Keep equipment storage beside the work—not inside the office
A shipping container gives tools, supplies and project materials a dedicated storage space while the office stays available for meetings and administration. National’s partner services let you consider construction offices and storage together, with the delivery route, working area and rental schedule planned around the same project.
Start with what you need to store and how often you need to reach it. A contractor retrieving tools every morning needs a different arrangement from a business holding boxed inventory through a renovation. Think about shelving, aisles, door access and handling equipment—not just the amount of floor space. Standard storage containers are not automatically suitable for occupied workspace or temperature-sensitive stock.
Compare common storage container sizes
| Nominal option | Useful starting point | Tradeoff to evaluate |
|---|---|---|
| 20-foot container | Tools, supplies and smaller storage requirements | A shorter footprint still needs delivery and door-opening space |
| 40-foot container | Larger inventories and longer projects | Accessing goods at the back requires a planned aisle or alternative doors |
| High-cube container | Loads that benefit from additional interior height | Verify actual clearances, handling method and available equipment |
| Specialty door configuration | Frequent access or separated storage zones | Availability and price can differ from standard end-door units |
Nominal length is not a guarantee of usable interior dimensions. Request the actual unit specification, including the door opening, floor condition and any installed features. A loading plan should account for the goods, shelving and people moving through the space. If a smaller unit would require a second delivery later, compare that scenario before deciding it is the cheaper choice.
Newer, used and rental containers: inspect the relevant condition
Condition terminology varies between sellers. Ask what a description means in the quotation and what condition is promised at delivery. For storage, practical questions include whether doors operate properly, whether the unit is weather-tight, and whether the roof, floor and seals are suitable for the intended contents. Request photographs of the actual sale unit when possible, rather than relying on a representative listing image.
A lower-priced used container may be a sensible fit for robust equipment, but repairs, cleaning or door problems can erase the saving. Conversely, appearance alone does not establish structural condition or suitability. Explain what will be stored and identify any ventilation or moisture concerns. Do not assume a standard steel container provides climate control, and do not store regulated materials without checking the appropriate requirements.
Make delivery access part of the order
Provide photographs of the approach and final location, with notes about overhead obstructions, slopes, soft ground and tight turns. Ask the carrier how the unit will be unloaded and how much working clearance that method needs. There is no single clearance figure that works for every truck, container and placement.
The supplier’s site preparation guidance highlights the importance of a stable, accessible placement area. Confirm the requirements with the company actually making your delivery. Position the doors so they remain usable once the fence perimeter, parking and office access are complete. Leave entrance routes clear of the storage loading zone.
Compare rental and purchase on the whole project cost
Rental can suit a defined project or changing storage requirement; buying can be worth comparing for repeated or long-duration use. The decision depends on delivered prices, term, condition and what happens afterward. Like the office rental comparison, the useful number includes transport and end-of-use costs—not just a monthly rate or purchase figure.
- Rental: minimum term, billing increments, extensions, collection notice and damage provisions.
- Purchase: actual unit condition, delivery, taxes and any agreed repairs or modifications.
- Both: site preparation, locks, shelving, access needs and future moves.
Do not assume a supplier will move a loaded container or that transport is included in the advertised equipment price. Specify whether relocation is likely, and obtain the relevant loading and collection instructions before filling the unit.
Storage container buying questions
Can I order only a storage container?
Yes—use the container inquiry below to discuss standalone storage through National’s partner services. Include the location, preferred size, dates and whether you want rental or purchase options.
Can a container be used as an office?
An ordinary storage unit is not a finished office. Compare a purpose-designed occupied building, with the necessary approvals, access and services, through our mobile office guide.
Should I choose one large container or two smaller ones?
Compare delivered totals, available placement space and access to stored goods. Two units may separate teams or inventories, while one larger unit may reduce duplicated handling. The site layout determines which works better.
Request shipping container rental or purchase information →