The humble shipping container is used for so many things these days from tiny affordable homes to swimming pools, cafes and storage. They have also become an excellent option for interstate moving and self-pack moving services. 

But how much does a shipping container cost to buy? How much does it cost to move a shipping container in Australia? And how much does a shipping container cost to hire or rent? Let’s unpack the costs of shipping containers, shall we?

How Much Does it Cost to Buy a Shipping Container?

There are countless reasons why you may be looking into buying a container. You may want to use it as a home office or shed in your yard. You may be looking at using it for a pool. Many people will use a container as a way to self-move house, especially if moving long distance. 

The cost to buy a shipping container depends on the location and the state of the container. A new container is going to be expensive than a second-hand container that may not look too pretty on the outside. However, if you’re looking at a container move, then a second hand container is a good choice. You can also look at hiring a container for 30 days which is perfect when moving interstate. 

20 ft container costs: 

• Used: $3,000 to $5,000
• New: $6,000 to $8,000
• Hire: $100-$150 per month

40 ft container costs

• Used: $5,000 to $8,000
• New: $9,000 to $12,000
• Hire: $200-$250 per month

How much does it cost to move a shipping container in Australia?

The cost to move a shipping container will depend on a number of factors with distance being a big one. After all, the longer the distance, the more fuel will be needed.

Container transport quotes include fuel and insurance so this isn’t something you need to add-on to your quote. 

Below are some basic route costs - remember, these are just approximate and your best bet when looking at costs of containers is to request a free quote with Best Rated Transport. 

Container Transport Melbourne to Sydney

• 20 ft Container: AUD 1,500 - AUD 2,500

• 40 ft Container: AUD 2,500 - AUD 3,500

Container Transport Melbourne to Brisbane

• 20 ft Container: AUD 2,000 - AUD 3,000

• 40 ft Container: AUD 3,500 - AUD 5,000

Container Transport Melbourne to Cairns

• 20 ft Container: AUD 2,500 - AUD 3,500

• 40 ft Container: AUD 4,500 - AUD 6,500

Container Transport Melbourne to Darwin

• 20 ft Container: AUD 3,000 - AUD 4,500

• 40 ft Container: AUD 5,500 - AUD 7,500

Container Transport Melbourne to Adelaide

• 20 ft Container: AUD 1,500 - AUD 2,200

• 40 ft Container: AUD 2,500 - AUD 3,500

Container Transport Sydney to Brisbane

• 20 ft Container: AUD 1,500 - AUD 2,500

• 40 ft Container: AUD 2,500 - AUD 3,500

Container Transport Sydney to Cairns

• 20 ft Container: AUD 2,000 - AUD 3,000

• 40 ft Container: AUD 3,500 - AUD 5,000

Container Transport Sydney to Darwin

• 20 ft Container: AUD 2,500 - AUD 3,500

• 40 ft Container: AUD 4,500 - AUD 6,000

Container Transport Sydney to Adelaide

• 20 ft Container: AUD 1,500 - AUD 2,200

• 40 ft Container: AUD 2,500 - AUD 3,500

Container Transport Brisbane to Cairns

• 20 ft Container: AUD 1,200 - AUD 2,000

• 40 ft Container: AUD 2,000 - AUD 3,000

Container Transport Brisbane to Darwin

• 20 ft Container: AUD 2,500 - AUD 3,500

• 40 ft Container: AUD 4,500 - AUD 6,000

Container Transport Brisbane to Adelaide

• 20 ft Container: AUD 1,800 - AUD 2,500

• 40 ft Container: AUD 3,000 - AUD 4,000

Container Transport Cairns to Darwin

• 20 ft Container: AUD 2,500 - AUD 3,500

• 40 ft Container: AUD 4,500 - AUD 6,000

Container Transport Cairns to Adelaide

• 20 ft Container: AUD 2,500 - AUD 3,500

• 40 ft Container: AUD 4,500 - AUD 6,000

Container Transport Darwin to Adelaide

• 20 ft Container: AUD 2,500 - AUD 3,500

• 40 ft Container: AUD 4,500 - AUD 6,000

Keep in mind that these estimates are for road transport. For the most accurate quote, it's best to contact Best Rated Transport.

We can assist with all shipping container costs and enquiries and work with only trusted transporters to ensure the best rate and a safe journey for your container and the goods inside.