Are you looking to buy a 40ft shipping container in Kenya? This is a popular choice for many projects, from big storage needs to building spacious container homes or offices. One of the first questions people ask is about the price. At Frontier Containers EA Limited, we help Kenyans find the right containers at fair prices.
This article will give you a clear idea of how much you should expect to pay for a 40ft container in Kenya. We’ll look at different types and factors that affect the cost.
What Determines the Price of a 40ft Shipping Container in Kenya?
The price of a 40ft container isn’t fixed. It can change based on several things:
- New or Used: A brand new “one-trip” 40ft container will cost more than a used one. Used containers offer great value and are very durable.
- Standard (GP) vs. High Cube (HC):
- 40ft Standard (GP – General Purpose): About 8.5 feet (2.59m) tall.
- 40ft High Cube (HC): About 9.5 feet (2.89m) tall. This extra foot of height is very popular in Kenya, especially for homes and businesses, as it gives more headroom and storage space. Most 40ft containers available are High Cubes. High Cubes might cost slightly more than GP if a GP is available.
- Condition: Used containers have different levels of wear. A “Wind and Watertight” (WWT) container is a good standard. Cleaner containers with fewer dents might cost a bit more. Frontier Containers EA Limited focuses on FOOD GRADE containers, which are safer and often in better condition.
- Modifications: If you want the container changed (e.g., doors, windows, paint), this will add to the basic price.
- Transportation Costs: The price you see often doesn’t include delivery. Transporting a 40ft container needs a large truck and usually a crane.
- Market Fluctuations: Prices can change based on supply and demand in Kenya.
Price Range for an Empty 40ft Shipping Container in Kenya
These are estimated prices for an empty 40ft container (no modifications). These prices do not include transport to your site or offloading.
| 40ft Container Type | Estimated Price Range (Kshs) | Key Features |
| Used 40ft High Cube Container (HC) | 350,000 – 420,000 | Most common. Extra height is great for many uses. Offers about 76 cubic meters of space. |
| Used 40ft Standard Container (GP) | Slightly less than HC, if available | Less common in the market now. |
| New (One-Trip) 40ft Container HC | Contact for Quote | Higher price, but in near-perfect condition. |
These are market estimates. For the most current and accurate pricing, please contact Frontier Containers EA Limited.
Why are 40ft High Cube containers preferred? The extra height (approx. 30cm or 1 foot) makes a big difference:
- More Storage Volume: You can stack goods higher.
- Better for Living/Working Spaces: Provides comfortable headroom, making rooms feel more spacious.
- Easier Modifications: Allows for things like ceiling insulation and lighting without making the room feel too low.
Additional Costs for Your 40ft Shipping Container
Besides the container itself, remember to budget for:
- Transportation and Offloading: This is a major extra cost. For a 40ft container, it involves a large truck and often a crane.
- Within Nairobi: Estimated Kshs. 25,000 – 55,000.
- To other towns (e.g., Naivasha, Nakuru, Kisumu, Eldoret, Nyeri, Machakos): Can range from Kshs. 55,000 to Kshs. 160,000+ depending on distance and site conditions. Frontier Containers EA Limited has its own transport and can provide competitive quotes.
- Site Preparation: Your 40ft container needs a flat, stable surface. This might mean clearing land, leveling it, or putting down a simple foundation (like concrete blocks or a gravel pad).
- Modifications (if needed): If you plan to convert your 40ft container into an office, home, shop, or something else, the cost of these changes (doors, windows, insulation, wiring, plumbing, paint, etc.) will be added.
- For example, converting a 40ft HC container into 4 shops could cost an additional Kshs. 550,000 to 600,000 for the fabrication, on top of the container price.
- A one-bedroom 40ft container home fabrication could range from Kshs. 1,000,000 to 1,450,000, plus the container cost.
What Can You Use a 40ft Shipping Container For?
40ft containers are very versatile:
- Large Storage: For businesses or personal items.
- Container Homes: Can be a spacious one-bedroom, a comfortable two-bedroom, or combined with other containers for larger houses.
- Offices: Create large, open-plan offices or multiple smaller rooms.
- Shops/Commercial Spaces: Ideal for retail stores, workshops, or restaurants.
- Schools and Clinics: Can be quickly set up as classrooms or healthcare facilities.
- Mobile Warehouses: Secure and movable storage.
Tips for Buying a 40ft Shipping Container in Kenya
- Define Your Needs: What will you use it for? This helps decide if you need a High Cube, specific condition, etc.
- Inspect Before Buying (if possible): If buying used, try to see the container or ask for recent photos. Check for major rust or damage.
- Understand “Wind and Watertight”: This means it should protect contents from rain and wind.
- Ask About Previous Cargo: For uses like homes or farms, it’s best to get a container that hasn’t carried hazardous materials. Frontier Containers EA Limited prioritizes FOOD GRADE containers for safety.
- Get a Full Quote: Make sure the quote includes the container, any agreed modifications, transport, and offloading.
- Choose a Reputable Seller: Work with established companies like Frontier Containers EA Limited to avoid scams and ensure quality. Be wary of deals that seem too cheap.
How Frontier Containers EA Limited Can Help You
Buying a 40ft container is a significant investment. At Frontier Containers EA Limited, we offer:
- Wide Selection: We stock 40ft High Cube containers suitable for various needs.
- Quality Assurance: We provide clean, structurally sound containers. We focus on food-grade units for your safety.
- Transparent Pricing: We give you clear cost breakdowns.
- Expert Advice: Our team can help you choose the right container and plan your project.
- Full Service: From sourcing the container to fabrication and delivery, we can handle it all.
Thinking of a 40ft container project? Get in touch with us for the latest prices and expert guidance.
- 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://frontiercontainers.co.ke
