Frequently Asked Questions
Introduction
Find answers to common questions about buying shipping containers. Can’t find what you’re
looking for? Contact our team on 02081647840 | 07384005756
Container Sizes & Specifications
What container sizes do you offer?
We stock 10ft, 20ft, 30ft, and 40ft containers in both standard height and high cube variants. Standard height containers are 8ft 6in tall. High cube containers are 9ft 6in tall, providing an extra foot of internal height.
What's the most popular container size?
20ft containers are the most popular choice. They offer excellent storage capacity while fitting most delivery locations. 40ft containers are preferred for large-scale commercial operations needing maximum storage space.
What are the internal dimensions of each size?
10ft Container:
- Length: 9ft 4in (2.84m)
- Width: 7ft 8in (2.34m)
- Height: 7ft 10in (2.39m) Standard / 8ft 10in (2.69m) High Cube
20ft Container:
- Length: 19ft 4in (5.89m)
- Width: 7ft 8in (2.34m)
- Height: 7ft 10in (2.39m) Standard / 8ft 10in (2.69m) High Cube
30ft Container:
- Length: 29ft 4in (8.94m)
- Width: 7ft 8in (2.34m)
- Height: 7ft 10in (2.39m) Standard / 8ft 10in (2.69m) High Cube
40ft Container:
- Length: 39ft 4in (12.01m)
- Width: 7ft 8in (2.34m)
- Height: 7ft 10in (2.39m) Standard / 8ft 10in (2.69m) High Cube
How much weight can a container hold?
All our containers can hold substantial weight. Maximum payload varies by size:
- 10ft containers: Up to 28,000kg
- 20ft containers: Up to 28,180kg
- 30ft containers: Up to 27,000kg
- 40ft containers: Up to 26,580kg
These are maximum capacities. Actual payload depends on the empty container weight and your transport requirements.
Pricing & Payment
How much do containers cost?
Container prices vary by size, condition, and current market rates. Contact us for current pricing on specific sizes and types.
What affects container pricing?
Several factors influence price:
- Size (larger containers cost more)
- Condition (new vs used)
- Type (high cube vs standard)
- Market demand and availability
- Delivery distance from our stock locations
Are delivery costs included in the price?
No. Container prices are quoted separately from delivery costs.
Delivery charges depend on your postcode and distance from our stock locations. We provide transparent delivery quotes before you commit.
Do you offer bulk discounts?
Yes. Volume pricing available for multiple container orders. Contact our team with your
requirements for bulk pricing.
What payment methods do you accept?
We sell to UK-based businesses only. Payment by bank transfer required.
You’ll need to provide:
- Company registration number
- VAT registration number
- UK business bank account details
Delivery & Installation
Do you deliver nationwide?
Yes. We deliver shipping containers across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland using third-party haulage partners. We also offer rail delivery for longer distances and bulk orders.
How long does delivery take?
Most road deliveries happen within 3-5 working days from order confirmation. London and major cities often receive faster service. Rail delivery orders take longer than one week due to scheduling and logistics requirements. Delivery timeframes depend on your location and current stock availability.
What access do I need for delivery?
Delivery trucks need:
- Road width: Minimum 3 meters
- Overhead clearance: At least 4.5 meters
- Firm, level ground for container placement
- Adequate turning space for the delivery vehicle
- Enough room for truck to enter and maneuver safely
We assess access requirements during the quote process and advise on any concerns.
What ground preparation is needed?
Containers need firm, level ground for placement. Ground must support the container’s weight when loaded.
Critical Requirements:
No overhead cables in the placement area or delivery route Level surface for safe positioning Adequate room for delivery truck to enter and maneuver
We advise on ground preparation during the delivery planning.
Critical Requirements:
- No overhead cables in the placement area or delivery route
- Level surface for safe positioningv
- Adequate room for delivery truck to enter and maneuver
No overhead cables in the placement area or delivery route Level surface for safe positioning Adequate room for delivery truck to enter and maneuver
- Concrete slab
- Paving slabs
- Compacted hardcore
- Railway sleepers
- Level grass (for temporary placement)
We advise on ground preparation during the delivery planning.
Container Uses & Applications
What can I use containers for?
Export Purposes (Primary Use): Shipping containers are ideal for international cargo transport. All our containers come with CSC plates and certificates available for export compliance.
Storage Applications:
Commercial inventory and equipment storage
Construction site storage
Agricultural storage for farms
Secure document archives
Important Note on Stacking: Containers can be stacked up to two levels. You must use twist locks between stacked containers to ensure safety and prevent hazards. Contact us for advice on your specific application requirements.
Storage Applications:
Important Note on Stacking: Containers can be stacked up to two levels. You must use twist locks between stacked containers to ensure safety and prevent hazards. Contact us for advice on your specific application requirements.
Are containers waterproof?
Yes. All our containers are fully weatherproof when in good condition.
Are containers secure?
Yes. Container construction provides excellent security:
- Heavy-gauge steel walls
- Lockable double doors
- Lockbox for padlock protection
- Weather-resistant seals
Can containers be stacked?
Yes. Containers can be stacked up to two levels.
Critical Safety Requirement: You must use twist locks between stacked containers. Twist locks
secure containers together and prevent hazards from movement or collapse.
Stacking without proper twist locks creates serious safety risks. Contact us for advice on safe
container stacking and twist lock requirements.
Maintenance & Care
What maintenance do containers need?
Regular Maintenance:
Proper ventilation prevents moisture buildup and extends container life.
- Keep condensation levels low by ensuring adequate ventilation
- Keep container open periodically for air drafts and airflow
- Regular inspection for rust or damage
- Touch up paint chips promptly
- Keep roof clear of debris
- Ensure drainage around the container
Proper ventilation prevents moisture buildup and extends container life.
How do I prevent rust?
Treat any paint chips or scratches quickly. Apply rust-resistant paint to exposed metal.
Good drainage around containers prevents water pooling. Avoid storing containers directly on
wet ground without proper foundation.
Can containers be repainted?
Yes. Containers can be repainted to any color. Proper surface preparation ensures paint adhesion. We offer repainting services or advise on suitable paints for DIY projects.
Still Have Questions?
Can’t find the answer you need? Our team is ready to help.
-
Monday Friday:
8:30am 5:00pm
Saturday Sunday:
Closed -
Call Us:
Phone number: 020 8164 7840 -
Call Us:
Mobile: 07441 343249 -
Email:
ukdesk@bluefinshipping.com