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When ordering a shipping container, one of the first questions customers ask is: how long will delivery take? Whether you need a container for storage, hire, or a specialist conversion, understanding realistic delivery times across Great Britain is essential for planning your project.

At S Jones Containers, delivery times depend on several practical factors, including container availability, location, access requirements, and whether the unit is standard or customised. This guide explains what influences delivery times and what you can expect when ordering a container in Great Britain.

Typical delivery times for shipping containers

For standard containers (new or used) that are already in stock, delivery across Great Britain is usually straightforward. In most cases, customers can expect delivery within 3–10 working days from order confirmation. This timeframe allows for scheduling, transport planning, and ensuring site access is suitable.

Container hire deliveries often follow a similar timeframe, particularly where stock is available locally or regionally.

For converted containers or modular units, delivery times are longer due to the design, fabrication, and quality assurance processes involved. Depending on the complexity of the conversion, lead times can range from several weeks to a few months. This ensures that the finished unit meets specification, safety requirements, and performance expectations.

Factors that affect delivery time

While stock availability is important, it is not the only factor that determines how quickly a container can be delivered. Key considerations include:

Container type and specification

Standard 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft containers are typically faster to deliver than specialist units. Bespoke conversions, insulated containers, or containers with electrical fit-outs require additional preparation time.

Location within Great Britain

We can only deliver to mainland locations and are unable to deliver to remote or hard-to-access sites. Urban areas with good road access are easier to schedule than coastal or industrial sites with restricted entry.

Site access and ground conditions

Containers are delivered using specialist vehicles such as HIAB lorries or articulated transport. Tight access, overhead obstructions, soft ground, or restricted turning space can all affect delivery scheduling and may require additional planning.

Transport availability

Container deliveries are subject to haulage availability and regional demand. During peak periods, lead times may extend slightly due to transport capacity.

Planning and permissions

In some locations, customers may need permission for delivery, road access, or temporary traffic management. Resolving these issues in advance helps avoid delays.

Delivery for container conversions and modular buildings

Converted containers and modular buildings follow a different delivery timeline to standard units. Before delivery can take place, several stages must be completed:

  • Design and specification sign-off
  • Testing and quality checks
  • Transport planning and lifting assessments

At S Jones Containers, all conversion work is carried out in-house, allowing for greater control over scheduling and delivery coordination. Once a unit is complete, delivery is planned carefully to ensure safe unloading and correct positioning on site.

For modular buildings, delivery may also include installation, commissioning, and handover, which are factored into the overall project timeline.

How delivery is managed

A well-managed delivery process is about more than speed. It’s about ensuring the container arrives safely, on time, and ready for use. Prior to delivery, customers are typically asked to confirm:

  • Site access dimensions
  • Preferred delivery dates
  • Any lifting or placement requirements

This information allows delivery teams to select the correct vehicle and lifting method, reducing the risk of delays or additional costs on the day.

Can delivery be expedited?

In some cases, faster delivery may be possible, particularly for standard containers already in stock. However, expedited delivery depends on transport availability and site readiness. For converted units, lead times are largely governed by build schedules and cannot always be shortened without compromising quality.

The most effective way to achieve a smooth and timely delivery is early planning, clear communication, and realistic expectations.

Why realistic delivery times matter

Understanding delivery lead times helps businesses avoid unnecessary disruption. Whether you are preparing a site, coordinating contractors, or aligning container delivery with operational deadlines, accurate timelines are critical.

Overly optimistic delivery promises can create problems later. A professional supplier will always prioritise safe, compliant delivery over unrealistic speed.

Delivery across Great Britain with S Jones Containers

With over 40 years’ experience supplying containers across Great Britain, S Jones Containers understands the logistics involved in both standard and specialist deliveries. From single storage units to complex modular buildings, delivery is planned as part of the overall solution, not treated as an afterthought. 

Our team works closely with customers to provide clear lead times, practical advice, and reliable delivery scheduling – ensuring containers arrive when and where they are needed.

Get in touch

If you’re planning a container delivery and need clarity on lead times, access requirements, or conversion schedules, speak to S Jones Containers today. Our team can advise on realistic delivery times and help you plan your project with confidence.


S Jones Containers Ltd

Anglian Road,
Aldridge, Walsall,
West Midlands,
WS9 8ET

Company Reg Number: 3747019
VAT Number: 729700231

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