20ft General Purpose Containers

Shipping containers across the UK

Container Projects supplies the versatile 20ft unit to commercial, industrial, and domestic sectors throughout the country. If your project requires a permanent storage asset, we offer competitive container sales from our national depots. For temporary requirements, our container hire service provides high-quality units with flexible rental terms. To receive a bespoke price for your site, request a container quote today. We manage the entire logistics process to ensure your unit is delivered and positioned correctly.

20ft general-purpose technical specifications

The general purpose 20ft container is the most common size used for secure storage and international transport. It is constructed from high-tensile Corten steel and features 28mm marine plywood flooring. Use the responsive table below to verify the exact measurements for your site placement.

Tare is the weight of an empty container. Payload is the maximum weight of cargo a container can carry. For a standard 20ft unit, the tare is approximately 2,200kg, and the payload is approximately 28,280kg. If you require more cubic capacity, consider our high cube units, which offer an additional foot of height.

Hire or buy

Container Projects assists customers in choosing between hire and purchase based on the anticipated project duration. Hire is often the most cost-effective choice for short-term construction site storage or seasonal inventory overflow. Buying is recommended for permanent site installations or for customers planning to convert containers into offices or workshops. We also provide a container buy-back scheme for those who no longer require their owned units.

Condition grades and definitions

The grade of the container determines its price and aesthetic appearance. Container Projects supplies units in the following industry-standard conditions:

• One-trip: A container manufactured in Asia and used once for cargo transport to the UK. These units are in near-new condition.
• wind and watertight: A condition grade ensuring the unit prevents weather ingress and protects contents from light and moisture.
• IICL: The International Institute of Container Lessors standards for high-quality repair and inspection, typically applied to younger used stock.

Delivery access, siting, and placement

Safe delivery depends on clear access for container haulage vehicles. Container Projects uses hiab trucks equipped with onboard cranes to place units.

• Vehicle space: A standard 20ft delivery vehicle requires a minimum width of 10ft and vertical clearance of 15ft.
• Ground surface: Place units on firm level ground such as concrete, tarmac, or compacted gravel. Soft ground or uneven surfaces can cause the steel frame to twist, preventing the doors from sealing correctly.
• Obstructions: Check the area for overhead power cables, low branches, and underground services that may not support the weight of the truck and container.

Security, condensation, and aftercare

Container Projects prioritises the security of your stored goods. Every 20ft unit features a factory-fitted lockbox to protect the padlock from tampering. To manage condensation, we can apply Grafo-therm anti-condensation coating to the internal ceiling. This treatment absorbs moisture and prevents dripping. Regular aftercare involves lubricating the door hinges and checking the rubber gaskets to maintain wind and watertight status throughout the unit's life.

Export use and compliance

If you intend to use your container for international shipping, it must feature a valid CSC plate. A CSC plate is a safety approval plate required for international shipping under global transport regulations. Container Projects ensures that all units sold for export meet the necessary structural integrity standards and carry the required certification.

How Container Projects handles supply and delivery

1. Consult our container dimensions guide to confirm the 20ft unit fits your site.
2. Confirm if you require a one-trip or a used unit based on your budget and location.
3. Verify your site has sufficient access and a firm level base for delivery.
4. Review your formal quote and schedule a delivery date with our transport team.
5. The container is delivered and levelled on-site by a professional hiab operator.