At NZBOX, we’re passionate about providing versatile, durable, and cost-effective shipping container solutions for a wide range of needs. Whether you’re after secure storage, a portable office, or even the foundation for a unique building project, this guide will give you a solid understanding of what containers can offer.
We have over 60 years of industry experience in the team at NZBOX, and we have helped hundreds of individuals and businesses find the right shipping container solution for their needs throughout New Zealand.
One thing that sets us apart from the rest is our commitment to customer service. Take a look at our recent reviews, and you will see all the fantastic feedback the team gets, always going the extra mile to ensure our customers get the best possible shipping container solution for their needs.
Of course, good customer service only gets you so far. At the end of the day, it’s our shipping containers that people come for, and we have a huge range of new and used shipping containers, both for sale and hire, throughout New Zealand.
In this post, we will let you know more about what you can expect when you buy or rent a shipping container from NZBOX.
Overview of Container Types and Sizes
One of the great things about shipping containers is the variety available. Understanding the different container types and sizes is the first step in finding the perfect solution for your needs. Here’s a rundown of the most common options:
- Standard Containers: These come in industry-standard lengths like 20-foot and 40-foot. They’re ideal for general cargo, storage, and transport.
- High Cube Containers: Offering an extra foot of height compared to standard containers, high cubes are great when you need that little bit of extra vertical space.
- Speciality Containers: This includes options like open-top containers (for oversized cargo), flat rack containers (for heavy machinery), and refrigerated containers (reefers) for temperature-sensitive goods.
- Smaller Options: We also stock smaller, 6-10 foot containers, perfect for tight spaces or smaller storage needs.
These containers are perfect for such a huge range of needs – from building a backyard office to increasing your storage capacity. Chat to the team at NZBOX about your needs, and we will recommend the best possible shipping container solution for the job.
Buying vs. Hiring Containers
Deciding whether to buy or hire a shipping container is a crucial decision. Here’s a quick comparison to help you weigh the options:
Buying:
- Pros: Long-term cost-effectiveness if you need a container for an extended period, full ownership and customisation possibilities.
- Cons: Higher upfront cost, responsibility for maintenance and eventual disposal.
Hiring:
- Pros: Lower upfront cost, ideal for temporary needs, no maintenance responsibilities.
- Cons: Can be more expensive in the long run if you need a container for a long duration, and limited customisation options.
At NZBOX, we offer both container sale and container hire options to suit your specific requirements, and we also offer a handy rent-to-own model which can give you the best of both worlds.
Popular Container Modifications
The possibilities are almost endless when it comes to container modifications. Here are some popular examples:
- Offices: Add windows, doors, insulation, and electrical fittings to create a portable and secure office space.
- Workshops: Fit out a container with workbenches, shelving, and power outlets for a mobile workshop.
- Storage: Customise with shelving, ventilation, and security features for specialised storage needs.
- Accommodation: Convert containers into tiny homes, sleep-outs, or temporary accommodation with insulation, plumbing, and comfortable living spaces.
The team at NZBOX is here to help you realise your dreams. Whether it’s a pop-up café or a cool sleep-out in the back garden for your kids, we’ve got the containers and the ideas to help bring your own dreams into reality.
We know that New Zealand is home to many expats from around the world, and backyard container sleepouts are extremely popular with those who welcome family and friends out to visit each year.
Transport and Delivery Options
Getting your container to its destination safely and efficiently is a key part of the process. At NZBOX, we offer a range of container transport options, including:
- Truck Delivery: Using specialised trucks equipped with swing lifts or hiabs to position the container exactly where you need it.
- Self-Delivery: If you have the right equipment, you can arrange to pick up the container yourself.
We’ll work with you to determine the best container transport solution based on your location and site conditions.
Maintenance and Care Tips
To ensure your container lasts for years to come, proper container maintenance is essential. Here are a few tips:
- Regular Inspections: Check for rust, dents, and damage to the doors and seals.
- Rust Prevention: Treat any rust spots promptly to prevent them from spreading.
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent moisture build-up inside the container.
- Security: Keep the doors and locking mechanisms in good working order.
Whilst shipping containers are said to have a lifespan of 10-15 years, with proper care, there is no reason why your shipping container can’t last as long as you need it.
New containers come with three coats of paint and are basically corrosion-free. In the right environment, they require little to no attention for a very long time.
Here are some handy tips:
- Always elevate your container to allow airflow underneath. We recommend some treated timber as the easiest solution
- Place it in a position so the sun can evaporate any water that may pool on the roof from time to time
If buying a second-hand container, then at some stage it would be a good idea to paint the entire container. At the very least, paint the roof using quality paint (we also sell Shipping Grade Paint).
Sustainable Container Use
Shipping containers are inherently sustainable, giving a second life to a robust structure. Here are some ways to maximise sustainable container use:
- Re-use and Repurpose: Instead of letting containers sit idle, find new uses for them.
- Eco-Friendly Modifications: Use sustainable materials for insulation, flooring, and other modifications.
- Energy Efficiency: Incorporate solar panels and energy-efficient appliances if converting a container into a living or working space.
At NZBOX, we’re committed to promoting sustainable container use and minimising our environmental impact.
Summary
We hope this comprehensive guide has given you a better understanding of the world of shipping containers. Stay tuned for the next instalment in our series, where we’ll delve deeper into specific container applications and modifications. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your container needs, contact the team at NZBOX today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of shipping containers does NZBOX offer?
NZBOX provides a wide range of container types and sizes, including standard 20ft and 40ft containers, high cube containers with extra height, specialty containers like reefers and open-tops, and compact containers ranging from 6–10 feet. These options suit everything from general storage and shipping to creative building projects.
Should I buy or hire a shipping container?
Choosing between buying and hiring depends on how long you need the container and what level of control you want. Buying is more cost-effective in the long term and allows for full customisation, while hiring offers a lower upfront cost, is great for temporary needs, and comes without maintenance responsibilities. NZBOX also offers a rent-to-own model for those looking to balance flexibility with ownership.
What modifications can be made to a shipping container?
NZBOX can modify shipping containers in a variety of ways to suit different needs. Customers commonly turn them into portable offices with insulation and electricity, mobile workshops with shelving and workbenches, secure storage units with ventilation, or even tiny homes and guest sleepouts complete with plumbing and interior fit-outs.
How are shipping containers delivered in New Zealand?
Shipping containers from NZBOX can be delivered directly to your site using specialised trucks with swing lifts or Hiabs that allow for precise placement. If you have access to the right equipment, you also have the option to arrange for self-pickup and delivery.
What are some tips for maintaining a shipping container?
To ensure your container lasts as long as possible, it’s important to inspect it regularly for signs of rust, damage, or wear; treat any rust spots promptly; keep the container elevated off the ground to promote airflow underneath; and ensure that ventilation is adequate to prevent moisture buildup inside. With proper maintenance and placement, containers can often exceed their typical 10 to 15-year lifespan, especially if they are new and properly painted.
