In Los Angeles, where innovation meets style at every corner, shipping containers have become incredibly popular and are in high demand. If you're an Angeleno who needs a container for a dream project, then you are in the right place: Viva Containers can become your trusted partner. We'll walk you through the entire process, and you can consider this guide your first step- we'll cover everything you need to know about buying shipping containers, including the local rules and permits you should be aware of.

New Shipping Containers for Sale in Los Angeles

New 20ft Shipping Container

New 40ft High Cube Shipping Container

Used Shipping Containers for Sale in Los Angeles

Used 20ft Shipping Container [Cargo Worthy]

Used 40ft High Cube Shipping Container [Cargo Worthy]

Used 40ft Shipping Container [Cargo Worthy]

Special Shipping Containers for Sale in Los Angeles

New 20ft Double Door Shipping Container

New 20ft High Cube Shipping Container

New 20ft Open Side Shipping Container

New 40ft Double Door High Cube Shipping Container

New 40ft Open Side High Cube Shipping Container

Viva Containers in Los Angeles

From creative entrepreneurs to construction managers, Viva Containers has something to offer. Let’s explore our options:

Standard shipping containers

The 20ft and 40ft standard containers are our most popular options. Perfect for general storage, mobile offices, or build-outs, these containers are versatile, weatherproof, and built to last. 5 types of standard containers are available:

  • 20 ft standard shipping container - new (one-trip) - Made from rust-resistant CORTEN steel and marine-grade flooring.
  • 20 ft standard shipping container- used- They are wind- and water-tight (WWT) and ISO certified.
  • 40 ft standard shipping container - used - They come as Wind and Water Tight (WWT) or Cargo Worthy (CW), ISO Certified
  • 40ft High Cube - Great for modular construction or converting into live/work units. Available in new or used condition

Specialized shipping containers for unique LA projects

Los Angeles isn’t an average city and your project is neither. We understand that this city is defined by its boundless creativity which often demands solutions as unique as its projects. That's why we offer a specialized shipping containers to meet unique requirements.

For example, do you need more vertical space for your artistic installation or extra headroom in your future studio? Then, high cube containers should be your choice, as they offer an additional foot of height. If you want better access to the containers, then you should think about getting open side containers or double door ones.

20ft high cube containers

The increased vertical clearance complements the marine-grade plywood floor, secure cargo doors, forklift pockets, and lockbox compatibility, making them ideal for oversized item storage, container modifications, workshop or studio builds, and both residential and commercial use.

Open side containers

Los Angeles loves presentation. Whether it’s art, pop-up shops, or food trucks, how things look and are presented really matters here, and that’s exactly where our open side containers shine. Unlike regular containers that open only at the back, open side containers have full-length side doors that swing wide open. This means not only easier loading and unloading for you but also better visibility. And if you’re using it commercially, these containers definitely won’t let you down.

Available in:

  • 20ft Open Side
  • 40ft High Cube Open Side

They feature reinforced flooring for heavy loads, are weatherproof and rodent-resistant, ISO-certified, and are stackable.

Container Delivery Service In Los Angeles, CA and beyond 

Getting your container where it needs to be takes coordination, and we make it effortless. Your unit will arrive at any California address within 2–5 business days via our purpose-built tilt-bed trucks. There's no need for special equipment on your end. Simply provide a clear, reachable location for placement, and leave the rest to us. Here's what you should know for a smooth delivery process.

Our delivery requirements for Los Angeles

Viva Containers handles all freight arrangements and brings your container directly to your location. It's that easy.

To ensure a trouble-free drop-off, prepare a level area with adequate space for our delivery vehicle to maneuver, and make certain there aren't any overhead barriers like power lines or overhanging branches. Before your shipment goes out, our team confirms site access to prevent any complications.

Check out our Buyer's Guide for detailed delivery specifications. After you've placed your order, we take care of every logistical step so you can focus on what's important – executing your project successfully.

Serving all of California 

Our delivery network reaches all major metropolitan areas and neighborhoods throughout California, including regular deliveries to:

  • Los Angeles, CA – ZIP codes 90001–91609
  • Burbank, CA – ZIP codes 91501–91523
  • Santa Monica, CA – ZIP codes 90401–90411
  • Inglewood, CA – ZIP codes 90301–90312
  • Huntington Park, CA – ZIP codes 90255–90263
  • Downey, CA – ZIP codes 90239–90242

These are just our few examples. We deliver to all of the California region, and we always dispatch from the closest facility to minimize your shipping costs and expedite your delivery timeframe.

More depot near Los Angeles

Your ideal container might be waiting in a nearby area. See available  nearby depots: 

These regional depots help us coordinate cost-effective freight routes and flexible delivery options across California, Arizona, and Utah.

Explore our full USA shipping container depot list.

Why LA Is a Hotspot for Shipping Container Innovation

Los Angeles is no stranger to innovation, and shipping containers are becoming a central part of the city’s creative infrastructure. In a city where space is at a premium and the weather can be unpredictable, containers offer secure and adaptable storage. But their utility goes even further: shipping containers are being used as houses. This is largely due to rising housing costs, making shipping containers appealing for creating backyard guest units, eco-friendly tiny homes, or even big houses with multiple containers.

Nowadays, you can see shipping containers transformed into fashion boutiques, food stalls, art galleries, coffee bars, and restaurants in Los Angeles. So, it’s evident that the shipping container can become a great solution in many cases; it all depends on your vision, and to prove this point, let’s look at one real-life example of how shipping containers can be used: Boxpark LA.

Boxpark, LA - Shipping Container Project

Boxpark is a community hub built with shipping containers

Boxpark LA exemplifies how Los Angeles has embraced the innovative use of shipping containers in urban development. Drawing inspiration from the original Boxpark in London's Shoreditch, which opened in 2011 as the world's first pop-up mall constructed from 60 repurposed shipping containers, Boxpark LA reimagines these modular units as dynamic spaces for retail, dining, and cultural events.

The concept behind Boxpark is to utilize shipping containers to create vibrant community hubs. These structures are not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly, as they repurpose existing materials. This approach allows for the creation of spaces that can adapt to the changing needs of the community, hosting a variety of businesses and events.

Los Angeles's use of container developments like Boxpark LA highlights the city's focus on innovative and sustainable city planning. These projects give local businesses, artists, and food sellers a unique place to showcase their work, building community and teamwork.

So, when you see Boxpark LA and similar projects popping up across the city, you're witnessing more than just architecture. You're seeing the exciting potential of modular design being used to create cool city spaces that are lively, open to everyone, and good for the environment.

What Are the Rules for Using Shipping Containers in Los Angeles?

Shipping containers can be used in Los Angeles for various purposes, including storage, commercial, and residential applications, but their use is strictly regulated by local zoning laws, building codes, and permit processes. The rules differ depending on whether the container is used for incidental storage, or as a temporary or permanent structure.

Storage:

  • A "Use of Land Permit" is required for each lot where a container is used for storage. There are associated plan check and permit fees
  • Containers must not block required exits, open spaces, windows, vent shafts, or required parking spaces.
  • Only one container (max. 400 sq. ft.) is allowed per 5,000 sq. ft. of lot area. Each container cannot exceed 10 ft in height, 10 ft in width, and 40 ft in length.
  • Stacking or joining containers is not permitted.
  • Containers must only have an access door opening, no additional wall openings

Temporary storage (public right-of-way)

  • Permits: Companies must obtain an annual encroachment permit to place temporary storage containers on the public right-of-way. There are issuance, processing, and annual permit fees.

Permanent structures (residential or commercial use)

Shipping containers used as permanent buildings or homes must comply with the Los Angeles County Building Code and may require approval as "Alternate Materials and Methods of Construction," since the code lacks specific provisions for shipping containers.

  • A building permit and detailed plans are mandatory.
  • Zoning (residential, commercial, and industrial) and regulations like setbacks and visibility apply.
  • Permanent utilities (water, electricity, gas) can only be installed if the container is part of a fully permitted structure.

For detailed information, please visit the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS) website.

Why Choose Viva Containers in LA?

There are several reasons to choose Viva Containers:

  • Fast Delivery: Most orders are delivered within 2–5 days across LA.
  • Pick-Up Option: Prefer to handle transportation yourself? No problem – we offer easy pick-up options.
  • Guaranteed Quality: All containers are wind- and watertight. New units include a 10-year warranty, and used ones include a 1-year warranty.

FAQ: Shipping Containers in LA 

Viva Containers in Los Angeles typically offers a relatively quick delivery timeframe, with most orders being delivered within approximately 2 to 5 days across the LA area.

Viva Containers in Los Angeles offers a selection of both standard and specialized shipping containers. Our standard options include:new (one-trip) 2oft , used 20ft  and used 40ft containers.
For more unique projects, we provide high cube containers for extra height (20ft, 40 ft), open side containers for easy access (20ft, 40ft high cube), and double door containers (20 ft, 40 ft high cube) for access from both ends.

No, the prices displayed for shipping containers from Viva Containers in Los Angeles do not include taxes and delivery fees. To get an accurate and exact quote that includes these additional costs, you will need to visit the specific product page you are interested in and enter your zip code.

If you intend to use a shipping container for incidental storage on your property in Los Angeles, you will need to obtain a "Use of Land Permit" for each lot. This permit comes with associated plan check and permit fees that you will need to consider. Additionally, there are specific regulations regarding the placement and size of storage containers to ensure they do not obstruct essential areas.

Yes, Viva Containers understands that some customers in Los Angeles may prefer to handle the transportation of their purchased shipping container themselves and offers convenient pick-up options. If you choose this option, you can arrange to pick up your container directly from the depot in the Los Angeles area. It's recommended to coordinate the pick-up details and schedule with Viva Containers after your purchase to ensure a smooth process.

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