Beccles Container Sales & Hire

Choose between container sales and hire

Buying a container can suit a longer-term storage requirement where the same unit is likely to remain in use for an extended period. It may also be appropriate where you need more control over how the container is used, positioned or adapted over time.

Hire can be a useful option for a temporary storage need or a project with a defined duration. It avoids making a purchase before you know how long the extra space will be required. The intended hire period, storage use and site arrangements should be discussed when requesting a quote.

There is no single choice that suits every customer. Consider the likely storage period alongside the cost, condition, access and future use of the container.

Compare 20ft and 40ft containers

A 20ft shipping container can suit customers who need a manageable amount of additional storage space. It may be easier to accommodate than a larger unit, but the available area still needs to be checked carefully before making a decision.

A 40ft shipping container provides more storage length than a 20ft container. It can be considered where the intended use involves a greater volume of goods or where returning to add another unit would be inconvenient.

Measure the items being stored and think about how they will be loaded. Leave enough room for access to the goods you need to reach regularly. The container must also fit the proposed position without obstructing entrances, routes around the site or other facilities.

Match the container to its intended use

Storage requirements vary. Goods that are moved frequently need a practical loading arrangement, while items left in storage need protection from avoidable moisture and poor ventilation. Keep goods off the floor where appropriate and allow air to circulate around stored items.

Terms used to describe container condition should be checked carefully. One-trip generally describes a container that has completed a limited initial shipping journey. Used describes a container with a previous service history, but it does not by itself confirm a particular appearance or condition.

Wind and watertight describes protection against ordinary wind and rain entering through the container structure. It should not be treated as a claim that the container is airtight. Cargo-worthy and IICL are terms associated with condition and inspection requirements, so ask what a particular description means for your proposed use.

Prepare the proposed position

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.

Check drainage around the position and consider how water will move away from the container. The doors need to open fully, and the surrounding area should remain usable for loading and unloading. Future collection access may also matter, even if the container is intended to stay in place for some time.

Think about ventilation as part of the storage arrangement. Temperature changes can contribute to condensation inside a steel container. Ventilation can help air movement, but it does not remove every condensation risk. Lining or insulation may be relevant for some uses, although the correct approach depends on the goods and the conditions inside the container.

A suitable lock or lockbox can support access control. It should not be treated as a guarantee against theft, so consider the wider security arrangements at the site as well.

For further guidance on positioning, see the information about proper shipping container placement.

Check access before arranging sales or hire

Review the route to the proposed position before committing to a container. Consider the approach, turning space, overhead obstructions, ground condition and the location of the container doors. Fences, walls, trees, cables and buildings can affect how a unit can be placed, so do not assume that every requested position will be possible.

The site should also allow the container to be used safely after it has been placed. A position that looks suitable on paper may be less practical if goods cannot be loaded easily or the doors cannot be opened without obstruction.

Request a Beccles container quote

When asking for a quote, include the preferred sales or hire option, the approximate storage period, the container size under consideration and the intended use. Site details such as the proposed position, access route and ground conditions will also help keep the discussion focused.

You can request a container quote once you have reviewed the space and access requirements. More information about locations covered by the website is available through the areas served page.