A clear walkthrough for first-time buyers – choose the right condition, size and delivery setup and order with confidence.
Step 1: Choose your container condition
Condition is the biggest driver of price. Decide how the container will be used and how it needs to look.
New / One-Trip
Built recently and shipped overseas once. Minimal wear, uniform paint and tight door seals – the best choice for conversions, visible locations and long service life.
Cargo-Worthy (CW)
Structurally sound enough to carry cargo by sea and rail. Wind and watertight, with dents, scuffs and surface rust from service.
Wind & Watertight (WWT)
Sound roof, walls, floor and door seals that keep weather out, with more cosmetic wear. The most cost-effective grade for static storage.
As-Is
Sold in current condition and priced accordingly. May have holes, damaged floors or door issues – read the listing carefully or call us before buying.
Not sure? Our container grades guide explains each grade in more detail.
Step 2: Pick the right size
Most buyers choose a 20ft container – it holds about the contents of a two-bedroom home and fits a standard driveway. Choose a 40ft for the best value per square foot, or a high cube when you need extra height for racking, insulation or living space.
| Size | External (L × W × H) | Internal (approx.) | Floor / volume | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10ft Standard | 10′ × 8′ × 8′6″ | 9′3″ × 7′8″ × 7′10″ | ≈ 80 sq ft / 560 cu ft | Tight lots, tools, seasonal gear |
| 20ft Standard | 20′ × 8′ × 8′6″ | 19′4″ × 7′8″ × 7′10″ | ≈ 160 sq ft / 1,170 cu ft | Home & business storage, most projects |
| 20ft High Cube | 20′ × 8′ × 9′6″ | 19′4″ × 7′8″ × 8′10″ | ≈ 160 sq ft / 1,320 cu ft | Racking, workshops, offices |
| 40ft Standard | 40′ × 8′ × 8′6″ | 39′6″ × 7′8″ × 7′10″ | ≈ 320 sq ft / 2,390 cu ft | Bulk inventory, equipment, farms |
| 40ft High Cube | 40′ × 8′ × 9′6″ | 39′6″ × 7′8″ × 8′10″ | ≈ 320 sq ft / 2,690 cu ft | Conversions, homes, tall cargo |
Internal dimensions vary slightly by manufacturer. Each product page lists the exact measurements of that unit.
Step 3: Plan your delivery
Containers are delivered on a tilt-bed trailer: the bed tilts and the container slides gently onto your prepared spot. Before you order, walk the route the truck will take.
- Level, firm ground – compacted gravel, concrete pad or railroad ties under the corners. Avoid soft lawn, mud and slopes.
- Straight, clear approach – about 75 ft for a 20ft and up to 100 ft for a 40ft, in line with the placement spot.
- Overhead clearance – roughly 14 ft along the whole approach, clear of power lines, branches and eaves.
- Width – gates and turns at least 12 ft wide for the truck and trailer.
- Door direction – decide which way the doors should face; it cannot be changed once the container is down.
- Someone on site – an adult to guide the driver and confirm placement.
Step 4: Check local rules
In Sacramento County and most California cities, a container used for storage may be treated as an accessory structure with rules on size, setbacks and screening, and habitable or plumbed units need building permits. Contact your city or county planning department before delivery – we are happy to provide dimensions and spec sheets for your application.
Before you order – checklist
- Confirm the size fits your pad and the delivery access.
- Choose a grade that matches your budget and use.
- Decide door orientation and any modifications.
- Review our Shipping Policy and current lead times.
- Have your delivery address and an on-site contact number ready.
- Still unsure? Ask our team – advice is free.
Need help choosing the right container?
Tell us what you are storing, where it is going and when you need it. Our Sacramento team will reply with a delivered quote – usually the same business day.
