If you’re searching for a shipping container for the first time and feel unsure where to begin, you’re not alone. Many business owners, farmers, site managers, and homeowners across Western Australia face the same question: how do I get the right shipping container, fast, and without the usual runaround or pushy sales talk? This simple guide walks you through the essential steps, helping you make the best decision for your project—without wasted time, hidden costs, or surprises.

Step 1: What Type of Shipping Container Do You Need? (Uses + Tips)

The first and most important question is what you’ll be using the container for. Shipping containers today are used for much more than just storage. Depending on your application, some shipping container types will be a better fit than others.

Here are the most common shipping container types and their typical uses:

  • Standard ISO containers: Standard ISO shipping containers are great for general storage, removals, and transportation of goods.

  • High cube containers: High cube shipping containers are one foot taller than standard containers, ideal for storing tall items or creating workspaces with more internal headroom.

  • Refrigerated containers: Refrigerated shipping containers, also known as reefers, are used for temperature-sensitive goods such as food or pharmaceuticals.

  • Dangerous goods containers: Dangerous goods shipping containers are specifically designed for hazardous chemicals, fuel, or other dangerous goods with built-in safety features.

  • Modified shipping containers: Customised shipping containers used for a wide range of applications, such as site offices, workshops, portable buildings, and other project-specific needs.

  • Side opening containers: Useful for easier loading and unloading of oversized or palletised goods.

  • Insulated shipping containers: Insulated shipping containers help maintain temperature without active refrigeration—ideal for passive thermal control.

To make the right choice, identify your main use case. Whether you’re after basic storage, a safe and ventilated option for dangerous chemicals, or need a modified site office, understanding this from the start makes the rest of the process simple.

Need a shipping container? Whether you’re looking to hire or buy new or used shipping containers, ABC Containers has a wide range of standard, high cube, refrigerated, dangerous goods, wide, and side opening containers you need. Our expert sales team is ready to help—contact us now for a free quote and the right container solution for your needs.

Step 2: Choosing the Best Shipping Container Size and Type for Your Project

ABC Containers WA

After choosing the container type, it’s time to select the right container size. Container sizes typically range from 6ft up to 40ft, with the most common being 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft units. Below is a helpful breakdown:

Container Size Internal Capacity Common Use
6ft / 8ft 3–6 m³ Tight urban spaces, tools, home storage
10ft ~16 m³ Small business storage, site sheds
20ft ~33 m³ Construction, industrial use, large home storage
40ft ~67 m³ Bulk storage, long-term logistics, multi-room builds

For projects that require more vertical room, high cube container versions of the 20ft and 40ft models offer increased internal height. If you’re storing tall items or planning internal fit-outs like racking or shelving, a high cube container could be the right choice.

Additionally, side opening containers offer greater accessibility. These are perfect for storing items that require frequent access or that are loaded with forklifts or pallet jacks.

Need help choosing the right container size? Contact ABC Containers for expert advice and a free quote on a wide range of new and used shipping containers, including standard, high cube, wide, and side opening containers in 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft options. Whether you’re looking to hire or buy a new or used shipping container, our sales team is here to help—contact us today!

Step 3: Should You Buy a New or Used Shipping Container? Pros and Cons

Choosing between new and used containers comes down to condition, appearance, budget, and project lifespan. Here’s a side-by-side comparison:

New Containers (One-Trip)

  • Pros: New shipping containers have a clean appearance, a longer life span, no prior damage or repairs needed, ideal for long-term or client-facing projects.

  • Cons: Higher upfront cost.

Used Containers

  • Pros: Used shipping containers have a lower cost, are still structurally sound and waterproof, great for short-term storage or less visible placements.

  • Cons: May have cosmetic blemishes, shorter lifespan, and not always suitable for container modifications.

Used containers can offer excellent value, but ensure they are wind and watertight. A trusted supplier will always guarantee this. For more visible applications or longer-term use, new containers are often worth the investment.

Not sure whether to buy or hire a new or used shipping container? Whether you need a clean, long-lasting standard container for a client-facing project or a budget-friendly used side opening container for short-term hire, ABC Containers has you covered. We offer both container sales and container hire options with expert advice to help you decide. Contact ABC Containers today to find the right shipping container for sale or hire that fits your needs—side-opening or standard, new or used!

Step 4: Shipping Container Prices – Rent vs. Buy Explained

One of the most common questions is whether to hire or buy a shipping container. The answer depends on your timeframe, budget, and future plans. Here’s a breakdown:

Hiring a Container

  • Best for short- to medium-term needs (under 2–3 years).

  • No large upfront costs.

  • Maintenance is often included in the container hire agreement.

  • Flexible rental terms for changing project needs.

Buying a Container

  • Best for long-term use or if you need container modifications.

  • One-time payment gives full ownership.

  • Suitable for permanent site solutions, long-term storage, or workshops.

Shipping container hire prices are typically cost-effective, especially for short projects. You can expect to hire a standard container or a side opening container for a fraction of the cost of buying. Over time, however, purchasing becomes more economical—especially if you plan to use the container for more than three years or if custom container modifications are required.

Not sure whether to hire or buy a shipping container? Contact ABC Containers today for expert advice on choosing the best option for your needs. Whether you’re after a flexible container hire solution for storage or looking to invest in a standard container for long-term use, we’ll help you compare costs and find the right fit. Contact us now to secure the perfect container for your project.

Step 5: How to Prepare Your Site for Shipping Container Delivery

Shipping container transport leaving ABC Yard

A smooth delivery starts with a properly prepared site. Here’s a checklist to follow:

  • 1

    Choose a flat and firm surface: Gravel, compacted dirt, or concrete works well.

  • 2

    Ensure truck access: Standard tilt tray trucks require a minimum 3m width and overhead clearance of 4m.

  • 3

    Leave enough space: A 20ft container needs around 12m in length for unloading.

  • 4

    Check council regulations: Some councils in residential areas may have restrictions or permit requirements.

Proper preparation avoids delays and ensures safe, damage-free delivery of shipping containers. Whether your site is urban, rural, or remote, ABC Containers handles transport and placement to suit your specific location and access conditions. Contact our team to hire or purchase the perfect shipping container for your needs.

Step 6: Where to Buy a Shipping Container – Avoiding Scams and Finding Trusted Sellers

The container industry has seen a rise in online scams and unreliable sellers. Protect yourself by following a few key rules:

Avoid Suppliers Who:

  • Do not have a physical location or depot

  • Require full prepayment without providing documentation

  • Offer prices that seem too good to be true

  • Provide vague or unclear product information

  • Lack of experience or established operations in your area

Look for a Supplier Who:

  • Is locally based in Western Australia

  • Has a proven history in container sales and hire

  • Offers written guarantees and clear terms

  • Provides delivery, modification, and customer support services

  • Can deliver to regional or remote sites as needed

ABC Containers operates from Bibra Lake and offers a full range of shipping containers and services, including container sales, hire, self-storage, modification, and delivery across WA. Whether you’re looking for refrigerated shipping containers, dangerous goods containers, insulated boxes, or high cube site offices, we provide fit-for-purpose containers for sale and hire at competitive prices.

Simple 3-Step Process to Get the Right Container

Step 1: Request a Quote
Let us know your site, needs, and timeline. We’ll send you a customised quote with no hidden costs.

Step 2: Confirm Your Order
Choose your container size, type, and any customisations you require. Our team will confirm availability and finalise delivery details.

Step 3: Delivery and Placement
We deliver directly to your site—urban, rural, or remote—and handle placement so the container is positioned exactly where you need it.

Why ABC Containers Is the Smartest Choice for Shipping Containers in WA

Used 6ft Containers

If you need to purchase or hire a shipping container and want a fast, easy, and reliable solution, ABC Containers has you covered. With a wide range of container sizes and types available for sale and hire, we help you get exactly what you need—on time and on budget. From refrigerated containers to dangerous goods units, high cube models to site offices, our team delivers the highest quality products and services across Western Australia. Whether you’re looking to buy a shipping container or explore short-term rental options, we make the process simple.

To get started, call us today or request your free quote. Let’s get your container delivered—without the runaround.