What Size Shipping Container Do I Need?
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When it comes to choosing the right shipping container, size matters. Whether you are downsizing your home, expanding your business storage, or relocating to a new site, finding the container that best fits your needs is crucial.
At Container Sales (UK) Ltd, we regularly help clients across the North East of England and Scotland select the perfect shipping container, ensuring they receive the ideal combination of space, security, and value.
Below, we explore the factors you should consider before making your investment.
Understanding Standard Shipping Container Sizes
Most shipping containers come in standard sizes, with the most common lengths being 10 feet, 20 feet, and 40 feet. While 8-foot containers also exist, these are less common and often suit highly specific requirements. The height of standard containers typically measures around 8ft 6in, while “Hi- Cube” containers add an extra foot in height, providing additional vertical space.
10ft Containers – Ideal for those with limited on-site space or smaller storage needs. Commonly used by homeowners, tradespeople, or boutique businesses, they are perfect for storing garden equipment, small tools, seasonal stock, or personal belongings during a move.
20ft Containers – The most popular choice due to their versatile size. From use as workshop units and pop-up retail spaces to housing substantial amounts of household furniture, archived documents, or business stock, a 20ft container balances capacity with manageable dimensions. For many, this container size hits the “sweet spot” for both cost and utility.
40ft Containers – Offering double the length of a 20ft container, these are best suited to larger projects. Construction firms, commercial retailers, and import/export businesses often favour this size for bulk storage, large-scale relocations, or secure warehousing solutions. If you need to store machinery, raw materials, or vast inventories, a 40ft container delivers the room you need.
Consider Your Contents and Purpose
Before settling on a container size, think carefully about what you plan to store or transport. Will it be personal household items, business stock, heavy machinery, or building materials? Create an inventory of your items, noting their dimensions and how frequently you’ll need to access them. For businesses, it may be worth factoring in future growth—purchasing a slightly larger container now could save you from needing additional units down the line.
Assess the Space Available on Your Site
It’s important to consider not only the items you’ll store but also the physical space your container will occupy. If you’re placing a container in a driveway, yard, or construction site, you’ll need to measure carefully to ensure easy delivery and installation. Keep in mind that containers need a level, stable surface, and sufficient clearance for delivery vehicles.
Thinking About Shipping Container Expansion or Modification
As your requirements evolve, you might want to customise your container with shelves, racking, or even insulation and climate control. If you anticipate these future modifications, consider opting for a slightly larger size. A little extra space will have its benefits later, especially if your storage needs become more complex or specialised.
Don’t Forget Accessibility
Choosing a larger container won’t help if you can’t easily access your goods. Think about how frequently you’ll need to enter the container and how you’ll move items in and out. If you’ll be retrieving items regularly, a container with adequate room to move around inside can be invaluable. In this case, consider a container with double doors at both ends, allowing more flexible access to your belongings.
Seek Expert Guidance
Still unsure about the right size? At Container Sales (UK) Ltd, we’ve guided countless clients throughout the North East and Scotland, helping them choose containers that precisely match their needs. With our industry expertise, we can help you find a container that suits your inventory, space constraints, and long-term plans—ensuring that you invest in a storage solution that truly works for you.
In Summary:
- 10ft Containers: Perfect for tight spaces and smaller storage needs.
- 20ft Containers: A versatile choice for most domestic and small-to-medium business uses.
- 40ft Containers: Ideal for large-scale commercial storage and long-term projects.
- Ask the Experts: Don’t hesitate to seek professional advice to find the right fit.
Choosing the correct shipping container size doesn’t have to be a guessing game. With careful consideration and expert guidance, you can secure a container that meets your current needs, supports your future ambitions, and ensures maximum value from your investment.
Whether you require even just a single shipping container, or multiple containers, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us. We are always happy to help!