Tunnel Double Door Shipping Containers

Container Projects manages the supply of specialised access containers for industrial, retail, and construction sectors. If you intend to buy containers or rent containers for your site, our regional depots ensure prompt dispatch. You can request a professional container quote to confirm lead times and technical availability. Our logistics team supports projects across the United Kingdom with expert knowledge of equipment.

A tunnel container, also known as a double-end door unit, features functional cargo doors at both ends. This configuration is essential for first-in, last-out inventory management or for creating pedestrian walkways on construction sites. We often supply these units as one-trip stock. A one-trip unit is a new container that has made a single journey from the manufacturer to the UK. For international transport, every unit must have a valid CSC plate. A CSC plate is a safety approval plate required for international shipping to certify structural integrity.

Choose the right container size and type

Tunnel containers eliminate the need to unload the entire unit to access items stored at the far end. Container Projects stocks standard lengths to suit different site footprints.

20ft Tunnel Containers

The 20ft tunnel double door unit is a popular choice for self-storage operators and construction sites. It provides the same floor area as a 20ft general-purpose box, but with the added utility of dual access. The internal height is approximately 2.39m (7ft 10in).

40ft Tunnel Containers

For high-volume storage, the 40ft tunnel unit matches the length of a 40ft general-purpose unit. These are frequently used as temporary bridges, covered walkways, or for large-scale equipment housing where cables or pipes must exit from both ends. Many of our 40ft units are available as high cube models, providing an extra foot of vertical clearance.

Internal Space and Loading

Tunnel containers provide a clear, unobstructed internal corridor. When loading, users must respect the unit's payload limits. A payload is the maximum weight of cargo the container can carry. The tare weight of a 20ft tunnel unit is typically around 2,350kg. A tare is the weight of the empty container.

Hire or buy

Container Projects facilitates both long-term ownership and short-term rental. Buying a tunnel container is recommended for permanent site installations, modular buildings, or dedicated export cycles. Hire provides a flexible, cost-effective solution for temporary storage during refurbishments or for seasonal stock management. We provide full technical support for both purchase and rental clients across the UK.

Condition grades and what they mean

We grade all tunnel containers to ensure they meet your operational needs. New one-trip units offer the best aesthetics and long-term value. For used equipment, we provide units that meet the IICL standard. IICL refers to a high standard of container repair and condition set by the Institute of International Container Lessors. For basic storage, we offer used units graded as wind and watertight. A wind- and watertight unit is a condition grade that ensures the unit is sealed against weather and light.

Delivery access, siting, and placement

Container Projects coordinates container haulage using hiab crane vehicles. Professional placement requires specific site checks:

• Ground Conditions: The unit must sit on a firm, level surface. Because tunnel units have doors at both ends, any ground subsidence can cause the frame to twist, potentially leading to misalignment of the doors.
• Access Width: Delivery vehicles require a minimum width of 10ft. Extra space is needed for the crane outriggers during the offloading process.
• Vertical Clearance: Check for low-hanging branches or overhead power cables. A truck carrying a container can exceed 15ft in height.
• Manoeuvring Space: A 40ft vehicle requires approximately 100ft of straight approach to position the unit safely.

Security, condensation, and aftercare

Security is a priority for dual-access units. Container Projects fits lock boxes to both ends to protect padlocks from tampering. To manage condensation, we recommend Grafo-therm anti-condensation coatings or moisture traps, particularly if the unit will house sensitive metal components or documents. Our aftercare team advises greasing the four sets of hinges and regularly checking the door seals to maintain a weather-tight environment.

Export use and compliance

Tunnel containers are fully ISO compliant and suitable for international shipping. Container Projects ensures all units sold for export maintain a valid CSC plate. We provide the necessary documentation for maritime shipping lines and port authorities. If the unit is used as a walkway or modified, it may require re-certification before returning to sea as a standard cargo unit.

How Container Projects handles supply and delivery

1. Enquiry: Contact our team with your location and the required container dimensions on the container dimensions page.
2. Validation: We check current stock levels at our nearest UK depot to your site.
3. Logistics Planning: We confirm site access details and provide a delivery date, usually within 5 to 10 working days.
4. Transport: A hiab vehicle collects the unit and travels to your location.
5. Installation: The driver levels the unit and confirms that both sets of doors operate correctly.