanship.

What warranty do refrigerated containers have?

New refrigerated containers have a 5-year warranty on the mechanical and electrical systems and 10 years on the container shell. Used or refurbished reefers have a 30-day warranty on the refrigeration system and 5 years on the shell.

What does the warranty not cover?

The warranty does not cover damage from improper use or installation, normal wear and cosmetic marks, unauthorized repairs or modifications, accidents, weather or vandalism, or rust on used containers. It applies only to the original purchaser and cannot be transferred.

What does “cargo-worthy” mean?

A cargo-worthy container is a used container that is structurally sound and still fit to carry cargo by sea. It is wind and watertight, with working doors and seals, but may show dents, scratches or surface rust from its shipping life.

What is a “one-trip” shipping container?

A one-trip container has made a single voyage from the factory, usually carrying cargo from Asia, before being sold. It is close to new, with minimal wear, clean walls and fully working doors, and costs less than a brand-new unit.

Are your shipping containers wind and watertight?

Yes. All new and cargo-worthy containers are wind and watertight, and every container sold includes our leakproof guarantee for the length of its warranty.

Payment, orders and returns

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept bank wire transfer. After you order, you receive our bank details in your order confirmation; use your order number as the payment reference. Paying by bank transfer means we never collect or store your card details.

When do I pay for my container?

Full payment is due when you place your order. We schedule delivery once payment is confirmed, which usually takes 1 to 2 business days for a bank transfer.

How do I order a shipping container?

Choose your container in our shop and place your order, call us on (606) 215-4428, or request a quote online. Pay by bank transfer with your order number as the reference. We email you once payment is confirmed, then schedule your delivery.

Can I cancel my container order?

Yes. Orders cancelled within 24 hours of payment get a full refund. After 24 hours a restocking and processing fee may apply. Orders that have already shipped cannot be cancelled and follow our returns process instead.

What is your return policy for shipping containers?

Under our returns policy, you can return a container if it arrives incorrect, damaged in transit, or not as specified, as long as you report it within 5 calendar days of delivery. The container must be unused, unmodified and still at the original delivery location.

How long do refunds take?

Approved refunds go back to your original payment method within 10 to 14 business days. You get a full refund when the error is ours, such as a wrong unit or transport damage. Delivery and pickup charges are refunded only when we are at fault.

Can I return a modified container?

No. Custom-modified containers, including units with added doors, windows, paint or insulation, are final sale. The only exception is a container with a defect in materials or workmanship, which is covered by our warranty.

Uses and modifications

What can I use a mini shipping container for?

Mini shipping containers are used for home and garden storage, job-site tool storage, business inventory, farm equipment and event storage. Modified units become offices, workshops, concession stands, accommodation and cold storage.

Can a shipping container be turned into an office?

Yes. We sell ready-made 10ft office and workshop containers from $3,500, and can add windows, doors, vents, insulation and shelving. Our 10x8ft small office container is built for high security.

Do you sell refrigerated shipping containers?

Yes. We sell refrigerated (reefer) containers for cold storage, including a used 12ft refrigerated container for $3,000, a 10ft fridge and freezer container for $6,050, and a 10ft freezer reefer for $8,700. Each needs a power supply to run.

Can you customize a shipping container?

Yes. We can add roll-up doors, personnel doors, windows, vents, shelving, insulation and paint. Use our online design tool or request a quote with your requirements. Custom-modified containers are final sale.

Is a shipping container secure enough for storage?

Yes. Shipping containers are made of weatherproof corrugated steel with lockable cargo doors. Adding a lockbox and a container lock protects the padlock from bolt cutters, making a container one of the most secure portable storage options.

Do I need a permit for a shipping container?

It depends on where you live. Many areas allow a storage container on private property without a permit, but some cities and homeowners’ associations have rules on size, placement or how long it can stay. Check with your local planning office before delivery.