Container sizes
The most common sizes are 10, 20 and 40 foot containers, with standard and high-cube heights. The size sets what vehicle is needed and how much space is required on site. Check the exact size before booking, as some containers are converted or modified.
Weight and contents
An empty container is heavy, and a loaded one can be much heavier. Tell drivers whether the container is empty or loaded and give an estimated total weight. Loaded containers may need a larger vehicle or crane and careful securing.
How it will be unloaded
Containers are usually lifted on and off with a crane on the vehicle, or slid off a tilting bed. If there's a crane or forklift on site, say so. If not, the driver needs a vehicle with its own lifting equipment.
Prepare the site
The ground where the container will sit should be firm and level. Soft grass, mud or steep slopes can make placement difficult or unsafe. Check for:
- Enough space for the vehicle to reach and manoeuvre
- Overhead cables, trees or roofs near the drop spot
- Gate widths and road access to the site
- A firm, level base for the container
Permissions and rules
Some sites need permission for a container, and building sites may have delivery rules and booking times. Check with your landlord, site manager or local council if you're unsure. Add site contacts and any rules to your job.
Collecting from a depot or private seller
If you've bought a container, add the collection address, opening times and any release reference. Make sure the seller or depot can load it, or that the driver will be able to lift it.
Book the move
Post your container job with the size, weight, photos of the drop spot and access notes. Approved drivers with suitable vehicles can send quotes through a Bid Job, or you can set your own price with a Fixed Price Job. You can follow the delivery live and get photo proof when it's placed.
New or used containers
New containers, sometimes called one-trip containers, are usually in better condition. Used containers can vary, so check doors, seals and the floor before you buy. Either way, the size and weight decide the vehicle needed.
Using a container for storage
Containers make secure, weatherproof storage on farms, sites and at businesses. Place the doors where you can open them fully, and leave room around the container for access. Raising it slightly off the ground on a firm base can help keep it dry.
Moving a container again later
If you might need to move the container in future, keep access to the spot clear and record its size and weight. Empty it before it's moved where possible.
Containers on building sites
Building sites often use containers for tool storage and welfare. Sites usually have delivery booking times, a banksman to guide vehicles and rules about where vehicles can go. Add the site manager's contact details and the delivery booking reference to your job so the driver can get on and off site safely.
Common mistakes to avoid
The most common problems are soft ground, overhead cables near the drop spot and not enough room for the vehicle to manoeuvre. Others include forgetting the doors need space to open, not confirming the exact container size, and not telling drivers the container is loaded. Photos of the site and accurate details avoid most of these.
Questions to ask before buying
If you're buying a container, ask the seller:
- What size and height is it?
- Is it wind and watertight?
- Can it be loaded at the depot or site?
- Are there any collection times or access limits?
In summary
Check the size and weight, plan how it will be unloaded, prepare a firm and level site and post your job with photos. Approved drivers with suitable vehicles can then send quotes.