Shipping Containers for Sale in Tacoma, Washington

As Tacoma continues to grow and change, so does the need for smart, affordable storage and building solutions. That’s why shipping containers, once just for transport, are now being used in all kinds of creative ways. Thinking about one for your next project? Viva Containers is here to help. Below, we’ll cover the container options available, how people in Tacoma are using them, and the local regulations you should know, to make your container-buying journey as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Buy New Shipping Containers

New 20ft Shipping Container

New 40ft High Cube Shipping Container

Buy Used Shipping Containers

Used 20ft Shipping Container [Cargo Worthy]

Used 40ft High Cube Shipping Container [Cargo Worthy]

Used 40ft Shipping Container [Cargo Worthy]

Buy Special Containers

New 20ft Double Door Shipping Container

New 20ft Open Side Shipping Container

New 40ft Double Door High Cube Shipping Container

New 40ft Open Side High Cube Shipping Container

Shipping Container Conditions in Tacoma

If you’re thinking about getting a shipping container, one of the first things you’ll need to decide is whether to go with a new or used one and It really comes down to what you’re using it for and what matters most to you- looks, budget, or long-term durability. Let’s break down key features of each so you can figure out what works best for your Tacoma project.

New shipping containers

Our new shipping containers are in the best condition. They offer the highest level of durability and security, making them ideal for long-term use. This is proved by a 10-year warranty.

Used shipping containers

Our used shipping containers provide a more budget-friendly option without compromising on structural integrity. These containers have been previously used for shipping cargo but are still in good condition. Each of the used containers is checked thoroughly to make sure everything functions properly, the floor has no issues, and the door handles are not damaged. 

Shipping Container Types in Tacoma

Standard shipping containers 

If you’re planning to  open a shop near the Port, add storage at home, or dive into a personal project, standard containers are a simple, reliable solution for just about anything in Tacoma. Let’s look at our options:

20ft Shipping Container - New (One-Trip)

Made from durable CORTEN steel and equipped with marine-grade floors, these containers are built to handle Tacoma’s damp conditions without rusting or leaking. With a 10-year warranty, lockbox compatibility, and forklift pockets for easy placement, this is a great choice for those who want a secure, long-term solution.

20ft Shipping Container – Used
If you're looking for a more budget-friendly storage solution, our used 20ft containers are the perfect fit. With over 1,160 cubic feet of space, these units are ready to use and come with a 1-year warranty. They are ISO Certified and Wind & Water Tight (WWT), making them ideal for storing tools, inventory, or seasonal items.

40ft Shipping Container – Used
For larger needs, our used 40ft containers deliver twice the space and the same protection. They're ideal for construction storage, creative builds, or just housing everything you’d rather keep out of the weather. Like all our used containers, they’re ISO certified, wind- and water-tight, and ready to handle Tacoma’s wet seasons.

40ft High Cube Container

With over 2,700 cubic feet of space, these containers provide maximum storage capacity and robust structural integrity for demanding applications. Ideal for container homes, warehousing solutions, and large-scale industrial or agricultural storage.

Specialty shipping containers for unique projects

Tacoma isn’t just a port city; it’s a place full of artists and entrepreneurs. If you're one of them, building something unique like a pop-up shop, workshop, or custom space- a standard container might not quite cut it. That’s where our specialty containers come in, designed for extra space, easier access, and more flexibility.

High cube containers (20ft)

These 20ft HC containers are a foot taller than the standard 20-feet ones, which means they are great solution if you’ve got taller items to store or want a bit more headspace for a workshop or living space.

20ft high cube container features durable marine-grade flooring, convenient forklift pockets, and compatibility with lockboxes for enhanced security. Their versatility makes them popular for workshop conversions, oversized equipment storage, and residential building projects.

Double door shipping containers

Double door shipping containers feature doors at both ends, offering convenient access and improved workflow, particularly useful for storage or as temporary tunnels. 

  • 20ft Double Door (Tunnel) Container: Equipped with dual lockable cargo doors, forklift pockets, and weatherproof seals, making it ideal for drive-through loading, dual-use storage, or workshop conversions.
  • 40ft High Cube Double Door Container: Offers lockable cargo doors on both ends, forklift pockets, and weatherproof CORTEN steel. Best suited for high-volume storage, partitioned layouts, or frequent-access setups.

Container Delivery Services in Tacoma, WA and Nearby Locations

Viva Containers makes receiving your storage container straightforward. Our reliable transport service covers all of Washington, with deliveries typically completed in 2–5 business days. We use purpose-built tilt-bed vehicles that don't require any special machinery on your end – simply prepare the drop-off spot, and we'll take care of the rest.

Site preparation for container drop-off in Tacoma

To ensure smooth delivery, you'll need to arrange a flat, even surface with enough room for our vehicle to access and offload. Check the area above for potential obstructions like tree limbs, power lines, or building overhangs that might interfere with placement. Our crew will assess site conditions before your container arrives.

For detailed setup instructions, check out our Buyer's Guide. After you complete your purchase, we coordinate everything from scheduling to final positioning.

Statewide coverage in Washington

We serve every corner of Washington, with frequent deliveries to:

  • Lakewood, WA – Zip code 98498
  • Puyallup, WA – Zip code 98371
  • University Place, WA – Zip code 98466
  • Federal Way, WA – Zip code 98003
  • Fife, WA – Zip code 98424
  • Steilacoom, WA – Zip code 98388
  • Spanaway, WA – Zip code 98387

These locations are just an example of the areas we serve. Regardless of your Washington address, Viva Containers ships from the closest facility to keep transportation expenses and wait times as low as possible.

Discover container deals near Tacoma

Can’t find the perfect container? Check out our offers in neighboring cities, states, and across the USA:

What does Viva Containers offer in Tacoma?

Viva Containers is dedicated to providing Tacoma customers with more than just shipping containers; we offer comprehensive solutions and a commitment to a smooth and satisfactory experience.

Wide Selection

We understand that the needs of our Tacoma customers are varied. Whether you require a standard container for basic storage or a specialized container for a unique project, our extensive inventory ensures you'll find the perfect fit.

Seamless Delivery or Pickup Option

Viva Containers offers flexible options for receiving your purchased container in Tacoma. We can arrange reliable and efficient delivery directly to your site, with delivery typically taking 2-5 days. Alternatively, you have the option to pick up your container from our designated depot. We will coordinate with you to ensure a smooth and convenient process, regardless of your chosen method.

Warranty for both new and used Containers

Our new containers come with a 10-year warranty, and even our used containers are backed by a 1-year warranty. Every unit is carefully inspected to ensure it meets our strict quality standards, and we guarantee its structural integrity and seaworthiness. 

How are Shipping Containers Used in Tacoma?

Nestled on the shores of Puget Sound, Tacoma, Washington, is a vital Pacific Northwest hub with one of the West Coast’s busiest ports, handling a high volume of international cargo. Shipping containers flow through the city for various purposes—from distribution and storage to creative uses like container pop-up shops and workspaces. Here’s how you can put them to use locally—whether for housing, business, or beyond.

In housing and accommodation:

Throughout Tacoma, sturdy, compact container homes are offering affordable housing options—from Hilltop and the Eastside to quieter residential areas—while new developments near downtown are stacking and combining units into modern apartment complexes. Shipping containers are also widely used as guest suites, adding extra living space to existing properties.

Commercial and business applications:

On the commercial side, shipping containers have become a favorite for pop-up shops thanks to how easy they are to set up and relocate, perfect for temporary or mobile businesses. They’re also being transformed into restaurants, cafes, offices, workshops, and creative studios, offering flexible and cost-effective spaces for entrepreneurs and professionals. Even in farming, containers are making an impact. Vertical farms are emerging as a way to support fresh food access in urban areas, showing how these structures can serve both practical and sustainable purposes.
Across the city, contractors and small businesses rely on containers for secure, weatherproof storage, which is especially useful for protecting valuable tools in Tacoma’s famously rainy climate.

Coffee in a Cargo Box: Tacoma’s Shipping Container Starbucks

Coffee shop built with shipping containers

We can find an eye-catching real-world example of using shipping containers beyond their traditional use in Tacoma. It is the Starbucks drive-thru located at 3401 South 23rd Street. This compact store was constructed entirely from recycled shipping containers, reflecting the company’s commitment to sustainable design and modular construction. It also stands as a strong example of how even a global coffee chain can embrace modular design and sustainability. Far from being just a design experiment, the Tacoma store became a symbol of Starbucks’ broader shift toward innovative, low-footprint retail spaces.

Shipping Container Regulations in Tacoma

In Tacoma, shipping container regulations are outlined in the city's municipal code and recent amendments. Key points include:

  • Permissibility: Shipping containers are generally allowed in industrial districts and as temporary uses in other districts. Recent amendments aim to expand their use in commercial and residential districts, subject to specific standards and permits.
  • Commercial Districts: Containers can be permitted with a Conditional Use Permit, provided they meet regulations such as location behind the main building and screening from rights-of-way or residential areas. They cannot be stacked and must be set back at least 5 feet from property lines.
  • Residential Districts: Containers may be allowed with a conditional use permit if appropriately screened, typically with a solid fence at least 6 feet tall, and located behind the main building. They cannot be placed between the building and the street unless as a temporary use.
  • Location and Screening: Containers must be screened from residential districts and located behind the main building, with restrictions on stacking and setbacks. Screening often involves fencing or landscaping, and placement standards vary depending on district size and type.

Overall, Tacoma is moving toward more flexible regulations for shipping containers, emphasizing screening, setback requirements, and conditional use permits to ensure compatibility with surrounding use. For more information, please visit: cityoftacoma.org

Tacoma Shipping Containers FAQ

Most deliveries within the Tacoma area are completed within 2 to 5 business days after purchase. Our team works efficiently to ensure prompt and safe delivery to your site.

Yes, Viva Containers can often provide modification services for shipping containers in Tacoma. This can include adding doors, windows, insulation, electrical wiring, ventilation, and more. Please contact us with your specific modification requirements for a custom quote.

 

We offer various delivery options in Tacoma, including flatbed truck delivery and tilt-bed truck delivery. The cost of delivery depends on several factors, such as the size of the container, the distance to your location, and any specific site access requirements. Please
provide your address for an accurate delivery quote.

Yes, many people do! However, for permanent installations, you’ll need to comply with local building codes. This may include obtaining permits, adding a foundation, and following specific zoning requirements.

Happy Customers


Need some help?

Chat with us

Get live support and answers to any of your container questions.

Give us a call

Our shipping container experts are here to help you find the right solution.

Send an Inquiry

Send us your questions and we’ll get back to you shortly.