Address: Victoria 3064, Australia
Tel: +61 42012 9435
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634 651 031
ABN: 24 634 651 031
Shipping Container Prices in Australia
Shipping container prices depend on size, condition, location and availability. A new container will generally cost more than a used unit, while refrigerated and modified containers belong to a different price range.
The following table summarises indicative Australian supplier asking prices published in July 2026. These figures are provided for comparison and are not Palliat Pty Containers' current selling prices.
On smaller screens, scroll horizontally to view the full comparison.
| Container Type | New / One Trip | Cargo Worthy | Used / Other Grades |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10ft Container | A$6,000 – A$7,800 | A$4,350 – A$5,500 | Used listings around A$4,500 – A$6,000 |
| 20ft Standard | A$3,300 – A$6,900 | A$2,100 – A$4,200 | Used: approximately A$2,000 – A$4,000. As-is examples from A$1,600 |
| 30ft Container | Public prices are limited. These are commonly quoted individually according to size, construction and condition. | ||
| 40ft Standard | A$4,500 – A$6,000 | A$2,600 – A$4,200 | Used listings around A$2,700 – A$5,000 |
| 40ft High Cube | A$5,500 – A$7,900 | A$3,400 – A$6,900 | Used listings around A$3,000 – A$5,500 |
| 20ft Refrigerated | A$44,500 – A$52,000 | A$9,000 – A$14,000 for selected working used units | Non-operating units are priced differently |
Important: These are historical market asking-price
ranges drawn from the supplied July 2026 research.
They are not guaranteed prices, independently
reverified October 2026 quotations or a Palliat stock list.
Tax treatment and delivery inclusions varied between
the original suppliers. Check individual Palliat product
pages for current prices.
Which price should you budget for?
Start with the condition you need. A used container in suitable condition may be sufficient for static storage, while a newer unit may make more sense when appearance matters. For international shipping, the container must meet the applicable certification and fitness requirements.
What Affects Shipping Container Prices?
01
Condition and Grade
One trip containers usually command a premium. Cargo worthy containers are assessed for freight suitability, while wind and watertight containers can be suitable for static storage. As-is containers may have damage or require repairs.
02
Container Size
Larger containers often provide more storage space per dollar, although availability matters. A 40ft container may offer better value for bulk storage, while a 10ft unit can cost more per metre because smaller units are less common.
03
Location and Freight
A container located near a major depot may be cheaper to transport than one requiring a lengthy regional delivery. Your final budget should account for the delivery address and unloading method.
04
Market Availability
Container supply changes with international shipping activity, import volumes and local depot stock. This means published prices may move over time.
05
Modifications and Equipment
Additional doors, windows, insulation, ventilation, shelving and electrical installations increase the total cost. Specialist container buildings and refrigerated units have different specifications from standard storage containers.
Shipping Container Delivery Costs
Delivery can be a significant part of the total purchase price. The original Australian market research cited metropolitan delivery examples of approximately A$200 to A$770, with some interstate transport examples around A$1,200 to A$1,600 or more. These are third-party historical comparisons, not Palliat freight rates.
Actual transport costs depend on the container size, origin, destination, unloading equipment and site access. A tilt tray may be suitable for some deliveries, while restricted sites may need additional lifting arrangements.
Palliat Pty Containers arranges deliveries throughout Australia and New Zealand. For your specific location, review the Shipping & Delivery Policy or contact our team before placing an order.
How Much Does a Refrigerated Container Cost?
Refrigerated shipping containers, commonly called reefers, cost more than standard dry containers because they include insulation, refrigeration equipment and temperature controls.
The July 2026 market examples in the supplied guide placed some new 20ft refrigerated units between A$44,500 and A$52,000, with working used units advertised around A$9,000 to A$14,000. The exact price depends heavily on refrigeration condition, equipment, age and specification.
A non-operating refrigerated container should not be valued as a working cold storage unit. Before purchasing, check the refrigeration system, operating temperature range and required electrical supply.
How to Calculate Your Total Container Budget
The purchase price is only one part of the cost. A sensible budget should include the following where applicable:
- Container purchase: Size, grade and condition.
- Delivery: Transport to your address and unloading requirements.
- Site preparation: Suitable ground, sleepers, pads or foundations.
- Access requirements: Gate clearance, vehicle turning space and overhead obstacles.
- Council requirements: Any approvals required for the intended use.
- Modifications: Doors, windows, electrical work, insulation and other fittings.
Buying tip: Compare the complete cost
of placing a suitable container on your property,
rather than comparing container prices alone.
Questions to Ask Before Buying a Container
Before ordering a new or used shipping container, make sure you understand exactly what is being sold.
- What condition or grade is the container listed as?
- Are photographs of the actual unit available?
- Are there visible dents, corrosion, floor damage or door problems?
- Is the quoted amount in AUD, and what taxes or fees apply?
- Is delivery included or charged separately?
- Will the delivery vehicle have enough space to unload safely?
- Is current CSC certification available if the container will be used for freight?
- Do local council requirements affect the planned installation?
For further information, see our Shipping Container Buyer's Guide, Dimensions Guide and Container Grades Guide.
About the Price Information
The market ranges reproduced in this article are adapted from the supplied 2026 reference guide, which reported publicly advertised Australian supplier prices as at July 2026.
That guide identified Shipping Containers Australia, Outback Containers, ABC Containers, Container Traders and OZBOX among its sources. Price ranges reflect different locations, tax treatments, specifications and stock conditions.
The figures are provided to explain the market, not to represent Palliat Pty Containers' own prices. For current availability and selling prices, visit our online container shop.