Are you thinking about buying a used shipping container in Kenya? It’s a smart move for many needs, from storage to building unique spaces. But the first question on everyone’s mind is: “How much will it cost?” At Frontier Containers EA Limited, we’ve been in the container business for years. We’ve seen how prices change and what buyers need to know.
Many people ask us about container prices. They want to know:
- How much is a 40ft container?
- What’s the price of a container home?
- How much to buy any container?
- What should I budget for a container?
- What is the cost of a 20ft container?
- How much for a second-hand container?
- What’s the price for a used shipping container?
- Can you tell me container sizes and their prices?
These are all great questions! People ask because they want to:
- Compare prices from different sellers.
- Make a budget for their project. Containers are a big purchase.
- Figure out if it’s a good investment for business ideas like shops, rental homes, Airbnb, schools, clinics, or pharmacies. (Hint: Containers often give a great return on investment!)
We want to make it easy for you. This guide will explain the prices for different types of new and used shipping containers in Kenya. With our experience, we can give you a good idea of what to budget.
Important Note: You might see very low prices for used shipping containers on social media. Be careful! If a deal looks too good to be true, it often is. Always think twice and choose trusted sellers like Frontier Containers EA Limited.
What Affects the Price of a Used Shipping Container in Kenya?
Several things can change the price of a shipping container. It’s not just about the size. Here’s what you need to think about:
- New vs. Used: New containers (often called “one-trip” containers because they’ve only made one journey carrying cargo) will cost more than used containers. Used containers are still very strong and useful but come at a lower price.
- Container Size: The most common sizes are 20ft and 40ft. Bigger containers naturally cost more.
- Container Type: Standard dry cargo containers are common. But there are also special types like refrigerated containers (reefers) or open-top containers, which have different price points.
- Condition: Used containers come in various conditions. Some might have more dents or rust than others. “Wind and Watertight” (WWT) is a common standard, meaning no holes and good seals. Better condition usually means a slightly higher price, but it’s worth it for most uses. At Frontier Containers EA Limited, we focus on sourcing FOOD GRADE containers. This means they haven’t carried harmful chemicals, making them safer for many uses, even if they cost a little more. Your safety is our priority.
- Modifications (Customization): If you want windows, doors, insulation, paint, or any other changes, this will add to the cost. The more complex the modification, the higher the price.
- Transportation and Offloading: The price usually quoted is for the container itself at the seller’s yard. You need to add the cost of transporting it to your location and offloading it (usually with a crane).
- Market Demand and Supply: Like anything else, container prices can go up or down based on how many are available and how many people want to buy them.
- Location of the Seller: Prices might vary slightly depending on where the seller is located within Kenya, due to their own transport costs to get the containers to their yard.
Price Ranges for Empty Shipping Containers in Kenya
These prices are for empty containers (no customization) and do not include transport or offloading. These are general market estimates. For exact current prices, please contact Frontier Containers EA Limited.
| Container Type | Estimated Price Range (Kshs) | Notes |
| Empty 20ft Container | 160,000 – 250,000 | Good for storage, small shops, or basic modifications. |
| Empty 40ft Container | 350,000 – 420,000 | Ideal for larger storage, homes, and bigger commercial projects. Usually High Cube. |
| Empty 10ft Container | 100,000 – 140,000 | Rarer. Often made by cutting a 20ft container. Useful for tight spaces. |
Prices are estimates and can change. Always get a current quote.
Extra Costs to Budget For
When you buy a shipping container, remember these additional costs:
1. Container Transportation and Offloading
This is a key cost. It depends on:
- Distance: How far is your site from the container yard?
- Container Size: Transporting a 40ft container costs more than a 20ft one.
- Crane Type: What kind of crane is needed to offload and place the container?
- Site Access: Is your location easy to reach with a large truck and crane?
- Time of Delivery: Deliveries to busy areas like Nairobi CBD might need to be done at night, which can affect cost.
Here are some estimated transport and offloading costs for a 20ft container:
| Destination from Nairobi | Estimated Price Range (Kshs) |
| Within Nairobi | 15,000 – 35,000 |
| Naivasha | 35,000 – 45,000 |
| Nakuru | 45,000 – 65,000 |
| Kisumu & Western Regions | 80,000 – 100,000 |
| Eldoret & Rift Valley | 70,000 – 90,000 |
| Nyeri, Nanyuki, Embu, Meru | 50,000 – 70,000 |
| Machakos Region | 15,000 – 45,000 |
| Makueni | 45,000 – 60,000 |
Here are some estimated transport and offloading costs for a 40ft container:
| Destination from Nairobi | Estimated Price Range (Kshs) |
| Within Nairobi | 25,000 – 55,000 |
| Naivasha | 55,000 – 75,000 |
| Nakuru | 75,000 – 85,000 |
| Kisumu & Western Regions | 110,000 – 160,000 |
| Eldoret & Rift Valley | 120,000 – 140,000 |
| Nyeri, Nanyuki, Embu, Meru | 70,000 – 120,000 |
| Machakos Region | 25,000 – 55,000 |
| Makueni | 70,000 – 90,000 |
Frontier Containers EA Limited has its own transport department with modern crane trucks. We can give you the best transport prices. Check our Facebook page for examples!
2. Site Preparation
Your container needs a level and stable place to sit. This might involve:
- Clearing the area.
- Leveling the ground.
- Creating a simple foundation (e.g., concrete pillars, concrete slabs, gravel base, or plinths). This cost depends on your site’s condition. We also have ready made reinforced concrete precast pillars for this purpose
3. Customization Costs
If you’re not just using the container for basic storage, you’ll have modification costs. We’ll cover some common customized container prices below.
Understanding Container Sizes
- (20-foot) Container (6m x 2.4m x 2.6m approx.): This is the smaller standard size. It’s great for storage or when you need a compact space. Easy to deliver to tight spots.
- Price Range (Empty): Kshs. 160,000 – 250,000
- (40-foot) High Cube Container (12m x 2.4m x 2.9m approx.): This is very popular. “High Cube” means it’s about 30cm taller than a standard 40ft container (GP – General Purpose). This extra height (headroom) is excellent for homes and storage. It offers a large volume (around 76 cubic meters).
- Price Range (Empty): Kshs. 350,000 – 420,000
- (10-foot) Container (3m x 2.4m x 2.6m approx.): These are less common. They are usually made by cutting a 20ft container in half. Good for very small needs.
- Price Range (Empty, if available or made): Kshs. 100,000 – 140,000
Special Container Types: Refrigerated Containers (Reefers)
Refrigerated containers, or “reefers,” are mobile fridges. They are used for products that need to stay at a specific temperature, like:
- Fruits, meat, fish, seafood, vegetables, dairy
- Drinks
- Medicines
- Anatomical waste
Reefer Details:
- Chiller Temperatures: +2°C to +21°C (Power: 10.5 to 12.5 kW @ 60Hz)
- Frozen Temperatures: -18°C to -30°C (Power: 4.5 to 6.1 kW @ 60Hz)
- Power Supply Needed: 3 phase @ 460V @ 60Hz (Transformers/generators might be needed if your site doesn’t have this).
Reefer Container Prices in Kenya: These prices depend on condition, location, year made, and brand.
| Reefer Container Type | Estimated Price Range (Kshs) |
| 20ft Reefer Container | 1,100,000 – 1,350,000 |
| 40ft HC Reefer Container | 1,200,000 – 2,050,000 |
Frontier Containers EA Limited offers tested reefers in excellent working condition at competitive prices.
Prices for Customized Containers in Kenya
The cost of turning a container into something new (like a shop, office, or home) depends on your design, the size, and what features you want.
Container Stalls / Shops Prices in Kenya
These are popular for businesses.
- Features usually included: Roller shutter doors, partitions, basic electrical wiring, and spray painting (your choice of color).
- Delivery/Offloading (Nairobi): Add Kshs 15,000 – 35,000 for 20ft, and Kshs 25,000 – 55,000 for 40ft.
| Container Stall Configuration | Estimated Price Range (Kshs) |
| 20ft Container Stalls (2 shops) | 300,000 – 360,000 |
| 20ft Container Stalls (3 shops) | 350,000 – 400,000 |
| 40ft High Cube Container Stalls (4 shops) | 550,000 – 600,000 |
| 40ft High Cube Container Stalls (5 shops) | 580,000 – 650,000 |
| 40ft High Cube Container Stalls (6 shops) | 600,000 – 660,000 |
These prices are for the fabrication. The cost of the empty container is separate and needs to be added from the “Empty Container Prices” table above. For a total cost, add the empty container price to the fabrication price. For example, a 20ft container with 2 shops would be (Kshs 160,000 to 250,000 for container) + (Kshs 300,000 to 360,000 for fabrication).
Container Homes Prices in Kenya
Container homes are a modern and affordable housing solution. Prices vary widely based on design complexity, interior finishes, number of rooms, insulation, plumbing, and electrical work.
| Container Home Configuration | Estimated Fabrication Price Range (Kshs) | Notes |
| 20ft Container Bedsitter (Studio) | 650,000 – 750,000 | Includes basic interior fit-out. |
| 40ft Container One Bedroom | 1,000,000 – 1,450,000 | More spacious living. |
| 40ft Container Two Bedroom | 1,200,000 – 1,500,000 | Compact two-bedroom layout. |
| Combined 20ft + 40ft Container (2 Bedrooms) | 1,600,000 – 2,000,000 | More design flexibility. |
| Two 40ft Containers Combined (2 Bedrooms, spacious) | 2,250,000 – 2,800,000 | Creates a larger, more comfortable home. |
| Two 40ft Containers (with space between) (3 Bedrooms) | 3,500,000 – 4,500,000 | The space between can be a living area, adding to the home’s size. |
| 4+ Bedrooms (using three or more 40ft containers) | 5,500,000 – 6,550,000+ | For larger families or luxury designs. |
These prices are for the fabrication and modification. The cost of the empty container(s) is separate. Transport and site preparation (foundation) are also extra.
Container Offices Prices in Kenya
Container offices are quick to set up and can be moved if needed. Prices depend on size, partitions, design, and extras like washrooms, kitchenettes, shelves, data cabling, or CCTV.
| Container Office Configuration | Estimated Fabrication Price Range (Kshs) |
| 20ft Container Office | 500,000 – 650,000 |
| 40ft Container Office | 850,000 – 1,100,000 |
| Two 40ft Containers Combined (Larger Office) | 1,850,000 – 2,100,000 |
| Stacking (Staircase & Balcony for top office) | 300,000 – 400,000 (extra) |
These prices are for fabrication. Add the cost of the empty container(s), transport, and any foundation work.
Previous Use of Containers: A Safety Note
It’s tempting to buy the cheapest container you can find. But be very careful. Some containers might have been used to carry toxic or harmful chemicals. These are often sold cheaply. At Frontier Containers EA Limited, we prioritize your health and safety. We make extra effort to source FOOD GRADE containers. These containers are safer for homes, offices, schools, and any place where people will spend time. They might cost a little more, but your peace of mind is worth it. Remember, “cheap can be expensive” if it risks your health.
Why Choose Frontier Containers EA Limited?
When you’re ready to buy a shipping container in Kenya, or if you need expert fabrication, Frontier Containers EA Limited is here to help.
- Experience: We know the container market in Kenya.
- Quality: We provide clean, strong, and safe containers. We specialize in food-grade units.
- Fair Prices: We offer competitive pricing for both empty and customized containers.
- Expert Fabrication: Our skilled team, led by Eng. Stephen Karume, can bring your container ideas to life with top-quality design and construction.
- Transport Solutions: Our own fleet ensures reliable and affordable delivery.
- Honest Advice: We’ll help you understand all the costs and choose the best container for your needs.
Don’t get caught out by deals that seem too good. Invest wisely with a trusted partner.
Ready to discuss your container project? Contact us today for the latest prices and expert advice:
- Email: info@frontiercontainers.co.ke
- Eng. Stephen Karume:
- Mobile: 0720099714
- Email: steve@frontiercontainers.co.ke
- Ann Nyakio:
- Mobile: 0726668272
- Email: ann@frontiercontainers.co.ke
