Wide Product Selection

We maintain a large selection of shipping containers in stock, including 20ft, 40ft, high cube, new, and used units. This allows us to fulfill customer orders quickly without long wait times.

Competitive Prices

Our competitive pricing structure allows customers to get dependable container solutions without overpaying, whether purchasing a single unit or placing a bulk order.

Fulfill All Legal and Licensing Requirements

We are fully licensed and compliant with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, including Washington State business registration and City of Tacoma licensing requirements.

New & Used Shipping Containers Available in Tacoma, Washington

Shipping containers adapt especially well in Tacoma; they are modified and reused in several ways to fit Tacoma’s climate, economy, and zoning needs.

As of 2025, the Port of Tacoma is the 6th busiest container port in North America and one of the 25 busiest in the world. It now owns more than 2,400 acres of land used for shipping terminal activity, warehousing, distributing, and manufacturing. 

National Containers is a shipping container company with a large inventory of one-trip, cargo-worthy, and wind- and water-tight 20ft, 40ft, and high-cube containers. We recognize the specific demands of the Tacoma market and provide an extensive selection of containers for sale.

We let our customers inspect and choose containers in person, which helps avoid scams and poor-condition units.

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A Trusted Shipping Container Partner Across Supply Chains in Tacoma

The Port of Tacoma is one of the largest container ports in North America and part of the Northwest Seaport Alliance with Seattle. Huge container ships arrive there carrying goods from Asia and other global trade routes. The port handles shipping containers, cars, heavy equipment, agricultural exports, military cargo, and rail-connected freight distribution.

That is why Tacoma is best known for being a major Pacific Northwest port city, an industrial and manufacturing hub, and closely tied to railroads, shipping, and military logistics. You’ll often see “Tacoma” stamped on containers, chassis, rail cars, or logistics equipment because cargo passes through the port system there.

Whether you are a private individual needing a single container or a multinational requiring multiple units for a range of uses, we are committed to operating to the highest professional standards, with national and international accreditations, systems and policies in place to help our people, customers and suppliers.

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Our Containers Product in Tacoma

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Sizes & Types of Shipping Containers in Tacoma

20ft Shipping Containers for Sale in Tacoma

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 the intermodal transport of freight.

Exterior Dimensions 20’ L x 8’ W x 8’6’’ H
Interior Dimensions 19’5’’ L x 7’8’’ W x 7’10’’ H
Maximum Payload 62,615 lbs
Door Opening 7’8’’ W x 7’5’’ H

40ft Shipping Containers for Sale in Tacoma

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.

Exterior Dimensions 40’ L x 8’ W x 8’6’’ H
Interior Dimensions 39’4’’ L x 7’8’’ W x 7’10’’ H
Maximum Payload 59,660 lbs
Door Opening 7’8’’ W x 7’5’’ H

40ft High-Cube Containers in Tacoma

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.

Exterior Dimensions 40’ L x 8’ W x 9’6’’ H
Interior Dimensions 39’4’’ L x 7’8’’ W x 8’10’’ H
Maximum Payload 59,440 lbs
Door Opening 7’8’’ W x 8’5’’ H

Shipping Container Conditions in Tacoma: 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.

Feature New (One Trip) Cargo Worthy Wind & Watertight (WWT)
Definition Used once for a single shipment from the factory Certified safe for international cargo transport Structurally sound, protects against wind & water, not safe for international shipping
Condition New Used, but in good condition Used, may have visible wear
Certification Valid CSC plate Valid CSC plate No valid CSC plate
Appearance Excellent Moderate wear, dents, and surface rust possible Heavier wear, more dents, rust, and repairs are visible
Structural Integrity Excellent Strong and intact Still solid but less strict than CW
Weatherproof Fully wind & watertight Wind & watertight Wind & watertight
Suitable for Shipping Yes (ideal for export) Yes (meets shipping standards) No (not accepted for international cargo)
Suitable for Storage Excellent Very good Good
Lifespan Longest Moderate to long Shorter

How Much Does a Shipping Container Cost in Tacoma?

Shipping container prices in Tacoma are generally considered more competitive than in inland U.S. cities. This is because Tacoma is a major port and container hub. 

Compared to cities like Denver, Phoenix, or other inland markets, Tacoma prices are often lower because containers do not need to be transported long distances from coastal ports.

Several factors influence the cost of shipping containers in Tacoma:

  • Containers in better condition with minimal wear, fewer dents, and weather-resistant interiors are generally priced higher.
  • Larger containers, such as 40ft units, usually cost more than 20ft containers.
  • Tacoma’s busy port activity can impact container inventory levels. When demand increases, prices may rise.
  • Delivery fees depend on the distance from the depot to your location, site accessibility, and any special equipment needed for placement.
  • Prices may fluctuate during periods of higher construction, agriculture, or commercial activity when more businesses require storage and transport solutions.

As a general guide, shipping container prices in Tacoma range from $2,650 to $3,900.

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 Tacoma?

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 Tacoma?

Shipping containers in Tacoma 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 Tacoma?

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 Tacoma?

You can purchase both new and used storage containers from us in Tacoma. The choice often depends on budget, container prices, and specific needs.

What is the difference between new and used shipping containers in Tacoma?

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 Tacoma, 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 Tacoma?

In Tacoma, 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 of Tacoma and delivery distance. As a general guide, shipping container price is ranging from $2,650 to $3,900. The price depends on the container’s size, condition, and type.

Are shipping containers inspected before delivery to Tacoma?

Yes. Every Container from National Container undergoes inspection processes before it is delivered to your Tacoma address. This matters especially in Tacoma’s high-rainfall environment.

Are shipping containers rain-resistant enough for Tacoma’s climate?

Yes. Corten steel shipping containers are inherently weatherproof and rust-resistant, making them well-suited to Tacoma’s wet Pacific Northwest climate. For long-term storage, we recommend Wind & Water Tight (WWT) or one-trip condition grades, and adding vents to prevent internal condensation build-up.

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.