Storage Container For Hire Uppingham

Container Hire Options in Uppingham

We supply containers in standard ISO sizes to suit most sites in Rutland. Understanding the dimensions and specifications helps you choose the correct unit for your cargo volume and site constraints.

20ft Storage Containers

The 20ft shipping container is the industry standard for hire. It fits comfortably in most commercial yards, school grounds, or large residential driveways. These units provide approximately 33 cubic metres of internal capacity. Dimensions are 20ft long, 8ft wide, and 8ft 6in high. They are ideal for storing the contents of a three-bedroom house, building materials, or seasonal business inventory. We ensure these units are wind- and watertight, keeping your goods dry and protected from the elements. Most hire units in this size are painted in neutral colours, such as green or blue, to blend in with rural surroundings.

40ft Storage Containers

For large-scale projects, such as major construction sites or logistics operations, the 40ft shipping container offers double the capacity. These units are 40ft long and provide roughly 67 cubic metres of space. They are frequently used for palletised goods, long-length materials like timber and piping, or large machinery. However, due to their significant length, you must ensure your site in Uppingham has extensive access to accommodate the delivery truck, which will be an articulated vehicle.

Condition Grades for Hire

For our hire fleet, we typically supply "used" containers that are structurally sound and weather-proof. They may have cosmetic wear, such as dents, patch repairs, or surface rust, but they function perfectly as secure storage. All locks and door bars are checked to ensure smooth operation. We guarantee that the door seals are intact to prevent water ingress. If you require a pristine unit, for example, for a public-facing event or a pop-up shop in the Market Place, please request a "new" (one-trip) container when you enquire.

Security Features

Security is a primary concern for storage. Our hire containers are built from corten steel, which is highly corrosion-resistant and extremely tough. For added protection, we recommend using a high-security padlock that fits inside the factory-fitted "lock box." A lock box is a steel cowl welded to the container door that shields the padlock from bolt croppers, angle grinders, and weather. This makes the unit extremely difficult to break into, providing peace of mind for high-value goods.

Delivery Logistics and Site Access

We deliver containers using Hiab vehicles. These are trucks fitted with a hydraulic crane that lifts the container from the vehicle bed to the ground. Successful delivery relies on preparing your site correctly and communicating any potential obstacles to us in advance. Uppingham presents specific challenges due to its historic layout and narrow access routes.

Vehicle Types and Clearance

The type of truck we use depends on the size of the container:

• 20ft Containers: We typically deliver these on a "rigid" Hiab truck. This vehicle is approximately 33-36ft long and needs roughly 60ft of straight-line space to offload the container safely. The turning circle is comparable to a dustcart, but the weight is significantly higher.
• 40ft Containers: These require an "articulated" Hiab truck. The vehicle is around 60ft to 65ft long and needs approximately 100ft to 110ft of straight-line clearance to park and offload. This vehicle struggles with tight corners and narrow lanes.

In addition to length, the vehicle requires width. The truck is roughly 9ft wide, but the stabiliser legs (which keep the crane stable during the lift) extend out from the sides. You should allow for a total working width of approximately 18ft to 20ft during the lifting operation.

Overhead Obstructions

The crane arm extends upwards and outwards to lift the container. You must check your site in Uppingham for overhead hazards. Tree branches, building overhangs, and telephone lines can block a delivery. Most critically, you must check for overhead power cables. For safety reasons, our drivers typically require a clearance of at least 20 metres from live power lines. If cables are present, you must inform us immediately so we can assess the risk.

Navigating Rutland’s Roads

Uppingham is surrounded by rural roads and narrow lanes. Low bridges, weight-restricted zones, and tight humpback bridges can prevent large Hiab trucks from reaching your site. If your location has restricted access, we need to know beforehand. We may be able to arrange a smaller truck or suggest an alternative offloading point. Failure to disclose access restrictions can result in a failed delivery charge.

Ground Preparation and Levelling

You are responsible for preparing the ground before the driver arrives. The container must sit on a "hard standing" surface that is flat and level.

Surface Types

Suitable surfaces include concrete, tarmac, paved areas, or compacted hardcore (gravel). We generally cannot deliver onto grass, soft soil, or mud. Hiab trucks are extremely heavy; if they drive on soft ground, they risk sinking, getting stuck, or damaging underground services like drains. If the driver assesses the ground as unsafe, they will refuse the delivery.

The Importance of Level Ground

The ground must be level. If a container sits on uneven ground, it can twist, a process known as "racking." When a container racks, the door frame distorts, causing the heavy steel doors to jam or fail to close properly. This is not a fault with the container but a result of the ground conditions. If the doors stick immediately after delivery, the unit is usually not level.

Using Supports

We recommend supporting the four corners of the container using railway sleepers, heavy-duty paving slabs, or concrete blocks. This helps level the unit on slightly uneven ground and creates an airflow gap underneath the floor. This gap is vital for preventing moisture from being trapped under the container, which helps protect the marine ply floor inside from damp and rot.

Planning Permission in Uppingham

Shipping containers are often classified as temporary structures, which can sometimes exempt them from planning permission for short-term use. However, planning regulations vary by location and intended use.

Uppingham has a significant Conservation Area covering much of the town centre. If your site is within this area, or near a listed building (such as Uppingham School buildings), planning rules are stricter. If you plan to keep the container for a prolonged period (generally over 28 days), you may need permission. We strongly recommend checking with the local authority before ordering. For sites in this area, you should consult the Rutland County Council planning portal for specific guidance on permitted development rights and temporary structures.

Hire vs Buy: Making the Right Choice

Deciding between hiring and buying a shipping container in Uppingham depends on your project timeline and budget.

When to Hire

Hiring is the most cost-effective option for short-term needs (typically 12 to 18 months or less). It offers flexibility, requires less upfront capital, and we handle the unit's removal when you are finished. This is ideal for renovation projects, seasonal retail storage, or temporary site offices.

When to Buy

If you need storage for several years, purchasing a unit often offers better long-term value. Once you own the container, you can modify it, paint it to match your branding, or fit it with racking and power. Buying also adds a permanent asset to your business.