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General FAQs 20 Shipping Container FAQs 16 Portable Cabin FAQs 16 Portable Toilet FAQs 23FAQs
General FAQs
Who are Container Cabins Direct Ltd
What types of units do you supply
What are your units used for
Where do you deliver
How are units delivered
How do I know which unit I need
How do I request a quote
How quickly can units be supplied
Why choose a portable or container based unit
Are your units available for hire and sale
Are your units secure
Are your units weatherproof
Do units require planning permission
Can units be used long term
Can units be placed on uneven ground
Can units be stacked or linked together
Are electrics and heating included
Can units be customised
Can units be moved to another location later
Who do I speak to for advice
FAQs
Shipping Container FAQs
What is a shipping container?
A shipping container is a robust steel container built to ISO specifications so it can be lifted, transported and shipped worldwide. They are designed to carry heavy loads and are commonly repurposed for secure storage.
What is a storage container?
A storage container is designed primarily for secure static storage rather than international shipping. It may not be built to full shipping standards, but it provides a weatherproof, lockable space in a range of transportable sizes.
How heavy is a shipping container?
Weights vary by size and specification. As a guide, empty containers can range from around 1.5 tonnes for smaller units to over 3 tonnes for larger units.
What should I buy a shipping or storage container for and why new or used?
The right choice depends on your budget, site requirements and intended use. New units offer maximum lifespan and condition, while used units can be a cost-effective choice where some age and cosmetic wear are acceptable.
What size is a shipping container?
Common shipping container sizes include 20ft and 40ft lengths, with standard widths around 8ft. High-cube containers are taller than standard units and give extra internal height.
Are shipping containers and storage containers weather proof?
Yes. Shipping containers and quality storage containers are built with sealed roofs, welded seams and weather-resistant doors to help keep the contents dry.
Are shipping containers secure?
They are designed to be secure and usually include heavy-duty locking bars. Many units also have lock boxes or cowls to help protect padlocks from tampering.
How does the locking device work?
A lock box protects the padlock area from being attacked or tampered with. It is not usually the lock itself, so a suitable padlock or integrated locking system is still required.
How to open and close a shipping container door?
Usually the right-hand door opens first. Release the retaining catches, lift the locking-bar handles from their keepers and rotate the handles to open. When closing, shut the left door first, then the right.
Do shipping containers get condensation?
Condensation can occur in metal containers, especially during damp UK weather. Ventilation, moisture absorbers, lining or insulation can help reduce it.
Are there any other methods used for insulating my shipping or storage container against condensation?
Yes. Containers can be lined and insulated internally using a timber framework, insulation and suitable wall boards depending on budget and intended use.
Does my shipping container or storage container need painting?
New and used containers can be supplied in existing colours or repainted to a chosen RAL or BS colour. Repainting can improve appearance and help refresh older units.
How long does a shipping or storage container last?
Lifespan depends on age, condition, environment and maintenance. New units should last many years, while used units vary according to their previous use and ongoing care.
How do I know if our premises is suitable for a shipping or storage container?
Check that access is wide enough for delivery vehicles, the ground is firm and level, and there are no overhead obstructions such as cables or branches.
Can I have a shipping or storage container if my land is uneven?
Containers should sit on a firm, level base. If the ground is uneven, we can advise on suitable preparation or supports before delivery.
What will happen once I choose and purchase a shipping container or storage container?
Once you choose a unit, the team will confirm availability, delivery details and any preparation required before arranging transport to site.
FAQs
Portable Cabin FAQs
What is a portable site office or cabin?
A portable site office or cabin is a transportable unit used to provide workspace, welfare, storage or site accommodation without building a permanent structure.
What is the difference between a portable office and an anti-vandal office?
Standard portable offices are built for comfortable temporary workspace. Anti-vandal offices use stronger steel construction and security-focused features for higher-risk sites.
What is a plastisol portable office?
A plastisol portable office is clad with coated steel panels that provide a clean, durable external finish and good weather resistance.
What is a modular building?
A modular building is made from prefabricated sections that can be installed together to form a larger building or workspace.
Are all portable cabin units made secure?
Portable cabins are supplied with practical security features, but the level of security varies by unit type. Anti-vandal cabins provide the highest security specification.
What is a jackleg portable site office?
A jackleg cabin is raised on steel legs, allowing it to be levelled on site and making it easier to run services or place tanks beneath certain units.
Do you have literature or information on your used steel portable cabins and anti-vandal offices?
Product pages include details, photographs and specifications where available. The team can provide further information if you need help comparing units.
I cannot see the type of portable cabin I require on your site so what are my options?
Availability changes regularly. If you cannot see the exact cabin you need, contact the team and they can advise on current stock, alternatives or bespoke options.
What is a refurbished used portable cabin?
A refurbished used cabin has been cleaned, checked and improved before resale. Work may include cosmetic repair, repainting, replacement fittings or an internal refresh.
Are all the interiors on portable cabins and anti-vandal site offices the same?
Layouts vary by unit. Some are open-plan offices, while others include toilets, canteens, drying areas, partitions or storage areas.
What if I want extra fittings in the portable cabin I have picked out?
Extra fittings may be possible depending on the unit and required work. Speak to the team about options such as desks, kitchens, heaters, electrics or layout changes.
What size choice do I have in used portable and anti-vandal cabins?
Sizes vary with available stock. Common choices include compact 10ft or 12ft units through to larger offices, canteens and welfare cabins.
Can I stack or join these used portable or anti-vandal cabins together?
Some same-size units may be suitable for stacking or linking, subject to specification, site conditions and access requirements.
Do you sell new bespoke portable cabins or anti-vandal cabins?
Yes, new bespoke cabins and anti-vandal units can be quoted to suit your layout, size and fitting requirements.
Do you hire portable cabins or anti-vandal units?
Yes, selected portable cabins and anti-vandal units are available for hire subject to stock and site requirements.
Do I need planning permission for my chosen portable cabin?
Planning rules vary by site, use and duration. Temporary units often have different requirements, but you should check with the local authority if unsure.
FAQs
Portable Toilet FAQs
What is a portable toilet block?
A portable toilet block is a transportable welfare unit containing toilet and wash facilities for construction sites, workplaces or temporary locations.
What is a portable anti-vandal toilet block?
An anti-vandal toilet block is a steel welfare unit designed for secure sites where extra protection against damage or unauthorised access is required.
What is the difference between a portable and anti-vandal toilet?
Portable toilets focus on welfare provision and flexibility. Anti-vandal toilets add stronger steel construction and security features for tougher site conditions.
What is inside a portable or anti-vandal toilet?
Layouts vary but can include WCs, urinals, wash basins, cubicles, heaters, lighting and separate male or female areas.
Are your toilets suitable for disabled people?
Some units may include disabled-access facilities, and new units can be specified to meet accessibility requirements. Check individual unit details or ask the team.
How many male and female toilets and fittings can I have?
Used units vary by layout. New units can be built to different male or female ratios and fitting counts to suit site requirements.
Why do I need a portable toilet?
If people are working on site, suitable toilet and washing facilities are normally required. Portable toilet blocks provide these facilities where permanent welfare is not available.
What toilet and wash facility do I need to provide?
Facilities should be suitable and sufficient for the number of people on site, with access to toilets, washing facilities and rest or welfare space where required.
Do we need two lots of toilets for both the men and women?
Not always. Many toilet blocks include separate male and female areas within one unit, with separate entrances and internal layouts.
What if I want male or female toilets only?
Layouts can often be adapted for male-only or female-only use by changing fittings, subject to the unit and specification.
Are the portable toilets that you supply new or used?
Both new and used portable toilet units may be available depending on stock and requirements.
I require a used portable toilet, will it have clean toilets and fittings?
Used toilet units are cleaned, checked and prepared before supply. Unsuitable fittings are replaced where needed.
Do any of your used toilet units include shower cubicles?
Some used welfare or toilet units may include showers, and shower facilities can sometimes be fitted depending on the layout.
Do you supply used or new shower units?
Yes, shower units may be available used or as new-build options, including single or multi-bay layouts.
Do I need this portable toilet on a permanent basis?
Portable toilets can be used temporarily or for longer periods, depending on your site, services and permission requirements.
What if my workforce are working at regular temporary worksites and various locations?
Portable toilet and welfare units can be moved between sites by suitable transport when projects move or finish.
Do I need planning permission for my portable toilet?
Planning requirements vary by site and duration. If in doubt, check with your local authority.
How is the portable toilet connected to my soil and water supply?
A plumber or site contractor will usually connect the unit to water and waste services once it is positioned.
I do not have any drains for the waste, is this a problem?
If drains are not available, an effluent tank may be used with a raised or jackleg toilet unit where suitable.
Do you supply effluent tanks if required?
Yes, effluent tanks and steps can be supplied where required for raised toilet installations.
How often does this effluent tank require to be emptied and is there a charge?
Emptying frequency depends on usage and number of users. Waste collection is normally chargeable and can be arranged with a suitable provider.
Is there a guideline of how many toilets I have to supply for male and female?
Yes. HSE guidance provides minimum toilet and washbasin numbers based on the maximum number of people at work.
If I have checked all above and ordered the correct unit is there any other useful information that I may require?
Make sure facilities are kept clean, stocked with toilet paper and soap, and maintained regularly to avoid hygiene issues.

