Dry Shipping Containers
Looking for a strong, secure, and affordable way to store your goods or create a new space in Kenya? Dry shipping containers are a fantastic choice. These tough steel boxes, originally built to carry cargo across the sea, are now widely used in Kenya for many different needs.
They are perfect for situations where you need instant storage space. Why are they so popular? Because they have special features that make them great:
- Portable: Need to move your storage or workspace? Dry shipping containers can be easily lifted and moved from one place to another using cranes or special trucks. This makes them very flexible.
- Modular: As your needs grow, you can add more containers. Start with one and expand your storage or building project gradually. This makes planning and budgeting easier.
- Strong & Secure: These containers are built like tanks! They are extremely tough and hard to break into, making them ideal for storing valuable items safely on-site.
- Weatherproof: They are designed to keep cargo dry during long sea journeys. This means they are excellent for protecting weather-sensitive goods from rain, dust, and sun.
At Frontier Containers EA Limited, we understand the value these containers bring. We supply high-quality dry shipping containers in Kenya, helping you find the right fit for your storage or building project.
Available Dry Shipping Container Sizes in Kenya
We stock the most common sizes to meet your needs. Here’s a look at the standard dry shipping containers we offer:
1. 20-Foot (6m) Dry Shipping Container
Dimensions (Approx.): 6 meters (L) x 2.4 meters (W) x 2.6 meters (H)
Ideal For: Small storage needs, tight spaces, budget-friendly projects, small shops, basic site offices, or simple workshops.
Benefits:
- Affordable: Generally the most budget-friendly option for basic storage or small customizations.
- Easy Delivery: Their smaller size means they are easier to transport and offload, even in tighter locations, often requiring less complex crane work.
- Maneuverable: Easier to position precisely on site due to their size.
Estimated Price Range (Empty, Kshs): Kshs. 160,000 – 250,000 (Please contact us for the most current prices)
2. 40-Foot High Cube (12m) Dry Shipping Container
Dimensions (Approx.): 12 meters (L) x 2.4 meters (W) x 2.9 meters (H)
Ideal For: Larger storage needs, creating more spacious container homes or offices, workshops, mobile warehouses, or commercial spaces.
Benefits:
- More Space: Significantly more internal volume (approximately 76 cubic meters) compared to a 20ft container. The extra 0.3 meters in height (High Cube) provides better headroom, making it much more comfortable for living or working spaces.
- Popular Choice: The High Cube 40ft is the most commonly stocked and used size for projects needing more room.
- Versatile: Great for a wide range of customizations due to the extra space and height.
Estimated Price Range (Empty, Kshs): Kshs. 350,000 – 420,000 (Please contact us for the most current prices)
(Note: Standard 40ft General Purpose (GP) containers, which are about 0.3m shorter in height, are also available upon request but less common than the High Cube version).
(Optional Addition – 10ft Containers)
3. 10-Foot (3m) Dry Shipping Container (Cut Down)
- Dimensions (Approx.): 3 meters (L) x 2.4 meters (W) x 2.6 meters (H)
- Note: These are less common and are typically made by cutting a standard 20ft container in half.
- Ideal For: Very small storage needs or projects in extremely tight spaces.
- Estimated Price Range (Empty, Kshs): Kshs. 100,000 – 140,000 (Availability may vary)
Why Choose Frontier Containers EA Limited for Your Dry Shipping Containers?
When you buy a dry shipping container in Kenya, choosing the right supplier is crucial. Here’s why Frontier Containers EA Ltd stands out:
- Experience & Knowledge: We have been in the container business in Kenya for years. We understand the market, the products, and what you need.
- Quality Focus: We prioritize clean, strong, and structurally sound containers. We make a special effort to source FOOD GRADE containers whenever possible. These are safer because they haven’t carried harmful chemicals, making them ideal for homes, offices, schools, or any space where people spend time.
- Competitive Pricing: We offer fair and competitive prices for both empty and customized containers.
- Reliable Transport: We have our own transport department with modern crane trucks, ensuring safe delivery and often better transport prices for you. Check out our Facebook page for delivery examples!
- Expert Customization: Need your container modified? Our skilled team, led by Eng. Stephen Karume, can turn your container into a shop, office, or comfortable home with high-quality work.
- Honest Advice: We don’t just sell containers. We guide you through the process, explain all costs (container, transport, site prep, customization), and help you choose the best option for your specific project.
Contact Frontier Containers EA Limited Today!
Ready to get your project started with a reliable dry shipping container in Kenya? Contact us for the latest prices, expert advice, and professional service.
- Email: info@frontiercontainers.co.ke
- Eng. Stephen Karume: Mobile: 0720099714 | Email: steve@frontiercontainers.co.ke
- Ann Nyakio: Mobile: 0726668272 | Email: ann@frontiercontainers.co.ke
- Website: https://frontiercontainerskenya.com
- YouTube Link: https://www.youtube.com/@FrontierContainersEA
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Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a dry shipping container?
A dry shipping container, also known as a dry van or general-purpose container, is a large, standardized, steel box. It's designed to carry general, non-perishable cargo during sea transport. They are sealed, making them dustproof, watertight, and highly secure. In Kenya, they are repurposed for storage, building homes, creating offices, shops, and many other innovative uses due to their strength, portability, and affordability.
What are the main differences between a 20ft and a 40ft dry container?
The main differences are size and capacity:
- Size: A 20ft container is about 6 meters long, while a 40ft container is about 12 meters long. The 40ft High Cube is also about 30cm taller.
- Capacity: A 40ft High Cube offers significantly more internal space (around 76 cubic meters) compared to a 20ft (around 33 cubic meters). The extra height in the 40ft High Cube provides better headroom.
- Cost: Generally, a 40ft container costs more than a 20ft one, but it offers much more space.
- Use: 20ft containers are great for smaller needs or tight spaces. 40ft containers are better for larger storage, more spacious homes/offices, or projects needing more volume.
How much does a used dry shipping container cost in Kenya?
Prices for used dry shipping containers fluctuate based on factors like size, condition, type, and market demand. Here are our estimated price ranges for empty containers (excluding transport and offloading):
- 20ft Dry Container: Kshs. 160,000 – 250,000
- 40ft High Cube Dry Container: Kshs. 350,000 – 420,000
- 10ft Dry Container (if available/cut down): Kshs. 100,000 – 140,000 Please contact Frontier Containers EA Ltd directly for the most current and exact pricing.
Are there different conditions of used containers available?
Yes. Used containers come in various conditions:
- One-Trip or New: These are brand new containers that have only made one journey. They are the most expensive.
- Used Containers: These have made several trips. They are strong but may show signs of wear like scratches or dents.
- Wind and Watertight (WWT): This is a common standard meaning the container is free from holes and seals well to keep out the weather. This is suitable for most uses.
- Cargo Worthy (CW): Meets shipping standards for carrying cargo (implies WWT).
- As-Is: May have more noticeable damage or rust. Pricing reflects the condition. We focus on supplying containers that are at least WWT, preferably Cargo Worthy, and prioritize Food Grade units for safety.
What additional costs should I budget for when buying a dry container?
The quoted container price is usually just for the unit at the seller's yard. You need to budget for:
- Transportation & Offloading: Getting the container from our yard to your site and lifting it off the truck (usually with a crane). Costs depend on distance, container size, crane type, and site access. See our main article for estimated transport costs.
- Site Preparation: Creating a level, stable foundation (concrete pads, pillars, gravel base, etc.) for the container to sit on.
- Customization/Fabrication: If you want to turn the container into a shop, office, or home, you'll need to pay for modifications like cutting doors/windows, insulation, electrical, plumbing, interior finishing, etc.
What does "Food Grade" mean for a shipping container?
"Food Grade" refers to containers that were previously used to transport food products or other non-toxic, non-hazardous materials. This is important because some containers might have carried chemicals or other harmful substances. Food Grade containers are much safer for projects where people will spend time, like homes, offices, clinics, or schools. While they might cost slightly more, they are a worthwhile investment for your health and peace of mind. At Frontier Containers EA Ltd, we make an effort to source these safer units.
Can I get my dry shipping container customized?
Absolutely! We offer expert customization services. Whether you need a simple storage container with a door, or a fully finished container shop, office, or home, our team can help. Common customizations include:
- Cutting and installing doors and windows
- Insulation and interior finishing (drywall, wood, tiles)
- Electrical wiring and installation
- Plumbing (for kitchens or bathrooms)
- Partitioning into rooms
- Painting and branding
- Installing shop fittings, kitchenettes, or office features Contact us to discuss your specific customization ideas and get a quote.
How do I ensure I'm buying a quality used container and not getting scammed?
Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true, especially on social media. To ensure quality:
- Buy from a Reputable Seller: Choose a known and trusted company like Frontier Containers EA Ltd with experience and good reviews.
- Ask About Condition: Understand if it's WWT, Cargo Worthy, or As-Is. Ask about its previous use (preferably Food Grade).
- Inspect if Possible: Visit the seller's yard to inspect the container yourself, or ask for detailed photos.
- Get a Written Quote: Ensure all costs (container, transport, offloading if included) are clearly stated.
- Check References: Look for customer testimonials or examples of their work (check our Facebook or TikTok ).
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Don't take our word for it.
"We needed extra storage for our warehouse in Nairobi, and Frontier delivered a perfect 40ft container right on time. Their service is top-tier!"
James M.
"Leasing a modified container for my roadside shop was the best decision. It’s affordable and looks amazing!"
Fatuma A.
"The team at Frontier Containers turned our vision of a mobile office into reality. Fast delivery and great quality!".