New vs Used Shipping Containers: What's the Difference?
The difference between new (one-trip), cargo-worthy and used wind-and-watertight shipping containers, with prices and which to choose.
Quick answer
A "new" or one-trip container has made a single voyage and looks nearly new. A used wind-and-watertight container has 8–12 years of service and cosmetic dents but still keeps weather out. Choose used for basic storage on a budget, and one-trip for homes, offices, conversions or customer-facing sites.
All three grades are made of the same Corten steel. The differences are how much wear the container has, how it looks, and whether it's certified to carry cargo.
Outback Shipping Containers grades and photographs every container against its container number, so you know which grade you're getting.
Container condition grades
Guide by Outback Shipping Containers.
| Grade | Condition | 20ft from | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| One-trip (new) | Single voyage, near-new paint and floors | $2,259 | Homes, offices, conversions |
| Cargo-worthy | Certified for road and sea transport | $2,400 | Shipping and relocation |
| Used wind & watertight | 8–12 years of service, cosmetic dents | $1,095 | Storage, jobsites, farms |
Common questions
Questions about your project?
Send your ZIP code and what you need, and we'll quote the container and delivery together.