Our journey began in the late 1950s as F&J Dartnell, a venture launched by Fred and Jim Dartnell.
As machinery merchants, they engaged in the buying, repairing, and selling of various plant machinery.
As the 1960’s unfolded, our business experienced growth both in staff and scale. In a pivotal moment in 1965, Fred and Jim faced a critical economic decision in acquiring the land, solidifying the foundation for the journey ahead.
While our roots remained in engineering, a transformative shift was imminent.
By 1968, F&J Dartnell transformed into Upminster Transport Ltd, marking the dawn of a new era. The timing couldn't have been more propitious, as standardized shipping containers earned ISO ratings and global trade was on the rise. Recognizing the untapped market potential, we began container trading, emerging as pioneers in the UK market.
The 1970’s presented a new challenge and opportunity: repairing damaged containers. In response to the industry need, we developed a pioneering system to straighten and repair containers, a solution that gained international acclaim. Our commitment to excellence led to the establishment of Upminster Transport (Containers) Limited in 1970.
By the 1980s, Upminster Transport Containers had become a national leader, commanding expertise in container repair, shipping container conversion, hire, and sales. A poignant moment captured Fred and Jim Dartnell with directors from Bell Containers, emblematic of our esteemed reputation. However, 1988 brought an unexpected turn as Fred's passing left Jim and Brenda to continue.
The 1990s brought a shifting landscape as container prices dropped, prompting us to focus on conversions. The dawn of the new millennium marked Jim's declining health, paving the way for his daughter Maria, and Lee, to take the reins.
This era transitioned into prioritising self-storage and container conversions, reflecting a commitment to innovation in a changing world.
Amid the 2010’s, Upminster Containers embraced diversification into Modular Buildings, responding to the evolving demands of the market. Our dedication to innovation was underscored by becoming official trading partners with CONTAINEX in 2018.
Today, Upminster Containers reflects the resilience, adaptability, and entrepreneurial spirit that has propelled us through the decades. With modular buildings, shipping container expertise, and a focus on innovation, our journey continues to evolve and innovate.
Our journey has always been one of adaptation and transformation. From our humble beginnings as machinery merchants to becoming trailblazers in the container market, we've thrived by seizing opportunities and harnessing innovation.
Looking ahead, we will continue to pioneer ahead with a driving innovation that aligns with the dynamic needs of our customers and the market. Embracing sustainability will remain a cornerstone of our future endeavours.
As the world embraces more eco-conscious practices, our commitment to providing sustainable solutions will continue. By crafting modular buildings that minimize environmental impact and maximize efficiency, we're ensuring that our legacy remains one of positive change.
At the heart of our journey are our people – the dedicated team, the loyal customers, and the community that fuels our passion. Our ethos of unity and community spirit will continue to be our guiding light. Just as we rallied together during challenging times, we'll continue to stand strong, adapting to new opportunities and rising to meet the needs of our ever-evolving world.'
