Shipping Containers Swindon for Sale and Hire

Shipping containers for sale in Swindon

Purchase gives you a container for a storage requirement that is expected to continue. Our 20ft containers for sale provide a useful balance of storage space and site footprint. A 40ft container for sale may be more suitable where the available position and access route can accommodate a longer unit.

Containers are available in new and used condition. The condition required will depend on the intended use, the appearance of the site and the goods being stored. A one-trip container has generally completed a limited initial shipping journey and is often selected where a newer appearance is preferred. It should not automatically be treated as unused or as a guarantee of a particular condition. Our guide to one-trip shipping containers explains this option in more detail.

Descriptions such as wind and watertight refer to protection from normal external weather conditions, rather than an airtight enclosure. Ask about the condition and suitability of a particular unit before making a decision. If the container is intended for international transport, confirm whether it has the required current CSC status for that use.

Container hire for temporary storage

Hiring can suit a project where storage is needed for a defined period or where the requirement may change. Our 20ft containers for hire are suitable for many standard storage requirements, while a 40ft container for hire provides more internal length where the site allows for it.

Before choosing a hire container, consider what will be stored, how often the doors will be opened and how long the unit is expected to remain in position. The container should also be placed where it can be accessed throughout the hire period. A lock or lockbox can form part of a wider security arrangement, but security depends on the container, locking equipment, site and operating practices.

Choosing the right container size

Size selection involves more than checking the amount of goods to be stored. Leave room for loading, unloading and access to items that may be needed first. The proposed position must also allow for the container doors to open and provide enough space for future collection.

Use our container dimensions guide to review the measurements available for different container types. The 20ft container dimensions page can help with site planning, including the space required around the unit. Measurements should be checked against the actual delivery position, access route and any nearby structures.

Preparing the site

The proposed position should provide firm, reasonably level support suited to the site and expected load. Soft or uneven ground can contribute to settlement and affect door operation. Consider drainage so water does not collect around the container, and keep the doors clear enough for regular use.

Ground preparation should also take account of delivery and future removal. Our guide to shipping container foundations covers practical points to consider when preparing a suitable position. If the container will remain in place for some time, plan access to the doors and allow for inspection, maintenance and eventual collection.

HIAB delivery to Swindon

Shipping Containers of Southampton uses HIAB delivery. HIAB is the common UK term for a lorry-mounted crane used to unload and position a container. The delivery plan needs to account for the route to the proposed position, turning space, vehicle position, ground condition and any overhead obstructions.

Door orientation should be agreed before delivery, particularly where the container will sit close to a boundary, building or another obstruction. A container may fit the intended position but still be unsuitable for delivery if the HIAB vehicle cannot reach a suitable lifting position. Do not assume that the crane can lift over buildings, walls, fences or other obstacles.

Check the approach, the intended vehicle position and the condition of the ground before arranging delivery. If you need to discuss the proposed placement, you can request a container quote with the details of your storage requirement and site.

Planning considerations for a container in Swindon

Planning requirements can depend on how the container will be used, how long it will remain in place, the status of the site, its visibility, nearby neighbours and local planning policy. Listed buildings, conservation areas, a change of use or a prominent position may create additional considerations.

Planning permission is not automatically required or excluded for every container placement. Check current requirements with Swindon Borough Council before committing to the proposed placement or use. Our guide to shipping container planning permission provides further points to consider.

Looking after a storage container

Regular checks can help identify issues with doors, seals, locking bars, the roof and visible areas of corrosion. Keep the area around the container clear enough for inspection and avoid allowing water or debris to build up against the unit.

Condensation can be affected by ventilation, temperature changes, the goods stored inside and the way the container is used. Ventilation, lining, insulation or moisture-control products may be considered where appropriate, but none should be treated as a guarantee against condensation. Read our guidance on container maintenance and repair when assessing the care a storage unit may need.