Shipping Container Prices in Europe: A Complete Guide for 2026

The price of a shipping container is the first question buyers in Europe ask. However, there is no single price. Several factors directly influence the final cost. In this comprehensive guide, Eurocontex explains everything that determines the price of a shipping container in 2026. You will also find our starting prices for each available type and size.

👉 Request your personalized quote on Eurocontex.com

1. The 5 factors influencing the price of a shipping container

Before comparing prices, it's essential to understand what determines them. Here are the 5 main factors to consider.

Factor 1 — Size

This is the most obvious factor. A 10-foot container naturally costs less than a 20 or 40-foot container. However, the volume/price ratio is not always proportional. A 40-foot container often offers a better cost per cubic meter than a 20-foot container.

Factor 2 — Type

The price of a shipping container varies considerably depending on the type. A standard container is the cheapest. A refrigerated or tank container is significantly more expensive. Indeed, their integrated technology justifies this price difference.

Factor 3 — Condition (new or used)

This is often the most impactful factor on the price of a shipping container. A new (One Trip) container costs between 30% and 50% more than a used model. However, it offers maximum warranty on all components. A used container, inspected and CSC certified, nevertheless remains an excellent economic alternative.

Factor 4 — The European market

The price of a shipping container fluctuates according to supply and demand in Europe. Periods of high commercial activity drive prices up. Conversely, a decline in international trade drives them down. This is why our prices are regularly updated.

Factor 5 — Delivery

The delivery cost is added to the price of a shipping container. It varies according to distance, site accessibility, and the destination country within the European Union. At Eurocontex, we offer a personalized delivery quote for each order.

 Consult global container market trends

2. Prices of Standard containers in Europe

The standard container is the most accessible model. It is also the most available on the European market. Here are our starting prices at Eurocontex:

The used 20-foot standard container remains the best-selling format in Europe. It offers the best value for money for storage and transport.

👉 "Discover our standard container available in 10, 20 and 40 feet

3. Prices of High Cube containers in Europe

The high cube container costs slightly more than the standard. However, its extra 30 cm in height justifies this difference for many projects.

The 40-foot high cube container is particularly popular for development projects in Europe. Its interior height of 2.69 m offers incomparable comfort for modular offices and alternative housing.

👉 "Discover our high cube container available in 10, 20 and 40 feet

4. Prices of refrigerated containers in Europe

The refrigerated container is naturally more expensive than standard models. Its integrated refrigeration system and specific certifications justify this difference. Nevertheless, it is an essential investment for activities requiring a cold chain.

The 20-foot refrigerated container is the most requested format in the European agri-food sector. It offers an excellent balance between storage volume and operating cost.

👉 "Discover our refrigerated container available in 10, 20 and 40 feet

5. Prices of specialized containers in Europe

Open Side

👉 "Discover our open side container available in 10, 20 and 40 feet

Open Top

👉 "Discover our open top container available in 10, 20 and 40 feet

Double Door

👉 "Discover our double door container available in 10, 20 and 40 feet

6. Prices of Industrial Containers in Europe

Flat Rack

The price of a flat rack container depends on the technical specifications of your project. The load to be transported, oversized dimensions, and delivery conditions directly influence the price. Each order is therefore subject to a personalized quote.

👉 Request your flat rack container quote — response within 24 hours

Tank

The price of a tank container varies according to capacity (8,000 to 26,000 litres), the type of liquid transported, and required certifications. This is why each project is subject to a personalized study.

👉 Request your tank container quote — response within 24 hours

7. New vs. Used: Which choice for your budget?

This is the most frequent question about the price of a shipping container. Here is an objective comparison:

At Eurocontex, all our used containers are carefully inspected before delivery. They are delivered with a valid CSC certificate. It is therefore a reliable and economical alternative for most projects in Europe.

8. Delivery Cost: What to expect

The price of a shipping container does not stop at the purchase price. Delivery represents an additional cost to include in your budget. Here are the main factors that influence this cost:

Distance — The further your site is from our depot, the more expensive transport becomes. However, we optimize our routes to minimize costs.

Accessibility — A site easily accessible by container truck costs less to deliver. Land in a rural or densely urban area may require special equipment.

Country of destination — We deliver everywhere in the European Union (link title: Member Countries of the European Union — New tab). Fees vary by country and local regulations.

👉 Request your free delivery quote on Eurocontex.com — response within 24 hours.

 

Conclusion

The price of a shipping container depends on many factors. However, at Eurocontex, we are committed to offering you the most competitive rates in the European Union. Standard, high cube, refrigerated or specialized: we have the container you need at the best price. Delivery throughout Europe with guaranteed lead times.

👉 Request your free quote on Eurocontex.com — response within 24 hours