Used Shipping Containers for Sale in California
New one-trip and used | Inspected and delivered from Oxnard, CA
A used shipping container is the most affordable way to get secure, weatherproof steel storage that you own. These containers have spent years carrying cargo across the ocean and were built to handle salt spray, heavy loads and rough handling. Retired from shipping, they still have plenty of life left as storage on a jobsite, farm, business lot or home property.
Quality Storage Container is based in Oxnard, California, and sells used containers delivered across the state. Every unit is inspected before it leaves our yard, and we tell you exactly what condition you're getting. Call (877) 290-1389 for current stock and a delivered price.
Why buy a used shipping container
- Lower cost. Used containers cost noticeably less than new one-trip units, so your budget goes further.
- Built tough. Corten steel walls, a steel frame and a heavy-duty floor were designed for ocean freight, so they handle storage use with ease.
- Secure. Lockable cargo doors and solid steel walls protect tools, inventory and equipment.
- Reused, not wasted. Buying used gives a retired container a second life.
- You own it. You pay once, with no monthly bill.
Used container grades explained
Used containers are sold by grade. The grade tells you about the structure and how much wear to expect. Here's how they compare. For the full breakdown, see container grades explained.
| Grade | What it means / Best for |
|---|---|
| Cargo-worthy (CW) | Structurally sound and could still be certified for shipping; cosmetic wear. Best for jobsites, farms, commercial storage |
| Wind and watertight (WWT) | Keeps out wind and rain; more dents, rust and wear. Best for ground-level storage on a budget |
| As-is | Sold as seen, may need repairs. Best for projects, parts or buyers who plan to modify |
What to expect on any used container: dents, scratches, surface rust, faded or mismatched paint, old shipping-line logos and decals, and some floor wear. These are cosmetic and don't stop a wind and watertight container from keeping your things dry. If appearance matters, for example in a front yard, storefront or conversion, consider our new one-trip containers instead.
How we inspect used containers
Before a used container is delivered, we check the things that matter most for storage:
- Roof and walls for holes and leaks (a light test from inside shows any daylight)
- Doors, hinges, gaskets and locking bars to make sure they open, close and seal
- Floor for soft spots, holes and damage
- Frame, corner castings and cross members for structural damage
- Overall rust, telling surface rust apart from rust that has gone through the steel
If you'd like photos of a unit before it ships, ask when you call and we'll do our best to send them.
Used container sizes
We sell used containers in the most common sizes. Stock changes daily, so call for what's available near you.
- Used 20ft containers. Compact, easy to place and perfect for home, small business or tight jobsites. About 150 sq ft of floor space.
- Used 40ft containers. The best value per square foot, with about 300 sq ft for equipment, vehicles and inventory.
- Used 40ft high cube containers. About a foot of extra height for tall items and racking.
Not sure which size fits? See the shipping container sizes guide or call and we'll help you choose.
Who used containers are best for
- Contractors and builders who need secure jobsite storage that can take a beating
- Farms and ranches storing feed, tools, irrigation parts and machinery
- Businesses that need overflow inventory or equipment storage on their lot
- Homeowners storing yard equipment, garage overflow or belongings during a remodel
- Schools, churches and agencies keeping emergency supplies on hand
- DIY builders who plan to cut, paint or modify the container anyway
Delivery across California
We deliver used containers from our Oxnard base to Ventura County, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, the Inland Empire, the Central Valley, the Bay Area and other parts of California. Most deliveries use a tilt-bed truck that slides the container onto your site.
- 20ft: plan for about 60 to 70 feet of straight access.
- 40ft and 40ft high cube: plan for about 100 to 110 feet of straight access.
- Overhead clearance: about 14 feet (15 or more for high cubes).
- Ground: a firm, level surface, with blocks or ties under the corners.
- Permits: check city, county and HOA rules before delivery, especially on residential property.
Tips for getting the most from a used container
A used container can last for many years with a little care. Set it level on blocks, railroad ties or a gravel pad so the doors open smoothly and water drains away from the floor. Keep it off bare dirt to slow rust underneath. Add vents if you're storing anything sensitive to moisture, and use pallets or shelving to keep items off the floor. Touch up rust spots with a wire brush and rust-inhibiting paint once a year. Grease the door hinges and locking bars so they keep working smoothly. Add a lock box to protect your padlock from bolt cutters.
Planning to paint it to match your property? Used containers take paint well after a good cleaning and a coat of primer. Many buyers repaint a cargo-worthy unit and get a container that looks great for a fraction of the cost of a new one.
Pricing
Used container prices change with grade, size, supply and delivery distance, so we don't post fixed prices online. Call for today's price on a used container delivered to your address. We'll give you a clear quote and explain exactly what condition you're getting.
Why buy used from Quality Storage Container
- California dealer at 2721 S Victoria Ave, Oxnard
- Honest condition descriptions, with no surprises on delivery day
- Inspected before delivery
- Delivery handled for you
Want to compare new and used, or other container types? See all our shipping containers for sale.
Get a used container quote
Tell us the size, the grade you're after, your delivery ZIP code and your timeline. Call (877) 290-1389 or Get a used container quote.
Frequently asked questions
Are used shipping containers watertight?
Containers sold as cargo-worthy or wind and watertight are built to keep out wind and rain. We check the roof, walls, doors and seals before delivery. As-is containers may need repairs, and we'll tell you if so.
What's the difference between cargo-worthy and wind and watertight?
A cargo-worthy container is structurally sound enough that it could still be certified for shipping. A wind and watertight container keeps out weather but may have more wear and isn't meant for ocean shipping. Both work well for storage.
How much does a used shipping container cost?
Prices depend on size, grade, supply and delivery distance. Call (877) 290-1389 for today's delivered price.
What sizes do used containers come in?
The most common used sizes are 20ft, 40ft and 40ft high cube. Availability changes, so call for current stock near you.
Will a used container rust?
All steel containers show some surface rust over time, and used units usually have some already. Corten steel resists deep corrosion. Touch-up paint and keeping the container off the ground help it last for many years.
Can I see the container before it's delivered?
Ask when you call. We can usually describe the unit in detail and do our best to send photos before delivery.
Call (877) 290-1389 · Get a quote · 2721 S Victoria Ave, Oxnard, CA 93035
