Steel containers are a great addition to any construction site, as they provide affordable shelter for workers to take breaks and relax, as well as provide privacy for meetings. They have plenty of space, are easy to install and offer a cost-effective solution for any construction site.
But when you’re looking to buy, there are a lot of considerations. Everything from size to price, supplier and additional extras, these are all questions you need to ask and answer before making your purchase; you don’t want to end up with a container that isn’t fit for purpose. Here are our top tips for making your choice when buying a steel storage container.
Choosing the Right Size
Steel containers come in a range of different sizes. At Flintham cabins, we have containers that go up in length from 8ft to 40ft. So when trying to decide what size to go for, you should consider what you need to fit into the container. If you’re using a container as a canteen for your construction site workers, you may want to consider a large container, so there is plenty of space for kitchen goods, tables and seating, and toilet facilities, unless you have a handy portable toilet cabin nearby of course.
If you have more specific requirements than the standard sizes of containers that we offer, you can ask about our bespoke options. We can modify a container to meet your particular needs.
Used or New?
When looking to buy a container, you can opt for a new site cabin or go with a used site cabin. The obvious reason for considering a used container is that it will likely be cheaper; however, you may have to compromise on quality. Here are the pros and cons of each:
New
- Advantages
No risk of contamination; nothing will have been stored or transported in it, so there won’t be any fears that any toxic material has been moved in it. The condition of the container will be pristine, with no marks, scratches or dents anywhere. It will be safer to modify and have a longer manufacturer’s warranty, so your investment is covered.
- Disadvantages
The cost will be more expensive than a used one, and it may not be worth the expense if a cheaper, used model would suit your purposes.
Used
- Advantages
They are great for office spaces on construction sites as these do not need to be shiny and new, a used container in good condition should suit this purpose. They are obviously much cheaper than new models, and they won’t lose their value as quickly as a new container.
- Disadvantages
You may not know what they were previously used for, so there could be a risk of cross-contamination. The container will also likely not be as airtight, which could allow moisture and pests into the container, causing damage. The lifespan of the container will also be significantly reduced compared to a new one.
When buying a container, consider the risks of purchasing a used one and the cost considerations of a new model before making your decision.
Consider its Purpose
There are many different kinds of containers on the market, all for different purposes. Some will have locking bars for extra security, and others will have side doors or well-insulated materials on the interior for added protection. When deciding what kind of container to buy, you need to fully understand its intended purpose and base your purchase decision on fulfilling those needs.
Type of Doors
Containers have different kinds of doors, each one more suitable for different uses. The doors can have a single or double locking bar, compressed door seals or even roller shutters. Some containers even have personnel doors, which are more in the same style as a typical front door, making them much more convenient for frequent use as an office or canteen for workers.
Your container could even have multiple doors of different kinds to suit a variety of purposes. Whatever your container needs, there will be a suitable kind of door to match your requirements.
Electrical Installations
If your container is for more than just storage, you might want to consider a model with electrics fitted and ready to use. This is ideal for containers that you intend to use as an office space or a break room for workers. You will need power points for lights and other appliances to be plugged in so the containers can better function as rooms. Containers can be bought with electrics already fitted, so they are ready to go, you just need a power source.
Find a Trustworthy Supplier
A reliable, trustworthy supplier who has many years of experience providing containers can help guide you on your purchase journey. A good supplier will know how to recommend the right sized container that will best serve your needs.
At Flintham Cabins, we have over 35 years of experience providing steel containers to a wide range of industries. If you’re looking for storage containers for sale in London, contact us today.