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Containers Direct logoQuality you can see, experience you can trust.
Quality you can see, experience you can trust.

Stacking Shipping Containers

ISO shipping containers are designed to be stacked in order to maximise space on cargo vessels. This is due to the structure of the container: the top and bottom rails of shipping containers don't actually meet! Instead, all the weight is carried through the four corner posts, and containers are locked in with twist locks whilst in transit. This is one of the main reasons why shipping containers have to conform to standard dimensions.

The reason why containers are stacked for storage reasons is to maximise space. Stacking containers is a great way to utilise and increase the storage capability of your site if the ground footprint is limited. Most commonly seen in shipping container depots, and even in self-storage container yards, stacked shipping containers are a very useful feature when considering storage options.

Twist Locks

Twist Locks are essential for stacking as they ensure the corner posts are locked together. This is in order to stop the containers from moving independently of one another, and to ensure the top one doesn't fall, for example, in extreme weather conditions. Another method to ensure the container is secured when stacked, it to employ a welder on site to spot weld the containers together via the corner posts. This is best done if the containers are intended to be a permanent structure.

Cut Down Containers

We specialise in cut down shipping containers for storage, modifying the length to suit individual requirements by cutting down from 40ft or 20ft containers. In most cases, this means that you are unable to stack these containers, as the corner posts are typically removed during the process. If you do need to stack containers which are cut down in length, we are able to help! We have a process called "Cut and Shut" where we retain the corner posts allowing for the units to be stacked on top of each other. Usually, you would require the units to be exactly the same size to ensure that the corner posts rest exactly one on top of the other to support the weight of the top container. However, if you need a smaller unit to sit on top of a larger one, we can also add a welded "goalpost" inside the container, with additional corner castings at the required length along the top and bottom, to support the top unit. Our sales team can always help if you have specific requirements in mind.

Staircases

Once you've stacked your containers, you need a way to access the top one! Containers Direct can provide specialised container staircases, complete with platform, so you can access your top level storage space. These units need assembling and bolting, or welding, to brackets to keep them secure once on site.

Doors in the side?

A common request to make it easier to access the storage on the top level is to have a set of doors in the side of the container. These can be instead of, or in addition to, the original container doors. The staircases provided can be altered to allow for side entry if required.

Delivery

Most hauliers will add on an additional delivery charge for stacking units, which can affect the overall delivery rate. This is due to the additional time required on site to ensure the containers are directly on top of each other and level.

Request a Quick Quote!

Contact our sales team for your no-obligation quote, including delivery!

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.
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"On the whole the experience was great and they deserve 5 star rating." Bishop Gore School
20th February 2026
order - a Used 20ft Container
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"Thanks very much for a really efficient service. Would recommend your company to anyone. You did what it said on the tin!" Ian
20th February 2026
order - a Used 10ft Container
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"Service was excellent from quote to delivery." Peter Stanaway
19th February 2026
order - a Used 15ft Container and a 4ft wide x 4ft long 3 Tonne Ramp
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"All aspects of the procurement of the containers were professionally handled. From Neil and Hannah in the office to Andy who delivered the containers; the support and service were polite, efficient and very amenable to work with. Thank you." Bridgewater Community Healthcare
19th February 2026
order - two Used 20ft Containers
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"First class service from our initial online enquiry (responded in minutes on a Friday afternoon!) through to confirmation of availability, transportation and delivery arrangements - a delightful refreshing change to deal with a company who actually communicates within hours and not days and everything as promised. Full marks to all concerned. Thank you." JSL Water Systems Ltd
19th February 2026
order - a New 'Once-Used' 20ft Container
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"The team who completed the installation were excellent. Helpful, friendly and concerned to provide good service in the exact location required and requested." Simon Smith - Benchmark GM Ltd
18th February 2026
order - two Joined Used 20ft Containers
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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.

ISOQAR Approved – ISO 9001:2015 Certificate No. 13586-QMS-001
MakeUK Member – Supporting British Manufacturing
Container Self Storage and Traders Association Member
JOSCAR Registered Member
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