Shipping Containers for Sale in Cincinnati, Ohio

Types of Shipping Containers Available in Cincinnati

We offer standard and specialty containers for buyers in Cincinnati. Let’s take a look at each to understand the differences and best use cases.

Standard shipping containers

20-foot standard containers (new or used)

These are a popular choice for smaller storage needs, workshops, or as a component in modular designs. Their smaller size makes them easier to transport and place in areas with limited space, such as Cincinnati’s urban environments, backyards, or construction sites. They are available in two conditions: new and used.

Key Features of new 20ft standard containers : Marine-grade plywood flooring, forklift pockets for easy handling, lockbox-ready for enhanced security, and it comes with a 10-year warranty.

40-foot standard  containers (used)

40-foot containers, on the other hand, provide twice the space, making them ideal for projects that require greater capacity. They are frequently used for large-scale storage or commercial spaces in Cincinnati such as retail shops, cafés, or even for shipping and agricultural uses. They are Wind and Water Tight (WWT), ISO certified, and come with a 1-year warranty.

40 ft high cube containers (New or Used)

Great option for storing taller items or for creating more spacious and comfortable interiors. It’s especially helpful if you need more room for things like shelves, equipment, or even to create a cozy living or working space inside the container.

Specialty containers in Cincinnati, Ohio

For projects that need something other than a standard container, Viva Containers offers specialty options in Cincinnati. From extra height to easy access, our high cube (20ft), open side, and double door containers are designed to meet whatever your unique project needs. Let’s explore how these containers can work for you.

High cube containers (20ft)

The 20ft high cube containers are one foot taller than a standard 20ft shipping container. This extra height makes them ideal for storing taller items or creating more spacious, comfortable interiors.

Open side containers

If you’ve ever struggled to fit something wide or awkwardly shaped into a regular shipping container, you’re going to appreciate what side-opening containers bring to the table. Unlike standard containers that only open at one end, side-opening containers open along the entire length of one side. This means way easier access when loading or unloading goods, oversized furniture, or anything that doesn’t quite fit through a narrow doorway.

At Viva Containers, we offer two options of open side containers: the 20 ft. open side shipping container and the 40 ft. high cube open side container, both of them ISO certified and stackable.

20 ft. Open Side Shipping Container:

• Weatherproof and rodent-resistant
• Durable, reinforced flooring built to handle heavy items

40 ft. High Cube Open Side container:

• Extra height (9’6”)
• Reinforced floors, secure locks

Where can a full open-side container come in handy? For commercial uses like pop-up restaurants or shops, where the entire shipping container can be transformed into a display or service stall, or when the inventory that needs to be stored is too bulky for standard doors. In short, these containers aren’t just practical; they can totally change the game for events, business setups, or even creative builds.

Double door (tunnel) containers

When convenient access matters, double door containers, also called tunnel containers, are also a game-changer. With cargo doors on both ends, you get flexible entry and exit points, which makes it ideal for everything from drive-through setups to creating two separate storage zones inside a single unit.At Viva Containers, we offer both 20 ft. and 40 ft. high cube double door options. Here are their prominent features:

20ft Double Door (Tunnel) Container:

• Built-in forklift pockets for smooth handling
• Weather-sealed and ready for any environment
• Great choice for: dual-entry storage, compact workshops, or quick loading/unloading from either side

40ft High Cube Double Door Container:

• Extra height (9’6”) for bulkier items
• Durable, weather-resistant CORTEN steel construction
• Weatherproof seals on both ends
• Best for large-scale storage, sectioned layouts, and spaces where frequent
  access is a must.

Still not sure which one’s the right fit for your Cincinnati project? Our experts are just a call or message away, ready to help you pick the perfect container based on your budget, available space, and project plans.

Condition of Containers in Cincinnati

As you have probably noticed, some of the shipping containers come in two conditions: new and used. When selecting a shipping container, choosing the right condition to best fit your needs is one of the most important steps. Here’s what you can expect from both options:

• New containers: Though they come at a higher price, their pristine appearance and excellent condition make them perfect for those who want a clean, well-maintained container. Whether for aesthetic reasons or long-term use, new containers are a great investment. That’s the reason why they come with a 10-year warranty.
• Used containers: Used shipping containers have their advantages too. They offer a cost-effective solution without compromising on quality. It’s true that these containers have been used before and may show cosmetic imperfections such as dents, scratches, or surface rust, but they still provide excellent storage solutions and come in handy for various building projects. At Viva Containers, every used container is carefully inspected to ensure it’s wind and watertight (WWT), so your items stay safe and secure. That’s why they come with a 1-year warranty.

Why Are More People in Cincinnati Turning to Shipping Containers?

If you're in Cincinnati and looking for a smart, flexible solution for storage, workspace, or even living space, shipping containers might just be the perfect fit. There are several reasons to prove it:

Endless Possibilities

Shipping containers are surprisingly versatile. In Cincinnati, they’re being repurposed for just about everything: secure storage for personal belongings, storage for construction materials, or business inventory. They are being converted into mobile workshops for DIY projects or crafts and even retail pop-ups or office spaces for entrepreneurs looking to save on rent.

Thinking even bigger? Many are transforming containers into stylish tiny homes or backyard guest suites. On farms, they’re used to safely store feed, tools, or even as climate-controlled crop-growing environments. What makes them so appealing is how easily they can be modified - when you start with a container, your project is only limited by your imagination.

Built to Last, Ready for Cincinnati Weather

Originally designed to handle rough sea voyages, shipping containers are incredibly durable. In Cincinnati’s unpredictable weather - snow, rain, blazing heat - they stand strong and protect whatever’s inside. They're wind- and water-tight, built from solid CORTEN steel, and made to resist corrosion. Plus, their sturdy build provides excellent protection from theft or vandalism, whether you're storing valuable equipment or building out a cozy space.

More Affordable Than Alternatives

One of the biggest reasons people choose containers? Cost. Compared to traditional construction, buying and modifying a shipping container is often far more affordable, especially for things like mobile offices, workshops, or storage units. Whether you're a homeowner or a business owner, it’s a smart investment that delivers long-term value.

Shipping container rules in Cincinnati, Ohio

Even if you’re confident in your decision to buy a shipping container in Cincinnati and are ready to move forward, it’s worth pausing for a moment. There are a few key rules that every Cincinnati resident should be aware of to ensure the placement of a container is legal and compliant. Here’s a brief overview of the most important regulations to keep in mind and what the process of purchasing a shipping container in Cincinnati will look like:

1.Building Permit

In Cincinnati, you must obtain a permit for almost any shipping container placed on your property, whether it is for storage or as a dwelling. This applies to both temporary and permanent uses, but the requirements are stricter for permanent installations, especially if the container is to be used as a home or office. Permit fees and approval timelines vary by project size and complexity. Expect the review process to take 4–6 weeks or more.

2. Industrialized Unit (IU) Program

If the container is modified off-site (e.g., with plumbing, electrical, or interior finishes), it will be regulated as an “industrialized unit.” This requires additional documentation and compliance with specific engineering and material standards.

3. Inspections

After permit approval, city inspectors will check the container at various stages- foundation, structure, utilities- to ensure all work matches approved plans and codes.

4. Neighborhood Variation

Zoning rules can vary significantly by neighborhood. Some areas may prohibit shipping containers altogether, while others allow them with restrictions. Always check with the city’s zoning office for your specific address.

5. Setbacks and Placement

The container’s location on your property must meet all setback requirements (distance from property lines) and may not exceed maximum lot coverage or height limits. For example, in residential single-family zones, front setbacks typically range from 15 to 25 feet from the street-facing property line, while side setbacks can be 5 to 10 feet, and rear setbacks are often 15 to 25 feet. In multi-family or commercial zones, setbacks may be less restrictive but still apply.

In short, it's important to understand the wide array of regulations and restrictions that can apply to shipping containers in Cincinnati. Whether you're looking to use one for storage, as a temporary structure, or for a more permanent living solution, it's essential to ensure that you're following the proper guidelines. Always consult the city's Cininnati Building and Inspections Department and Zoning Office for the most accurate and up-to-date information, and make sure to verify local township rules.

Why Buy Your Container from Viva Containers in Cincinnati?

At Viva Containers, we know that when it comes to choosing a shipping container, quality and service matter. That’s why we’ve made it easy for people across Cincinnati to get exactly what they need, with confidence.

Guaranteed quality: We offer a 10-year warranty on all new containers, and for used units, you’ll get a full-year warranty along with a thorough inspection to ensure everything is wind and water tight.

Need it fast? We’ve got you covered with quick delivery to Cincinnati and surrounding areas; you can expect your shipping container on site in 2-5 days. And if you're equipped to handle the delivery yourself, we also offer pickup options.

Explore Container Options Near Cincinnati and Nationwide

Didn’t spot the right container for you here? Check out our offers in nearby areas and throughout the US.:

• Buy Shipping Containers in Louisville
• Buy Shipping Containers in Indianapolis
• Shipping Containers for Sale in Dallas, Texas
• USA Shipping Containers for Sale - New & Used