• Refrigerated Containers FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Shipping Containers

• What are shipping containers?
• How are shipping containers constructed?
• What is the difference between a new or ex-factory and a used storage container?
• What are the costs involved in hiring a shipping container?
• How long can I expect my shipping container to last?
• Where is your nearest container depot to me and how much will it cost to have a shipping container delivered?
• Can I view a shipping container so I know what I am buying?
• What size/weight is a shipping container?
• How secure is a shipping container for keeping my possessions in?
• Can you put a shipping container anywhere?
• Do you need planning permission?
• How do I prepare the site for my shipping container?
• Is condensation a problem in shipping containers?
• How do I maintain my shipping container?

What are shipping containers?

Shipping containers are steel containers that were developed for the shipping industry. They are made out of high tensile, rust inhibiting corten steel and are therefore very strong and weatherproof. The structure of shipping containers makes them able to be stacked on top of one another. All of this makes shipping containers ideal for storage, office accommodation etc.

How are shipping containers constructed?

The rigid steel framework supports the corrugated steel walls. There are double doors at one end (usually referred to as the back) that have 4 full height locking bars. If you are going to use the shipping container for storage, we would recommend that a lock box is fitted which is a metal cowl that is welded on to the container doors and helps prevent illegal access. The internal floor sits on a steel plinth as is made of 27mm treated timber.

What is the difference between a new or ex-factory and a used container?

New containers are also referred to as ex-factory or once used because they are shipping containers that have been shipped over directly from China with one load in them. They are in excellent condition and suitable for shipping or for storage – particularly where appearance is important.

The condition of a used container obviously depends on its previous use and age. It is important to check that the container is wind and watertight and structurally sound before buying. If you want to use the container for shipping you need to check that it still has a valid CSC plate. If you want to use it for storage you may want to have a lock box fitted for additional security.

What are the costs involved in hiring a shipping container?

You should always have an idea of how long you want to hire the container for as this makes a difference to the weekly rental rate. Short term container hire is largely effected by the price of haulage. This is charged on the initial invoice for both the delivery and the collection by way of a guarantee so if the transport fee was £150 each way you would be charged £300 plus the initial monthly hire fee on your first invoice. Thereonafter the hire is for a month in advance until the container is taken off hire.

How long can I expect my shipping container to last?

As all the shipping containers we sell were designed to cope with marine voyages they are extremely strong and durable. Obviously, the length of time the container will last depends on the conditions it is kept in. New or ex-factory containers have only had one journey over from China and therefore could be reasonably expected to last for about 30 years. The second hand shipping containers we supply will be several years old but wind and watertight and could you could therefore expect them to last another 10 years from point of sale.

Where is your nearest container depot to me and how much will it cost to have a shipping container delivered?

We have containers in locations all over the UK. If you contact us with your postcode we will work out an accurate delivery cost.

Can I view a shipping container so I know what I am buying?

Yes. Due to Health and Safety regulations if you contact us 48 hours in advance we will, where possible, arrange for you to view your shipping container prior to purchase. We have locations all over the UK so please let us know your nearest depot.

What size/weight is a shipping container?

We stock various sizes of containers from 8ft to 40ft. Our Container Sizes chart gives details of the weight and sizes of each which we hope you will find useful.

How secure is a shipping container for keeping my possessions in?

Shipping containers are made of high tensile, rust inhibiting corten steel and are therefore very strong and secure. The most vulnerable area of any container will always be the doors and therefore we recommend a lock box and a high security padlock to reduce the risk of unauthorised access.

Can you put a shipping container anywhere?

As long as there is good access and the lorry can get to the site without going on rough or muddy ground the container can be put almost anywhere within reach of the hi-ab crane. The container is placed to the side of the vehicle and therefore needs about 20 foot width to offload with no overhead cables or overhanging trees in the way. If you have any doubts about delivery/access please contact us to discuss any concerns.

Do you need planning permission?

Shipping containers are classed as temporary structures and therefore do not, in most cases, need planning permission unless you are in a preservation area. If you have any doubts it could be worthwhile checking with your local planning authority for your own peace of mind.

How do I prepare the site for my shipping container?

In an ideal world shipping containers should be placed on level ground as otherwise it can make it difficult to open and shut the container doors easily. However, sleepers or paving slabs can be used to help the shipping container to sit level. Although it is the buyers responsibility to make sure the ground is adequately prepared our drivers will help with positioning the container wherever possible.

Is condensation a problem in shipping containers?

All shipping containers have vents with baffles to let air in and keep water (be it sea or rain!) out. However, all items that you store in a container carry moisture (even clothes!) and on a sunny day that moisture will turn into vapour which, as the temperature drops in the evening, will become water droplets that collect on the ceiling and start dripping. If you require extra protection we can supply moisture traps which are made only from PE/PP plastics and salt, which are non toxic and recyclable. One trap should last approximately three months in a 20 foot container.

How do I maintain my shipping container?

Because a shipping container is made of steel it requires little regular maintenance. The only thing we would suggest is to make sure that the door hinges and locking rods are greased at regular intervals.