07/19/2026
Renting vs. Buying a Shipping Container: Which is Right for You?
Whether you're a farmer needing to lock up seed and equipment for the season, a local business running out of warehouse space, or a homeowner tackling a major remodel, keeping your gear right on your own property is a game-changer.
At Route 40 Equipment Rental, we carry a rotating stock of over 30 units right here in Effingham, including 20’, 40’, and 45’ options in both brand-new (1-trip) and affordable used conditions.
If you're trying to decide whether to rent or buy, here is a quick, honest breakdown of how the two options stack up.
Why Renting Might Be Your Best Bet (20’ & 40’ Units)
Renting is all about flexibility and keeping your upfront costs as low as possible.
Keep Your Cash Flow: You get heavy-duty storage delivered to your property immediately without tying up a bunch of capital.
Perfect for Temporary Projects: If you only need a box for a few months—like a seasonal harvest or a home renovation—renting means it’s there when you need it, and gone when you don’t.
Zero Maintenance Hassles: We handle the upkeep of the container, so you don't have to worry about a thing.
Tax Perks for Businesses: Rental payments are usually 100% tax-deductible as an operational expense.
Why Buying Makes Sense for the Long Haul (20’, 40’, & 45’ New & Used)
If you know you’re going to need storage for the next few years, buying is almost always the cheapest route over time.
It Pays for Itself: Stop paying a monthly bill. Once it’s paid for, you have free storage for decades.
Free Local Delivery: If you buy a sales box from us, delivery is completely free within 60 miles of Effingham. That saves you a massive upfront expense right out of the gate.
Make It Your Own: When you own the box, you can modify it however you want. Install shelving, put in a workbench, cut in a roll-up door, or paint it to match your barns or outbuildings.
More Sizes & Styles: Buying gives you access to our entire yard, including our extra-large 45’ units, in both clean, new condition or rugged, budget-friendly used condition.
Stuck in the Middle? Try Rent-to-Own
If you want to own your container down the road but don't want to shell out the full purchase price today, our Rent-to-Own program is the perfect middle ground.
You get the container delivered immediately, your monthly payments go toward eventually owning it, and there are no rigid credit checks or long-term traps holding you down. It’s entirely on your terms.
Come Pick Yours Out
Because we keep over 30 units on hand, you don’t have to guess what you’re getting. You can check out our stock, look at the difference between a new and used box, and pick the exact one that's going to sit on your property.
Get in touch with Route 40 Equipment Rental today to see what we have ready to roll this week!
Call or Text: 217-500-1690
Email: [email protected]