Container Options and Specifications in Oakham

Choosing the correct size and type of container is vital for site efficiency. Shipping Containers of Birmingham offers several standard and specialised units. Each type serves different cargo and space requirements. We provide detailed FAQs to help you understand the technical nuances of each model.

Standard Shipping Containers

• 20ft Shipping Containers: This is our most common size. A 20ft shipping container offers approximately 33 cubic metres of space. It is ideal for small to medium-sized storage needs and fits well on most commercial premises.
• 40ft Shipping Containers: If you have high volumes of goods, a 40ft shipping container is the most efficient choice. These units double the storage capacity of a 20ft unit but require more space for delivery and placement.

Specialised Equipment

Some projects require more than a standard steel box. We supply specialised containers to the Oakham area for temperature-controlled goods or oversized cargo.

• Refrigerated Containers: Often called reefers, these units maintain specific temperatures. We provide 20ft refrigerated containers and 40ft refrigerated containers for food, chemical, or pharmaceutical storage.
• Open Top Containers: These units have a removable tarpaulin roof rather than a fixed steel top. They allow for top-loading of heavy machinery or bulk goods. You can view specifications for 20ft open top containers and 40ft open top containers on our site.
• Flat Rack Containers: Designed for heavy or wide loads that do not fit inside a standard container. These have no side walls. We stock 20ft and 40ft flat rack containers for industrial transport.

Condition Grades: New vs Used

Shipping Containers of Birmingham supplies units in two primary conditions. Your choice depends on your budget and how long you intend to use the unit. You can explore our full range of new and used containers for sale to see current stock.

One-Trip (New) Containers

A one-trip container is the closest to a new unit available in the UK market. These are manufactured in Asia and carry a single cargo load to the UK. Once they arrive, we sell them to clients in Oakham. These units feature the latest paint finishes, easy-to-use door handles, and a factory-fitted lock box. A lock box is a steel shroud that protects your padlock from bolt croppers.

Used Containers

Used containers have spent several years in international shipping. They will show signs of use, including dents, surface rust, and varied colours. However, Shipping Containers of Birmingham inspects every used unit. We guarantee they are wind and watertight. These are an excellent choice for industrial sites where aesthetics are less important than security and cost.

Delivery and Site Access in Oakham

We deliver containers using HIAB vehicles. A HIAB is a truck equipped with an on-board hydraulic crane. This allows us to lift the container over small obstacles and place it precisely on your site. For a successful delivery in Oakham, you must consider the following factors. For more details, see our container delivery information page.

Space and Clearance

The delivery vehicle needs significant room to operate. A 20ft container truck requires approximately 10 metres of length and 3 metres of width. When offloading, the crane arm extends to the side, requiring a minimum width of 6 metres. You must also check for overhead obstructions. Power lines, low branches, and building eaves can prevent a crane from operating safely. We require at least 6 metres of vertical clearance for the lift.

Ground Surface Requirements

The ground where we place the container must be level and firm. Shipping Containers of Birmingham cannot deliver on soft grass, mud, or loose sand. These surfaces are unstable and can cause the container to sink or the delivery vehicle to get stuck. Acceptable surfaces include dry compacted gravel, concrete, asphalt, or firm dirt. If you must place a unit on grass, ensure the ground is dry and use wooden planks or rail sleepers to distribute the weight.

A level surface is essential for the operation of the container doors. If the ground is uneven, the container frame can twist slightly. This racking makes it difficult or impossible to open and close the heavy steel doors. You can use concrete slabs or timber at the corners to level the unit.

Local Compliance and Planning in Oakham

Before you buy or hire a shipping container, check if you need planning permission. In many cases, shipping containers are viewed as temporary structures. However, local rules in Rutland may vary depending on the duration of use and location. If you place a container in a conservation area or near a listed building in Oakham, you are more likely to need formal approval.

We recommend contacting the planning department at Rutland County Council to discuss your plans. You can find more information on the Rutland County Council planning portal. Taking this step early prevents potential legal issues or the cost of removing a unit later.

Hire vs Buy: Which is Right for You?

Shipping Containers of Birmingham helps you decide whether to purchase or rent a container in Oakham. The right choice depends on your project duration.

• Hire: If you need storage for less than 12 months, hiring a shipping container is usually the better option. It requires less upfront capital, and we collect the unit once you finish with it. This is popular for construction projects or temporary factory renovations. Our Oakham container hire service offers flexible terms.
• Buy: If you need a permanent storage solution, buying is more cost-effective. Owning the unit allows you to modify it, such as adding shelving or electricity, and you avoid ongoing weekly costs.