--- title: "Shipping Containers Portsmouth - Sale & Hire" description: "Portsmouth shipping containers: Buy or hire. Get the right size, fast delivery, & competitive prices" url: "https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/areas-served/portsmouth/sales-hire" date: "2026-05-05T11:34:06+00:00" language: "en-GB" --- ![20ft Storage Containers](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/images/websiteimages/UK-containers-southampton99.jpg) Featured - [ ](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/areas-served/portsmouth/sales-hire "Facebook") - [ ](https://twitter.com/share?url=https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/areas-served/portsmouth/sales-hire&text=Containers%20Portsmouth%20 "X (formerly Twitter)") - [ ](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/areas-served/portsmouth/sales-hire "LinkedIn") # Shipping Containers for Portsmouth, Hampshire Secure, scalable, and seaside-ready. Operating in one of the UK’s most significant maritime hubs requires equipment that can withstand extreme industrial and environmental pressure. Shipping Containers of Southampton provides ISO-standard units specifically engineered to handle naval logistics, port-side storage, and commercial expansion across Portsmouth. ## Container Sales in Portsmouth, Hampshire Shipping Containers of Southampton is the primary supplier of ISO-certified containers to businesses, contractors, and naval logistics providers. Portsmouth’s industrial landscape demands equipment capable of handling both heavy-duty site storage and international maritime transit. We supply units manufactured from **Cor-Ten steel**, a high-strength weathering steel alloy that forms a protective oxide layer. This patina prevents deep structural corrosion, a critical failure mode for units exposed to the South Coast’s environment. Our sales **stock** includes new one-trip containers for pristine aesthetic requirements and cost-effective used units graded as "cargo-worthy." Whether your project involves the Historic Dockyard or industrial developments in Hilsea, we match the unit to your payload. For high-capacity warehousing, we supply [40ft shipping containers](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/buy-shipping-containers/40ft-shipping-containers), while [20ft shipping containers](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/buy-shipping-containers/20ft-shipping-containers) remain the standard for versatile on-site storage. ![A truck with a shipping container is parked in a green area, with a person and a ladder nearby.](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/media/spgallery/139/UK-containers-southampton12.jpg) ![A truck with a shipping container navigates a port area filled with stacked cargo containers.](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/media/spgallery/139/UK-containers-southampton14.jpg) ![A stack of various shipping containers in different colors under a blue sky at Southampton.](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/media/spgallery/139/UK-containers-southampton6.jpg) ![A storage area filled with stacked shipping containers of various colors under a partly cloudy sky.](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/media/spgallery/139/UK-containers-southampton105.jpg) ![A stack of colorful shipping containers in a muddy environment. Various colors and labels are visible.](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/media/spgallery/139/UK-containers-southampton18.jpg) ![Two large shipping containers are parked in a lot, surrounded by greenery and other containers in the background.](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/media/spgallery/139/UK-containers-southampton125.jpg) ![A stack of colorful shipping containers against a clear blue sky, with some containers labeled.](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/media/spgallery/139/UK-containers-southampton38.jpg) ![A stack of colorful shipping containers at a port, showcasing various shipping lines and companies.](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/media/spgallery/139/UK-containers-southampton106.jpg) ![Several shipping containers stacked at a port, with visible branding and a cloudy sky in the background.](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/media/spgallery/139/UK-containers-southampton100.jpg) ![A truck with a shipping container is parked in a green area, with a person and a ladder nearby.](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/media/spgallery/139/thumb/UK-containers-southampton12.jpg) ![A truck with a shipping container navigates a port area filled with stacked cargo containers.](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/media/spgallery/139/thumb/UK-containers-southampton14.jpg) ![A stack of various shipping containers in different colors under a blue sky at Southampton.](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/media/spgallery/139/thumb/UK-containers-southampton6.jpg) ![A storage area filled with stacked shipping containers of various colors under a partly cloudy sky.](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/media/spgallery/139/thumb/UK-containers-southampton105.jpg) ![A stack of colorful shipping containers in a muddy environment. Various colors and labels are visible.](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/media/spgallery/139/thumb/UK-containers-southampton18.jpg) ![Two large shipping containers are parked in a lot, surrounded by greenery and other containers in the background.](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/media/spgallery/139/thumb/UK-containers-southampton125.jpg) ![A stack of colorful shipping containers against a clear blue sky, with some containers labeled.](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/media/spgallery/139/thumb/UK-containers-southampton38.jpg) ![A stack of colorful shipping containers at a port, showcasing various shipping lines and companies.](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/media/spgallery/139/thumb/UK-containers-southampton106.jpg) ![Several shipping containers stacked at a port, with visible branding and a cloudy sky in the background.](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/media/spgallery/139/thumb/UK-containers-southampton100.jpg) --- ## Coastal Air and Salt Corrosion The primary culprit behind structural degradation in Portsmouth is salt-laden coastal air. Sodium chloride from sea spray acts as a powerful electrolyte, accelerating oxidation far beyond levels in inland areas. Containers within five miles of the Portsmouth coastline require a specific maintenance regime to avoid pitting and structural thinning. > **Proprietary Insight:** For long-term placement near the Solent, we recommend a **C5-M (Marine)** paint specification. We advise clients to rinse the exterior with fresh water every six months to remove accumulated salt crust. If surface rust appears, treat it immediately with a zinc-rich primer. This acts as a sacrificial layer, providing cathodic protection to the underlying Cor-Ten steel. --- ## Container Hire Services and ROI Container hire provides a flexible, low-commitment solution for managing seasonal **stock** surges or short-term construction projects. Hiring is a smart financial move for projects under two years, as it preserves your capital for operational costs. Our standard hire terms include an **initial minimum hire period of 8 weeks**. Please note that the **haulage costs (both ways)** and the **first month's hire** are due upfront. Every hire unit is guaranteed to be wind and watertight. For clients requiring cold-chain logistics, we provide [20ft refrigerated containers](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/rent-shipping-containers/20ft-refrigerated-container) for hire. These reefers feature integrated cooling machinery capable of maintaining internal temperatures typically between **-25°C and +25°C**. For further details on maintaining units in coastal environments, consult our guide on [container maintenance and repair](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/blog/container-maintenance-and-repair). --- ## HIAB Delivery: Avoiding the "Racking" Risk Successful placement in Portsmouth depends on professional **HIAB crane delivery**. A HIAB is a lorry-mounted hydraulic crane capable of lifting and positioning units with extreme precision. Our operations prioritise safety and compliance with **HSE LOLER 1998** regulations. **The Foundation Strategy:** The ground must be level and firm (concrete, tarmac, or compacted gravel). If the ground is uneven, the container will **rack**. Racking is a mechanical frame twist that causes doors to bind and seals to fail. We recommend a **four-point foundation strategy**: using railway sleepers or concrete pads at the four corners to ensure the unit remains level. For detailed advice, view our [foundation and siting guide](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/blog/shipping-container-foundations). --- ## Technical Specification Comparison Quantifying technical value is essential for site planning. Use the table below to compare the footprint and payload of our core ISO-standard **stock**. | Specification | 10ft Standard | 20ft Standard | 40ft Standard | |---|---|---|---| | **External Length** | 2.99m (10') | 6.06m (20') | 12.19m (40') | | **External Height** | 2.59m (8' 6") | 2.59m (8' 6") | 2.59m (8' 6") | | **Internal Volume** | 15.9 m³ | 33.2 m³ | 67.7 m³ | | **Tare Weight** | ~1,300kg | 2,280kg | 3,630kg | | **Max Payload** | ~10,000kg | 28,200kg | 28,870kg | For high-capacity needs, view our technical [40ft container dimensions](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/container-dimensions/40ft-shipping-container-dimensions). --- ## Specialist Container Configurations Portsmouth’s maritime engineering firms often require specialist units to handle unique cargo types: - [**Flat Rack Containers:**](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/buy-shipping-containers/flat-rack-containers) Essential for moving oversized marine equipment and heavy plant machinery. - [**20ft Refrigerated Containers:**](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/buy-shipping-containers/20ft-refrigerated-container) For food distribution and pharmaceutical storage. - [**40ft Open Top Containers:**](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/buy-shipping-containers/40ft-open-top-containers) For top-loading heavy machinery or bulky cables. - **Side-Opening Units:** Full-length side access for the efficient handling of palletised goods. For an in-depth look at all available options, visit our [container type guide](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/blog/container-type). --- ## Planning Permission and Compliance Shipping containers are generally classed as temporary structures. However, in Portsmouth, the **28-day rule** is the standard limit for placement without formal permission. If the unit is located near the Historic Dockyard or in a Conservation Area, you may need to consult the local authority. Check with the **Portsmouth City Council** planning portal or consult our dedicated [container planning permission guide](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/areas-served/portsmouth/planning-permission). ## Frequently Asked Questions #### How do I prevent "container rain" in Portsmouth? Condensation occurs when the steel walls cool faster than the internal air. We recommend using anti-condensation coatings, such as GrafoTherm, or choosing an insulated unit. For more tips, check our [container FAQs](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/blog/faqs). #### Are your containers secure against theft? Every unit we supply is constructed from heavy-duty steel. For maximum security, we recommend using a **factory-fitted lockbox**. This is a steel shroud that protects your padlock from bolt cutters. Read our blog on [container seals](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/blog/container-seals) for more information. #### What power supply do I need for a refrigerated container? Refrigerated units require a **3-phase, 32-Amp power supply** (380V to 440V). To prevent start-up tripping, you must use a **Motor Rated (Type D) circuit breaker**. Standard Type B or C breakers will likely fail when the compressor starts. [Container Quote](https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/quote-form) **Tel: [0330 0130 636](tel:03300130636)** ## Schema ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Areas Served", "item": "https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/areas-served" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "Portsmouth", "item": "https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/areas-served/portsmouth" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 4, "name": "Containers Portsmouth", "item": "https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/areas-served/portsmouth/sales-hire" } ] } ``` ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Service", "name": "Container Hire", "serviceType": "Container Hire", "description": "Portsmouth shipping containers: Buy or hire. Get the right size, fast delivery, & competitive prices", "image": "https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/", "url": "https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/areas-served/portsmouth/sales-hire", "provider": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Shipping Containers of Southampton", "telephone": "0330 0130 636", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "addressCountry": "GB", "addressLocality": "Southampton", "addressRegion": "GB", "postalCode": "SO40 4JN" } }, "offers": { "@type": "AggregateOffer", "offerCount": 1, "lowPrice": "0.00", "highPrice": "0.00", "priceCurrency": "GBP" } } ``` ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": [ "LocalBusiness", "ProfessionalService" ], "@id": "https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/areas-served/portsmouth/sales-hire#localbusiness6", "name": "Shipping Containers of Southampton", "image": "https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/images/logo.jpg", "url": "https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/areas-served/portsmouth/sales-hire", "telephone": "03300130636", "priceRange": "£2-£5000", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "addressCountry": "GB", "addressLocality": "Southampton", "addressRegion": "Hampshire", "postalCode": "SO40 4JN" }, "geo": { "@type": "GeoCoordinates", "latitude": "50.91449027130267", "longitude": "-1.4805666820943937" }, "openingHoursSpecification": [ { "@type": "OpeningHoursSpecification", "dayOfWeek": "Monday", "opens": "09:00", "closes": "17:30" }, { "@type": "OpeningHoursSpecification", "dayOfWeek": "Tuesday", "opens": "09:00", "closes": "17:30" }, { "@type": "OpeningHoursSpecification", "dayOfWeek": "Wednesday", "opens": "09:00", "closes": "17:30" }, { "@type": "OpeningHoursSpecification", "dayOfWeek": "Thursday", "opens": "09:00", "closes": "17:30" }, { "@type": "OpeningHoursSpecification", "dayOfWeek": "Friday", "opens": "09:00", "closes": "17:30" } ], "aggregateRating": { "@type": "AggregateRating", "ratingValue": "4.8", "reviewCount": "205", "worstRating": 0, "bestRating": 5 } } ``` ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Service", "name": "Container Sales", "serviceType": "Container Sales", "description": "Portsmouth shipping containers: Buy or hire. Get the right size, fast delivery, & competitive prices", "image": "https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/", "url": "https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/areas-served/portsmouth/sales-hire", "provider": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Shipping Containers of Southampton", "telephone": "0330 0130 636", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "addressCountry": "GB", "addressLocality": "Southampton", "addressRegion": "GB", "postalCode": "SO40 4JN" } }, "offers": { "@type": "AggregateOffer", "offerCount": 1, "lowPrice": "0.00", "highPrice": "0.00", "priceCurrency": "GBP" } } ``` ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Article", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/areas-served/portsmouth/sales-hire" }, "headline": "Containers Portsmouth", "description": "Portsmouth shipping containers: Buy or hire. Get the right size, fast delivery, & competitive prices", "image": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Shipping Containers of Southampton", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/images/logo.jpg" } }, "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Shipping Containers of Southampton", "url": "https://shippingcontainersofsouthampton.co.uk/areas-served/portsmouth/sales-hire" }, "datePublished": "2023-12-21T11:20:14+00:00", "dateCreated": "2023-12-21T11:20:14+00:00", "dateModified": "2026-01-29T12:12:11+00:00" } ``` ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "How do I prevent "container rain" in Portsmouth?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Condensation occurs when the steel walls cool faster than the internal air. We recommend using anti-condensation coatings, such as GrafoTherm, or choosing an insulated unit. For more tips, check our container FAQs." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Are your containers secure against theft?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Every unit we supply is constructed from heavy-duty steel. For maximum security, we recommend using a factory-fitted lockbox. This is a steel shroud that protects your padlock from bolt cutters. Read our blog on container seals for more information." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What power supply do I need for a refrigerated container?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Refrigerated units require a 3-phase, 32-Amp power supply (380V to 440V). To prevent start-up tripping, you must use a Motor Rated (Type D) circuit breaker. Standard Type B or C breakers will likely fail when the compressor starts." } } ] } ```