Choose a size
Shipping container dimensions: choose the space you need
Compare 20ft, 40ft and high cube dimensions in metres and millimetres. Check internal space, door clearance and the measurements to request before ordering.
Open guide and tool →PLAN YOUR CONTAINER PROJECT
Container guides that help you choose
Measure the space, compare the full scope and prepare the site before you ask for quotes. Start with the decision you need to make.
Measure the goods and plan the space
Start with the dimensions, then test a footprint or record the inventory. Keep weight and handling as separate checks.
Measure and load
Shipping container weight: tare, contents and loaded mass
Estimate loaded container mass, separate tare from added contents and prepare the weight details a supplier needs for delivery, lifting or storage.
Open guide and tool →Measure and load
Shipping container pallet layouts: plan the loaded footprint
Draw Euro or UK pallet footprints inside reference 20ft and 40ft containers. Allow for overhang and access, then review height, weight and loading method.
Open guide and tool →Protect stored goods
What fits in a container? Build a measured storage inventory
Measure packed furniture, equipment and stock. Compare volume, floor area and door warnings, then save a storage inventory for a supplier to review.
Open guide and tool →Protect the contents and prepare the site
Choose moisture protection, understand the finished space and prepare a site enquiry for the appropriate UK nation.
Protect stored goods
Shipping container condensation: diagnose it before choosing a treatment
Separate condensation from leaks, compare moisture-control options and prepare a storage brief for a shipping container suited to your goods and access routine.
Open guide and inspection routine →Plan a conversion
Shipping container insulation: compare the finished space
Plan container insulation, lining and ventilation. Calculate the space left after a fit-out and prepare a clear specification for conversion quotes.
Open guide and tool →Prepare the site
Shipping container planning permission: prepare your site enquiry
Prepare planning checks for a storage container in a garden, yard or on private land. Compare the four UK planning routes and the details your council needs.
Open guide and tool →Compare the budget and specify refrigeration
Use your own quote figures and operating evidence. Unknown charges stay unknown; no national price or electricity average is invented.
Compare the options
Buy or hire a shipping container: compare the whole period
Compare buying and hiring a shipping container using your duration, delivery costs and return terms. Separate total cost, upfront cash and resale assumptions.
Open guide and tool →Protect temperature-sensitive stock
Refrigerated container checklist: size, power and operating brief
Prepare a refrigerated-container hire or purchase brief. Check usable space, airflow, power supply, energy evidence and breakdown cover before comparing quotes.
Open guide and tool →Budget for refrigerated storage
Refrigerated container electricity costs: measure, calculate and compare
Estimate reefer electricity costs from measured kWh or your own average-power assumption. Keep tariff, VAT, operating hours and other supply charges explicit.
Open guide and tool →Already know what you need?
Use the relevant buying or hire page to describe the equipment and services in your request.