The most common question we get — and the one most container companies dodge. Here's the straight answer, with the caveat that container prices move with shipping markets, exchange rates and stock levels, so treat these as a working guide and get a live quote for today's number.
| Container | New (single-trip) | Used (cargo-worthy) |
|---|---|---|
| 10ft general purpose | $3,900–$5,500 | $2,900–$4,000 |
| 20ft general purpose | $4,400–$6,000 | $2,600–$3,800 |
| 40ft general purpose | $7,200–$9,500 | $3,900–$5,500 |
| 40ft high cube | $7,600–$10,000 | $4,300–$6,000 |
Prices are GST-inclusive guides for standard general purpose containers. Specialty units — side-opening, refrigerated, dangerous goods — sit well above these.
Location. Containers are cheapest near major ports (Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Fremantle) where supply lands. The further inland you are, the more freight is baked into the price before delivery is even quoted.
Condition grade. "Used" covers a wide spectrum. Cargo-worthy means inspected, wind and watertight, doors sealing properly. B-grade or "as-is" units run cheaper but can hide floor damage or door problems that cost more to fix than you saved. Read our new vs used guide before chasing the lowest number.
Global shipping cycles. Container prices track the shipping market. When import volumes surge, used stock gets scarce and prices rise — sometimes 20–30% within months. When trade slows, yards fill up and prices soften.
Delivery. A tilt-tray delivery within a metro area typically runs $200–$500 for a 20ft. Regional deliveries scale with distance. Always compare quotes delivered to your site — a cheap container with an inflated delivery fee is not a cheap container.
Ask every supplier the same four questions: Is the price GST-inclusive? What condition grade is it, exactly? What does delivery to my address cost? Can I see photos of the actual unit (not a stock photo)? Any seller who hesitates on the last one is a red flag — see our guide to avoiding container scams.
Ready for a real number? Request a quote or call 1300 235 972 — we'll price the container and the delivery together, so there are no surprises.
The honest breakdown of when a used container is the smart money — and the situations where new is worth every dollar.
Access widths, ground prep and truck types — everything to sort before delivery day so your container lands exactly where you want it.
Hire runs $25–45/week; buying a used 20ft is ~$3,000. The crossover maths, plus the factors that shift it either way.
Tell us what you need and we'll come back with a straight price — container plus delivery to your site, no surprises.
*During business hours. After hours, first thing next morning.