Should you splash out on a shiny new shipping container – or go for a grizzled old veteran with stories to tell?
New vs Used Shipping Containers:
You’re in the market for a shipping container, and your first real choice is deceptively simple: new or used? One is pristine, fresh off the boat (literally). The other? A bit rough around the edges… but cheaper and still very much up to the job.
Thing is, this choice affects everything – from what it looks like in your driveway to how long it lasts, how secure it is, and how much resale value it holds.
Whether you’re buying for storage, conversion, or just to stop the shed from collapsing again, this guide is your plain-speaking breakdown of the pros and cons of new vs used containers – so you don’t end up overpaying for sparkle or underestimating the rust.
Shipping containers are the world’s most unglamorous miracle. Strong, stackable, waterproof and borderline indestructible. But here’s where things get murky: while they all look similar from a Google search, not all containers are created equal.
At Containerlift, one of the first things customers ask is: “Should I buy new or used?”
And our answer? “It depends – on your use, budget, and whether you care about the odd dent or scratch.”
The problem is, most buyers don’t know what “used” really means in container speak. It doesn’t mean falling apart – it just means it’s probably made a few laps around the globe before ending up in your back garden.
In this article we’ll break down:
- What exactly is a “new” or “one-trip” container?
- What counts as “used” – and what condition should you expect?
- How the price difference actually works
- Durability, lifespan, maintenance, looks, and resale value
By the end, you’ll have a crystal-clear answer based on your situation — not marketing fluff or guesswork.
1. Definitions: New vs Used
New (aka One-Trip):
- Only made one trip overseas
- Typically manufactured in China
- Minimal wear, near-mint condition
- Often stored for sale in the UK
Used:
- Usually 8–15 years old
- May have transported cargo worldwide
- Shows external wear: scratches, dents, light rust
- Wind and watertight, but not pristine
📦 At Containerlift, “used” still means structurally sound and fit for storage. You’re not buying scrap metal.
| Size | New | Used |
| 10ft | £2,200–£2,700 | £1,400–£1,700 |
| 20ft | £2,400–£3,000 | £1,200–£1,800 |
| 40ft | £3,500–£4,200 | £2,000–£2, |
2. Cost Comparison
💸 Savings of £600–£1,400 per container — but remember to factor in lifespan and resale.
Please note: All prices listed are indicative only and subject to change based on steel costs, availability, and location. For an accurate quote, always contact Containerlift directly.
3. Appearance: Looks vs Practicality
New:
- Uniform paint finish
- No dents or corrosion
- Great for front-of-house, businesses, branding
- Easier to resell later
Used:
- Cosmetic wear (may be repainted)
- Not suitable for high-visibility placements
- Often mismatched colours, faded logos
💡 Pro tip: Want the savings of used with the look of new? Go used + repaint.
4. Durability & Lifespan
New containers can last 25+ years with care.
Used containers typically have 10–15 years left, depending on their prior use.
But both:
- Are wind and watertight (WWT)
- Withstand UK weather
- Benefit from regular checks, repaints, and treatment
🛠️ Rust prevention and door seal checks = happy long-term ownership.
5. Modifications & Conversions
Both new and used containers can be modified, BUT:
- New containers are easier to work with (no hidden rust)
- Used may have hidden weak spots, but are perfectly fine for:
- Shelving
- Doors/windows
- Electrics & lighting
- Shelving
💬 Containerlift offer mod services on both – just ask.
🔹 6. Use Cases: What Suits What?
| Use | Best Option |
| Home/garden storage | Used (budget-friendly) |
| Container café/shop | New (looks matter) |
| Construction storage | Used (function first) |
| Shipping/export | New (for certification) |
| Office conversion | New or repainted used |
| Event/exhibition unit | New (aesthetics key) |
7. Resale Value
- New containers retain more value long-term
- Used containers depreciate faster, but less up-front cost
- Market demand changes: new prices rise faster with steel cost
📈 You can expect to recover:
- 60–70% resale value on new after 5 years
- 30–50% on used after 5 years (condition dependent)
Case Study: “From Rust to Revenue: Repainting a Used Container”
Harriet, a florist in Wiltshire, wanted a pop-up workshop space. She considered a new 20ft container but balked at the price.
Instead, she bought a used WWT 20ft from Containerlift for £1,450, and spent £350 repainting it in pastel sage with her brand stencilled on the doors.
Six months in, she says:
“It looks like a boutique – you’d never know it had once carried motorbikes across the Atlantic!”
Her cost? £1,800 all-in – still cheaper than new – and fully customised.
“Buy new if you want looks. Buy used if you want savings. But make sure either comes with a wind and watertight guarantee.”
Not sure if new or used is right for you?
Get honest advice, clear photos and fast quotes — without the hard sell.
✅ WWT guaranteed
✅ Delivery UK-wide
✅ Modifications available
👉 Talk to Containerlift today
