the cost of a new container, $1,000 to $4,000 depending on the size

It used to be really cheap, but it might not be anymore. AS recently as 2000, they were usually just scrapped because it was cheaper to make a new one. I don't know if that changed.

I purchased a "ConX" shipping container in Memphis about 5 years ago for storage at work. Used, it cost $1500.00, and they delivered.

My buddy bought a huge storage container for right around $1000 (so he said). Depending on the size, im sure they can be more than that.

I think you can buy them on Ebay for 1 or 2K

Why buy one of those big turds when you can buy scrap metal and build one cheaper? In case you didn't know, the tops are one piece..well they go to the places they build them that way with two doors. They lift the top up, set it on the doors then add walls piece by peice. Scrap metal is currently going for around 5 cents per pound. Used storage buildings can be bought for as little as 5 cents per pound (price of scrap)..but the shipping will be the most expensive part unless you build your own trailer wheels to go under them then tow it yourself. They come on lengths from 8 feet to 60 feet..or even longer, but they have almost zero insulation and the walls leak like a sieve unless you seal them yourself. Once used well they go through hell..Just try to avoid containers that have been in heavy seas.. They'll have rust holes galore. The floors are wood, almost always untreated plywood.. Buy, around $1000...build? Much cheaper.. depending on where you get the steel, your skills in welding, etc.. I used to paint new buildings.. It took me 4 hours to paint inside and out of a 60 footer using a spray rig in a converted autobody booth. I painted 2 every day while the "other painter" if you could call him a painter took 8 hours to paint one 40 footer. ;)

I suggest you contact Portable of Demand (POD): http://www.pods.com/