Efficient Container Swapping: A Guide for On-Site Exchanges

Jane on May 14, 2024

It is important to understand container swapping procedures to keep your personnel safe and ensure our driver can be on and off your site in good time.

The logistics are straightforward but the procedure is time-consuming and needs plenty of space to be carried out.

We have been supplying shipping containers for nearly 15 years and our transport guys are extremely experienced when it comes to loading and unloading shipping containers from their HIAB vehicles.

Understanding the Process

All our containers are delivered and offloaded using a HIAB vehicle. HIAB is a brand name and all our transport companies have these cranes fitted to their vehicles. They are perfect for offloading an empty shipping container to the ground.

Our transport guys use either Artic (60ft long) or Rigid (40ft) vehicles fitted with the HIAB crane. These cranes can ONLY offload the weight of a 20ft or a 40ft shipping container. The rigid vehicles are used for the 20ft container and the artic vehicles are used for the 40ft containers or 2 x 20ft containers. 

The containers must be EMPTY when loading and unloading our vehicles.

All vehicles have to extend their outriggers before offloading, to ensure they are stable for this offload procedure. There are 2 outriggers to each side and they will extend 10ft to the side of the vehicle.

This is the vehicle arriving with the new container.

Vehicle with the outriggers to the side.

The driver has to climb onto the container for chaining the container ready for offload.

Each of these photos show the whole procedure for offloading a container from a HIAB vehicle. The time taken can be in the region of 30-60 mins per movement. For container swapping (using the same location) this procedure has to be carried out up to 5 times in all depending on the space available on site.

Preparing for the Swap

You will need to have sufficient space for swapping the container. The area must have a good surface, be stable and accessible. This job can take a while to carry out, depending on the space available to the driver.

Please see our delivery and collection page for more information about your site requirements.

In order to successfully swap a container, there is a procedure to be followed. The new container that is being delivered needs to be offloaded somewhere else, before taking the old container away, then the new container needs to be lifted, moved and positioned in the original location. Every time there is a move, the driver has to put the outriggers off to the side for stability and chain up the container for offloading and or loading onto the vehicle.

Executing the Swap

  1. The new container will arrive on the HIAB vehicle.
  2. This container will need to be offloaded somewhere else.
  3. The vehicle then goes to the old container and lifts the old container onto the vehicle.
  4. The old container will need to be offloaded somewhere else.
  5. The vehicle then goes to the new container and lifts the container onto the vehicle and takes it over to where the old container came from.
  6. The new container is offloaded.
  7. The vehicle will then lift the old container onto the vehicle ready to take away from the site.

Troubleshooting and Best Practices

One of the common challenges of offloading and loading a shipping container is that on-site personnel can walk or run into the area of offload/loading which can be dangerous. We recommend you advise site personnel of our delivery times before we arrive so that these hazards can be kept to a minimum. It is your responsibility to ensure safety protocols are adhered to. 

The containers that are being positioned temporarily must not be blocked in, as this can cause extra time and costs.

Benefits of professional assistance

All our drivers are qualified to handle the HIAB vehicles; however, they do need assistance from your personnel to ensure your staff are kept safe and do not hinder the offloading and loading procedures. Safety is paramount.

Using HIABs (cranes) is the best solution when offloading and loading a shipping container on and off a truck.

Summary

The procedure of swapping a shipping container can take some time and will need sufficient space. Containers being placed in temporary positions must not be blocked in. Site personnel should be kept away from the working areas whilst our driver is offloading and loading a shipping container.

For more information please call us on 0800 121 7388 or email us at sales@billiebox.co.uk

Shipping Container Rental in the UK: Everything You Need to Know

Jane on May 2, 2024

It is important to choose the right container rental partner with the expertise and knowledge to guide you through the container rental process. Billie Box has been trading for over 12 years now and we offer 20ft and 40ft containers on a rental basis. 

Renting a shipping container from Billie Box in the UK is one of the easiest things you can do. By renting a container you keep your costs down to a minimum and our whole package is like a Plug-in-and-go set-up.

Billie Box knows what they are doing when it comes to renting out shipping containers.

By using Billie Box’s container rental services you will find it is a smooth operation and we can have a container or a batch of containers on site within 1-2 weeks.

Billie Box has the knowledge and expertise to assist you with your container rental. Rest assured we have got your back.

Understanding Container rentals

What is a container rental?

It is when a 20ft or 40ft shipping container is delivered to your door with a HIAB vehicle and positioned on your land so you can use it for secure site storage. This container will be rented to you for an arranged period of time.

Types of containers

We supply a variety of 20ft and 40ft shipping containers for site storage on a rental basis. 

The standard units are fitted with one set of double doors on the 8ft end. Here is our standard container rental price list.

There are other units available for hire, for example, 20ft or 40ft Hi cube (9ft 6in high instead of standard 8ft 6in high) 20ft Opensider units (double doors on 1 x 20ft side and double doors on 1 x 8ft end only) and 20ft or 40ft Tunnel units (they have a set of double doors on both 8ft ends).

Other variations are subject to availability and can be priced accordingly.

Flexibility and Convenience

If you are renting a container on your site, then the convenience of storing right beside your home or business is perfect. Your goods are right there. No time wasting or fuel costs to use a van collecting and picking up goods off site.

If you are setting up a ‘Self store’ where you place a number of containers on your land and then offer container rental to your customers, you might want different sizes and configurations that can slot into small or larger unusable areas of your site.

Also with self store sites you can take a couple of units at a time and just keep adding when you have more funds to build your business.

The security of these units means you can just lock and leave with our high security padlocks and lockbox. Here is a video showing you how you can lock your container.

You can rent a container for a short term – for example, 6 months – or a long term, depending on your requirements.

Benefits of Renting containers

  • Cost Effective – renting containers can be more cost-effective than purchasing outright, especially for short-term or temporary needs.
  • Reduced risk of maintenance – renting eliminates the need for upfront investment and reduces the risk of maintenance and depreciation.
  • Scalability and adaptability allow businesses to adjust their inventory based on demand fluctuations. If you don’t need a container then you can just send it back. If you need more containers, you can add to your inventory very easily.

Why choose Billie Box?

  • We have expertise and experience in the container rental industry for over 12 years. Not only that, Jane, Clare and Matt have a combined knowledge of 60 years’ experience in the industry. We know what we are doing.
  • Quality Assurance: All containers that leave our depot are checked over by experienced surveyors and repaired wherever necessary, so when you get a container from us you know it will be suitable for your storage needs.
  • Customer Service: Our reviews say it all really; we have over 200 Google and website reviews that will show you that we do right by our customers. We guide you through the container rental process with minimum fuss, making your life as easy as possible.

How to get started

  • All you need to do is call us on 0800 121 7388 to discuss your requirements with our team of experts. Our team will work with you to get the right rental solution for you.
  • We will then send you a quote to offer you our best container rental rates.
  • Once you have decided you would like to order, then you just need to click on the ‘place an order’ link in the quote.
  • Once we receive your order, we will prepare and send you an invoice for the first 26 weeks’ rental, delivery, collection and accessories, hire contract, and standing order form (for future payments) along with our Ts+Cs and FAQs.
  • Once we receive your first payment then we arrange a mutually agreed delivery and installation date. 
  • On the day of the delivery, our driver will call you or your site contact 1 hour before the ETA and then deliver.
  • We will also call you after your delivery to ensure you are happy with our service.
  • Super Easy experience for you.

Conclusion

Call us today on 0800 121 7388 for a quote or chat. Or click on this link to GET a Quote. 

We offer a friendly and knowledgeable container rental service. Call us for a chat today on 0800 121 7388. Jane, Clare and Matt are here to help you.

Celebrating Literature: Our Sponsorship of the Felixstowe Book Festival

Jane on April 18, 2024

Welcoming Readers to the Felixstowe Book Festival

The Felixstowe Book Festival has been running since 2013 and attracts many visitors from far and wide. This event is a celebration of ‘Books by the Sea’.

Felixstowe is not just a container port; it has many facets to it, including this very popular literary event, the Felixstowe Book Festival.

There are almost 25 ‘meet the author’ events spread out across Felixstowe between 26th and 30th June. There is something for everyone, no matter what age you are.

So book your tickets today, because it’s going to be a sell-out.

Supporting Cultural, Sports events and Charity in Suffolk

Billie Box are proud to be sponsors of the Felixstowe Book Festival, helping to promote literacy and community engagement.

Jane (owner of Billie Box) & Clare (Jane’s sister) grew up in their parents’ newsagent in Felixstowe and supporting local organisations has been a key part of Jane’s business ethos. 

Billie Box supports many local initiatives and cultural events. Organisations that Billie Box supports include HomeStart in Suffolk charity, St. Elizabeth hospice, Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club, Suffolk Sound Radio station and the Felixstowe Book Festival to name a few.

Jane feels that this aligns with Billie Box’s business values. It builds trust by giving back to the community. 

A Celebration of Literature in Felixstowe

The Felixstowe Book Festival has a unique intimate and welcoming atmosphere. Many visitors have a fun-packed long weekend of listening to their favourite and newly found authors along with eating great food and walking along the prom past the beautifully coloured beach huts. The Spa gardens are also a great spot to have a picnic looking out to sea or even at the beautiful flowers in the gardens. Some even go for a bracing swim.

At the book festival events, you have the chance to meet the authors and get your book signed. There is a mix of genres such as fiction, poetry, non-fiction and children’s events. Some of the areas covered are history, art, politics, economics, the environment and much more.

The main venue is the stunningly beautiful Harvest House that dates back to Edwardian times. The building is now mostly private apartments but the ground floor rooms are excellent for ‘meet the author’ events. You can even have a light lunch/snack at the events and sit outside looking out to the North Sea. Such a great setting.

Join Us at the Felixstowe Book Festival

Here is the programme of events and how you can buy tickets. Click on the image below.

So join us for a fun-packed long weekend of fabulous literary culture at the Felixstowe Book Festival because it is going to be a fabulous event.

We are Billie Box Ltd, a family-run container sales and rental business with expert knowledge and traditional values.

We offer:

🔵 20ft & 40ft Shipping Container for storage for hire

🔵 20ft & 40ft Shipping Container for storage for sale

🔵 10ft & 20ft Chemical storage Containers for sale

🔵 20ft Portable Container Offices for sale

🔵 Bespoke Container Conversions

🔵 All with delivery to your door

📞 👉 Call us on 0800 121 7388 or visit our websites:

👉 Billie Box

👉 Chemical Storage 4 Farmers

Mastering Container Logistics: Expert Tips for Delivery, Ground Work and Stacking

Jane on April 17, 2024

Safety is essential when taking delivery of a container (or containers) on your site. Here is how to master container logistics with expert tips for delivery, groundwork and stacking.

There are many questions to consider:

  1. Do you have overhead cables above the area you wish to take delivery of your containers?
  2. What is the ground like where the driver has to drive and the final resting place for the containers?
  3. Are there any manhole covers where the vehicle and/or container has to be positioned?
  4. Are you expecting the containers to be stacked?

Delivery Overhead: Safety First

Our HIAB vehicles and operators WILL NOT offload anything underneath or over any overhead cables. This is very risky and could result in death. I know it sounds dramatic, but it is that dangerous. Lives could be at risk and damage to the vehicle itself is also a possibility.

If there are any cables anywhere near the area you wish us to offload a container, then you MUST tell us beforehand. For more information please refer to the HSE advice. 

Groundwork Preparation: A Crucial Step

Groundwork preparation is very important to the safe placement of a shipping container for storage. The ground must be solid (NOT TARMAC) and each corner of the container must be level with the rest. If the container is not level, then the container will twist and cause difficulty when opening and shutting the doors.

For more information about levelling please refer to our How to Level a container page.

Please ensure the drainage is good around the container. Many people think that if a container is waterproof it means that it can sit in a puddle. We do not recommend you allow this to happen. Water can, over many years, cause the container to deteriorate and therefore not last as long.

If you are unsure of your land condition, then we recommend you contact a local builder or construction company to offer advice about your groundwork.

Container Stacking Techniques

Shipping containers can be stacked, but you must be aware that safety is paramount and there are various precautions that must be followed:

  1. We recommend the ground is absolutely solid (preferably hard core – NO tarmac) to ensure the stack does not move when the containers are loaded.
  2. When stacking containers remember the top container still has the double doors and it can be very difficult to open them by just being on a ladder or even a mobile staircase.
  3. You must have adequate staircases, landings and fitments in order for the user to be able to open and shut the double doors on the top container safely.
  4. The landing/staircases must be away from the bottom container, again to ensure the double doors can be opened and closed easily.
  5. We always recommend using locking stacking cones in between the top and bottom containers. This will ensure that the 2 containers stay in position.  

The photo above is similar to a locking stacking cone. Each cone sits on the top of each corner casting on the bottom container, the top container is placed on top of the cones and the cones are locked into place.

Summary: Trust Our Expertise

Preparation is key.

We ask that you look out for these particular hazards above, so we can give you the benefit of our experience. 

If you are unsure about your site in any way, then we would recommend you send us photos and perhaps a drawing and a video of your site so we can check things out with our transport guys before you order.

For more delivery details please click here.

We want to save you time and money by offering you our best and reliable service.

Please contact us for our expert knowledge today on 0800 121 7388 or Get a Quote here.

A Night of Giving Back: Join Us at the Home-Start in Suffolk Charity Moonlight Ball

Jane on April 12, 2024

Welcoming You to the Home-Start in Suffolk Charity Ball

Home-Start in Suffolk are holding their 7th Moonlight Ball, to be held at Kesgrave Hall on Friday, 17th May 2024. The tickets are £85 each and this includes a 3-course dinner, a welcome drink, dancing and entertainment.

This event is the biggest event of the year for Home-Start in Suffolk. They are aiming to beat last year’s total of £28k to help families in Suffolk.

Billie Box is proud to sponsor this great event.

Empowering Families in Suffolk: The Mission of Home-Start

The charity volunteers visit families in Suffolk to assist with many day-to-day problems including mental health, parenting and financial issues. The volunteers offer emotional, practical and friendly support to those in need in the Suffolk area.

Home-Start in Suffolk are helping in the region of 2000 families in the Suffolk area, but sadly, due to many external forces, this number is rising.

The impact on these families is huge and this service to the local community is much needed.

An Evening of Giving: Details of the Charity Ball

The Moonlight Ball is on Friday, 17th May 2024 and the ticket price is £85 per person, which includes a 3-course dinner and a welcome drink.

There will be dancing, entertainment, a ‘Heads or Tails’, grand draw, auction and many more prizes to win.

The target to beat is last year’s fundraising total of £28k. Let’s hope we can do this.

Heartfelt Thanks: Recognising Our Supporters

We have many supporters that we would like to thank:

👉 Cherry Beesley • Simply C Photography
👉 MCP plc
👉 Yeseo
👉 Ruth Leigh author
👉 Polyspiral Website design, hosting and SEO
👉 Natasha is Wide Eyed
👉 Woodbridge Books
👉 Chaffinch, Woodbridge
👉 The Burgess Group
👉 Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club
👉 1975 Winebar, Woodbridge
👉 Gotelee Solicitors LLP
👉 Christopher Montrose Coffee
👉 Busy Bees Cosmetics
👉 Billie Box Ltd. shipping containers for sale or rent in UK
👉 Yoga with Manon
👉 Tracy Barritt-Brown – Willow Artist
👉The Happiness Club
👉Humber Doucy Brewing Co.

Joining Hands for a Cause: Ways to Support Home-Start in Suffolk

We appreciate all the support given to this great event. If you can’t attend then donations to the charity are always welcome. Please click here to make a donation.

Billie Box builds trust by giving back to the community. Click here for more of what Billie Box is supporting.

From Factory to Property: Managing Scratches on Delivered New Shipping Containers

Jane on April 5, 2024

New (One Trip – used once) shipping containers can often have scratched paintwork due to the following reasons:

  1. Handling of the container from the Factory to the port in China
  2. Lifting from the Port to Ship
  3. Lifting from the Ship to Port
  4. Lifting within the container depots
  5. Lifting on and off trucks at site

The Reality of Handling 

Normally, it can take anything up to 6 months for a new container to be built and delivered to our UK container depots.

Sadly, containers are not wrapped up in cotton wool (we would love that, but that would cost loads extra 🙂)! Scratches are unavoidable.

Container ports, depots and truck operators simply do not treat the containers with the care we would hope. They all have time constraints that they have to deal with. As you can appreciate, time is money!

Containers are lifted from either the top or bottom corners with cranes or HIAB vehicles fitted with chains, or forklift trucks. 

The photo below shows the container being lifted by a telehandler (in our container depot) which can cause scratches to the cornerposts. Sadly there is no other depot lifting option.

Impact on Quality

Having scratches on a shipping container does not impact the quality of the container. These containers are built from 1.6mm Corten steel which has a high tensile strength.

We do ask our depots to check these containers for scratches and try to rectify them before the container leaves the depot; however, the telehandler can still cause more scratches.

The only thing is that they will not be aesthetically pleasing and the only way to rectify this is to touch up the paintwork at the container’s final destination – your site. 

We recommend you touch up the paintwork on the scratched areas sooner rather than later. We can supply container paint at an extra cost.

Conclusion

We always try to offer the best condition container for our customers. However, there are times when things are simply out of our control.

For more information about how to look after your container please click here.

For information about the specifications please click here.

We always aim to ensure your experience with us will be the best that we can make it. 

However, if you have any concerns during delivery, then please do contact us immediately, before the driver leaves your site. 

Call us today on 0800 121 7388 for a quote or complete the Get a Quick quote form to the right of this page.

Building Trust Through Giving Back: Our Charity and Sponsorship Commitments

Jane on March 20, 2024

Introducing Our Commitment

For the last 12 years we have committed to many different local charities and organisations. We want to give back to the community and we feel this is the best way to do it.

Please view our ESG Policy here.

Making a Difference

Throughout 2024 we have committed to the following organisations:

FFSC Sponsorship

We continue to sponsor the Felixstowe Ferry Sailing club (FFSC) which offers a great way to get out on the water. With the North Sea and the River Deben on the doorstep, this enables a wide variety of watersports. 

The sailing schedule includes regular sailing (racing and for pleasure) for the members. There are dinghies available for hire too.

There is a rowing section that goes out at various regular times of the week. 

Yachting is another option, although the members do own their own boats.

The club runs a training centre that offers RYA sailing and powerboat training courses to all ages. 

Youth sailing is available for ages 10-18 years old. There is a variety of sailing which includes getting RYA sailing qualifications.

There is a great restaurant and bar for the members and their guests.

In May 2024 an Open day is being held during which the club will offer free sailing & rowing taster sessions.  

In August 2024 there is also a National 12 championship scheduled. This includes the best of the National 12 sailors coming to Felixstowe from all over the UK.

Jane has been a member for nearly 60 years. Here is the history of her attachment to the club.

Home-Start in Suffolk

The Home-Start in Suffolk charity approached Jane to partake in the ‘Jail & Bail’ event. It was held in March 2024. The idea was to arrest Jane, AKA ‘The Container Queen’, for the crime of being ‘Too Boxtastic’, then take her to Woodbridge town hall (the old Jail back in the day) and she had to raise £1,000 to get bail. 

Jane raised just under £1,200 (thanks to many local friends, family and businesses). Jane was arrested with another 9 local business people. The whole group raised £12,000. Phew, thankfully she got released!

In May 2024 the Moonlight Ball is happening again and Billie Box has sponsored a table for the night. Jane has also committed to helping collect raffle and auction prizes and selling raffle tickets on the night. Let’s hope this raises some much-needed funds for this worthy charity.

Jane has reached out to many local businesses that are supporting the Moonlight ball. These include:

Yeseo, 1975 Winebar Woodbridge, Ruth Leigh writes, MCP Plc., Polyspiral Web Design, Simply C Photography, Natasha is Wideeyed, Woodbridge Book shop, Chaffinch, The Burgess Group, Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club, Christopher Montrose coffee, Busy Bee Cosmetics, and Yoga with Manon. 

If you are a local business wishing to get involved then please call Jane on  01473 557409 to pledge your support.

Home-Start charity offers a service to around 2500 families in need throughout Suffolk. Volunteers help families to cope with family life. These families may have money worries, mental health issues, or may just be needing a friend to talk to. It is a much-needed local service. 

Lighthouse Charity

Billie Box has offered a raffle prize for the Anglia business exhibition in May 2024. The Lighthouse charity offers shelter to those men and women being abused in our local area.

Felixstowe Book Festival

Billie Box has sponsored the Felixstowe Book Festival event once before and as Jane is a keen reader, she felt that it would be worth supporting again this year.

The event runs from 26th to 30th June with various authors showcasing their new books. It attracts many visitors from the local area and from further afield.

The event is held in Felixstowe (the largest port in the UK).

Suffolk Sounds Radio Station

Jane from Billie Box has been on Jules Button’s Suffolk Sounds radio show a few times and has offered to sponsor this ‘Non-profit making’ radio station.

Supporting Causes Together

We have been trading for 12 years now and have gathered a network of business contacts that often help support our requests. We thank them for their support, as it is always much appreciated.

As a local business, we understand how difficult it can be out there. We really wanted to give back to the local community. 

We thank you for all your support and will try to continue to support local charities and businesses as we have done before.

How You Can Get Involved: Join Us in Making a Difference

Please follow and offer to volunteer or support these charities and businesses. The more help they can get, the better.

Here is a list of their websites:

Your Guide to Using Shipping Containers on Your Property

Jane on March 18, 2024

Are you considering a shipping container for your property? 

Here is a list of things to consider when deciding on your shipping container for storage or a facility – for example, a portable office.

  • Planning permission: Containers are temporary structures and can be moved at any time with the correct equipment. However, some councils have their own definition of a shipping container; for example, it could be considered a building and therefore a permanent fixture requiring planning permission.
  • Neighbours: Sometimes the neighbours feel a shipping container isn’t aesthetically pleasing and can be an eyesore. 
  • Vehicular access via A and B roads: Many smaller roads can be too small to take the HIAB vehicles we use to deliver the containers. A 20ft container is delivered on an 8-wheeler HIAB vehicle (approx. 40 ft long x 10ft wide) and a 40ft container is delivered on a 60 ft long x 10ft wide articulated HIAB vehicle. The 8-wheeler vehicles are what’s known as “rigid“ (which means the cab does not break away from the rest of the vehicle) and they need a large turning circle. The articulated vehicles do not need as much of a turning circle but the trailer is long and can cause issues on turning. HIAB means the vehicle is fitted with a crane so that the container can be offloaded. See our Delivery and collection details here.
  • Overhanging trees: Our HIABs cannot offload underneath trees.
  • Overhead cables: HSE legislation states that it is not safe to offload underneath overhead cables. It could be fatal if the crane touches or comes extremely close to a cable. 
  • Underground cables: The same rules apply as for the overhead cables.
  • Manhole covers/Drains: Our vehicles are too heavy to park on manhole covers/drains. If the outriggers are positioned on drains, this will cause the vehicle to topple over.
  • Pathways: The HIAB vehicles require outriggers off to the side for stability when offloading the container. These outriggers can damage the surface of the pathway.
  • Perimeter walls: The crane on the vehicles can only lift over and away from the vehicle so far.
  • Ground surface: You need to ensure that the ground where the container is to be placed is absolutely level prior to delivery (read here for more details). The HIAB vehicles need a hardcore surface to drive over and offload from. They simply do not have the traction to drive out if they get stuck.
  • Road offload: The HIAB vehicles are not allowed to be on any highway when we are offloading a container. 
  • Adequate space: Your container needs sufficient space for the doors to open. The vehicle needs plenty of room for access and offloading. The vehicle needs at least 10ft of space on each side for the outriggers, which ensure stability at the point of offload.

The Versatility of Shipping Containers

  • Access your belongings with ease.
  • Containers are so versatile when it comes to storage and office space.
  • Containers are secure and durable, giving you peace of mind when it comes to protecting your goods.
  • They are watertight to keep the weather out and ventilated to reduce the chance of condensation, ensuring your goods are protected. We sell Absorpoles that will also reduce excess moisture in the container.
  • They are cost effective, because you don’t have to spend time and fuel to take goods offsite and then back onsite. 
  • You can hire or buy new (one trip) and second-hand containers, giving you flexibility.
  • If you move premises then you can take the container with you; however, we can only move empty containers.

Navigating Legal Requirements

Containers are “a temporary structure and as such can be moved with the right vehicles”. However, some councils feel that planning permission is necessary. 

Even if the council initially say you don’t need planning permission, sometimes they can then ask you to apply for retrospective planning permission, for example, if a neighbour starts to complain to the council.

We recommend you call your council to see what their view is on whether you need planning permission or not.

With regards to the offloading of a container, legally our vehicles are not allowed to offload from a highway. If you are requesting this, then you will need to obtain the necessary permission from your local highways department. It will be your responsibility to obtain this permission.

HSE legislation stipulates that our vehicles must have a clearance of 18m from the top of the crane height which equates to 28m from the ground. This applies to any angles away from the cables. The vehicle will certainly need to lift to this height at the time of offload, therefore, we will not offload underneath any cables.

Please ensure that these legal restrictions are adhered to, to avoid any potential issues and fines.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness

When using shipping containers you have a choice of buying new (one trip) or second hand. The second-hand containers are approx. 15 years old and have come to the end of their shipping life, but are perfect as a site store. This can extend their life by around another 15 years, which means they have been repurposed.

The new (one trip) containers are used for 1 shipment from China and they are sold as ‘New’ site stores. They will last in the region of 40 years for site storage.

All containers (new and used) are refurbished into many different facilities; for example, chemical stores for farms, storage for schools and councils, portable offices and snack shacks. This extends their life by adding new paint, insulation and other parts.

Keeping Your Container in Top Shape

We have prepared a list of jobs and care instructions that will keep your container lasting longer.

It’s always good to keep an eye on your container from time to time, ensuring that you keep up with the maintenance as and when required. This will ensure the life of the container is as long as possible.

Protecting Your Investment: Insurance and Liability

It is important to insure your container against any liabilities, accidents or theft. Although containers are secure, there can always be another way of illegal access.

We recommend you discuss your requirements with your insurers.

In conclusion, we recommend you do your research regarding the space you have, the legal issues and your storage/facility requirements.

Please call Jane, Matt and Clare with your questions and requirements on 0800 121 7388. We are here to assist you with your storage and facility solutions.

How much should I pay for a 20’ shipping container?

Jane on March 4, 2024

If you are finding it difficult to work out how much you should pay for a 20ft container, read on. With our expert knowledge (nearly 60 years of combined container experience) we are here to give you some guidance.

There are many factors that contribute to the price of a 20’ shipping container.

  1. Material costs: If material costs such as Cor-ten steel and plywood are low, then the build cost will be lower and equally if the material costs are higher the build cost will be increased in price.
  2. Labour rates: Around 90% of all container production is carried out in China. The Chinese decide how much they pay their workers and this is affected by how much workload they have.
  3. Shipping Costs: For many years new containers have been shipped with 1 cargo and the shipping costs have been swallowed up by the shipper. These containers are known as ‘Once used’.  However, if things like war and other worldwide issues occur, then the shippers may well charge for the carriage of the cargo, which will add to the cost of a container. 2024 has seen the Houthi rebels cause mayhem with the vessels coming from China to Europe and this has prompted the shippers to divert their ships around the Cape of Good Hope. This has resulted in delays in getting the new ‘one trip’ containers into the UK, creating a supply and demand issue.
  4. Supply and Demand: If there is a huge glut of containers available for sale, then the price will be low. If there is low availability then the price will be higher.
  5. The used container prices take their lead from the cost of a new ‘one trip or once used’ container. If there are low volumes of new units then customers will go for a used one, which can drive up the price.
  6. Container prices can vary depending where the containers are in the UK. For example in Felixstowe, where a large number of containers are dropped off, they can be cheaper than in other inland locations like Birmingham, where the container has been trucked in, therefore adding extra costs.
  7. Container conversions certainly can increase the value of a container. Extra work and additions made to the container can increase the price. We convert a new ‘once used’ container into portable offices, where we insulate them and add electrics, etc.
  8. Location can play an important role. If the country you are taking the container out of and into is not particularly busy with imports and exports, then there will be extra charges added to the container to cover the shipping costs.

Condition of the container

  1. The condition of a container can certainly impact the price of a container. If the container has become so old that there is a fair amount of rust surrounding holes in the walls, this can mean that the container is beyond economical repair. A container like this will be extremely cheap. However, if a container has been built in China and used for ‘one trip’ then it will achieve the top value.
  2. We only sell watertight and structurally sound containers, either used, approximately 13-15 years old or new ‘one trip’ units. There is about a difference of £1000 between the 2 types of container. 
  3. All our containers are checked over by our expert repairers before they leave our factories and depots, to ensure quality control.

Modifications

  1. Shipping containers can be adapted to be used as other facilities such as portable offices, chemical stores, snack shacks, farm shops, etc.
  2. When you convert a container, there will inevitably be extra costs, for both materials and labour.
  3. When you put a window or a personnel door into a container, this will certainly add value both to the cost and what it is worth when selling it on.

Price Ranges

  1. A used container can range from £800 up to £1900 per standard 20ft. 
  2. A new ‘one trip’ container can range from £1200 up to £3500 per standard 20ft.
  3. The prices are determined by all of the above factors.

Tips for making an informed purchase

  1. Make sure you have a budget and ensure you are asking for the correct specification. Make sure you are not comparing ‘apples with pears’ when looking at the different suppliers.
  2. We recommend you do your research.
  3. We recommend you get at least 3 quotes. Compare prices and what service each company is offering you.
  4. Look at the companies you are dealing with, and make sure they have a good reputation. Check out their Google testimonials for example. See what their customers are saying about them.
  5. We are a family run business and try to be as helpful as we can, giving you the best experience possible.
  6. Check out which organisations the container companies are associated with. We are members of the British Chamber of Commerce, which checks up on its members.

We are Billie Box Ltd. a family run business with expert knowledge and traditional values.

We offer:

🔵 20ft & 40ft Shipping Container for storage for hire

🔵 20ft & 40ft Shipping Container for storage for sale

🔵 10ft & 20ft Chemical storage Containers for sale

🔵 20ft Portable Container Offices for sale

🔵 Bespoke Container Conversions

🔵 All with delivery to your door

📞 👉 Call us on 0800 121 7388 or visit our websites:

👉 Billie Box

👉 Chemical Storage 4 Farmers

Finding a Secure Site Storage Container: The Ultimate Guide

Jane on February 27, 2024

A secure storage container is an absolute given for any work site. Whether you’re looking to safeguard valuable equipment, sensitive documents, or essential materials, you need a container that will keep you resting easy at night knowing your valuables are safely tucked away. Now, while they might all look like a giant colourful metal box, storage units come in a plethora of options ranging from traditional lock-and-key mechanisms to state-of-the-art biometric technology. Fret not, though, as these are all the secure site storage containers you could need.

What are the Different Types of Storage Containers?

  1. Steel Shipping Containers
    Steel shipping containers are the ones you’re most likely familiar with by sight. They’re large, durable, and made out of metal. Steel shipping containers were originally designed for shipping goods overseas, but we humans have found various uses for them throughout the years, such as using them as storage containers or even as houses. The reason steel shipping containers are so versatile is because of their sturdy construction and lockable doors, making them perfect for locking away that old banger you plan on renovating one day. You can find some steel shipping containers for sale from us.

  2. Modular Storage Units
    Unlike steel shipping containers, modular storage units are more “traditional” storage units. They’re customisable, easy to use, and can be assembled on-site for your specific requirements in no time. Modular storage units have been used on work sites for decades and for good reason. They come in various sizes and configurations, and you can even soup them up with extra safety features such as heavy-duty locks and reinforced walls. Just be careful not to leave one of them unopened for too long before it finds its way to being bid for on Storage Wars.

  3. Storage Sheds
    Perhaps you’re not looking for anything too big for work or construction and just want to tuck away some tools and old stuff your partner wishes you would throw away. For that, a storage shed is ideal. Storage sheds are perfect for gardens and houses. They come in a wide range of materials such as wood, metal, or plastic. A storage shed can also be customisable to fit the theme and look of your house, and if it’s big enough, it makes for a perfect escape room for some much-needed quiet time on a weekend. Just like modular units and shipping containers, sheds can be outfitted with locks and other security features.

  4. Portable Storage Containers
    Sometimes it’s much easier to just haul equipment or materials to your destination site and for that, portable storage containers were made. The upsides to this type of container are its small size, portability, and ease of transportation. These containers are used temporarily when a job or task requires some mobility.

  5. Climate Controlled Storage Units
    Not everything can be stored in any regular storage unit, and so climate-controlled storage units were born. If you’re stashing away electronics, important documents, plants, chemicals, or anything that could be severely affected by the weather, then you’ll need climate-controlled storage units. These units are equipped with heating, cooling, and humidity controls, giving the contents of the unit the best environment possible. Just imagine how many fires could be prevented without overheating electronics or chemicals.

What Else Should I Consider When Buying a Storage Container?

Once you’ve figured out which site storage container is best for you, it’s time to consider smaller variables such as size, durability, security features, and budget. After all, a lot of people buy a massive unit to store only a few smaller items, wasting both money and space. When you’re making the purchase, it’s also vital to check delivery and installation options, as well as any warranties or guarantees offered by the supplier. Just a couple of simple questions could save you a lot of money down the line.

Lastly, it’s important to check local regulations to ensure compliance with any restrictions on storage container placement or use in your area. As for which site storage container we would recommend, it has to be the shipping containers; they’re extremely secure, robust, and can last anywhere from 15 to 40 years.

Call us on 0800 121 7388 today for a quote or complete our Quote form.

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