40ft Shipping Containers

40ft shipping containers are available in a range of configurations, including standard height, high cube, double door tunnel, full side access and refrigerated containers. Depending on your requirements, both new and used options are available across selected container types.

Used 40ft shipping containers start from £1,450 ex. VAT (£1,740 inc. VAT), while new 40ft containers start from £3,350 ex. VAT (£4,020 inc. VAT). Prices vary depending on the container type, condition and any modifications required.

40ft shipping containers are commonly used for commercial storage, warehousing, construction sites, agricultural storage and storing large machinery or equipment. They’re also widely converted into offices, workshops, retail units and other bespoke workspaces where maximum internal space is required.

The main difference is the height. A standard 40ft shipping container is 2.59m (8ft 6in) high externally, while a 40ft high cube container is 2.90m (9ft 6in) high, providing around 300mm (1ft) of additional internal headroom. This extra height makes high cube containers a popular choice for conversions, storing taller equipment, and applications where maximising internal space is important.

40ft shipping containers are commonly used for commercial storage, warehousing, construction sites, agricultural storage and storing large machinery or equipment. They’re also widely converted into offices, workshops, retail units and other bespoke workspaces where maximum internal space is required.

A 40ft shipping container is ideal for storing large quantities of stock, pallets, machinery, construction materials, furniture and business equipment. It offers approximately 67 m³ (2,390 cu ft) of internal storage space, with a maximum payload of around 26,500kg. The exact payload capacity should always be checked on the container’s data plate before loading.

Yes. A 40ft shipping container can be converted into an office, workshop, welfare unit, retail space or other bespoke workspace. With approximately 28 m² of internal floor space, it offers enough room for multiple work areas or separate rooms. If you have a specific project in mind, our in-house conversion team can advise on the available options and provide a tailored quotation.

A standard 40ft shipping container weighs approximately 3,510kg when empty, while a 40ft high cube container weighs around 3,690kg. Specialised containers, such as double door tunnel or full side access units, may weigh more depending on their design and any modifications. The exact tare weight can be found on the container’s data plate.

Whether you need planning permission depends on how the container will be used, where it will be located and how long it will remain on site. Temporary storage containers may not require planning permission in some circumstances, while permanent installations or containers used as offices, homes or other occupied spaces are more likely to require approval. As requirements vary between local authorities, it’s always best to check with your local planning authority before installing a container.

In many cases, yes. A 40ft shipping container requires enough space for a specialist delivery vehicle to manoeuvre and unload safely. Before delivery, we’ll assess factors such as road width, turning space, overhead obstacles and ground conditions to confirm whether your site is suitable. If access is limited, our team can advise on the most appropriate container size or delivery solution.