When you're ready to get a portable storage container, you have three options:

1. Purchase: If you will use the container for years and can afford it, buying is usually the best option. Plus, if you no longer need them, storage containers depreciate slowly so you can resell them without losing much value.
2. Rent: This is the most affordable option for a few days or weeks at a time. Renting allows you to deduct the fees from your taxes, but can get expensive if you keep the unit longer than expected.
3. Lease to own: A good choice when you'll need the container long-term but don't have the cash up front. It allows you to spread costs over a period of time and then purchase the container with a final nominal payment. However, you'll have paid considerably more than the purchase price because of the interest.

Before you purchase containers, consider how quickly you need them. Some vendors may offer same-day delivery on containers they have in stock. More often, they'll deliver your container in one to three days. Keep in mind that adding features will take longer – and cost more. See what other BuyerZone users paid for storage containers and special features.

Transport fees
Shipping costs will depend on distance and total weight and can add considerably to your total expenses. Expect to pay between $80 and $500 for delivery, depending on the distance. Vendors may require a minimum shipping fee regardless of distance, and may have a maximum of 250 miles.

New containers
You can find a basic 20' storage container for $1,000 to $4,000 or more. If you need to buy two or more containers, many vendors will knock a few dollars off the price and lower your transport costs. Vendors charge an hourly rate of $50 to $150 for customizing your container, plus the cost of materials. You could pay hundreds of dollars for basic add-ons like shelving or ramps, up to thousands of dollars to convert containers into office space.

Despite having almost three times as much storage space, 40' storage containers and 40' high cubes aren't much more expensive than 20' models. You can find 40' containers for about $1,400 to $5,400; high cubes are priced from $1,400 to $5,800.

Used storage containers
While new storage containers can cost several thousand dollars, the pricing is more palatable for used storage containers. Vendors buy used units, fix them up, replace any broken parts, ensure they're water tight, and apply a fresh coat of paint. The containers look as good as new, and you pay about 30% to 50% less for a used storage container than you would for a new one.

Expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $3,500 for a used container. Lower end units might include "as is" containers with few add-ons and no guarantees against water or fire damage. At the high end, the containers are fully reconditioned and feature all the functionality of a brand new model. The higher price may include the vendor's cost of acquisition, trucking expenses, and repair and sealant costs.

Leasing and rentals
The average lease runs for 18-24 months. Monthly payments range from $75 to $150 depending on the condition and age of the container. When leasing, many vendors offer lower monthly rates for longer lease periods. Short-term rentals cost $3 to $8 per day, and you're not tied down to a specific length term. However, if you plan to rent for several months, it is usually cheaper to work out a lease. Whether leasing or renting, you're also responsible for delivery and pickup charges.