How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Storage Container? (2026 Prices)
Last updated: February 15, 2026
Complete storage container rental cost guide for 2026 with monthly rates by size, rent vs. buy analysis, and tips for choosing the right container.
The average cost to rent a storage container is $100 to $250 per month for a 20-foot container and $150 to $350 per month for a 40-foot container. Smaller 10-foot containers rent for $75 to $150 per month. Prices vary based on container condition, location, and rental duration.
Storage Container Rental Prices by Size
| Container Size | Interior Space | Monthly Rate | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-Foot | ~570 cu ft | $75 - $150 | Small projects, limited space |
| 20-Foot Standard | ~1,360 cu ft | $100 - $250 | Most common — construction, moving, business |
| 40-Foot Standard | ~2,390 cu ft | $150 - $350 | Large projects, commercial, long-term storage |
| 40-Foot High Cube | ~2,700 cu ft | $175 - $400 | Tall items, maximize vertical space |
| 20-Foot Refrigerated | ~1,000 cu ft | $500 - $1,200 | Food service, pharmaceuticals, temperature-sensitive |
Prices are national monthly averages for 2026. Delivery/pickup fees are additional.
Estimated Pricing
| Type | Monthly | Quarterly | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-Foot Container | $75 – $150 | $202 – $405 | $750 – $1,500 |
| 20-Foot Standard Container | $100 – $250 | $270 – $675 | $1,000 – $2,500 |
| 40-Foot Standard Container | $150 – $350 | $405 – $945 | $1,500 – $3,500 |
| 40-Foot High Cube Container | $175 – $400 | $473 – $1,080 | $1,750 – $4,000 |
| Refrigerated Container (20 ft) | $500 – $1,200 | $1,350 – $3,240 | $5,000 – $12,000 |
Delivery and Pickup Costs
Storage container delivery is a one-time fee separate from the monthly rental. Typical delivery costs:
- Within 30 miles: $75 to $200
- 30-60 miles: $150 to $350
- 60+ miles: $250 to $500+
Pickup is usually the same price as delivery. Some providers offer free delivery/pickup with 6+ month rental agreements.
Factors That Affect Storage Container Rental Cost
- Container size: The primary cost factor — 40-ft containers cost roughly 50% more than 20-ft
- Condition: New/one-trip containers rent for 20-40% more than used/cargo-worthy units
- Duration: 6+ month rentals often qualify for 10-20% monthly discounts
- Modifications: Roll-up doors ($25-75/month), windows ($20-50/month), electrical ($50-150/month), shelving ($25-50/month)
- Location: Coastal and port cities typically have more supply and lower prices; inland areas may cost more due to transport
- Season: Spring and summer moving season increases demand for residential storage containers
Storage Container vs. Self-Storage
| Factor | Storage Container | Self-Storage Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost (equivalent space) | $100 - $250 | $150 - $400 |
| Location | Delivered to your site | Drive to facility |
| Access | 24/7 on your property | Facility hours (some 24/7) |
| Loading | Ground level | May require stairs/elevator |
| Security | You control access | Facility-managed |
| Flexibility | Move with you | Fixed location |
Rent vs. Buy: Storage Containers
Purchase prices for used containers:
- 20-foot used: $2,500 - $5,000
- 40-foot used: $3,500 - $7,000
- 20-foot new (one-trip): $5,000 - $8,000
- 40-foot new (one-trip): $7,000 - $12,000
At $150/month rental for a 20-foot container, the break-even point for buying used is approximately 18-30 months. If you need storage for more than 2-3 years and have a permanent site, purchasing is typically more economical.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to rent a 20-foot storage container?
A 20-foot storage container rents for $100 to $250 per month, plus a one-time delivery fee of $75 to $350. This is the most popular size for both residential and commercial use.
Can I put a storage container on my property?
Most municipalities allow temporary storage containers on residential property, but zoning rules vary. Some areas require permits, limit placement duration, or restrict placement to certain areas of the property. Check with your local zoning office.
Are storage containers waterproof?
Yes. Shipping containers are designed to withstand ocean transport and are inherently wind-tight and water-tight. Used containers in "cargo-worthy" or better condition maintain their weather resistance. Inspect door seals and roof corners before accepting delivery.