
Containers for Sale – Shipping Container, Modular & Custom-made
Containers for sale – a broad umbrella term for all kinds of containers. Whether you are looking for a shipping container for storage, a modular container as office space, or a custom-made container for your business – there is always a suitable solution.
In this blog, you can read everything about containers for sale : the different types, prices, what to look out for, and how to make the right choice for your situation.
Which containers are for sale?
The term “containers for sale” covers a wide range of products. Here are the most common types :
Shipping containers for sale
The best-known and most widely used container. Suitable for storage, transport, and conversion into a workspace or garden shed .
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20 ft – 6 meters, 33 m³ volume. From €1,425 (excl. VAT)
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40 ft – 12 meters, 67 m³ volume. From €2,650
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10ft (half container) – 3 meters, ideal for small spaces
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High Cube – 30 cm extra height
Modular containers for sale
Modular containers are designed for housing, offices, or hospitality. They are often better insulated and finished than standard shipping containers .
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Office pavilions – workspaces with windows, heating, and electricity
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Living units – comfortable, mobile homes
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Hospitality containers – food trucks, cafes or bars
Custom containers for sale
Sometimes you need more than a standard container. Customization is possible for virtually every application .
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With windows and doors – for daylight and access
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Insulated – for habitation or temperature-sensitive storage
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Open side – for easy loading and unloading
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Refrigerated containers – for refrigerated storage
Second-hand containers for sale
Buying a second-hand container is by far the most economical option. Platforms like Mascus often have hundreds of used containers for sale, with prices ranging from €900 to €15,000, depending on type and condition .

Containers for Sale
How much does a container for sale cost?
The price of containers for sale varies greatly by type, condition, and dimensions :
| Container type | Condition | Price (excl. VAT) |
|---|---|---|
| 20ft shipping container | Secondhand | €1,425 |
| 40ft shipping container | Secondhand | €2,650 |
| 10ft self-build container | Secondhand | €850–€950 |
| Shipping container (general) | Secondhand | €900–€3,600 |
| Refrigerated container | Secondhand | €15,000 |
| Modular living unit (40ft) | New | On request |
Please note: prices exclude VAT and delivery, unless otherwise stated.
Buy or rent a container?
An important consideration when buying containers : is buying more advantageous than renting?
| Buy | Rent |
|---|---|
| One-time investment | Monthly costs |
| Always available | Submit after the deadline |
| Retains value – resale possible | No residual value |
| Economical for use > 3 years | Economical for short-term use |
Buying is cost-effective if you need a container for longer than 3 years. Renting pays off for temporary projects .
What should you look out for when buying containers?
When buying containers for sale, there are a few crucial points to check :
1. Condition of the container
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Rust and damage – superficial rust is normal, but check for rusted welds
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Floor – in shipping containers often wood. Check for moisture, mold, or wood rot.
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Doors and latches – must close properly and function
2. Certification
A CSC certificate is required for transport or seaworthy use . A valid CSC certificate is valid for at least 12 months .
3. Delivery and installation
Take into account:
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Transport costs – often between €150 and €350
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Accessibility of your location
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Substrate – must be flat and hardened
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Crane or low loader for unloading
4. Warranty and service
Ask about warranty, after-sales service, and whether modifications are possible. A reliable supplier offers transparent quotations and clear communication .
New or second-hand containers for sale?
| Aspect | Secondhand | New |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Low (€850–€3,600) | High (€8,000+) |
| Appearance | Signs of wear | Perfect |
| Maintenance | More needed in the first years | Less maintenance |
| Warranty | Limited or none | Often |
| Availability | Immediately | Sometimes a waiting time |
Choose second-hand if: you are saving money, use the container for storage or short-term projects, and signs of wear are acceptable .
Choose new if: you need an impeccable appearance, plan for long-term use, or use the container for permanent residence or as an office .
Containers for sale – popular applications
Containers for sale are used for many purposes :
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Storage – temporary or permanent storage of goods, furniture, or materials
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Workshop – set up as a technical room or machine enclosure
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Office – mobile workspace on the construction site or in the garden
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Garden shed – maintenance-free storage space or hobby room
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Housing – modular living units of 30 m² or larger, suitable for year-round use
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Hospitality – food trucks, bars or pop-up restaurants
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Events – crowd control, turnstiles or temporary units
Where can you find containers for sale?
There are various places to find containers for sale :
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Specialized dealers – such as BD Containers or Dampol, with large stock and modification capabilities
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Online platforms – Mascus, 2ememain, Traktorpool, with hundreds of used options
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Auctions – sometimes at very low prices
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Directly at depots – especially when purchasing multiple containers
Frequently asked questions about containers for sale (AEO)
How much does a container for sale cost?
From €850 for a small used container to €15,000+ for refrigerated containers or modular units .
Is it more cost-effective to buy or rent a container?
Buying is cost-effective for use longer than 3 years. Renting pays off for short-term projects .
What is the difference between a shipping container and a modular container?
A shipping container is designed for transport by sea – sturdy, but often uninsulated. A modular container is better insulated and finished for residential use, office space, or hospitality .
Are second-hand containers watertight?
Yes, provided they have a valid CSC certificate and are technically sound .
Can I have a container modified?
Yes – most suppliers offer modifications such as windows, doors, insulation, paint, and electrical work .
What is a CSC certificate?
A safety certificate for containers that guarantees the container is fit for transport. For second-hand containers, this is valid for at least 12 months .
Do you deliver containers throughout the Netherlands?
Yes – most providers deliver throughout the Netherlands and Belgium, often within 3–5 working days.
Conclusion – Containers for sale
Containers for sale come in many shapes and sizes: from second-hand shipping containers starting at €850 to modular pavilions and custom solutions for office, hospitality, or residential use .
Whether you choose a 20ft shipping container for storage, a modular unit as a workspace, or a custom-made container for your business – with the right supplier and a thorough inspection, you are assured of a sustainable, affordable solution.
When purchasing, always pay attention to the condition, certification, and delivery terms. Buying is advantageous for long-term use, while renting is better for temporary projects.
Would you like to know the cost of a container including delivery ? Request a no-obligation quote today.
-> Conex Box
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