Container Hire

The storage capacity inside a standard 20ft is approx 33.2 cubic meters or 1,170 cubic feet. A rule of thumb is that if properly packed, the contents of a 3 bedroom home will fit in a 20ft container. 

The storage capacity inside a standard 40ft is approx 67.6 cubic meters or 2.387 cubic feet. A rule of thumb is that if properly packed, the contents of a 5 bedroom home will fit in a 40ft container.

We can usually deliver your container within 24-72 hours from receipt of payment and completion of relevant hire forms, subject to transporter availability.

Typically we would deliver your container one of three ways, via a Flatbed, Swinglift (Sideloader) or a Hiab (Crane) truck. 

Flatbed, also referred to as a flat-deck or skeleton trailer, is a truck with no self-unloading capability. This means that offloading equipment will be required onsite such a forklift or a crane. Although this type of transport is the most restrictive in terms of its capability, it is also the cheapest form of container delivery to site.

Swinglifts come in either 20’ or 40’ length and have side on self-unloading ability. Swinglift offloads the container parallel to itself, requiring approx. 6m worth of width to allow for the container and truck to sit along each other. Swinglift is not capable of any 90 degree turns or positioning into really tight spots on space restrictive sites. Although a Swinglift is more restrictive in its offload capability than a HIAB, it is also more cost effective and a viable option for sites that can cater for this type of delivery.

HIAB is a truck equipped with a hydraulic crane, which can be rear or front mounted. HIABs are specialised equipment that allow for precise positioning of containers into small spaces at any angle required. Overhead obstructions such powerlines, overhanging trees and house eaves are common barriers that will impede HIAB delivery and something to be factored in during the delivery planning process.

Although HIAB offers superior offload capability and flexibility in terms of container positioning onsite, it is also more expensive than a swinglift option. 

If you are unsure what type of transport mode listed above is the most applicable for your particular site, please let us know and we can carry out site inspection prior to delivery.

Yes, as this will alleviate issues that may arise with the container later on. Preferably your container should be placed on a flat level surface.If the surface is uneven we would recommend using wide blocks, railway sleepers or preferably treated timber (although any type of timber will do) to create a level surface under the container. An uneven surface can cause the container to twist making the doors quite hard to open and close. Additionally, lifting the container off the ground 100-150mm with appropriate blocks/timber will allow for additional airflow that will safeguard against any moisture entering the container through its plywood floor. This is especially important if the container is placed on the grass or any other moisture holding substrate.