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If you’re looking for extra storage, shipping containers in Essex could be one of the simplest ways to create a secure space without extending your current building. They’re used by businesses, construction companies, schools, hospitals and homeowners for everything from storing stock and equipment to providing additional space during a project.
If you’ve started looking into shipping containers, then you’ll already know that finding the right container isn’t just about choosing a size. You’ll also need to consider whether buying or hiring makes more sense as well as any additional features or conversions that you might need.
At Upminster Containers we’ve been supplying shipping containers since the early 1970s and we now offer both new and used containers for both hire and purchase, with a range of sizes and specifications available. If you’re not quite sure what you need, we can also talk you through the options and help you to find a container that suits your budget and intended use.
In this guide we’re taking a closer look at what you need to consider when buying or hiring a shipping container in Essex, from choosing the right size and condition through to delivery and modifications.
One big advantage of buying or hiring your shipping container locally is being able to see exactly what you’re getting before you make a decision. This is particularly useful when you’re considering a used container, as the appearance and condition can vary from one unit to another, even when they’re a similar age or grade.
Our yard is based in Upminster and customers are more than welcome to visit us to take a look at the containers we currently have in stock and choose a preferred unit. It means that you’re not relying on a description or stock photo and, if you’re unsure about the size, condition or specification that you need, our team can talk you through the options whilst you’re here.
After all, when you’re going to be storing valuable stock or tools inside, it’s worth knowing exactly what you’re buying.
The honest answer is: it depends on how long you need it. If you’re covering a temporary shortage of space or the container only needs to be there for the duration of a project, hiring can keep things flexible. At Upminster Containers our minimum hire period is eight weeks, after which it rolls monthly, so you’re not paying to own something you’ll eventually need to move on.
If the container is going to become a more permanent part of your set-up, buying tends to make more sense over time. Containers hold their value reasonably well, so you’re not walking away from a poor investment if circumstances change. It’s worth bearing in mind however, that when you own a container, it needs a permanent home on-site which might come with planning requirements. That’s rarely a problem, but it’s worth thinking through before you decide.
We supply 6ft, 8ft, 10ft, 20ft and 40ft containers, as well as tunnel and open-side containers for situations where standard end-door access doesn’t quite work. If you have something specific in mind though, we can also modify a standard container to fit the exact area you need.
Our containers come with plywood flooring, air vents and a lock box fitted as-standard. The lock box shields the padlock from view, a simple detail that makes a genuine practical difference if security is a concern. If you want to talk through locking options in more detail, we’re happy to do that.
Storage containers are what most people come to us for first, but they’re far from the only thing we offer and for some projects a different solution can genuinely work better.
Through our long-standing partnership with Containex, one of Europe’s leading modular building manufacturers, we can supply a number of units. These range from a compact 10ft site cabin up to multi-storey modular complexes that can be stacked up to three storeys high. Units can be combined and configured to suit almost any layout and the interior fit-out, including flooring, lighting, partitions and air conditioning, can all be adapted to meet your specs.
At Upminster Containers we’ve supplied modular buildings for schools and nurseries, changing facilities for construction sites and schools, as well as medical and public sector buildings, showrooms, event spaces and staff accommodation. Sanitary and welfare cabins are a particularly common addition to container hire packages, whether that’s a construction site needing WC and wash facilities or an event requiring proper toilet provision with fresh water rather than chemicals.
If you’re hiring containers for a site that isn’t connected to mains electricity, power is something that you’ll need to think about. We work with Templant Rental Power, a specialist generator hire company who operate 24 hours a day, to offer combined container and generator packages.
Depending on the size of your site, packages are available from 30 kVA up to 100 kVA and include the generator, a fuel tank, cabling and a distribution panel. For those looking to reduce fuel use and emissions, Templant also offer Stage V generators and battery hybrid options. If a breakdown occurs, their engineers are dispatched within three hours of the initial call.
If you’re buying rather than hiring, it’s worth knowing early-on whether a conversion might be part of the plan. Knowing that you eventually want an office, workshop, kitchen or retail unit can influence which container you start with. We carry out container conversions at our Essex site, and the range of projects that we’ve been involved with is wider than most people expect; from mobile shops and secure site offices to a laboratory. Perhaps most memorably, even an Antarctic storage container for Sir Ranulph Fiennes. If you’ve got something more ambitious in mind, we’re probably the right people to talk to.
We work with trusted haulage partners to handle delivery, so you don’t need to worry about organising transport. Once it arrives, we’ll position it and make sure that it’s sitting level, rather than simply unloading and leaving. We’ll also check access beforehand, making sure that the vehicle can get to where you need the container positioned and that there are no surprises on delivery day.
Also, the ground matters more than people often expect and containers work best on a firm, level base. This doesn’t necessarily mean a full concrete foundation, but it’s still worth thinking ahead about ground conditions. If you’re unsure, one of the Upminster Containers team can go through this with you.
You don’t need to have every detail worked out before you get in touch. Tell us what you need it for, where it’s going and roughly how long you’ll need it and we can take it from there. You’re also welcome to visit our yard in Upminster and choose a container yourself, or, if you’d rather talk through the options first, give us a call and we’ll be happy to point you in the right direction.
