πŸš€ Free Delivery on Orders Over $6,000|714-400-3000|sales@thecontainerdepot.com

Buyers Guide

Five minutes here will save you a costly re-delivery.

1. Pick your size

SizeDimensionsCapacityBest for
10ft8' x 10' x 8'6"~560 cu ftTight urban sites, tool storage, compact offices
20ft8' x 20' x 8'6"~1,170 cu ftThe workhorse β€” jobsite storage, conversions
40ft8' x 40' x 8'6"~2,390 cu ftBulk storage, warehouse overflow
40ft HC8' x 40' x 9'6"~2,690 cu ftTiny homes, tall equipment, insulated builds

2. Understand condition grades

One-Trip

Shipped once from the factory. Near-new paint, tight seals. Best for conversions and anything visible to customers.

Cargo-Worthy

Certified structurally sound for international shipping. Some surface rust and dents, fully functional doors.

Wind & Watertight

Retired from shipping but dry inside. The value pick for pure storage.

As-Is

Repairable units sold at a discount. Inspect before committing.

3. Prepare your site

  • Level ground within about 3 inches across the footprint. Gravel, compacted dirt or concrete all work.
  • Set the unit on railroad ties, concrete blocks or piers at the corners to keep the frame off wet soil.
  • Clear overhead lines, branches and awnings β€” a tilt-bed needs roughly 14 feet of vertical clearance.
  • Leave straight-line approach room: about 60 feet for a 20ft unit and 100 feet for a 40ft unit.
  • Position the door end where you want it before the truck leaves β€” turning a placed container is a second trip.

4. Plan modifications early

Cutting steel after delivery costs more than specifying it at the shop. Decide on personnel doors, windows, roll-up doors, insulation type, electrical panel size and HVAC placement before the build starts. If the unit will be occupied, confirm local permitting requirements first β€” we can supply drawings for your submission.

Ready to spec your unit?

Get Quote