Energy Shipping Container Solutions

Choosing a container for energy equipment

A 20ft shipping container can suit smaller quantities of tools, cables, maintenance items or electrical equipment. If the project involves longer components, larger quantities of stock or more working space, a 40ft shipping container offers more internal length.

Size is only one part of the decision. Consider the dimensions and weight of the goods, the equipment used for loading, the required door orientation and whether the container may need to be moved later. A site team should also assess how staff will access the contents and whether the unit needs ventilation, lining, insulation or other changes.

• Equipment storage: Keep tools, cables, spare parts and maintenance items together in an enclosed unit.
• Project components: Use the available floor space for larger energy equipment and components.
• Electrical equipment: Review environmental conditions and access requirements before using a standard container for sensitive items.
• Temporary works: Hire can provide storage during a defined project phase, while purchase may suit a longer-term installation.

Renewable energy and battery storage

Solar, wind and other renewable energy projects may need storage for equipment during installation, maintenance or expansion. Battery Energy Storage Systems, commonly called BESS, also require careful consideration of the equipment layout, access, ventilation and environmental conditions.

A standard container should not be treated as automatically suitable for battery systems or sensitive electrical equipment. The proposed use may require design input and container modifications, such as insulation, cooling or openings for cabling. The modification brief should reflect the equipment, operating environment, access arrangements and any project-specific requirements.

Plan the internal layout before ordering. Battery racks, inverters, switchgear and cable routes can affect the usable space and the position of doors. A clear layout also makes inspection and maintenance easier. Any specialist safety or engineering requirements should be confirmed by the project team before the container is selected.

Loading options for large energy components

Some energy equipment is awkward to load through standard end doors. The loading method and shape of the cargo may make a specialist container more practical.

An open-top container can be considered where equipment needs to be loaded from above. The removable cover allows a project team to assess top-loading arrangements, including the lifting equipment and space needed around the unit.

A 20ft open-side container provides access along the side of the unit. This may help when handling long or wide components, provided the site has enough room for loading equipment and the planned access route.

For exceptionally bulky loads, a 20ft flat-rack container or 40ft flat-rack container provides a platform rather than an enclosed box. These units need a clear loading plan because the cargo may extend beyond the usual enclosed container space. Check the intended load, securing method and transport requirements before choosing this type.

HIAB delivery and container placement

Containers are delivered by HIAB. A HIAB is a lorry-mounted crane used to unload and position a container. Delivery planning should cover the access route, the vehicle position, turning space, ground condition and the intended placement area.

The proposed position should provide firm, reasonably level support suited to the site and expected load. Soft or uneven ground can contribute to settlement and affect door operation. Consider drainage as well as how the doors will open once the container is in place.

Check for overhead obstructions and other obstacles along the delivery route. Do not assume that a HIAB can lift over buildings, walls, fences, trees or cables. A container may fit the proposed position but still be unsuitable for delivery if the vehicle cannot reach a suitable lifting position.

Door orientation and future access also matter. If the unit may need to be collected, repositioned or moved between project phases, keep the access route in mind from the start. Information about moving containers can help when planning a change of position.

Condition and project requirements

Container condition should match the intended use. A one-trip container has generally completed a limited initial shipping journey. A used container has had previous service and should be assessed for its condition and suitability for the proposed application.

Wind and watertight means that the container is intended to resist the entry of wind and rain. It does not mean airtight, and it does not remove the need to consider condensation, ventilation or the protection required by the stored equipment.

Where a container may be used for international transport, ask about the documentation and condition requirements that apply to that movement. A CSC plate is a safety approval plate associated with containers used in international shipping. It should not be assumed that every container is suitable for every transport or carrier requirement.

Planning an energy container installation

Planning requirements can depend on how the container will be used, how long it will remain in place, the status of the site, its visibility, nearby neighbours and local planning policy. Listed buildings, conservation areas, a change of use or a prominent position may create additional considerations.

Planning permission is not automatically required or excluded for every container placement. Check current requirements with the relevant local planning authority before committing to the proposed placement or use.

When you have confirmed the intended use, size, condition, loading method and site requirements, you can request container prices based on the project specification.