40ft Shipping Containers For Sale UK
The 40ft shipping container is one of two main ISO industry standard sizes — the largest standard option available and the best value-per-square-metre of any container size. Measuring 12.19 metres long by 2.44 metres wide externally, a standard 40ft container delivers approximately 67 cubic metres (2,344 cubic feet) of secure, weatherproof storage — enough for 20 standard pallets or 24 Euro pallets.
At Blue Fin, we supply new one-trip and used 40ft shipping containers for sale UK, with multiple condition and certification grades available: new one-trip, used wind & watertight, cargo-worthy, and IICL-certified. All units are built from Corten (COR-TEN A grade) weathering steel, with full CSC certification and fast nationwide delivery. High cube (9ft 6in) variants are also available, providing an additional 300mm of internal headroom.
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30+ Years
Group expertise worldwide
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CSC Certified
All units, export-ready
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Same-day Quotes
Transparent pricing
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Nationwide Delivery
All UK depots covered
Browse Shipping Containers For Sale
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We offer specialized containers with custom door configurations including double doors, full side access, and bespoke layouts.
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This lower grade cargo worthy 40ft container is certified for international export at an affordable price.
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This brand new 40ft container is one-trip certified with full manufacturer warranty.
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This Grade A 40ft high cube container is wind and water tight certified for secure UK storage.
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This lower grade 40ft high cube container is wind and water tight certified for secure UK storage.
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This premium IICL certified 40ft high cube container is cargo worthy for international export.
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What fits in a 40ft shipping container?
Pallet capacity:
- Standard pallets (1200mm × 1000mm): up to 20 pallets in a single layer
- Euro pallets (1200mm × 800mm): up to 24 pallets in a single layer — Euro pallets can be positioned lengthwise, given their narrower width
- Double-stacked pallets: capacity depends on the height and weight limits
Volume comparison:
- A 40ft container holds approximately 67 cubic metres — equivalent to the contents of a 4–5 bedroom house
- Double the usable volume of a 20ft container at typically less than double the price
- A 40ft high cube container provides approximately 76 cubic metres — an additional 9 cubic metres over standard height
Common storage benchmarks:
- Approximately equivalent to 2,344 cubic feet of dry, weatherproof storage
- Suitable for heavy plant and machinery (marine-grade plywood floor, up to 26,580kg payload)
- Can accommodate a standard 40ft flat-rack or open-top equivalent for oversized loads (ask our team about specialist types)
For conversion projects, the 40ft’s 12-metre internal length provides space for: full office suites (multiple desks, meeting areas), spacious workshops, retail units with customer-facing frontage, two-room welfare units, or stacked container homes (with structural engineering).
Container Condition Explained
New Containers
Our new 40 foot shipping containers are supplied in one-trip condition — unused, undamaged, and straight from the manufacturer. Every new container is cargo-worthy and comes with a full CSC plate for international export. With no prior wear, you can expect a 15+ year service lifespan and maximum structural durability from day one.
Used Containers
Looking for a used 40ft container for sale at a lower price point? Our second hand shipping containers for sale are structurally sound and available in a range of aesthetic grades — from good condition to well-used. Every 40ft shipping container for sale UK used stock is individually inspected before supply.
Cargo-worthy units are checked to international export standards and include CSC plates, with certificates available on request. Wind & water tight units are weather-sealed and secure — the ideal choice for UK storage. Most used units carry a 10+ year expected lifespan, making a second hand shipping container one of the best-value long-term storage investments available.
ASIS Containers
Standard
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High Cube
- Standard Height: : 8ft 6in exterior height (40ft length). Works for most storage applications with 2,344 cubic feet of volume
- High Cube: 9ft 6in exterior height (40ft length). The extra foot of height provides 2,640 cubic feet of storage - an additional 296 cubic feet compared to standard.
What can you use a 40ft container for?
Commercial and industrial storage:
- Bulk inventory and stock storage for retail, wholesale, and e-commerce businesses
- Construction site storage — materials, tools, and plant equipment for major projects
- Agricultural storage — bulk feed, large machinery, and harvest equipment
- Industrial operations — manufacturing materials, production equipment, and heavy machinery
- Self-storage companies — multiple storage units within a single 40ft frame (with internal partition modifications)
Export and shipping:
- International freight — standard ISO export container, CSC certified
- Cargo-worthy and IICL certified variants available for exacting shipper requirements
- Fits standard 20 pallets (standard) or 24 Euro pallets
Conversion projects:
- Full office suites — multi-desk open plan or partitioned private offices
- Retail units and showrooms — pop-up shops, branded retail spaces, and permanent kiosks
- Workshops and laboratories — mechanical workshops, fabrication spaces, science facilities
- Welfare units — canteens, changing rooms, shower and toilet facilities for major sites
- Container homes and residential conversions — full living layouts with bedrooms, kitchen, and bathroom
- Chemical and COSHH stores — bespoke ventilation, spill containment, and fire suppression
- Cold stores and temperature-controlled units — with refrigeration system installation
40ft Shipping Container — Full Specifications
External Dimensions | ||
|---|---|---|
| Measurement | Imperial | Metric |
| External length | 40 ft | 12.19 m |
| External width | 8 ft | 2.44 m |
| External height (standard) | 8 ft 6 in | 2.59 m |
| External height (high cube) | 9 ft 6 in | 2.90 m |
Internal Dimensions | ||
|---|---|---|
| Measurement | Imperial | Metric |
| Internal length | 39 ft 4 in | 12.01 m |
| Internal width | 7 ft 8 in | 2.34 m |
| Internal height (standard) | 7 ft 10 in | 2.39 m |
| Internal height (high cube) | 8 ft 10 in | 2.69 m |
| Door opening width | 7 ft 8 in | 2.34 m |
| Door opening height | 7 ft 5 in | 2.28 m |
Technical Details | |
|---|---|
| Floor area | 296 sq ft / 27.5 m² |
| Internal volume (standard) | 2,344 cu ft / 66.3 m³ |
| Internal volume (high cube) | 2,640 cu ft / 74.8 m³ |
| Tare weight (approx) | 3,900 kg |
| Maximum payload | Up to 26,580 kg |
| Construction | Corten (COR-TEN A grade) weathering steel |
| Floor material | Marine-grade plywood, 28mm |
| Door type (standard) | Double swing cargo doors with lockbox (S1–S4 options available) |
| ISO standard | Standard ISO — one of two main industry standard lengths |
| CSC certification | Included on all new and cargo-worthy units; IICL available |
| Pallet Capacity | |
|---|---|
| Standard pallets (1,200mm × 1,000mm) | Up to 20 pallets — single layer |
| Euro pallets (1,200mm × 800mm) | Up to 24 pallets — single layer (positioned lengthwise) |
| Double-stacked | Depends on goods height and weight; contact us for load planning advice |
For even more capacity, see the 45ft high cube pallet wide container.
Why Choose Blue Fins Shipping Container Depot?
- 5 Years UK
- Quality Options
- Who We Supply
- Full Container Range
- Basic Modifications Available
- Nationwide Coverage
We deliver 20ft shipping containers across the full UK from depots near London, Manchester, Birmingham, Felixstowe, Liverpool, Leeds, Glasgow, and Cardiff — with HIAB delivery to your specific postcode. Same-day or next-day delivery available in most areas.
What Our Clients Say
Trusted by construction firms, events teams, industrial leaders, and small businesses alike — here’s what they’re saying:
I bought 6 containers with Jena . Very fast service , highly recommended!
Great business, mena was very helpful and accomodating, highly reccomend.
Absolutely Amazing. Ordered 2 containers. Delivery was on time and service was immaculate. Couldn’t recommend enough. Thanks for the amazing service.
Hena was Amazing, i bought 4 containers and i did not need to move a finger, she done everything for me.
Frequently Asked Questions — 40ft Shipping Containers
How much does a 40ft shipping container cost in the UK?
The cost of a 40ft shipping container depends on condition, certification grade, and delivery location. As a general guide: – Used wind & watertight (storage grade): from approximately £1,800–£2,800 + VAT – Used cargo-worthy (Grade A): from approximately £2,200–£3,200 + VAT – Used IICL certified: from approximately £2,800–£4,000 + VAT – New one-trip: from approximately £3,500–£5,500 + VAT – 40ft high cube (add approximately £200–£400 to above grades) Prices vary with market conditions, delivery distance, and current stock. Contact our team for a same-day quote, including delivery to your specific postcode — we provide transparent pricing with no hidden costs.
What are the dimensions of a 40ft shipping container?
A standard 40ft shipping container measures 12.19m long × 2.44m wide × 2.59m high externally. Internal dimensions are 12.01m long × 2.34m wide × 2.39m high, with a floor area of 27.5 square metres and an internal volume of approximately 66.3 cubic metres (2,344 cubic feet). High cube variants measure 2.90m tall externally (2.69m internally), providing an additional 300mm of headroom and approximately 74.8 cubic metres of volume.
How many pallets fit in a 40ft container?
A standard 40ft shipping container fits up to 20 standard pallets (1,200mm × 1,000mm) in a single layer. Euro pallets (1,200mm × 800mm) can be positioned lengthwise, allowing up to 24 per layer. Double-stacking is possible depending on goods height and weight — contact our team for specific load planning advice.
What is IICL certification and do I need it?
IICL (Institute of International Container Lessors) certification is a premium inspection standard for used containers — significantly more rigorous than standard cargo-worthy inspection. IICL containers are individually assessed against detailed criteria covering structural integrity, floor condition, door gaskets, and surface condition, to a near-new standard. You need IICL certification if: your freight contracts specify IICL-standard containers, you are shipping high-value or damage-sensitive cargo, or specific shipping lines or port authorities require it for your route. For general UK storage or standard export, cargo-worthy certification is usually sufficient. Contact our team if you are unsure which grade your requirements demand.
What is the difference between cargo-worthy and wind & watertight?
Wind & watertight containers are fully weatherproof and structurally sound — ideal for UK storage where keeping goods dry and secure is the priority. They are not certified for international sea freight. Cargo-worthy containers meet international shipping standards and hold a valid CSC plate for export use. They have been inspected to confirm structural integrity, door seals, and floor condition meet export requirements. If you need to ship goods internationally, you need a cargo-worthy or IICL container. If you only need UK storage, wind & watertight offers the same protection at a lower cost.
Can a 40ft container be hired instead of purchased?
Yes — 40ft container hire is available for businesses needing temporary storage, seasonal capacity, or flexible arrangements without capital outlay. Hire options suit construction projects with defined timescales, seasonal businesses needing temporary overflow storage, and businesses wanting to trial container storage before purchasing. Contact our team to discuss hire terms, availability, and pricing for your location and duration requirements.
What are the delivery requirements for a 40ft container?
40ft containers require more site access than smaller units. For standard HIAB delivery you need: a minimum clear vehicle access width of approximately 5m, overhead clearance of at least 4.5m along the delivery route, and approximately 14m of clear space alongside the vehicle for crane offloading. A hard, level surface is required for placement. Where HIAB access is restricted, flatbed delivery with on-site crane or forklift offloading can be arranged. Contact us with your site dimensions and photos before ordering — we will confirm the right delivery method and include full costs in your quote.
Do I need planning permission for a 40ft container?
Planning permission requirements for a 40ft container depend on your local authority, the intended use, and duration of placement. Temporary placement for storage on commercial land generally does not require permission, but the 40ft’s size means it is more likely to attract scrutiny than smaller containers, particularly on residential land. For long-term placement, conversion projects, or any use that could be considered a change of use, we recommend checking with your local planning authority before installation. Our team can advise on common planning considerations for 40ft units.
Can a 40ft container be converted?
Yes — the 40ft container is one of the most popular bases for conversion projects, offering 12 metres of internal length for substantial usable space. Common conversions include full office suites, workshops, retail units, welfare and washroom facilities, cold stores, container homes, and chemical stores. Modifications available include electrics (LED lighting, sockets, consumer unit), insulation, ply lining, roller shutter doors, side access doors, anti-vandal windows, personnel doors, ventilation, and custom RAL repainting. Contact our team to discuss conversion requirements and lead times.
How long does a 40ft shipping container last?
A new one-trip 40ft container in static storage or operational use can realistically last 25–30 years. The Corten steel construction develops a self-healing oxide layer that prevents ongoing corrosion. Used containers with 10–15 years of prior service typically have a remaining useful life of 10–20 years in storage, longer with appropriate maintenance. All Blue Fin containers are supplied with a wind & watertight guarantee. New containers include a manufacturer warranty — contact our team for details on specific warranty terms by product grade.