Red 40-foot container RAL 3020: ideal for XL food trucks and commercial shop windows
A red exterior gives the container a distinctive finish. Choose the colour to suit the surroundings and the intended use, and include any repainting in the quote. Local appearance requirements need checking for the individual site.
Price for 2026 and paint options
A red exterior gives the container a distinctive finish. Choose the colour to suit the surroundings and the intended use, and include any repainting in the quote. Local appearance requirements need checking for the individual site.
| Condition / Option | Price Excl. VAT | For what use |
|---|---|---|
| Original used (ex-Hapag-Lloyd 40') | £1,540 – £3,990 | Low-cost food truck, large construction site signage |
| Repainting on Grade A used | £2,544 – £5,040 | Eco-solution — base Grade A + professional paint job |
| Brand new custom RAL 3020 | £3,481 – £6,825 | Premium showcase, long-term mobile restaurant |
Excluding delivery. Used RAL 3020 = repainting on Grade A/B, expect £998 – £1,470 if not originally red.
RAL Code
RAL 3020
For whom?
Premium mobile restaurateurs (large kitchen + dining area), real estate agencies at building entrances (large window display), firefighters (heavy equipment), large-scale events (festivals, fairs). Colour does not remove local planning requirements. Check the proposed use, location, dimensions and appearance with the competent authority before ordering.
Key points
- XL format (28 m²) + RAL 3020 red = massive commercial signal
- Allows split kitchen + dining area within the same food truck container
- Available as original used from Hapag-Lloyd, K-Line
- Paint cost surcharge ~£263 – £473 vs blue in custom order
- Less UV resistance than blue/grey: expect UV varnish (+£210) in hot climates
The colour in detail
Look & origin
Red provides a distinctive finish for commerce, events or signage. The result depends on the chosen shade and finish.
Upkeep & durability
Durability depends on the coating system, surface preparation and exposure. A RAL code identifies a colour; ask for the technical data sheet and maintenance advice.
Uses & planning rules
Red can suit storage, work spaces and conversions when it matches the surroundings. Check local appearance requirements before placing a visible container.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a red 40-foot viable as a food truck (profitability)?+
A distinctive colour can support your visual identity. Footfall and profitability depend on the location, offer and audience; assess the project without assuming a guaranteed return. Ask for written warranty terms, including duration, covered parts and exclusions. Indicative amounts to confirm in the quote: £735 – £1,050.
How much does repainting a blue 40' to RAL 3020 cost?+
At professional applicator: £1,155 – £1,470 (40 feet = 2x surface of 20 feet). Red requires 3 coats on dark blue base (vs 2 coats for grey or white). Self-application: £525 – £735 materials (polyurethane paint 24 L + anti-drip roller).
Is the red high cube (HC) available in stock or as a special order?+
For standard 40 feet: original used available (Hapag-Lloyd). For high cube 40 feet: very rare in used red (ex-K-Line especially). Colour availability and lead time depend on the seller, required condition and any repainting. Have stock and the delivery date confirmed in the quote.
Doesn't red make it look too "food truck cheap" for gastro premium?+
2022+ trend reversal: gastro mobiles use matte red (RAL 3020 finish mat) or dark red (RAL 3005) for a "lacquered Citroën DS" effect. Request polyurethane finish (~+£53) in the quote to avoid kitsch shine. RAL 3020 glossy remains relevant for relaxed street food.
Is red an original colour or a repaint?+
RAL 3020 is almost always a full repaint: containers do not leave the factory red. Budget a surcharge of £735 – £1,155 for a 20ft (more for a 40ft), including blasting and priming.
Does red fade quickly?+
Faster than blue or grey: red pigments resist UV less well. A UV-resistant varnish finish and a gentle yearly wash markedly extend the colour. Durability depends on the coating system, surface preparation and exposure. A RAL code identifies a colour; ask for the technical data sheet and maintenance advice.
Receive up to 5 quotes subject to supplier availability
Your request may be sent to up to 5 matching partners, subject to availability. Quote numbers and timing depend on suppliers; confirm their terms in writing.