The short answer:
A used 20-ft container in Florida runs $3,000–$5,500. A 40-ft unit is $4,000–$7,500. New (one-trip) containers cost 20–40% more but arrive in near-perfect condition. Delivery adds $500–$2,500 depending on where you are. If you're converting for living space or a home office, budget $40,000–$150,000+ on top of the box itself.
New vs. Used: What's the Actual Difference?
The biggest decision you'll make before buying a container is whether to go new or used. In Florida specifically, this matters more than most states because of the humidity and salt air.
Used containers are graded on condition. "Cargo-worthy" means they're still approved for international shipping — structurally sound, watertight, no major rust through. "Wind and watertight" is a step below — sealed, but may have surface rust and cosmetic issues. "As-is" means buy it as you see it, with no guarantees.
| Container Type | Typical Price (Florida) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Used 20-ft (cargo-worthy) | $3,000–$4,500 | Storage, job sites, basic use |
| Used 40-ft (cargo-worthy) | $4,000–$6,500 | Large storage, workshops, retail |
| Used 40-ft High Cube | $4,500–$7,500 | Conversions — extra 1 ft of ceiling height |
| New (one-trip) 20-ft | $5,000–$7,000 | Conversions, offices, long-term use |
| New (one-trip) 40-ft High Cube | $7,000–$10,000 | Container homes, large offices |
| Delivery (local, flat terrain) | $500–$1,200 | Within 50 miles, easy access |
| Delivery (remote or tight access) | $1,200–$2,500+ | Rural, gated, or difficult sites |
Florida-Specific Things That Affect Your Cost
Florida is one of the toughest environments for steel. Here's what that actually means for your wallet:
Salt Air & Rust
Within 5–10 miles of the coast, surface rust accelerates fast. A container that looks fine in year 1 can have surface scaling by year 3 without treatment. Budget $500–$2,000 for proper prep and a quality exterior coating if you're near saltwater.
Hurricane Tie-Downs
Many Florida counties require containers to be anchored to ground anchors or a concrete pad. This can run $800–$3,000 depending on county requirements and soil type. Don't skip this — an unanchored container is a missile in a Category 3.
HOA & Zoning
Many Florida HOAs and some municipalities restrict or flat-out ban containers on residential property. Check your zoning ordinance before you buy anything. Rural counties (Alachua, Marion, Putnam) are generally more permissive than coastal or suburban areas.
Condensation & Ventilation
Florida's humidity creates serious condensation inside unventilated containers. If you're storing anything valuable — tools, furniture, equipment — plan for vents ($200–$600) or a basic dehumidifier setup. For living space, spray foam insulation is the standard fix.
What Are People Using Containers For in Florida?
Storage
The most common use. A 20-ft container holds roughly the equivalent of a 1-car garage. Popular for contractors, farmers, and rural property owners who need secure, weatherproof storage without a permanent structure permit.
Container Homes & ADUs
Popular in areas where land is cheap and permits allow it. A single 40-ft High Cube gives you about 320 sq ft. Multi-container builds (2–4 boxes) can create a full home. Expect to spend $40,000–$150,000+ for a finished, permitted container home in Florida depending on finish level.
Pop-Up Retail & Food & Beverage
Container-based businesses are exploding in Florida's outdoor market and tourism scene. A converted container bar, coffee shop, or retail kiosk can be built for $15,000–$50,000 depending on the level of finish, electrical, and plumbing involved.
Workshops & Garages
A 40-ft container with roll-up doors makes a solid workshop or equipment storage building. Add insulation, lighting, and electrical for $5,000–$15,000 and you have a functional workspace for a fraction of a stick-built garage.
5 Things to Check Before You Buy
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1
Inspect in person or ask for photos of the floor and roof
Floors (usually bamboo or hardwood) can rot from beneath without showing it on the surface. Roof rust can be pinhole leaks that only show up in heavy rain. Don't buy blind.
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2
Ask where it's been sitting
A container that's been sitting in a coastal depot for 3 years has more rust than one that came straight from an inland warehouse. Ask the seller how long it's been in their yard and where it came from.
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3
Check your county's zoning rules before you buy
Call your county's planning and zoning department. Some Florida counties restrict containers on residential land or require a permit even for "temporary" placement. This takes 10 minutes and can save you thousands.
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4
Make sure a delivery truck can actually reach your site
Containers are delivered by tilt-bed or roll-off trucks that need 60–80 feet of clear space to operate. Low-hanging trees, power lines, or soft ground can make delivery impossible or expensive. Confirm before you book delivery.
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5
Understand what "wind and watertight" actually means
It means the seller is saying it won't leak — not that it's in great shape. You can still end up with a heavily dented, surface-rusted box. If appearance matters (e.g., a retail build), pay the premium for cargo-worthy or new.
About the Author
Todd Davis is the founder of Modular Space Systems, based in Saint Augustine, FL. He bought a manufactured home in 2013, spent years researching barndominiums and prefab construction, and retired from the U.S. military after 22 years in December 2025. This site exists because he couldn't find a plain-English resource when he was shopping — so he built one.
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