10 Essential Tips: Shipping Containers for Sale Craigslist – Buy Smart & Safe!

June 25, 2025

Shipping Containers for Sale Craigslist: Your Ultimate Buying Guide

When you’re searching “shipping containers for sale craigslist“, it’s not just about finding the best deal—it’s about ensuring you’re getting quality, avoiding scams, and making a purchase that powers your project dreams. From storage sheds to custom builds, this guide helps you confidently navigate Craigslist listings and secure the perfect container.

1. Understanding Craigslist Listings

Craigslist provides a wide range of shipping containers for sale craigslist—from brand new “one-trip” units to heavily used models. Listings can include:

Dealer posts (like $1 399 for a like-new Conex in Mobile, AL ) (mobile.craigslist.org, limaohio.craigslist.org, sfbay.craigslist.org, minneapolis.craigslist.org, chico.craigslist.org, inlandempire.craigslist.org)
Owner listings, often for local pickup
Regional deals in Montana, Minneapolis, SF Bay Area, and beyond

2. Craigslist Shipping Containers for Sale by Owner

Owner listings can offer strong bargains:

LA area: 20′ container for $2 000; 40’ for $1 500 (sfbay.craigslist.org, losangeles.craigslist.org)
Waco: containers listed for as low as $1, and standard units for $3 750–$5 900 (waco.craigslist.org)

Owners typically allow inspections before purchase, but expect less recourse than dealers provide.

3. Shipping Container for Sale Craigslist: What to Expect

Expect to find:

“Like-new”, “one-trip” containers: often $1 300–$4 000 (mobile.craigslist.org, 500eboard.co)
Used/wind & water tight (WWT): $1 500–$2 500 (conexdepot.com)
Specialty units: reefers or open-side containers reaching $7 800 (nmi.craigslist.org)

4. Shipping Containers for Sale Montana Craigslist

Montana listings include:

20′ container for $1 800
Reefer units for $7 800 (nmi.craigslist.org)

Expect higher costs due to inland transport, though bargains still surface.

5. Shipping Containers for Sale Near Me Craigslist

To search “near me”, refine Craigslist searches by region. Expect:

$1 listings (often miscategorized or bundled offers) (sfbay.craigslist.org)
Local 40′ WWT units for ~$2 500

Always confirm delivery options and distance.

6. Used Shipping Container for Sale – Craigslist

Used containers, typically marked CW or WWT, can be solid value.

WC (wind & water tight): no leaks, sealed doors—ideal for storage/building (conexdepot.com, chico.craigslist.org)
Usual price: $2 000–$3 500 depending on condition and location

7. 40′ Shipping Container for Sale Craigslist

40′ containers are popular—ample space and versatility.

Price ranges:
- $1 500–$2 600 owner-sold near LA
- $1 695 dealer-listed in Inland Empire (inlandempire.craigslist.org)
Inland transport adds $1 000–$2 000 to base cost (500eboard.co)

8. How to Avoid Scams

Stay vigilant. As per Get Simple Box’s guide:

“Top 10 things to look out for to avoid shipping container scams on marketplaces” (getsimplebox.com)

Common red flags:

Unbelievably low prices—often scams (waco.craigslist.org)
Requests for full payment upfront without inspection
No images or vague descriptions

Tips: Always inspect in person, avoid upfront deposits, verify seller background.

9. Inspection & Delivery Tips

Before purchase:

Inspect WWT condition—no leaks, fully sealed doors
Check for rust holes or structural damage
Verify container type—standard, HC, reefer
Ask about past uses—no toxic residue if for living or gardening
Clarify delivery details—who arranges transport? Terms?

Sites like Inland Empire show “next day delivery” offers (mobile.craigslist.org, conexdepot.com, enid.craigslist.org, inlandempire.craigslist.org). Confirm upfront.

10. Pricing Guide & Deals {#pricing)

Use these estimated price ranges:

One-trip 20′: $1 300–$2 700
One-trip 40′: $1 500–$4 000
Used WWT 20′: $1 500–$2 500
Used WWT 40′: $2 000–$3 500
Reefer 40′: $5 000–$8 000 (newyork.craigslist.org, 500eboard.co)

Delivery inland: ~$1 000 extra (500eboard.co)

11. Volunteer Stories & Emotional Touchpoints

Real stories bring the process to life:

Carola (Mobile, AL):
“Simple. Honest. Pay when we show up… I even own a 20 ft container myself”—fostering trust (mobile.craigslist.org)
Reddit user asking for advice:

“every place I’ve inquired seems like a scam. Can anyone point me in the right direction?” (reddit.com)

These voices underscore the importance of transparency and direct guidance.

12. Self‑Care Tips For Buyers

Buying used containers can be stressful:

Take breaks when details overwhelm
Stay mindful—deep breaths before negotiations
Document everything—notes, photos, decisions logged
Reach out: online forums offer support and validation

13. Q&A Section

Q1: Can I deliver internationally?
A: Craigslist sellers are local; you must arrange local transport.

Q2: What’s a reefer container?
A: Refrigerated unit—often $5K–$8K, ideal for mobile cold storage.

Q3: Is rust always bad?
A: Surface rust is cosmetic; holes or severe rust require repair.

Q4: Should I use dealers or owners?
A: Dealers offer warranties and delivery, while owners can be cheaper but riskier.

14. Next Steps & Consultation Offer

Want help navigating shipping containers for sale craigslist?

Email us for consultation: shippingcontainerhub24hours@gmail.com
Connect Online: we’ll review listings, vet deals, recommend delivery
Follow us on LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram, X, Mix, Medium, YouTube, Quora, Facebook

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Buying through Craigslist isn’t just transactional—it’s personal and bold. Every steel box has a potential story: storage, expansion, transformation. With the right care, foresight, and trust, you’re not just purchasing metal—you’re enabling dreams. Let us help you find the right container—and the right story to build upon.