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Writer's pictureTEU Containers

Can I keep a shipping container for storage on my property?


When you’re seeking a solution for excess belongings, from moving house, decluttering or simply a lack of space at home, many individuals find a storage container to be a practical solution. While traditional self-storage facilities are widely available, the option of keeping a storage container on your own property is a great alternative. However, this might cause you to wonder about its feasibility and legality. Can you keep a shipping container on your property? Let’s find out.


Planning permission and storage containers

As a temporary structure, you are generally allowed to keep a shipping container on your property. However, for greenfield sites, you may be required to seek planning permission to do so.


If you’re not sure about the regulations where you live, you should consult your local planning office which will be able to provide you with a quick answer about whether or not you need planning permission based on your specific circumstances. This ensures that you comply with local regulations and can proceed with your storage container confidently.


Is a garden storage container a sensible option?

Keeping a storage container on your premises offers clear advantages. You eliminate the need to transport your belongings to and from an out-of-town storage facility—depending on your location, these can be miles away. Having a container at home also means you can access it at any time that’s convenient too.


A shipping container at home, therefore, offers practicality and peace of mind.


Aesthetic appeal

Wondering about the visual impact of a storage container on your property? If the appearance is a deciding factor, you can enhance it with simple yet effective methods like repainting or adding wood cladding. These aesthetic improvements not only make the container more visually appealing but also help with planning permission, especially in residential areas where appearance regulations may apply.


Preparing the ground

Before placing a storage container on your property, you’ll need to consider the ground underneath. It’s important to think about the firmness of the ground and any potential damage a storage container could cause over time. To ensure stability and prevent sinking, use concrete supports to level the surface where the container will be placed.


Content: One issue you'll need to think of is the firmness of, or potential damage to, the ground. Use concrete supporters to level the surface and prevent sinking. This preparation will provide a solid foundation and will enhance to longevity and safety of the container installation. When you’re proactive about ground preparation and stability, you’ll be safeguarding your property and making sure the conditions are optimal for durable and secure storage.


Beyond storage

Although shipping containers are originally designed for shipping and storage purposes, they are extremely versatile. There are plenty of ways to convert your container: a garden office for remote work, a garage for vehicle storage, a motorcycle shed to protect your bikes from the elements, a home gym or even a home workshop for creative projects.


With a bit of imagination and customisation, shipping containers can be adapted to serve a wide range of practical and creative uses. This makes them a flexible and cost-effective solution for enhancing your property and outside space.


Summary

From managing excess belongings to creating unique spaces like offices, workshops or home gyms, shipping containers are flexible and durable. When you’re considering installing a container on your property, be sure to think about the following:


  • Check local regulations for planning permission requirements.

  • Prepare a stable foundation

  • Explore customisation options to enhance aesthetics or functionality.


Contact us today to learn more about how you can use shipping containers to meet your specific storage space needs.

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