High Cube Shipping Containers

Container Projects provides professional equipment for industrial, commercial, and domestic sectors. We manage high-volume container sales and flexible container hire across the United Kingdom. For projects requiring extra internal height for tall equipment or increased storage capacity, you can get a quote through our technical team. We maintain stock at major UK ports and inland depots to ensure prompt delivery and competitive lead times.

High cube units are 9ft 6 in tall, which is exactly 1 ft taller than a standard container. This extra space is often used for installing insulation, electrical systems, or transporting tall machinery. We offer these units as one-trip stock. A one-trip unit is a new unit that has made a single journey from the manufacturer to the UK. For international transit, every unit carries a valid CSC plate. A CSC plate is a safety approval plate required for international shipping to certify structural safety.

Choose the right container size and type

Container Projects stocks high cube variants in multiple lengths to suit different site footprints and cargo volumes. These units offer the same floor space as standard boxes but with 12 inches of additional vertical clearance.

20ft High Cube Containers

The 20ft high cube is a popular choice for site offices and storage where space is limited, but volume is required. It provides an internal height of approximately 2.70m, allowing for the storage of taller items or the addition of a raised floor in conversion projects. It matches the footprint of a standard 20ft unit but offers approximately 10 per cent more internal cubic capacity.

40ft High Cube Containers

The 40ft high cube is the industry standard for international logistics and large-scale storage. It is the most common unit used for voluminous cargo such as furniture, textiles, or light industrial components. These units are frequently used as the base for modular buildings and workshops due to the extra headroom provided for HVAC and lighting installations.

45ft and Specialised High Cube Units

For maximum volume, Container Projects can provide 45ft high cube intermodal units. These are used primarily in large-scale logistics operations. We also supply container types such as side-door or open-side high cubes to facilitate easier loading of tall, wide cargo.

Hire or buy

Container Projects assists clients in choosing the most efficient acquisition method. Buying a high cube container is recommended for permanent on-site storage, workshop conversions, or long-term export loops. Hire is a flexible option for short-term projects, seasonal stock overflow, or when capital must be preserved. Our team provides detailed specifications for both new and used units to ensure they meet your operational requirements.

Condition grades and what they mean

We grade all high cube stock to ensure transparency and fitness for purpose. New units provide the best longevity and aesthetics for high-profile sites. For used equipment, we often provide units that meet the IICL standard. IICL refers to a high standard of repair and condition set by the Institute of International Container Lessors. For general storage, we supply 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. We confirm the tare and payload of every unit before dispatch. The tare is the weight of the empty container. The payload is the maximum weight of cargo the container can carry.

Delivery access, siting, and placement

Container Projects uses specialised container haulage vehicles for precision delivery. High cube units require extra attention to vertical clearance due to their increased height. Consider these factors:

• Vertical Clearance: The unit is 9ft 6in tall. When loaded on a trailer, the total height can exceed 14ft 6in. Check for low bridges, cables, and tree branches.
• Ground Conditions: Siting must be on a level, firm surface such as concrete or hard-standing. Unlevel ground can lead to door misalignment.
• Access Width: Delivery vehicles require a minimum width of 10ft. More space is needed to deploy crane outriggers.
• Manoeuvring Space: A 40ft delivery vehicle requires approximately 100ft of straight approach to safely position the unit.

Security, condensation, and aftercare

High cube units from Container Projects feature robust locking bars and can be fitted with factory-welded lock boxes to protect padlocks from tampering. To manage condensation in taller units, we recommend Grafo-therm internal coatings or moisture traps. Our aftercare support includes advice on maintaining door seals and hinges to ensure the unit remains secure and weather-proof throughout its service life.

Export use and compliance

High cube containers are the mainstay of global shipping. Container Projects ensures all units sold for export maintain a valid CSC plate. This certification confirms that the container is structurally sound for stacking on ocean vessels. We provide the necessary documentation for maritime lines and customs. If the container is modified for use as a plant room or office, it may require a re-certification if it is to be shipped as a standard cargo unit.

How Container Projects handles supply and delivery

1. Requirement Review: We confirm your internal height needs and site footprint.
2. Unit Selection: We identify a suitable high cube unit from our closest UK depot.
3. Access Check: Our logistics team reviews your site access, specifically checking for vertical obstructions.
4. Dispatch: We schedule a hiab crane vehicle for delivery, typically within 5 to 7 working days.
5. Placement: The driver offloads the unit, ensures it is level, and checks door operation.