How much does a shipping container cost in Canada?
(2026 Pricing Guide)

One trip containers generally command a 50% to 75% premium over used units. This price gap reflects the significant difference in condition, aesthetic quality, and expected lifespan. While used units such as Wind and Watertight or Cargo Worthy models are more budget friendly, one trip units offer a 25 year plus lifespan, minimal cosmetic wear, and higher resale value. For long term storage or client facing projects, the higher upfront cost of a new unit often proves to be a more effective investment.

The higher cost of 10-ft units is due to the labor and material requirements of the modification process. Since 10-ft containers are not a standard size for international shipping, they are typically created by cutting down a 20-ft unit. This involves precision steel cutting, welding a new end wall, re-aligning door seals, and repainting. These additional workshop hours and raw materials often result in a price premium over standard 20-ft units despite the smaller footprint.

Delivery fees are determined by the distance from major logistics hubs—primarily Toronto, Montreal, or Edmonton—and the specialized equipment required for offloading. Local delivery within a 30-40km radius typically carries a flat fee, while long-distance transport is calculated on a per-kilometer basis. Total costs also reflect site accessibility factors, such as the turning radius for tilt-bed trucks and the stability of the ground surface at the drop-off point.

Container pricing in Canada often follows seasonal demand patterns and global market shifts. Prices typically rise during the spring and summer as construction and retail inventory cycles ramp up across Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec. In 2026, market volatility remains a factor due to global supply chain adjustments and fluctuating steel costs. Purchasing during off peak periods in late autumn or winter can frequently lead to more competitive unit pricing and increased delivery availability.

ATS Containers is a 100% Canadian owned and operated company with over 30 years of industry leadership. Unlike brokers or middlemen, ATS Containers owns the inventory and operates physical depots in Montreal, Toronto, and Edmonton. This asset based model guarantees that the equipment quoted is the equipment in stock. Direct ownership ensures competitive pricing, secure local invoicing, and the ability for clients to visit yards in person to inspect units. This commitment to transparency and reliability is backed by hundreds of 5 star Google reviews from customers across Ontario, Quebec, and Alberta.

Standardized online pricing rarely accounts for the primary variables that impact a final rental quote: delivery logistics and local inventory. Because transport fees are calculated based on the specific distance from major hubs like Toronto, Montreal, or Edmonton, a custom quote ensures the landed cost is accurate for the delivery site. Additionally, regional supply of specialized units fluctuates, and custom quotes allow for the most competitive market rate to be applied based on real-time availability.

Shipping container rental costs in Canada typically range from $90 to $300+ per month. This range is influenced by container size, specialized features, delivery location, and the duration of the rental. For example, standard 10-foot and 20-foot containers generally fall at the lower end of the pricing spectrum. Specialized units, such as climate-controlled enclosures or portable job site offices, command higher premiums, often starting at $750 per month due to the added value of the modifications and interior finishes.
Because every project involves unique logistical requirements, the most accurate method to determine cost is through a tailored quote reflecting local market availability. Most rental quote requests are reviewed and fulfilled within one business day, allowing for precise project planning and protection against unexpected pricing changes.

The total investment for a rental includes one-time service fees to cover the mobilization and return of the equipment. These consist of delivery and pickup fees, which generally range from $300 to $500 each, depending on the distance from the nearest regional depot.

Most rental agreements include a minimum commitment to account for the preparation and transport logistics involved. Agreements are typically structured around a 28 day or 4 week billing cycle, which ensures consistent invoicing every four weeks. While this duration varies by equipment type, with standard dry boxes offering more flexibility than highly modified offices, this structure provides the necessary scalability for temporary job sites, seasonal retail overflow, or short term renovation projects. This type of rental is also very practical for temporary storage at your event, show, pop-up, or festival site.