Special containers at Shipping Containers of London, such as open-top, flat rack, refrigerated, high cube, double door, and side-opening containers. Our customized solutions are tailored to meet unique storage and transportation requirements across different industries.
In logistics, construction, and events, a one-size-fits-all approach rarely suffices. Standard shipping containers, while incredibly versatile, sometimes fall short when faced with unique cargo, access limitations, or specific environmental requirements. This is where specialist containers shine. These units are engineered to solve the most complex storage and transportation challenges across various industries.
Whether moving oversized machinery, requiring temperature-controlled environments for perishable goods, or needing enhanced access for efficient loading, the range of special containers offers robust and reliable solutions.
Understanding the capabilities of each specialist container is key to optimising logistics. The following units are tailored to meet a diverse set of industrial and commercial needs, offering more than just storage, but a strategic asset for operations.
Open-top containers are the perfect solution for cargo that is too tall or bulky to be loaded through standard container doors. Featuring a heavy-duty, removable tarpaulin roof supported by steel roof bows, they allow for straightforward loading from above by crane. This design is indispensable for transporting heavy machinery, large pipes, scrap metal, and construction materials. Once loaded, the tarpaulin is secured, providing a wind and watertight seal to protect assets from the elements. They are commonly available in 20ft and 40ft models.
When it comes to transporting oversized, heavy, or awkwardly shaped cargo, flat rack containers are unparalleled. With either fixed or collapsible end walls and no side walls, they provide an unobstructed platform for items such as large vehicles, boats, industrial equipment, and timber. The robust steel frame and marine-grade plywood flooring can support immense weight, while numerous lashing points ensure cargo is securely fastened for transit. Their design makes them a cornerstone for projects in the construction and manufacturing sectors.
For goods that require a stable, controlled temperature, refrigerated containers, commonly known as 'reefers', are the industry standard. Essential for the food, pharmaceutical, and floral industries, these units are equipped with sophisticated climate control systems capable of maintaining temperatures from -25°C to +25°C. Whether storing perishable foods for a large event or transporting sensitive medical supplies, reefers guarantee product integrity.
High cube containers offer a simple yet significant advantage: an extra foot of vertical height compared to standard units. This additional space makes them ideal for storing or transporting tall, bulky, or voluminous cargo that would not fit in a standard container. The increased capacity is also highly valued in container conversion projects, providing more comfortable headroom for offices, workshops, or accommodation. For businesses where vertical space is a key consideration, the high cube is an excellent choice.
Also known as 'tunnel containers', these units feature cargo doors at both ends, creating a tunnel-like structure that allows for remarkably efficient loading and unloading. This dual-access design is perfect for situations where goods need to be segregated or accessed from either end without disturbing the entire contents. They are a popular choice for self-storage facilities and can even be repurposed as temporary walkways or ticket booths for large events.
For cargo that is difficult to load through standard end doors, the side-opening container is the ultimate solution. These units feature full-length bi-fold doors along one side, providing unobstructed access to the entire interior. This makes them perfect for loading and unloading palletised goods with a forklift, or for storing long items like timber or piping. Retailers also find them exceptionally useful for creating instant pop-up shops or market stalls.
Off-the-shelf solutions often fail to meet project specifications. Many suppliers offer services to create customised containers tailored to exact needs. From adding personnel doors, windows, and electrical fit-outs to installing shelving, insulation, or ventilation, a standard steel box can be transformed into a fully functional site office, workshop, or canteen. Security features, such as lockboxes, can also be added for enhanced protection.
Opting for a specialist container is a strategic decision that delivers tangible benefits, enhancing efficiency, security, and flexibility on any project.
Specialist containers are deployed across a multitude of sectors, providing critical infrastructure and logistical support where it's needed most.
A specialist container is any container that deviates from the standard dry van design to accommodate specific types of cargo or access requirements. This includes units like open tops for oversized goods, reefers for temperature control, or flat racks for heavy machinery.
Yes, many container companies offer flexible hire terms to suit a project’s timeline. Minimum hire periods are common, making it a cost-effective solution for temporary needs that do not require a long-term commitment.
Refrigerated containers are maintained to high standards and are ideal for storing perishable goods. They undergo thorough inspections to ensure they are fully functional, clean, and capable of keeping temperatures precise, making them ideally suited for event catering, storing floristry stock, or transporting medical supplies.
Typically, no. Most suppliers handle the entire delivery process with a fleet of HIAB crane-equipped vehicles. These trucks can lift and position the container directly onto prepared ground, saving the expense and hassle of hiring a separate crane. It is always best to check a supplier's delivery guidelines to ensure the site is ready for arrival.
Jeremy and the Team were very easy to work with. extremely quick to respond to our needs and the overall delivery was spot on. The container supplied was brand new and exceptionally clean, ready for our items to be stored safely and securely.
What a totally, refreshingly, brilliant company to deal with. They do what they say they will do at a time they say they will do it. Completely up front about everything: quality, cost, delivery etc. Nothing hidden. They accommodate the customer as far as humanly possible and their communications are spot on. I wish more companies were like this one.
The service from this company was excellent. We were working to tight deadlines and Jeremy was incredibly prompt in his communication, from the initial quote to the follow up email, to check everything had been received. He phoned the haulier and arranged a delivery around our schedule and Andy (the driver), kept us informed, so we knew exactly when he was arriving.
A professional company, that I would recommend highly.
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Tuesday : 9:00–17:30
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Tel: 0330 0130 636
Email: info@shippingcontainersoflondon.co.uk
