Tips for renting a 20ft container: what you need to know
- TEU Containers
- Feb 19
- 3 min read

When most people think of storage, they picture piles of boxes in their garage or a closet bursting at the seams. But what if you had a solution that’s tough enough, secure enough, and large enough at your fingertips? This is where the 20-foot shipping container comes in. These containers have taken off in popularity. They’re powerful, built to withstand the roughest of conditions, and large enough to fit everything from furniture to heavy machinery. Whether you are cleaning out your home, supervising a construction project, or running a small business, a 20-foot container can prove to be a game-changer.
Understand Your Needs
Well, there is some good news about this. So, shipping containers are usually seen as a temporary structure, which means in most cases, you can pop one on your land without needing planning permissions. This is especially true for businesses using them for short-term purposes.
Think About The Size And Capacity
Now, let’s talk numbers. A Standard 20ft container: 20ft long, 8ft wide, and 8.6ft high. That’s tons of space—you could fit a small car down in there if you wanted to! (Not that I’m encouraging you to do so.)
These bad boys can carry up to 24 metric tons of stuff, though make sure to check with your rental company if you’re moving heavy things. For a quick comparison, if you’re torn between sizes, a 10-foot container is small enough to fit in tight spots without too much trouble but can be hit or miss, size-wise; by contrast, a 40-foot container is enormous and, in our experience, can be overkill for most everything. A 20-foot container is the sweet spot in the middle.
Choose the Right Rental Provider
Not all rental companies are created equal. Picking the right one? That’s a game-changer. Start by reading reviews online. Real people’s experiences can tell you a lot about what you’re getting into. Do you have friends or colleagues who’ve rented a 20ft container before? Ask them for recommendations—it’s way better than rolling the dice.
The company also needs to be legitimate. They have to be properly licensed and have a reputation for doing things by the book.” But don’t stop there. Good customer service is just as important. If they’re slow to answer or can’t answer your questions, that is a red flag. Our team of professionals at TEU Ltd are here to tick all of these boxes. So don’t hesitate to give us a call.
Consider Delivery and Placement
So, you’ve picked your container and rental provider. What’s next? Getting it to your location. And here’s where logistics come into play.
First off, make sure delivery is even possible. Is your site accessible for trucks? A 20ft container needs a clear path and some room to maneuver. It’s not like they can just drop it from a helicopter (though that’d be cool).
Then, think about where you’re putting it. The ground should be flat and solid—gravel or concrete works great. Avoid soft ground unless you like the idea of a half-buried container. And don’t forget to measure the area. A little planning now saves a lot of hassle later.
Finally, check local rules. Some places require permits to place a container on your property. It’s a boring detail, but it’s better to deal with it upfront than face fines down the road.
Why Choose TEU Ltd for Your 20ft Container Hire?
Renting a 20ft container is not just about getting any old box — it’s about finding the right fit for your needs. That’s why TEU Ltd is here to help you every step of the way. Need extra space for personal storage? We’ve got you covered. On-site construction storage? No problem. Our containers can even be transformed into mess/restrooms or emergency shelters in a pinch.
And, of course, they’re perfect for transporting goods safely. Whatever your project, we make the process simple and hassle-free. Let us handle the logistics while you focus on what matters most.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it. If renting a 20ft container isn’t a painful process then what is? Work out what you require, know your numbers, choose a good rental provider and ensure delivery is planned. It’s that simple.
Need more help? TEU Ltd is just a click away. Tell us what you need, and we’ll have you sorted in no time.
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