Shipping Containers for Sale in Southend-on-Sea
New, used and converted shipping containers in Southend-on-Sea
We supply new and used shipping containers to Southend-on-Sea, including standard 20ft and 40ft units sourced through our regional supplier network around Tilbury Docks. With a major container port nearby, suitable standard units can be supplied without an unnecessary long-distance journey from our Knowsley depot. We also supply 10ft containers and other sizes for storage and site use. Where a container needs cutting down, additional doors, lining or a full conversion, we carry out the work in-house at Knowsley before arranging transport. Send us the delivery postcode, site access details and intended position so we can check the appropriate supply route and HIAB offload.
Explore container options in Southend-on-Sea
Standard containers, modifications and conversions
Standard containers. For straightforward storage, start with our new and used ranges. 20ft and 40ft are the standard ISO lengths, with 10ft and further sizes available through the wider Containers Direct range.
Explore ContainersModified containers. If the standard specification does not work, we can cut containers down to non-standard lengths or alter the fit-out with different doors, lining, cladding, electrics and other options.
Container ModificationsContainer conversions. For offices, garages, catering units, gyms, workshops and other fitted uses, we can build the conversion around the required layout rather than treating the container as storage.
Container ConversionsRequest a Quick Quote!
Contact our sales team for your no-obligation quote, including delivery!
Planning permission in Southend-on-Sea
If you are unsure whether planning permission could apply to your site, or where to find the right information, we have made the starting point easy to find. We cannot advise on individual planning requirements, but if the address is within the Southend-on-Sea City Council area you can use the council's planning guidance or contact its planning service. For sites outside that boundary, check with the local planning authority responsible for the address.
Southend-on-Sea City Council Planning Guidance
Delivery and site access
We supply standard shipping containers to Southend-on-Sea through our UK network, while modified, converted and purpose-built units are completed at our Knowsley depot before transport to site. Delivery is normally arranged using a lorry fitted with a HIAB crane. When requesting a quote, send us the delivery postcode, container size or type, any modifications required, details of restricted access and the intended offload position. Our guide covers vehicle options, shared and dedicated delivery, working space and the access information we use to plan the offload.
Ground preparation and levelling
Your container needs a firm, level and properly supported position. If one corner settles differently from the others, the container can twist slightly and the doors may become harder to open and close. Depending on the unit and site, preparation may involve concrete pads, sleepers or another suitable level support. Our ground preparation guide explains what can go under a container, how to level the position and what to consider before delivery.
Container projects in Southend-on-Sea
From a 40ft catering conversion for a school to a compact ticket booth at Southend Pier, these projects show how we adapt containers and portable units to different requirements. Our work also includes specialist fabrication for biomass boiler housing.
40ft Partitioned MenuBox® Catering Unit
School Canteen and Tuck Shop
We converted a used 40ft container into a school catering unit with a serving hatch, lined and insulated kitchen area, electrics and air conditioning. An internal partition separates the kitchen from a smaller storage room.
Southend Pier Anti-Vandal Ticket Booth
Southend Pier and Railway
We supplied a compact ticket booth for the railway at Southend Pier, with a powder-coated green exterior, glazed panels, lining, insulation and electrics. The client decorated the finished booth in a Punch and Judy style.
More Container Conversion Case Studies
Explore two specialist boiler-house projects showing how we modify container structures to accommodate equipment, ventilation and access requirements.
Case study of the month
October 2026
20ft therapy space
Based on our popular ModiBox® portable office design, this tranquil oasis tucked away between the trees, is located on Bath City Farm. Used as a therapy in nature space we used wood cladding to cover the front of the shipping container and repainted the remainder green, to blend in nicely with its surroundings. Lined and insulated inside, for temperature and sound control, it will provide comfort and privacy for its users all year round. The patio style doors and turn and tilt widows are optional upgrades to our standard ModiBox® features, adding a sleek and professional appearance and letting plenty of light inside for a bright and airy ambience.
Discover more of our shipping container conversions or explore the full project details below.
Storage containers for different access requirements
For sites with suitable vehicle access, a steel storage container can be delivered and positioned as a complete unit. Where access to the final position is restricted, a flat pack container gives you another option because the individual components can be carried separately and assembled on site.
If you are unsure whether a complete container can reach the position you have in mind, see our shipping container delivery guide.
Steel Storage Containers
Complete steel container storage
Steel storage containers arrive as complete units and are available in a range of sizes and conditions. They are the straightforward choice where there is suitable access for delivery, offload and positioning.
Flat Pack Storage Containers
For restricted access locations
Flat pack containers are supplied in component form. If a complete shipping container cannot reach the final position, the sections can be moved separately and the unit assembled where it is needed.
Built and modified in-house
We carry out container modifications, conversions and new-build fabrication at our Knowsley depot. If a standard 8ft-wide container does not fit the requirement, we can manufacture extra-wide containers or narrow containers, add side-door access, or take on more complex specialist conversions. Where access prevents a complete steel container being positioned on site, our flat pack containers provide a separate self-assembly option.
Testimonials
As a long established and reputable shipping container company, we want to instil confidence in our customers that we can deliver on our promises, and provide high quality products and service.But don't just take our word for it, see for yourself what our past and present clients have to say about Containers Direct.
Optional extras and container modifications
Once you have chosen the container size and condition, we can modify it around the way you need to use it. Common options include alternative doors, personnel access, windows, lining and insulation, electrics, shelving, repainting, timber cladding and roof additions.
Some changes solve a practical issue such as easier daily access, condensation control or additional security. Others change the appearance or turn the container into a more fully fitted space. For larger projects, these features can be specified as part of the conversion rather than added afterwards.
Explore the full container modifications range or use the links below for some of the most common options.
Shipping containers in Southend-on-Sea - frequently asked questions
Do you deliver shipping containers to Southend-on-Sea?
Yes. We deliver shipping containers to Southend-on-Sea and elsewhere in Essex. Modified, converted and purpose-built units can also be completed at Knowsley before transport to Southend-on-Sea.
Should I choose a new or used shipping container?
Used containers normally show more marks, dents and surface wear from their previous working life. New or once-used containers have made a single import journey and generally have a cleaner exterior.
What container sizes can I order in Southend-on-Sea?
Popular choices include 10ft, 20ft and 40ft containers, but we also supply smaller and intermediate sizes. See our shipping container dimensions guide for external and internal measurements.
How will my shipping container be delivered?
Delivery is normally arranged using a lorry fitted with a HIAB crane to lift the container from the vehicle and position it on the prepared base. Read our delivery guide before ordering.
Can you modify a container before delivering it to Southend-on-Sea?
Yes. We carry out modifications and conversions in-house, including doors, windows, lining and insulation, electrics, cladding and more substantial fitted conversions. Explore our container modifications or container conversions.
Do I need planning permission for a shipping container in Southend-on-Sea?
Planning requirements depend on the site, intended use and how long the container will remain there. Check your proposal with the relevant local planning authority. Our planning guide gives a general introduction.
Committed to Quality
We are ISOQAR Approved and certified to ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Systems, demonstrating our commitment to excellence. We are also members of MakeUK, who champion British manufacturing, and the Container Self Storage and Traders Association (CSTA), representing global operators and innovators. In addition, we are registered members of JOSCAR, the Joint Supply Chain Accreditation Register.
