45ft High Cube and Intermodal Shipping Containers

Container Projects supplies the largest standard shipping units to the logistics, retail, and manufacturing sectors. For businesses requiring a permanent high-volume storage asset, we offer container sales across various stock grades. For high-capacity logistics projects, our container hire service provides the necessary equipment without long-term capital commitment. You can request a container quote to receive specific logistics data for your site. We manage the supply of 45ft high cube and intermodal units to ensure they are delivered and positioned effectively.

Technical dimensions and specifications

The 45ft high cube is the longest single shipping container available. These units provide approximately 86 cubic metres of internal capacity, offering nearly 15% more volume than a 40ft high cube. Use the technical table below to verify the measurements for your cargo or site placement.

Tare is the weight of an empty container. Payload is the maximum weight of cargo the unit can safely hold. For a 45ft high cube, the tare weight is approximately 4,800kg, and the payload is approximately 27,700kg. These units are typically constructed from high-tensile Corten steel with 28mm marine plywood flooring.

Intermodal and Pallet-Wide Benefits

The term "intermodal" refers to the container's design, which allows it to transfer seamlessly among sea, rail, and road without unloading the cargo. Many 45ft units are also "pallet-wide," meaning they are slightly wider than standard general purpose containers. This extra width allows for the side-by-side placement of 33 Euro pallets (1.2m x 0.8m) instead of the standard 24 or 25 found in 40ft units, significantly increasing logistics efficiency for European land transport.

Hire or buy

Selecting between purchase and rental depends on the duration and nature of your project. Container Projects recommends hiring for short-term logistical operations or seasonal inventory peaks. Buying is preferred for permanent storage hubs or for customers planning large-scale container conversions such as site complexes or multi-unit modular structures. We also operate a container buy back service for customers who no longer require their units after a fixed term.

Condition grades and definitions

The grade of a 45ft unit affects its price and suitability for international transport. Container Projects stocks several primary grades.

• One-trip: A one-trip unit is manufactured in Asia and used once for cargo transport to the UK, arriving in near-new condition. These offer the best long-term value.
• Used (Wind and Watertight): These units are retired from international shipping service but remain weather-proof and structurally sound for storage use.
• IICL: High-quality used stock repaired to the International Institute of Container Lessors standards, representing the highest tier of refurbished equipment.

Delivery access, siting, and placement

Successful delivery of a 45ft container requires extensive site preparation due to the articulated vehicle's length. Container Projects uses container haulage specialists equipped with hiab cranes to position the unit.

• Space: The articulated vehicle requires a minimum width of 10ft and a straight-run length of over 100ft for safe positioning.
• Ground: Placement must be on firm, level ground. Due to the 45ft length, any unevenness can cause the frame to twist, leading to door alignment issues.
• Obstructions: Check for overhead cables and low branches; the crane needs significant vertical clearance (approx. 16ft) during the lift.

Security, condensation, and aftercare

Container Projects prioritises security for all high-volume units. We include a factory-fitted lockbox to protect the padlock from tampering. Condensation can be managed using Grafo-therm anti-condensation coating, which prevents moisture from dripping onto stored goods. Long-term aftercare involves regular lubrication of the door hinges and checking the rubber seals to ensure the unit remains weather-tight throughout its lifespan.

Export use and compliance

If you intend to use a container for international shipping, it must have a valid CSC plate. A CSC plate is a safety approval plate required for international transport under the International Convention for Safe Containers. While many 45ft units are used for domestic storage or European intermodal transport, Container Projects ensures all units destined for global export meet the necessary structural standards.

How Container Projects handles supply and delivery

1. Consult with our team to determine if a standard or pallet-wide unit is required for your cargo.
2. Verify site access and ground suitability for an articulated hiab delivery vehicle.
3. Receive a detailed quote including delivery to your UK postcode.
4. Confirm your order and schedule a delivery date with our logistics department.
5. A professional operator delivers and levels the container on your site.