The Complete Shipping Container Buying Guide

Cleveland Containers supplies new and used shipping containers for sale across the UK, ranging from 6ft storage units to 45ft  containers, in standard, high cube, and specialist configurations.  

Delivery is available from 20+ depot locations nationwide. Choosing the right container comes down to four things: size,  condition, type, and whether any modifications are needed. This  guide covers each decision in order. 

What Size Container Do You Need?

Size is the first decision because everything else follows from it.  Cleveland Containers stocks containers from 6ft to 45ft. Here is  what each size is best suited for.

6ft containers are the smallest option and suit compact domestic  storage, such as garden equipment, tools, seasonal items, where  space on site is tight or access is restricted. 

8ft containers offer a step up in capacity while still fitting  comfortably into limited spaces. They work well as a secure on site lockup for tools or stock. 

10ft containers are suited to small-to-medium storage needs on  residential or commercial sites. A practical alternative to a shed  where security and weatherproofing matter.

20ft containers are the most popular size stocked by Cleveland  Containers. They handle the majority of commercial storage and  site use cases like construction materials, equipment, stock, and  are the standard unit for bespoke conversions. A 20ft standard  container holds up to 10 standard pallets. 

30ft containers are cut down from larger units and offer a  practical middle ground between 20ft and 40ft. They suit sites  where a 40ft would be too long but a 20ft is not quite enough. 

40ft containers are the choice for high-volume storage and large scale site operations. A 40ft container holds up to 20 standard  pallets and is available in standard and high cube configurations. 

45ft containers are the largest size Cleveland Containers stocks,  suited to bulk storage and operations where maximum internal  volume is the priority. 

For full internal and external dimensions across every size, see the Cleveland Containers dimensions page. 

New or Used: What Is the Difference?

Both new and used containers supplied by Cleveland Containers  are wind and watertight and inspected before sale. The choice  between them comes down to condition expectations, intended  use, and budget.

New (one trip) containers have completed a single cargo voyage  and arrive in near-new condition. They are the right choice when  appearance matters, for example, conversions, retail use,  customer-facing sites, or any project where the container will be  visible. 

Used containers have completed multiple voyages and will show  surface wear, denting, and cosmetic marks consistent with  working life at sea. Structurally they remain sound. They are the  practical choice for storage-only applications where condition is  secondary to cost. 

If budget is a consideration, the Cleveland Containers clearance page lists discounted stock updated regularly.

Container Types and Configurations

Shipping containers come in several configurations. The right type  depends on how you need to access, load, and use the unit. 

Standard (dry) containers are steel, weatherproof, and secure,  and suit the majority of storage and site applications. 

High cube containers share the same footprint as standard units  but offer an additional foot of internal height (9ft 6in versus 8ft  6in). The right choice where vertical clearance matters, for tall  equipment, racking, or any conversion that benefits from extra  headroom. 

For specific access, load, or use requirements, Cleveland  Containers stocks the following specialist types: 

Side opening containers have full-length doors along the side of  the unit, in addition to standard cargo doors at   the end. They give easy access to the  entire floor area and suit operations where loading bulky or wide  items through end doors alone would be difficult. 

Tunnel containers have doors at both ends, allowing straight through access. Used on sites where pass-through loading is  operationally useful. 

Open top containers have no roof, allowing cargo to be loaded  from above by crane or forklift. Used for oversized loads that  cannot pass through end doors. 

Refrigerated containers maintain a controlled temperature  environment and are suitable for perishable goods and  temperature-sensitive storage. 

Flat pack containers are modular units that arrive in sections and  are assembled on site. They suit projects where access for a full sized HIAB lorry is restricted. 

50/50 office stores combine a secure storage area with an  integrated office or welfare space within a single container  footprint. A practical solution for construction sites that need both  functions in one unit. 

Offshore containers are built to DNV standards for use in marine  and offshore environments.

Site accommodation units include offices, canteens, changing  rooms, and toilet blocks, available in 20ft and 32ft configurations. 

Chemical storage containers are built to safely store hazardous  materials in line with relevant regulations. 

Multistore containers provide secure storage through individual compartments within one compact unit, making them useful where multiple users, teams or items need to be separated. 

Can You Modify a Container After Buying?

Cleveland Containers offers modifications through two routes  depending on the scope of work required. 

Cleveland XTRAS covers practical upgrades that can be added to  a standard container: personnel doors, windows, electrics and  lighting, insulation and ply lining, racking, painting, and Grafo Therm anti-condensation coating.  

Bespoke containers cover projects that go beyond standard  modifications: workshops, catering units, retail units, training  facilities, switchgear containers, and full custom builds. Cleveland  Containers has an in-house conversions team that takes projects  from initial specification through to delivery. Modifications can be  discussed and specified at the point of enquiry.

See our case studies for examples of completed projects. 

How Much Does a Shipping Container Cost?

Shipping container prices vary depending on size, condition, and  your location relative to the nearest Cleveland Containers depot.  Smaller units are not always cheaper: 8ft and 10ft containers can  cost as much as a 20ft because of the higher cost of shipping  compact units internationally. 

The main variables that affect price are: 

• Size: larger containers generally cost more
• Condition: new (one trip) containers cost more than used;  both are wind and watertight
• Specialist type: refrigerated, offshore, and bespoke units  are priced on specification 
• Delivery: the distance between your site and the nearest of  Cleveland Containers' 20+ depot locations affects the  delivery element of the total cost 
• Modifications: any XTRAS or bespoke work is priced in  addition to the container 

For accurate pricing on the size and type you need, get a quote

For a broader overview of what drives container costs, read our Understanding Shipping Container Costs guide.

Buying a Container on Finance

Cleveland Containers offers flexible finance options on purchases,  allowing you to spread the cost rather than paying in full upfront.  This is available on both standard and specialist units and only applicable on orders around £7,500 and above. For details,  see the Cleveland Containers finance page

What to Check Before You Buy

Before confirming an order, run through the following. 

• Condition. If appearance is a key concern we recommend you use,  new (one trip) containers . For storage only, used is almost always  sufficient. Raise any specific condition requirements with  the Cleveland Containers team before ordering. 
• Wind and watertight standard. All Cleveland Containers  units, new and used, are supplied wind and watertight.  This is the confirmed baseline standard for every container  supplied. 
• Security. New (one trip)containers come with a lockbox fitted as  standard, protecting a padlock from attack. Lockboxes can also be added to used units for an additional charge.  Additional  measures such as CCTV, fencing, and perimeter controls  are the buyer's responsibility and depend on site  
  requirements. 
• Site access. Most containers are delivered by HIAB lorry,  which requires reasonable access and a stable, surface. If your site has restricted access, discuss this  before ordering. For full guidance on preparing your site,  see the Cleveland Containers delivery guide. 
• Planning. Containers are classed as temporary structures  and in most instances are not subject to planning erquirements. Circumstances vary and it is always  
  advisable to check with your local planning authority  before siting a container. Cleveland Containers cannot provide planning advice. Read our planning permission blog for more information. 

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