From 8ft to 45ft: the container sizes we remove

We collect shipping containers in every size from 8ft up to 45ft. Size matters because it affects which vehicle we send and how the lift is done.

Whether you have a small unit in a garden or a long container in a yard, we can collect it with our own HIAB lorries. Knowing the size before we plan the job helps everything go smoothly.

Common sizes

• 8ft and 10ft, about 2.4 and 3 metres long, often used for garden and small site storage
• 12ft and 16ft, about 3.7 and 4.9 metres long, used for garden, farm and site storage
• 20ft, about 6 metres long, common on farms, business premises and sites
• 24ft, 30ft and 32ft, about 7.3, 9.1 and 9.8 metres long, used on sites and in yards
• 40ft and 40ft high cube, about 12 metres long, used for bulk storage; a high cube is taller than a standard container
• 45ft, about 13.7 metres long, for bulk storage

These lengths are the usual external sizes and are a guide only. Heights can vary too, so if yours looks taller than usual, mention it.

How size affects the collection

A longer container needs more room for the lorry to stand alongside it and a clear path for the lift. Size also affects which vehicle from our fleet we choose. A single unit usually goes on a rigid HIAB lorry, while our wagon and drag and articulated HIAB lorries take more on a trip.

Access matters more as length increases. Check that the route from the road is wide enough, and look for tight corners, gates, low branches and anything overhead, such as cables or roof edges.

Not sure of the size?

Measure the length along one side if you can do so safely. If not, a photo with something for scale, such as a car or a door, is usually enough for us to work it out.

If there is a data plate on the doors, a clear photo of it can help too.

Cabins come in many sizes too

We also collect portable cabins, site offices, welfare units and steel anti-vandal units, including stacked and linked units. Send us photos and any measurements you have. You can read more on our portable cabin removal page.

Any size, any quantity

Whatever the size, the outcome still depends mainly on condition: you pay for disposal, removal is free or we buy the container. Send us the details and we will tell you.

Our quote form accepts up to four photos, and we collect across England, Scotland and Wales. For more on the process, see our guide on how to get rid of a shipping container.