New & Used Shipping Containers Available in Houston, Texas
Houston has one of the largest ports in the United States with major industrial, energy, construction, and logistics sectors. The Port of Houston is one of the busiest ports in North America. Millions of tons of cargo move through the port each year, creating a high demand for shipping containers used in transportation, storage, and logistics.
The city is also known as the energy capital of the U.S. Many oilfield, petrochemical, and energy companies use containers for secure storage of equipment, workshops, site offices, etc.
Get an immersive experience when ordering shipping containers from us in Houston. National Containers has maintained an inventory of 20ft and 40ft containers in one-trip, cargo-worthy, and wind and water-tight condition. Moreover, to make you comfortable, we provide honest container grading, clear contracts, and on-time delivery.
A Trusted Shipping Container Partner Across Supply Chains in Houston
In Houston, the most common occasions for using shipping containers are construction projects, oil & gas operations, logistics and warehousing, industrial storage, port activities, and hurricane preparedness.
National containers understand the unique demands of Houston's industrial economy and geography. Therefore, our company supplies high-quality shipping containers tailored for construction sites, oil & gas operations, warehousing and logistics, industrial storage, maritime activities, and disaster recovery applications.
Sizes & Types of Shipping Containers in Houston
20ft Shipping Containers for Sale in Houston
The 20ft dry containers are popularly used for transporting and storing a variety of dry cargo, including electronics, vehicles, apparel, industrial equipment, and other common consumer goods. It is manufactured according to ISO specifications, which makes it suitable for intermodal transport of freight.
40ft Shipping Containers for Sale in Houston
Measuring L 40’ x W 8’ x H 8’6”, this container is designed to securely hold a substantial amount of goods, equipment, or materials. The 40' GP container is popular among businesses since it can carry more cargo to improve efficiency and fit the requirements for intermodal freight transport. The 40ft dry container is a durable storage and transport solution that provides a large capacity for your items and machinery.
40ft High-Cube Containers in Houston
Our 40’ High Cube Shipping Container is an excellent choice for individuals and businesses who require a sturdy, reliable, and spacious storage and transport solution. With the High Cube design, the unit provides you with additional height and ample space for a wide range of goods and equipment.
Shipping Container Conditions in Houston: One-Trip vs Cargo Worthy vs Wind and Water Tight
One Trip New Shipping Container
A one-trip container is a new container that has only been used once, usually from the manufacturing factory, often in China, to its destination country.
Cargo Worthy Used Shipping Container
A container cargo worthy refers to the condition of a used container that is still suitable for use in shipping cargo across borders or for importing and exporting.
Wind and Water Tight Used Shipping Container
A used shipping container that is still structurally sound and completely sealed against the elements, but is no longer certified for international shipping.
How Much Does a Shipping Container Cost in Houston?
Houston is considered one of the more affordable shipping container markets in the United States. The prices are affected by:
- The Port of Houston receives a large volume of containerized cargo. This creates a steady supply of new and used containers, which helps keep prices competitive.
- Houston has numerous container suppliers, leasing companies, and modification businesses. Competition among sellers tends to prevent excessive pricing.
- Transportation networks, trucking availability, and port access reduce logistics costs compared to many inland markets.
As a general guide, shipping container prices in Houston range from $1,717 to $3,633.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a shipping container?
A shipping container is a steel box designed for the intermodal transportation of goods. Some popular types include standard and high-cube containers.
How can I purchase a shipping container in Houston?
Purchase by simply filling out our contact form and providing the following information: type, size, amount, and delivery location. Our team will promptly respond to your inquiry and assist you in finding the containers that meet your requirements.
What sizes of shipping containers are available for sale in Houston?
Shipping containers in Houston typically come in standard sizes: 20 feet and 40 feet long. However, we also offer 40 feet high cube containers that are taller than 40 feet standard.
Are there used shipping containers for sale in Houston?
Yes. National Container offers used shipping containers in Wind & Water Tight (WWT) and Cargo Worthy (CW) conditions. All are structurally sound and secure.
Can I purchase a new or used container in Houston?
You can purchase both new and used storage containers from us in Houston. The choice often depends on budget, container prices, and specific needs.
What is the difference between new and used shipping containers in Houston?
New (one-trip) containers have been loaded only once and are in near-perfect condition, ideal for container homes, ADU builds, or sensitive storage. Used containers come in several grades: Wind & Water Tight and Cargo Worthy.
What condition can I expect from used shipping containers?
In El Paso, we sell used shipping containers in the cargo-worthy and WWT categories. A container cargo worthy refers to the condition of a used container that is still suitable for use in shipping cargo across borders or for importing and exporting. Meanwhile, a WWT container is a used shipping container that is no longer certified for international shipping but is still structurally sound and completely sealed against the elements.
Can I use shipping containers for other purposes besides shipping?
Yes, you can. In fact, shipping containers are popular for storage, modular construction, tiny homes, mobile offices, and even as pools or retail spaces.
What is the capacity of a 20 feet dry container?
A 20 feet dry shipping container can contain up to 62,615 pounds or 28,400 kilograms of cargo.
How big is a 40 feet container?
A 40 feet container measures L 40’ x W 8’ x H 9’6”, with a volume of 2,386 cu ft or 67.6 m³.
What differs between 40 feet and 20 feet containers?
A 40 feet container is exactly twice the size of a 20 feet container and offers more load capacity.
What is a high cube container?
High cube containers are one foot taller than standard containers and are used to carry oversized cargo that wouldn’t fit in standard containers.
What is the difference between 40 feet and 40 feet High Cube?
The main difference is the height; a 40 feet High Cube container is one foot taller than a standard 40 feet container.
What are the uses of 40 feet High Cube containers?
Other than for storing and transporting bulky items that don’t fit in standard containers, 40 feet High Cube containers are used as portable offices or for storage. They can also be customized for various functions.
How to identify High Cube containers?
High cube containers have yellow-and-black striped stickers on the rear-end door. You can also identify it from the ISO size & type code.
What are the prices for shipping containers in Houston?
In Houston, shipping container prices are fairly consistent with other major U.S. port cities, but they can vary a bit depending on supply from the nearby port and delivery distance. As a general guide, shipping container price is ranging from $1,717 to $3,633. The price depends on the container’s size, condition, and type.
Are shipping containers inspected before delivery to Houston?
Yes. Every Container from National Container undergoes inspection processes before it is delivered to your Houston address. This matters especially in Houston’s high-rainfall environment.
Are shipping containers rain-resistant enough for Houston’s climate?
Yes. Shipping containers are designed to withstand harsh marine environments, so they are generally more than rain-resistant enough for Hosuton’s climate. However, the level of protection depends on the container's condition and intended use. Older used containers may develop rust, damaged door seals, roof dents, or small leaks that allow water to enter.
How long does shipping container delivery take?
Shipping container delivery typically takes 3-4 business days from order confirmation, with next-day delivery available in select metro areas and 7-10 business days during peak season (spring and fall). Delivery speed depends on your location, the time your order is placed, container availability, and seasonal demand.
Does the listed price include the delivery fee?
No, shipping container prices listed on our website do not include delivery fees or sales tax unless the listing specifically states otherwise. Delivery is quoted separately based on the distance from our nearest depot to your delivery address.
Do I need a permit for a shipping container?
Whether you need a permit for a shipping container depends on your local municipality. Some jurisdictions require no permit at all, while others require a zoning permit, building permit, or HOA approval before placement. Permit requirements for shipping containers, conex boxes, and cargo containers vary significantly by city, county, and state.
What's included with the delivery of my shipping container?
Standard shipping container delivery includes tilt-bed truck transport from our depot to your address and ground-level placement of the container on your prepared site. Site preparation, crane services, and permits are not included in standard delivery.
Do shipping containers come with a warranty?
Yes, every shipping container we sell includes a limited lifetime warranty covering structural integrity, wind- and water-tightness, and door hardware against manufacturing defects. The warranty applies to all standard 20-foot and 40-foot ISO shipping containers in our inventory.