Denver Used Shipping Containers
The Complete Denver Container Buying Guide
Sizes, conditions, prices, and expert tips — everything Colorado buyers need to choose the right container with confidence.
Container Size Comparison
Four configurations covering every project from backyard storage to full container homes.
| Specification | 20ft Standard | 20ft High Cube | 40ft Standard | 40ft High Cube |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exterior Dimensions | 20'0" x 8'0" x 8'6" | 20'0" x 8'0" x 9'6" | 40'0" x 8'0" x 8'6" | 40'0" x 8'0" x 9'6" |
| Interior Dimensions | 19'4" x 7'8" x 7'10" | 19'4" x 7'8" x 8'10" | 39'5" x 7'8" x 7'10" | 39'5" x 7'8" x 8'10" |
| Floor Area | 148 sq ft | 148 sq ft | 304 sq ft | 304 sq ft |
| Volume | 1,172 cu ft | 1,390 cu ft | 2,390 cu ft | 2,700 cu ft |
| Tare Weight | 4,850 lbs | 5,070 lbs | 8,380 lbs | 8,775 lbs |
| Max Payload | 47,900 lbs | 47,180 lbs | 57,870 lbs | 57,475 lbs |
Visual Size Comparison
Bar width represents relative length. Bar height represents relative exterior height (Standard vs High Cube).
Condition Guide
From nearly new to budget-friendly, understand what each grade means for your project.
One-Trip
6-18 monthsNearly new containers that made a single voyage from the factory overseas to the US. Minimal cosmetic wear, original paint, and fully functional doors and seals. The premium choice for visible builds and living spaces.
Key Features
- Factory-fresh paint and finish
- No dents, minimal surface marks
- Original rubber door seals intact
- Pristine marine-grade plywood flooring
- Full manufacturer warranty
- ISO/CSC certified for shipping
Best For
Cargo Worthy
5-15 yearsInspected and certified as structurally sound for international ocean transport. May show cosmetic wear such as surface rust, minor dents, and patched areas, but fully weatherproof and structurally solid. The most popular grade for conversion projects.
Key Features
- ISO/CSC certified for ocean shipping
- Passed structural inspection
- Weatherproof doors and seals
- Solid marine-grade plywood floor
- Minor cosmetic wear (surface rust, small dents)
- Best balance of price and quality
Best For
Wind & Water Tight
15+ yearsSealed against wind and rain but no longer certified for ocean transport. Visible signs of use including dents, surface rust, and floor patches. A solid budget option for storage, workshops, and projects where the shell will be clad or heavily modified.
Key Features
- Fully weatherproof — keeps out wind and water
- Structurally sound frame and walls
- Functional doors with working locks
- Floor may have patches or repairs
- Visible cosmetic wear (dents, rust, paint fade)
- NOT certified for ocean shipping
Best For
As-Is
18+ yearsBudget-friendly containers sold in current condition without warranties. May have significant cosmetic issues including heavy dents, rust, and small holes. Ideal for DIY enthusiasts, fencing, and non-critical storage where cost is the primary factor.
Key Features
- Lowest price point available
- May have dents, rust, or small holes
- Doors may need adjustment
- Floor may need repair or replacement
- Sold as-is, no condition warranty
- Structurally intact frame
Best For
Quick Condition Comparison
| Attribute | 1-TRIP | CWO | WWT | AS-IS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical Age | 6-18 months | 5-15 years | 15+ years | 18+ years |
| Cosmetic Condition | Excellent | Good | Fair | Variable |
| Weatherproof | Yes | Yes | Yes | May need repair |
| Ocean Shipping Cert | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Best Value For | Premium builds | Conversions | Storage | DIY / Budget |
Complete Price Matrix
All 16 size-and-condition combinations at a glance. Prices do not include delivery.
| Size \ Condition | One-Trip (1-TRIP) | Cargo Worthy (CWO) | Wind & Water Tight (WWT) | As-Is (AS-IS) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20ft Standard | $3,200 | $1,800 | $1,350 | $1,100 |
| 20ft High Cube | $3,600 | $2,100 | $1,600 | $1,350 |
| 40ft Standard | $4,500 | $2,400 | $1,800 | $1,400 |
| 40ft High Cube | $5,200 | $2,800 | $2,200 | $1,700 |
Prices updated regularly. Request a quote for the most current pricing.
How to Choose the Right Container
Three ways to narrow down your options — by what you are building, how much space you need, or what you want to spend.
Storage & Inventory
For tools, equipment, seasonal items, or business inventory. A 20ft WWT is compact, affordable, and fully weatherproof.
Recommended: 20ft Standard + WWTHome Office or Studio
The extra height makes all the difference when you add insulation and a finished ceiling. Cargo Worthy keeps costs manageable.
Recommended: 20ft High Cube + CWOWorkshop or Garage
Need room for a workbench, tools, and materials? A 40ft gives you over 300 sq ft of working space at a great price point.
Recommended: 40ft Standard + CWOContainer Home or ADU
For habitable spaces, invest in the best shell. A 40ft HC One-Trip offers 304 sq ft and nearly 9 ft of ceiling height before finishing.
Recommended: 40ft High Cube + One-TripRetail Pop-Up
Customer-facing builds demand clean lines and good looks. A One-Trip container arrives with factory-fresh paint and zero dents.
Recommended: 20ft One-TripFarm & Ranch
Plenty of room for feed, tack, equipment, or seasonal supplies. Wind and Water Tight keeps everything dry at the lowest cost per square foot.
Recommended: 40ft Standard + WWTContainer Decision Flowchart
Answer a few quick questions and follow the branches to your ideal container.
What is your primary use?
Storage / Utility
How much space do you need?
Small / Medium
20ft WWT
From $1,350
Large
40ft WWT
From $1,800
Living / Working / Commercial
Does appearance matter?
Yes, visible
40ft HC One-Trip
From $5,200
No, will be clad
40ft HC CWO
From $2,800
On a tight budget?
Lowest price overall
20ft As-Is
From $1,100
Best value per sq ft
40ft As-Is
From $1,400
Still not sure? Our team can recommend the perfect container for your project.
Delivery Across Colorado
We deliver statewide from our Denver depot. Here is what to know.
Denver Metro from $150
Flat rate for deliveries within 25 miles of our depot. Most metro addresses qualify.
3 - 7 Business Days
Typical turnaround from order confirmation to container on your property.
Statewide Coverage
Front Range, mountains, Western Slope, and southern Colorado. If you have an address, we can deliver.
Ready to Buy a Shipping Container in Denver?
Get a free, no-obligation quote with pricing, photos, and a condition report. Our team is here to help you pick the perfect container.