Frequently Asked Questions
Find practical information about shipping container sizes, condition, pricing, delivery, site access and other common questions before placing an order.
Container Sizes & Specifications
General information about common container sizes and configurations.
What is the difference between a Standard and High Cube container?
A standard shipping container is generally approximately 2.59m high externally, while a High Cube container is generally approximately 2.89m high.
The extra height may be useful where additional internal clearance is required for storage, shelving, equipment or modifications.
What container sizes are available?
Availability can vary, but common sizes include:
- 10ft containers — approximately 3.05m long.
- 20ft containers — approximately 6.06m long.
- 40ft containers — approximately 12.19m long.
Standard and High Cube options may be available depending on the product and current stock.
How much can a 20ft container hold?
A standard 20ft container generally has an internal volume of around 33 cubic metres, although exact dimensions and capacity can vary slightly by manufacturer and unit.
The amount you can practically store depends on the size, shape and weight of the items being stored.
Which container size should I choose?
The right size depends on your available space, what you need to store and delivery access.
If you are unsure, contact us with your intended use and delivery postcode and we can discuss suitable options.
Pricing, Quotes & GST
Information about pricing and how order totals are communicated.
Are prices shown in Australian Dollars?
Yes. Prices, quotations and invoices are expressed in Australian Dollars unless stated otherwise.
Is GST included in the price?
Where GST applies, the applicable GST treatment will be reflected in the product price, checkout, quotation or invoice.
Customers should review the final amount shown before payment, including any applicable delivery charges.
Can a business claim GST credits on a container purchase?
An eligible business may be able to claim GST credits where the requirements of Australian tax law are met.
Eligibility depends on the customer's circumstances, GST registration, business use and supporting documentation.
Does the displayed container price include delivery?
Delivery may be charged separately because transport costs depend on your location, container size, vehicle type and site requirements.
Where delivery is not included in the product price, the applicable delivery amount will be communicated through checkout, a quotation or order confirmation.
Should I hire or buy a container?
This depends on how long you need the container, whether hire is available for your location and whether you intend to modify the unit.
Buying may be more suitable for long-term use, while hire may suit temporary storage requirements. Compare the total cost and terms before deciding.
Delivery, Transport & Site Access
Container delivery requirements vary depending on the site and transport equipment being used.
How is a shipping container delivered?
Depending on the location and site conditions, containers may be transported using equipment such as a tilt-tray, side-loader or another suitable transport vehicle.
The available method depends on container size, local carrier availability and the placement area.
How much access space does the delivery truck need?
There is no single clearance measurement suitable for every delivery. Requirements depend on the vehicle, container size, road layout and unloading method.
Before delivery, tell us about narrow gates, overhead obstacles, slopes, soft ground, restricted turning areas or any other conditions that may affect access.
What does container door orientation mean?
Door orientation refers to the direction you want the container doors to face after placement.
Because placement options can depend on the unloading method, tell us your preferred door direction before the delivery is arranged.
What surface should a container be placed on?
A stable, reasonably level surface is generally preferable for container placement and normal door operation.
Suitable site preparation depends on soil, drainage, container use and local conditions. If permanent foundations are required, seek appropriate professional or local advice.
What happens if the truck cannot safely access my site?
The driver may decline to enter or unload if the site is considered unsafe or unsuitable for the delivery vehicle.
If delivery cannot proceed because of inaccurate or undisclosed customer-controlled access conditions, additional transport costs may apply.
Any further delivery charges will be communicated before another delivery is arranged.
New & Used Container Condition
Container appearance and condition vary depending on age, previous use and grade.
What is a single-trip container?
A single-trip container generally refers to a relatively new container that has completed limited shipping use before being offered for sale.
It may still have minor transport or handling marks, so customers should review the individual product description for its actual stated condition.
What condition should I expect from a used container?
Used containers commonly show signs of previous use, including scratches, dents, surface corrosion, repairs, paint variation and previous shipping-line markings.
The condition can vary from unit to unit, so the individual product description should be reviewed before purchase.
Are used containers waterproof?
Some used containers may be described as wind and water tight or another recognised condition grade, but customers should rely on the grade and description of the specific unit being purchased.
We do not recommend assuming that every used container has identical seals, floors or condition.
What is weathering steel?
Many shipping containers are manufactured using weathering steel, which is designed for outdoor industrial environments and develops a protective surface layer when exposed to weather.
Like any steel product, its condition still depends on age, maintenance, environment and previous use.
Council Requirements & Modifications
Planning and modification requirements vary by property, location and intended use.
Do I need council approval to place a container on my property?
Council and planning requirements vary by local government area, zoning, placement duration and intended use.
Temporary storage, permanent placement, commercial use and converting a container into an occupied structure may be treated differently.
Can containers be modified?
Some containers may be available with modification options depending on the container, location, supplier availability and project requirements.
Possible modifications can include additional doors, windows, ventilation, insulation or internal configuration.
Contact us with your requirements before ordering so available options can be discussed.
Do modified containers require additional approvals?
They may. Requirements depend on the intended use and the type of work being carried out.
Building, electrical, plumbing, planning, structural or other approvals may apply depending on the project.
Customers are responsible for confirming the applicable requirements for their location and intended use.
Still Have a Question?
Contact Shipping Containers Pty Ltd for information about container sizes, availability, delivery, condition or your order.
