Used Containers for Sale
Used shipping containers for flexible storage and transportation

Key Benefits of Used Containers
-
Cost-Effective Solution
Used containers for sale usually cost 30-50% less than new equivalents while maintaining excellent structural integrity, making quality storage solutions accessible to NZ businesses of all sizes.
-
Durable and Secure
Constructed from high-grade Corten steel, used shipping containers resist corrosion and weathering, ensuring protection against New Zealand's diverse climate conditions from coastal salt exposure to alpine extremes.
-
Versatile Applications
Used shipping containers serve a wide range of industries – construction companies use them for on-site storage, retailers make pop-up shops, farmers store equipment, and event managers establish temporary operations centres.
Used Containers
Looking for affordable, durable storage solutions? SEA Containers offers a wide range of used containers for sale throughout New Zealand and the Pacific Islands. Our second-hand shipping containers provide a cost-effective alternative to single-trip containers without compromising quality or reliability.
These robust steel shipping containers deliver exceptional value while maintaining structural integrity and fitting comfortably within tighter budgets. Purchase quality used shipping containers for sale in various sizes and grades, shipped from depots in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and other key locations across the country.
Types of Used Containers for Sale
Standard Containers
Our standard used containers for sale come in popular 20ft and 40ft sizes. The 20ft shipping container is ideal for residential storage or construction equipment. For larger requirements, 40ft shipping containers are suitable for commercial storage or extensive shipping needs.
High-Cube Containers
Need extra height? Choose high-cube containers for an additional 30cm of vertical space on top of standard units. This extra headroom proves invaluable for transporting goods, equipment, and materials that require additional ceiling clearance.
Refrigerated Containers (Reefers)
Our used refrigerated containers maintain precise temperature control between -20°C and +18°C for perishable goods. These specialised shipping containers for sale are valuable for food producers, event caterers, pharmaceutical storage, and seasonal businesses requiring temporary cold storage.
Flat-Rack Containers
When transporting oversized cargo presents challenges, our flat-rack shipping containers for sale provide the solution. These specialised units feature collapsible sides that accommodate awkwardly shaped items, heavy machinery, timber, or construction materials that won’t fit standard dimensions.
Side-Opening Containers
Side-opening shipping containers feature full-length access doors along one or both sides, providing more accessibility for large equipment and goods compared to standard end-door containers. They’re ideal for retail spaces, events and storage that needs to be accessed frequently.
Open-Top Containers
Ideal for oversized cargo or crane-loaded items, open-top shipping containers have removable roof sections that preserve their structural integrity. They come with a tarpaulin cover and securing bars to protect against weather during transit while offering flexibility for vertical loading.
Insulated Shipping Containers
Minimise heat exposure when transporting and storing sensitive items with our insulated containers. Featuring foam-filled walls, this type of container maintains a consistent ambient temperature for various goods.
Modified and Custom Containers
Transform a used shipping container into a bespoke solution with our modification services. We convert standard units into functional offices, workshops, or retail space. Our customisation options include additional doors or windows, electrical fit-outs, shelving systems, ventilation solutions, and security upgrades.
Popular Uses for Used Containers
Storage Solutions
Used containers provide secure, weatherproof storage for residential, commercial, and agricultural needs, protecting valuable equipment from theft and harsh NZ weather conditions.
Workshop and Tool Sheds
Transform a used storage container into a fully functional workshop or tool storage facility with workbenches, shelving, and electrical connections for an efficient, secure workspace.
Container Offices
Create affordable, portable office space perfect for construction sites or remote work sites, fitted with insulation, windows, electrical systems, and climate control for year-round comfort.
Container Homes
Choose sustainable living with container home conversions that provide strong foundations for eco-friendly housing with architectural flexibility and cost advantages over traditional construction.
Event and Pop-Up Shops
Establish temporary retail spaces or event headquarters with modified used containers, ideal for festivals, markets, or promotional events requiring mobile yet professional-looking premises.
Customer Testimonials
Storage Container Grades
Used B-Grade Containers
The best quality used containers for sale available at SEA Containers. Structurally sound, 100% watertight, and fully windproof. Once updated with a valid CSC plate, they’re ready to be put in action for transporting goods. B-grade containers may have minor dents or signs of repair work but are in good condition overall.
Refurbished C-Grade Containers
C-grade used containers are an economical option suited for farms, business storage, office sites, and more. While these used C-grade storage containers may display more considerable signs of wear and repair, they’re still guaranteed to be 100% wind and waterproof upon delivery.
What are Container Safety Convention (CSC) Certified Containers
The Container Safety Convention (CSC) is the internationally adopted health and safety criteria to ensure the safety of all those involved in handling shipping containers. Valid CSC plates are required for any shipping container used for ocean voyage transport.
Under the widely utilised Periodic Examination Scheme (PES), all new containers receive a CSC valid for five years. At the expiry of this period, used shipping containers can have their CSC extended by a maximum of 30 months from the inspection date.
SEA Containers’s B-grade used containers for sale can be fitted with CSC plates at a customer’s request. These are valid for a standard 12 months (longer periods can be requested but are subject to container condition).
Our Process
Step 1: Expert Consultation and Assessment
Our container specialists will analyse your cargo dimensions, weight distribution, and transportation requirements to recommend the optimal used shipping container for your specific needs.
Step 2: Select the Right Used Shipping Container
Choose from our extensive inventory of used shipping containers, all thoroughly inspected to ensure structural integrity, clean surfaces, and properly functioning components.
Step 3: Quote and Confirmation
Receive a comprehensive, transparent quote with no hidden costs. We clearly outline all aspects of your used container purchase or hire agreement so you can make an informed decision.
Step 4: Delivery and Logistics Support
Our experienced logistics team will coordinate efficient used container transport to your location, working around your schedule and site access requirements to ensure timely transportation.
Step 5: After-Sales Support
Count on ongoing guidance for cargo securement techniques, maintenance recommendations, and future container requirements as your business needs evolve.
Benefits of Buying from SEA Containers NZ
Quality Assurance
Each shipping container undergoes comprehensive inspection evaluating structural integrity, door seals, floor condition, and overall functionality before joining our inventory.
Expert Advice and Support
Our team provides personalised guidance throughout your purchase journey, helping you identify the perfect size, type, and condition grade based on your specific requirements.
Customisation Services
Our professional storage container modifications include personnel doors, windows, ventilation systems, electrical installations, and insulation packages to create purpose-built environments.
Trusted by New Zealanders Nationwide
Our long-standing relationships with major organisations and repeat customers demonstrate our commitment to satisfaction and product excellence across diverse industries.
Get a Quote on Our Used Containers for Sale
Ready to explore affordable, versatile storage solutions? Contact SEA Containers for competitive pricing on our wide selection of B-grade and C-grade used containers for sale. Our team will help identify the perfect shipping container to suit your intended use.
SEA Containers has established itself as a leader in New Zealand’s shipping container industry through strategic partnerships and award-winning service. As a Proud Partner of Farmlands Co-operative, we deliver shipping container solutions to rural communities across NZ, with Farmlands cardholders enjoying exclusive benefits and preferential rates.
Our business excellence was formally recognised when we received the prestigious 2022 Master of Growth Index Award in the Deloitte Fast 50, highlighting our exceptional business growth and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction.
Experience the ideal balance of affordability and reliability with our quality used shipping containers for sale. Request your personalised quote now by calling 0508 732266 or completing our live quote form.
FAQs About Buying Used Containers
Used shipping containers typically provide 10-15 additional years of service after purchase, with many lasting beyond this timeframe when properly maintained.
Our used containers for sale feature robust locking mechanisms compatible with heavy-duty padlocks, with optional specialised lockboxes and alarm systems available.
Common shipping container modifications include personnel doors, windows, electrical systems, insulation, ventilation, partitions, shelving, and custom paint finishes.
Minimal maintenance keeps shipping containers in excellent condition – annual door seal inspections, occasional lock mechanism lubrication, and prompt rust treatment will extend serviceable life.
Cargo-worthy certified containers can be used for international shipping after inspection and certification, confirming compliance with international standards and structural requirements.