One-trip high cube: new appearance, 30 cm extra height, reduced price
The high cube one-trip has been factory-fresh for a single maritime journey from Asia to Europe (3-6 weeks), resold at the depot upon arrival. You get the extra 30 cm of interior height, near-pristine paintwork, apitong flooring without stains, and savings of 10-15% compared to new high cube containers. The dominant quality-to-price ratio for 70% of amateur shipping container home projects.
Price 2026 by status
The high cube one-trip has been factory-fresh for a single maritime journey from Asia to Europe (3-6 weeks), resold at the depot upon arrival. You get the extra 30 cm of interior height, near-pristine paintwork, apitong flooring without stains, and savings of 10-15% compared to new high cube containers. The dominant quality-to-price ratio for 70% of amateur shipping container home projects.
| Status | Price Excl. VAT | For what use |
|---|---|---|
| Standard one-trip high cube | €4,200 – €4,800 | Shipping container house, converted, high cube workshop |
| One-trip high cube with pre-made openings | 4 600 € – 5 400 € | Accelerated conversion, shipping container cottage, office |
Excluding delivery. Watertight warranty 12-24 months according to supplier (vs 5 years by manufacturer on new).
For whom?
Shipping container home self-builder, architect for garden studio, rural holiday cottage extension. You want to convert (cut, insulate, drill) without paying the 5-year guarantee of a new high cube container that you will cancel anyway with your first cut. The one-trip high cube is the economic optimum.
Key points to remember
- Guaranteed interior height of 2.69 m, identical to new high cube
- Original paint intact (RAL 5010 or 7016 most common)
- Current-year CSC plate, valid for re-export
- Apitong flooring 28 mm without moisture stains
- Savings of €400-€800 vs new high cube container, near-identical visual quality
Frequently Asked Questions
One-trip high cube vs new high cube: visible difference?+
At two metres distance, indistinguishable. On closer inspection, the one-trip may have 1-2 micro-scratches on the longitudinal beams (friction from cargo handling in the hold), invisible after installation. The price difference of €800 is justified solely by the five-year warranty of new.
How many one-trip units arrive each month in Europe?+
Felixstowe receives 200-400 HC one-trips per month (first UK port), Southampton 100-200, London Gateway 80-150, regional UK ports 20-50. Off-season (Jan-Feb), volumes halved. Anticipate a lead time of 2-3 weeks if you aim for a specific colour.
Is the apitong floor of a one-trip HC safe?+
Yes, at 95%: single loading/unloading cycle, factory insecticide treatment still active. Inspect interior corners (residual moisture zones) and smell (formaldehyde from treatment dissipates in 12-24 months). For habitable use, cover with a technical floor.
What transport to plan for a one-trip HC delivery?+
Crane truck mandatory (tractor 14-20 m). Total height 2.90 m + 30 cm deck = 3.20 m clearance. Check bridges, branches, overhead cables over 22 m access route. Delivery cost €400-1 100 depending on distance and zone (urban centre = +30%).
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