Shipping Containers
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Shipping containers are durable, all-weather steel containers that have a wide range of uses beyond simply transporting goods from A to B. In fact, the majority of shipping containers are not used for freight, but are used for static storage. These containers are highly versatile units that can be customised to suit whatever it is you need securely stored. They can be used for everything from document archiving to temporary office space.
Shipping Container Designs
Because of their use in international freight, almost all shipping containers are of a uniform size that allows them to be easily stacked. Dimensions of each container are generally 8’ wide and 8’6” high, and you can choose between a length of 20’ or 40’.
Shipping containers are made from heavy duty corrugated steel that is resistant to weather and fire. Joints and plates are welded to ensure that the contents are totally sealed from the elements and from pests. The container is floored with inch-thick ply wood that can support huge amounts of pressure, so you need not worry about the weight of the items you want to store inside. The containers themselves weigh between 1 and 2.5 tonnes – if you are looking to stack them, you will also need to investigate hiring a fairly heavy duty forklift or perhaps even a crane. Bear this in mind when choosing the site for your shipping container, because you will need a lot more space than simply the area of the container itself.
Access to the shipping container is via doors at one or both ends, or occasionally panel doors in the middle of the container. All doors are secured with interior interlocking bars (the sort used to lock bank vaults), so even the most determined thieves or vandals will have a hard time getting to the contents of the container. Also available are “open top” containers that do not have a steel roof, but instead have a PVC covering that can be removed.
Shipping Container Extras
Your shipping container can be customised and tailored to suit its contents. Among a wide range of options are features such as:
Air conditioning
Alarm systems
Refrigeration (for storing e.g. foodstuffs)
Office amenities e.g. electricity, air-con, internet access, running water
Custom paint job e.g. corporate logo
Not all suppliers will be able to offer these features, though, and if you are buying or renting a used container (a popular choice) check that the container will accommodate these extra bits and pieces.
New and Used Shipping Containers
When you come to rent or purchase your container, you will have to make the choice between a new or a used unit. Shipping containers are extremely durable, so the second-hand market is healthy. A brand new container can cost anything between £800 and £2,000 depending on size and additional features (although it should be noted that a 40’ container is not hugely more expensive than a 20’ container with equivalent features, despite being twice as long).
Used shipping containers on the other hand can be picked up for between £500 and £1,000 (even from websites like eBay). But if you want to make this saving, you must be prepared to thoroughly check the container over for cracks in the sealant, and it may need a new paint job. Also you may need to compromise on customisation of the container.
Hiring and Leasing Containers
Hiring and leasing shipping containers are popular options, since most businesses only need containers temporarily. Short term hire of shipping containers is charged by the day, and can go as low as £5/day. If you need the container for a longer period, it is usually cheaper to lease. Leases have a fixed term contract of 18 months or 2 years, and you pay a monthly fee (around £50-£60, but this can vary according to the condition of the container). Be aware that lease contracts have a minimum term, so if you find you need to be rid of the container before the contract is up you will need to pay an early settlement fee.
As well as the price of buying or hiring the shipping container, you will also need to take into account the cost of delivery. Shipping containers are delivered on flat bed tipper trucks, and delivery charges are usually based on distance, so it’s important to find a supplier who is near to your site. Delivery can cost up to £200.
With all the contributing factors of delivery and extra features, it is very difficult to find a ball-park figure for the total cost of acquiring your shipping container. All suppliers will offer you a quote specifically tailored to your requirements. To save yourself time, simply fill in the form above to receive free, no obligation quotes from 4 approved shipping container suppliers.
