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Used Shipping Containers

Our wide range of used shipping containers for sale are thoroughly inspected and certified to ensure they meet our high standards of durability and

4.9 of 5, Google rating score

ISO Certified quality

Durable Corten steel construction.

Warranty

Durable Corten steel construction.

Nationwide Delivery

Durable Corten steel construction.

ISO Certified quality

Durable Corten steel construction.

Committed to Quality:
JOSCAR Registered Container Self-Storage & Traders Association MAKE UK Member Acclaim Accreditation ALLMI
Used 20ft Shipping Containers

Used 20ft Shipping Containers

Most popular container size

  • Available in new & used options
  • Wide range of specialist models
  • Good balance of space and footprint
  • Ideal for storage or conversions
Starting from £895.00 View Range
Used 9ft Shipping Containers

Used 9ft Shipping Containers

Compact storage & site solutions.

  • Wind & watertight
  • Ideal for restricted sites
  • New and used options
  • Suitable for storage or conversions
Starting from £1,395.00 View Range
Used 8ft Shipping Containers

Used 8ft Shipping Containers

  • Our smallest container range
  • Ideal where space is limited
  • New and used options
  • Secure compact storage
Starting from £1,450.00 View Range
Used 40ft Shipping Containers

Used 40ft Shipping Containers

High-capacity storage space

  • New one-trip and used units available
  • Standard and high cube options
  • Specialist access models available
  • Ideal for large conversion projects
Starting from £1,450.00 View Range
Used 10ft Shipping Containers

Used 10ft Shipping Containers

  • Compact and practical footprint
  • Standard and high cube options
  • Ideal for smaller sites
  • Storage and welfare units available
Starting from £1,550.00 View Range
Used 30ft Shipping Containers

Used 30ft Shipping Containers

  • Professionally cut-down from larger units
  • More manageable than a 40ft unit
  • Standard and high cube models
  • Ideal for storage or conversions
Starting from £2,195.00 View Range
Used 45ft Shipping Containers

Used 45ft Shipping Containers

Our largest standard container size

  • Available in new and used options
  • Standard and high cube variants
  • Ideal for bulk inventory
  • Suitable for large conversions

Large selection of used shipping containers

Choose from our extensive collection of used shipping containers for sale, rigorously inspected and quality-checked to ensure they’re up to standard, all while offering them at competitive UK rates. From compact options like 8ft10ft, and 20ft to the more spacious 30ft40ft, and 45ft containers, our range of used containers caters to various storage, shipping, or conversion needs, while making sure we’re giving you reliable options without breaking the bank.

Why buy a used shipping container from Universal Containers?

Our commitment to you goes beyond just a sale. We understand the importance of reliable, durable, and high-quality containers. When you choose to buy a used shipping container from us, you’re not just making a purchase; you’re investing in a promise. A promise of unmatched quality, long-lasting durability and the best rates on the market. 

Quality assurance

Every used shipping container we offer is sure to be of the highest quality. Each of our used containers for sale undergo detailed inspections and rigorous quality checks. Select from our inventory with confidence, knowing that your chosen container has been inspected to ensure it meets industry standards and is fit for purpose, securing your valuables or forming a sturdy base for your projects.

Competitive pricing

We make sure to make all our used shipping containers available at highly competitive prices within the UK, ensuring that premium quality and affordable rates go hand in hand. Our pricing structure is as clear as it is affordable, with no hidden costs, allowing you to make well-informed, budget-friendly decisions with utter confidence.

Customisation options

Alongside our expert shipping container refurbishing, we offer a wide range of customisation options that make your container truly your own. From structural changes like adding doors and windows to aesthetic upgrades such as custom colours and branding, we ensure your container perfectly matches your specifications and reflects your unique business identity.

Dedicated support & industry expertise

Our dedicated team’s industry expertise ensures that your container is flawlessly matched to your vision and operational requirements. From guiding you through size selection and customisation options to assisting with the purchase and container delivery process, we’re here to facilitate a smooth, straightforward buying journey.

We prioritise offering value for money, and providing affordable solutions that suit all budgets and needs.

Should you have any inquiries about buying a used shipping container online, require a personalised quote, or simply wish to discuss your options with our expert team, do not hesitate to contact us via the contact form or give us a call at 0161 775 3217 and speak to one of our experts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What sizes of used shipping containers are available?

Used containers are available across a range of sizes including 8ft, 9ft,10ft, 20ft, 30ft, and 40ft. Availability varies depending on current stock.

What condition are used shipping containers in?

Used shipping containers vary in appearance depending on age and previous use. Having been used in commercial shipping, they may show cosmetic signs of wear such as surface rust, minor dents, or repaired patches. These are cosmetic rather than structural issues. All our used containers are inspected before sale by the Universal Containers team and are confirmed watertight and structurally sound before dispatch.

What grades do used shipping containers come in?

Used containers are broadly graded by condition. Higher grade containers are in good overall condition and remain suitable for international shipping. Lower grade containers show more cosmetic wear but are structurally sound and watertight, making them a cost-effective choice for storage. The Universal Containers team can advise on available stock and condition grades at the time of enquiry.

How much cheaper are used containers compared to new ones?

Used containers are significantly cheaper than new (one-trip) containers. At Universal Containers, used containers start from £995 ex. VAT (£1,194 inc. VAT), while new containers start from £1,500 ex. VAT (£1,800 inc. VAT).

How long do used shipping containers last?

A used container that has been well maintained can last a further 15 to 20 years after purchase. The standard lifespan of a shipping container is around 25 to 30 years from manufacture, so a mid-life used container still has significant service ahead.

Can used shipping containers be converted or modified?

Yes. Used containers are commonly used as a base for container conversions including offices, workshops, garden rooms, and retail units. Our in-house team at Universal Containers can advise on what modifications are achievable based on the condition of a specific unit.

Our containers in action

See some of the ways our amazing customers are using their containers.

From Contraband to a Forever Home: Blackpool Zoo’s Shipping Container Tortoise Habitat Case Studies
From Contraband to a Forever Home: Blackpool Zoo’s Shipping Container Tortoise Habitat

Blackpool Zoo has rehomed a group of rescued Sulcata tortoises, several of them seized by UK customs from smugglers, in a converted 16ft shipping container on its Kidepo Trail.

Case Study: Branded Container Gym for Salford City FC Case Studies
Case Study: Branded Container Gym for Salford City FC

Universal Containers was commissioned to design and build a bespoke container gym for Salford City FC, providing players with a dedicated on-site training space.

Case Study: Garden Room Office Container Case Studies
Case Study: Garden Room Office Container

Despite restricted site access, we delivered a fully insulated, light-filled container office with carefully planned glazing, heating and electrics. The finished space provides a practical, year-round working environment suited for everyday use.

Case Study: Compact Coffee Shop Case Studies
Case Study: Compact Coffee Shop

We built a fully functional compact coffee shop from a shipping container with doors for customer access, a roller shutter for security, a serving hatch, and a small kitchen area complete with water heater and sink. 

Case Study: Shipping Container Museum & Workshop Case Studies
Case Study: Shipping Container Museum & Workshop

In the pursuit of enhancing their museum and workshop facility, the Locomotive Society sought a creative solution to provide a welcoming space for their members, while adhering to the historical aesthetic of their railway centric environment.

Case Study: Garden Center Case Studies
Case Study: Garden Center

Universal Containers embarked on an exciting project to enhance a garden centre’s retail experience by supplying and customising two shipping container cabins. The goal was to seamlessly link these cabins on-site and transform them into a vibrant and functional gift shop.

Case Study: Outdoor Catering Unit Case Studies
Case Study: Outdoor Catering Unit

A restaurant had been operating successfully for several years. However, due to increasing demand and limited space within the restaurant premises, the owners decided to expand their operations by introducing an outdoor catering unit.

Case Study: Shipping Container Ticket Office Case Studies
Case Study: Shipping Container Ticket Office

The local rugby club had been using a small, outdated ticket booth that no longer met their needs. The club’s management sought a more efficient and visually appealing solution that could accommodate their growing fan base.

Case Study: Chemical Store Shipping Container Conversion Case Studies
Case Study: Chemical Store Shipping Container Conversion

The client, an Industrial Chemical Storage Company specialising in chemical production and storage, faced the challenge of storing hazardous chemicals on their premises while adhering to stringent health and safety regulations.

Dropside Shipping Container Conversion Shipping
Dropside Shipping Container Conversion

Universal Containers take pride in continually pushing the boundaries in product development within the shipping container industry.

32ft × 10ft Stacked Cabins
32ft × 10ft Stacked Cabins

These 2 large 32x10ft cabins were built for a British transport company. They requested a large space to act as a welfare facility for drivers and staff in the peak district. Due to the customer’s specific requirements, one unit was not large enough so we suggested 2 units, however floor space was an issue on-siteContinue reading “32ft × 10ft Stacked Cabins”

32×10 Green Office Offices
32×10 Green Office

This particular office unit was completed for a North-West-based container hire company.

20×10 Gas Bottle Store
20×10 Gas Bottle Store

Custom Built Atex Coshh store for storing gas bottles. This unit was custom built with corrugated steel panels 20ft long x 10ft wide. It had a fully ventilated floor from galvanised steel mesh, as well as 4 aluminium louver vents in the walls. We also fitted galvanised box section racks with chains on to holdContinue reading “20×10 Gas Bottle Store”

Corrugated 32×10 Office / Store room
Corrugated 32×10 Office / Store room

Corrugated steel cabin 32ft x 10ft with adjustable jacklegs anti vandal steel personnel door and anti-vandal aluminium sliding windows in steel shutters. Painted externally in non-corrosive container paint in a vibrant red. Internally with walls where lined in a cost-effective melamine faced chipboard and fully insulated throughout in Rockwool. The floor had hard wearing vinylContinue reading “Corrugated 32×10 Office / Store room”

20ft Multi-Bay Unit
20ft Multi-Bay Unit

Standard shipping container transformed into a bespoke storage unit. With multiple purposes across many industries. For example, self-storage companies or engineering companies for members of staff to lock tools away when not in use. The unit was split evenly into 8 small rooms approximately 5ftx4ft each by steel partition walls for security. Each room withContinue reading “20ft Multi-Bay Unit”

10ft Generator Housing Container
10ft Generator Housing Container

10ft container conversion for an off-grid company custom built to house a very large generator. The customer wanted a unit with multiple apertures and louver vents to allow for ventilation, they wanted all openings to have cover hoods to help stop water coming in. The Universal CAD team had a meeting with the client toContinue reading “10ft Generator Housing Container”

Don’t just take our word for it

Find out why our customers love us and our products

Posted on Google
Stephen Edwards
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Stephen and the team at Universal Container Services Limited have been super efficient and very helpful, I would recommend this company to anyone thinking about purchasing a container for any multi-use purpose.
Posted on Google
Sales @ H and B Electrical
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Great service from start to Finish, Stephen Woolley was very thorough and professional. Thanks for all your help Stephen H&B Electrical Services
Posted on Google
David Wilden
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Very impressed with the quality of the containers and the facilities they have for insulating and boarding them. Many thanks to Stephen for spending time showing us around and helping us get a great deal.
Posted on Google
Mike Gathercole
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We have just purchased a fully insulated container from Universal we visited the site prior to our order Colin and Stephen both in the sales office we brilliant they answered all our questions and were very helpful in processing our order thanks again lads really appreciated
Posted on Google
Graham Sanderson
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Scarcroft and District Allotments Association in York have used two containers from Universal - one 20' unmodified new container as a store and one 40' new container insulated and supplied with electrics package and two secure windows and a secure accessible door as a shop- to replace their 50+ year-old wooden hut used as a shop and association base. Shaun McWilliams (project engineer) has been our main contact at Universal with oversight and support from Carl Jeffries (project manager). They have been hugely supportive through a long process. Nothing has been too much trouble for Shaun, adapting plans and offering choices at every stage - always friendly, imaginative and flexible. We'd recommend Universal without reservation for any project involving shipping containers.
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My AIMS Ltd Manchester
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We recently got in touch with Universal Containers Services as we were looking to stack two Containers Excellent service provided by universal containers. We dealt with Vanessa and her communication was excellent she kept us informed from point of order upto delivery. Delivery was fast and I would definitely recommend using this company.
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nick curtis
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Great and quick service.. Colin was really helpful and knowledgable
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zeshan s
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prompt service, Colin was very helpful
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David Heath
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Ordered a container for a Scout group, we are so pleased with the service and the container. Very helpful and nothing was a problem, arrived on time and looks amazing. We would definitely recommend and use again.
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Richard Banning
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We were impressed with the service provided by Stephen on our first order , we have purchased another 2 containers , the service and quality was very good and would recommend the company if you are looking to purchase.