Shipping container rental rates vs. buying costs is a simple question with complex consequences. Between 2020 and 2025, global disruptions turned this decision into a strategic one.
Pandemic shocks and supply chain delays pushed rental rates up and made ownership less predictable. What used to be a basic logistics choice now directly affects your bottom line.
This article unpacks five years of pricing trends and compares the real costs of renting versus buying. With 2025 data from U.S.-based On-Site Storage Solutions, you’ll have what you need to make a smart, timely decision.
When COVID-19 hit, ports slowed, vessels were delayed, and global trade was bottlenecked. Companies needed containers quickly, which triggered a massive jump in shipping container rental costs.
This surge created a container shortage and shifted attention toward temporary solutions.
By 2022, companies had stockpiled containers. As shipping normalized and demand cooled, an oversupply drove rates downward.
Average monthly storage container rental rates:
This was a reset point for many carriers who now found themselves with idle inventory.
Conflict in the Middle East and blockages in the Red Sea changed everything. Container routes had to be redirected, causing price spikes, especially for east-west trades.
Short-term lease contracts rose in cost, making long-term rental periods or ownership more appealing.
So far in 2025, renting storage prices have begun to settle but remain above pre-pandemic norms. Geopolitical risks, inflation, and fuel prices continue to play a role.
Ownership during the pandemic meant paying top dollar. Steel storage containers were scarce, and manufacturing delays in China added fuel to the fire.
Many logistics firms justified the cost as a long-term hedge against volatile lease prices.
With demand softening and more containers in circulation, prices fell sharply.
The drop opened doors for businesses previously priced out of the ownership option.
In 2024 and early 2025, shipping container prices rebounded moderately. Higher steel costs and increased demand for domestic portable storage helped push prices back up.
Here are the 2025 container prices from On-Site Storage Solutions, one of the leading storage providers in the U.S.:
| Wind and Water Tight | Buy | Rent | Rent-to-Own |
|---|---|---|---|
| Used 20-ft Shipping Container | Starting at $1,350 | For as low as $95/month | Starts at $61.36/month |
| Used 40-ft Shipping Container | Starting at $1,800 | For as low as $125/month | Starts at $81.82/month |
| Used 40-ft High Cube Shipping Container | Starting at $1,925 | For as low as | Starts at $87.50/month |
These prices provide flexibility for buyers of all types, whether you’re looking for temporary site storage space or permanent logistical capacity.
| Year | Rental Price Trend | Purchase Price Trend | Market Drivers |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020–2021 | 📈 Sharp Increase | 📈 Peak Pricing | 📈 Peak Pricing |
| 2022–2023 | 📉 Decrease | 📉 Market Correction | Oversupply, stabilized shipping lanes |
| 2024 | 📈 Rise Again | 📈 Moderate Recovery | Geopolitical disruptions, renewed shipping delays |
| 2025 (Year-to-Date) | ➖ Flattening | ➖ Stable but elevated | Inflation, supply chain resilience, fuel, and steel costs |
In today’s economy, more companies are combining both. Renting storage containers for temporary spikes in activity and owning a base fleet for year-round operations.
Falcon Structures, a Texas-based construction company, recently transitioned to a mix of leased and owned containers. In 2021, they leased all their units at inflated prices. By switching to ownership in 2023 (purchasing 40-ft used containers at $1,900 each), they cut storage costs by 40% annually. Their new model: 70% owned, 30% leased during high-demand periods.
The shipping steel construction container landscape from 2020 to 2025 has been shaped by pandemic fallout, geopolitical conflict, and changing business models. Rent or buy storage container, each offers distinct advantages. Your ideal choice depends on your budget, timeframe, and storage needs.
To recap:
As container prices stabilize, now may be the best time in years to reassess your strategy. Don’t let outdated assumptions cost you money; evaluate the real numbers, cost effectiveness, and invest wisely.
At On-Site Storage Solutions, we make storage simple and affordable. Our transparent container pricing means no hidden fees, just great value on new and used containers tailored to your needs.
If you’re a homeowner, contractor, or business, we have the right container for you—delivered fast and hassle-free.
Call us today at (888) 977- 9085 for a custom quote or quick inquiry. Our friendly customer support team is ready to provide you with instant pricing and the most competitive spot rates in the market.
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