Shipping Containers in South Shields

Container Sales in South Shields

Buying can suit long-term storage, regular site use or a project where you expect to keep the container afterwards. Ownership can also give you more freedom to make alterations later, although any modification should be considered alongside the intended use of the container.

Common storage sizes include 10ft containers, 20ft shipping containers and 40ft shipping containers. The best size is not always the largest unit the site can accommodate. You also need space for delivery, door operation and access to the stored goods.

Containers are constructed with Corten steel and are available in different conditions. A one-trip container has normally completed a single loaded journey from its manufacturer and generally shows less wear than an older used unit. Used containers can have dents, surface corrosion, repairs and handling marks from previous service.

Wind and watertight describes a container intended to keep wind and rain from entering under normal storage conditions. Cargo-worthy is a different condition description associated with cargo transport. Age, repairs, inspection status and certification can vary between individual units, so the condition should be matched to the intended use rather than judged by the label alone.

Container Hire in South Shields

Container hire can work well for building projects, renovations, temporary site storage and other requirements with an expected end date. When the hire finishes, the container can be collected rather than becoming something you need to store, relocate or sell.

Think about the likely duration before choosing between hire and purchase. A temporary requirement may favour hire, while buying may be more appropriate if the container is likely to remain useful after the original job has finished.

Any proposed modifications to a hired container should be agreed before work is carried out. Cutting openings, fitting permanent equipment or making other alterations may be restricted. Responsibility for damage and the condition expected when the unit is collected should also be understood from the hire terms.

Keep the eventual collection route in mind when choosing the original position. New fencing, building work, stored materials or parked machinery can make collection difficult even where delivery access was straightforward.

Special Container Types

A standard dry container suits many general storage jobs, but some loads need a different design. Refrigerated, open top and flat rack containers serve more specific purposes and should be chosen according to the goods and the way they need to be loaded or handled.

Refrigerated containers, commonly called reefers, are intended for temperature-controlled applications. Open top containers allow loading from above where cargo cannot conveniently pass through standard end doors. Flat racks are designed for loads that may be oversized or unsuitable for a fully enclosed unit.

Where a standard dry container does not suit the job, you can compare 20ft refrigerated containers, 20ft open top containers and 20ft flat rack containers. The load and handling method should determine the container type.

Check the Container Size Before Ordering

The nominal container length is only part of the space calculation. Allow for the full external dimensions, cargo-door opening and practical access around the unit. Delivery can require substantially more working room than the final footprint of the container.

A standard 20ft container is approximately 20ft long, 8ft wide and 8ft 6in high. Where space is limited, check the full 20ft standard container dimensions before preparing the position.

For larger storage requirements, check the 40ft standard container dimensions. A 40ft unit offers more capacity but also needs a longer clear position and suitable access for the delivery vehicle.

Container Delivery and HIAB Placement in South Shields

A HIAB is a lorry-mounted crane used to lift a shipping container from the delivery vehicle and position it on site. Successful placement depends on vehicle access, working space, ground conditions and crane reach. A space that is large enough for the container is not necessarily suitable for the delivery operation.

Before arranging delivery, check the complete access route and tell the supplier about:

• Gate and entrance width
• Road and access-track width
• Tight bends and available turning space
• Grass, soft ground and significant slopes
• Walls, fences and buildings close to the proposed position
• Overhead cables, trees and other obstructions
• Distance between the delivery vehicle and final position
• Required cargo-door orientation

Grass and soft surfaces need particular attention because the delivery vehicle and its stabilisers require suitable support as well as the container itself. Tell the supplier about questionable ground before delivery is arranged.

Crane reach should also be checked where the container needs to be placed away from the side of the vehicle or beyond an obstruction. Provide accurate site information in advance rather than assuming the crane can place the unit anywhere within the property.

Preparing the Ground for a Container

A container should have firm, reasonably level support. If the supporting points settle unevenly, the frame can twist and the cargo doors may become difficult to open and close.

Drainage should be considered at the same time. Water collecting beneath or around the unit can contribute to poor ground conditions and make future access more difficult. Our guide to container foundations covers the main siting considerations.

Decide which way the cargo doors need to face before delivery. Think about loading, pedestrian access, vehicle movements and anything that could obstruct the doors later. Changing the orientation after placement may require the container to be lifted again.

Preparing a Container for Storage

A wind and watertight container is intended to keep external weather out, but condensation can still form inside. Moist air can condense against colder steel surfaces as temperatures change, while wet goods or packaging can introduce additional moisture.

Ventilation can help with some storage applications. Contents that are particularly sensitive to moisture or temperature may need further measures such as lining or insulation. The appropriate approach depends on the goods, site conditions and expected storage period.

A lockbox helps shield the padlock area, but security also depends on the lock used and how the site is managed. Packing is another practical consideration. Keep frequently needed items accessible rather than filling the container so tightly that everything has to be moved to reach the rear. Our guide to protecting a shipping container covers further points.

Planning Permission for Containers in South Shields

Planning requirements can depend on the intended use, how long the container will remain, the status and location of the site, neighbouring property, listed status, conservation areas, associated works and whether the proposal involves a change of use.

Temporary use does not automatically determine the planning position. Before committing to placement or significant modifications, check the circumstances of the site. Our page on shipping container planning permission in South Shields provides further information. Where there is uncertainty, check current requirements with the relevant local council.

Using a Container for Export

A container suitable for static storage should not automatically be assumed suitable for international shipping. Export use can require an appropriate CSC status, inspection and acceptance by the shipping line. CSC refers to the International Convention for Safe Containers and the safety approval information associated with containers used in international transport.

International movements can also involve Verified Gross Mass, usually shortened to VGM, shipping documents, customs requirements, insurance and Incoterms 2020. Delays or changes to the transport arrangement can also result in storage, detention or demurrage charges depending on the circumstances.

Our guide to Shippers Own Containers covers relevant points where you are considering using your own unit for shipping. For an actual export movement, confirm the requirements with the shipping line, freight forwarder, customs agent, insurer or other relevant adviser before purchasing or loading the container.

Choosing a Shipping Container in South Shields

Start with the intended use and expected duration, then choose the size, type and condition. Measure the full delivery route as well as the final position, including access widths, ground conditions, overhead obstructions and the space available for the delivery vehicle and crane.

For storage, consider ventilation, security, drainage and access to the contents. For hire, make sure the container can still be reached for collection. If you intend to modify or export a purchased container, establish those requirements before selecting the unit.

To discuss container size, condition, hire or purchase requirements and access to your South Shields site, contact Shipping Containers of Leeds for a quote or call 0330 0130 636.