Container Buying Guide

Container Sizes Compared

Understanding the dimensions helps you match the right unit to your project scope.

Size	External Dims	Internal Dims	Floor Area	Best For
20ft High Cube	20' 0" x 8' 0" x 9' 6"	19' 4" x 7' 8" x 8' 10"	160 sq ft	Workshops requiring headroom, Taller equipment storage, Small office conversions, Retail pop-up shops, Living space projects
20ft Standard	20' 0" x 8' 0" x 8' 6"	19' 4" x 7' 8" x 7' 10"	160 sq ft	Personal storage, Small business inventory, Backyard workshops, Tool and equipment storage, Starter container projects
40ft High Cube	40' 0" x 8' 0" x 9' 6"	39' 5" x 7' 8" x 8' 10"	304 sq ft	Container homes and offices, High-volume storage, Retail and commercial spaces, Workshop conversions, Items requiring vertical stacking
40ft Standard	40' 0" x 8' 0" x 8' 6"	39' 5" x 7' 8" x 7' 10"	304 sq ft	Business inventory storage, Construction site storage, Vehicle storage, Large equipment, Bulk cargo shipping

Condition Grades Explained

Each grade represents a different balance of price and cosmetic appearance.

Grade	Appearance	Structural	Water Tight	Best Use
As-Is	Budget option - sold without warranty	economy	Not guaranteed	DIY conversion projects, Art installations, Music venues or studios, Major reconstruction projects, Scrap metal recycling
Cargo Worthy	Certified for shipping - proven reliability	premium	Yes	International shipping and export, Secure long-term storage, Container homes and offices, Pop-up retail spaces, Workshop conversions
One-Trip	Like new - single voyage from factory	premium-plus	Yes	Premium storage solutions, Container homes and offices, Retail and commercial spaces, Long-term investment, Applications where appearance matters
Wind & Water Tight	Weatherproof storage - retired from shipping	standard	Yes	On-site permanent storage, Construction site storage, Workshops and garages, Agricultural equipment storage, Inventory and equipment warehousing

Dallas Area Pricing Guide

Current market pricing for used shipping containers delivered in the DFW metroplex. Prices fluctuate with supply and demand.

Size	One-Trip	Cargo Worthy	WWT	As-Is

* Prices are starting estimates. Request a quote for exact pricing with delivery to your location.

How to Choose the Right Container

Follow this decision framework to narrow down your options quickly.

For Tiny Homes & ADUs

Go with the 40ft High Cube in Cargo Worthy condition. The extra ceiling height is essential once you add insulation and finishes. Budget $2,450 for the container plus $25K-$60K for the build-out.

For Home Offices & Studios

A 20ft Standard or High Cube in CW condition provides ample workspace. At roughly 150 sq ft, it comfortably holds a desk, shelving, and small meeting area. Budget $1,200-$1,750 for the unit.

For Workshops & Storage

A 40ft Standard WWT offers maximum floor space at the lowest price point. Cosmetic wear is irrelevant for working environments. Budget $1,700 for the container.

For Vacation Rentals

Choose a 40ft HC One-Trip for the cleanest starting canvas. Guests expect a premium finish, and starting with near-new steel minimizes prep work. Budget $4,500 for the container.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Dallas Container Buying Guide