Shipping Containers

Where to Buy Shipping Containers in the US: A Practical Guide to Stores, Types, and Smart Buying Tips

Introduction: Why Shipping Containers Are Everywhere

If you’ve noticed shipping containers popping up as backyard offices, retail kiosks, or extra warehouse space, you’re not alone. These steel boxes are economical, tough, and surprisingly versatile. Whether you want a simple 20-foot storage solution or a customized 40-foot high-cube converted into a studio, there are plenty of places in the US where you can buy or rent containers. In this guide I’ll walk you through the main stores and suppliers, what to look for, and how to pick the right container for your project.

How Retailers and Industrial Suppliers Differ

Not every seller handles full-size cargo containers. Large retail chains like Walmart and home improvement stores typically stock smaller storage solutions — bins, shelving, and garage organizers — while specialized container companies sell full-size 20-foot and 40-foot units, new or used. Think of it like buying furniture versus buying a house: the big-box stores provide the accessories; container specialists deliver the structure.

Major Stores and Suppliers to Consider

Below are categories of suppliers and specific names you’ll see commonly across the US. Each fills a different need — from new factory-built containers to used units, short-term rentals, or site-ready installations.

Walmart — Small Storage Supplies and Organization

Walmart is a go-to for storage accessories like stackable bins, shelving, and industrial organizers. If you’re outfitting a container with interior organization or need heavy-duty shelf bins, Walmart’s nationwide footprint makes it convenient. Keep in mind Walmart typically doesn’t sell full-size shipping containers, but it does carry brands of storage bins that fit container interiors.

Home Depot and Lowe’s — Tools, Prep, and Local Listings

Home improvement chains such as Home Depot and Lowe’s don’t usually stock 20-foot or 40-foot cargo containers on shelves, but they are useful when preparing a site—think concrete pads, gravel delivery, anchoring hardware, and insulation materials. Both also run local marketplace listings where independent sellers sometimes advertise used containers, so they can be a resource for finding nearby units.

Mobile Mini — Nationwide Container Rentals and Sales

Mobile Mini is a major player in portable storage and workspace solutions. They offer rentals and sales of standard storage containers, office containers, and modified units across the US. If you want a short-term rental or a turnkey converted office, a company like Mobile Mini can deliver, set, and even service the unit for you.

Pac-Van — Specialized Container Solutions

Pac-Van supplies new and used containers, portable offices, and specialty modifications. They have strong logistics for commercial customers and often handle bulk orders for construction sites, disaster recovery, and industrial storage. Their inventory includes 20-foot and 40-foot containers in various conditions and custom configurations.

Conexwest and ContainerOne — Custom and Retail Container Sellers

Conexwest and ContainerOne are examples of companies that specialize in selling containers and offering custom modifications like doors, windows, HVAC, and electrical packages. These firms cater to DIY builders, contractors, and businesses that need a specific conversion. They often provide nationwide shipping and can handle projects that require fabrication.

PODS, U-Pack, and POD Alternatives — Moving and Portable Storage

PODS and U-Pack focus on portable storage containers for moving and temporary on-site storage. Their containers are usually shorter in rental terms and designed for easy loading. These options are great if you don’t want the long-term commitment of buying and need a container for a few weeks or months.

Local Dealers, Classifieds, and Marketplaces

Local dealers, Craigslist, eBay, and marketplaces like BoxHub connect buyers to used containers at competitive prices. If you’re willing to inspect units and handle local pickup, marketplaces can offer the best bargains. Just be ready to check for rust, structural damage, and proper dimensions when buying secondhand.

Common Container Types and What They Mean

Knowing container types helps you match the unit to your needs. Below are the most common styles you’ll encounter in American listings.

Standard Dry Container (20-foot and 40-foot)

Standard dry containers are the workhorses. A 20-foot unit is about 20 feet long and fits well for storage or a compact workspace. A 40-foot unit is roughly double that length and makes sense when you need more floor space. These are ideal for most storage and conversion projects.

High Cube Containers

High cube containers are about 1 foot taller than standard units — great when you need extra vertical space for shelving, lofts, or taller equipment. Many conversions choose high cubes for the added headroom and a less cramped feel inside.

Refrigerated (Reefer) Containers

Reefer containers have built-in refrigeration units and insulated walls, useful if you need temperature-controlled storage. They’re more complex to operate and maintain, but perfect for food storage, perishable inventory, or climate-sensitive materials.

Open-Top and Flat-Rack Containers

Open-top containers let you load oversized cargo from above, while flat-rack containers are suited for very heavy or irregular loads. These are less common for conversions but frequently used in industrial shipping and specialty transport.

New vs Used: Which Should You Buy?

Choosing new or used comes down to budget, intended use, and desired lifespan. New containers come with warranty and less maintenance; used units cost less but may require repairs. If you plan to modify or live in a container, investing in a newer, rust-free high-cube might save headaches later.

What to Inspect When Buying a Used Container

Buying used? Don’t skip the inspection. Walk around the unit and check for structural issues like major rust, holes, or warped flooring. Make sure the doors seal and lock properly. Inspect the roof for leaks and the interior for mold or water stains. If the unit sat near the ocean, salt exposure can speed up corrosion—look for thin walls and pitting. A brief checklist helps you negotiate better and avoid surprises.

Modifications: Turning a Box into a Space

One of the best things about containers is how easily they convert into offices, retail spaces, or even tiny homes. Here are common modification paths people choose.

Container Offices and Workshops

Adding insulation, drywall, windows, and a basic electrical package turns a steel box into a functional office or workshop. Insulation is crucial if you’re in very hot or cold climates; spray foam or rigid board insulation are popular choices.

Retail Pop-Ups and Event Spaces

Containers can become eye-catching retail booths or food service units. Cutouts for sliding windows, counters, and decorative cladding help create a professional look. Mobility and the industrial aesthetic make containers popular at festivals and markets.

Storage and Inventory Management

For pure storage, installing sturdy shelving and locking hardware maximizes usable space. Secure tie-down points, humidity control solutions, and proper ventilation keep inventory safe and accessible.

Agriculture and Farm Use

Containers are used for cold storage of produce, equipment shelters, and even mobile grow rooms. Their durability protects gear and harvests from the elements and wildlife.

Site Preparation, Delivery, and Placement Basics

Before ordering a container, think about where it will sit. Level ground with compacted gravel or a concrete pad is ideal. For heavy containers, ensure access by a truck with a crane or roll-off system. Many suppliers provide delivery and placement services, but if you handle delivery yourself, measure doorways, gates, and overhead clearances carefully.

Cost Factors and Price Ranges

Container prices vary widely depending on condition, size, and modifications. As a rough guide, expect to pay more for high-cube and modified units. Used 20-foot containers might start in the low thousands of dollars, while new 40-foot high-cube or heavily modified units can reach tens of thousands. Don’t forget to budget for delivery, site prep, permits, and any interior finishing you plan to do.

How to Negotiate and Get the Best Deal

Want to save money? Shop multiple suppliers, compare delivery quotes, and ask about discounts for bulk orders. If you’re buying a used unit, use any visible wear to negotiate down the price or request minor repairs before payment. Be flexible on delivery timing — sometimes being able to receive a unit on the seller’s schedule saves you a delivery fee.

Common Mistakes First-Time Buyers Make

Buyers often underestimate the importance of ventilation, insulation, and floor condition. Skipping a physical inspection or failing to confirm the exact interior dimensions can lead to product fit problems later. Also, ignoring local building codes and permitting needs can create delays if you’re converting a container into a permanent structure.

Sustainability and Recycling Benefits

One reason people love containers is their upcycled potential. Reusing a shipping container avoids the environmental cost of new construction materials and keeps steel in use longer. If sustainability matters to you, consider buying refurbished units or using reclaimed accessories during your conversion.

Final Tips Before You Buy

Always verify exact dimensions in feet and inches, confirm door swing and access, and prioritize structural integrity over cosmetic flaws unless you have plans to fix them. If you plan to live or work inside a container, invest in proper insulation, ventilation, and a certified electrician for all wiring to meet local codes.

Conclusion

Shipping containers are a practical, economical choice for storage, commercial conversions, and creative construction projects. Whether you’re picking up heavy-duty bin organizers from retailers like Walmart to outfit the interior, working with specialized sellers like Mobile Mini or Pac-Van for delivery and modifications, or hunting for a bargain on a local marketplace, the right container is out there. Do your homework: inspect units, compare suppliers, and plan site prep in feet and inches so there are no surprises when the truck arrives. With a little planning, a steel box can become exactly the solution you need.