Shipping Containers for Sale in Edinburgh
New, used and converted shipping containers in Edinburgh
We supply shipping containers to Edinburgh for storage, site use and conversion projects. Choose from new and used containers, including popular 10ft, 20ft and 40ft sizes, or explore smaller containers, container offices and purpose-built options. If a standard container does not suit the job, we carry out modifications, conversions and new-build fabrication in-house at Knowsley before arranging delivery to Edinburgh. For delivery, we will need your postcode and enough information about site access and the intended position to work out the appropriate transport and offload.
Explore container options in Edinburgh
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 Edinburgh
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 City of Edinburgh 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.
City of Edinburgh Council Planning Guidance
Delivery and site access
We supply standard shipping containers to Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh
These two Edinburgh-area projects show very different uses for a converted container. One became a fully fitted 20ft pop-up bar with a roof platform for the Royal Highland Show, while the other turned a used 15ft high cube into a lined storage unit with separate pedestrian access.
20ft Pop-Up Bar with Roof Platform
Royal Highland Show, Edinburgh
We converted a once-used 20ft high cube into a pop-up bar with an 18ft electric roller shutter, external staircase and roof platform, then added lining, electrics, non-slip flooring and a catering fit-out.
15ft High Cube with Recessed Personnel Door
Edinburgh Area Project
We modified a used 15ft high cube with an S1 flat-panel door and a personnel door recessed into the same end. The unit was also fitted with two louvered vents, lined and insulated in 12mm Redwood ply and repainted light grey.
More Case Studies in Edinburgh
Explore more container conversions and specialist builds we have completed for customers in Edinburgh and the surrounding area.
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 Edinburgh - frequently asked questions
Do you deliver shipping containers to Edinburgh?
Yes. We deliver shipping containers to Edinburgh. Modified, converted and purpose-built units can also be completed at Knowsley before transport to Edinburgh.
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 Edinburgh?
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 Edinburgh?
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 Edinburgh?
Planning requirements depend on the site, intended use and how long the container will remain there. If the site is within the City of Edinburgh Council area, check the proposal with the council's planning service. 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.
