When project deadlines are tight, poor storage planning can slow everything down. Materials get misplaced, access becomes a headache, and valuable equipment is left exposed to damage or theft. A well-planned storage setup keeps operations moving and reduces costly downtime.
At Instant Sea Containers, we’ve seen the difference a few smart decisions can make. The tips below are based on what works on real sites across Australia, helping you set up temporary storage that’s secure and ready from day one.
1. Assess Your Space Requirements
Before you lock in a container, take the time to work out exactly how much storage space your project will need. We suggest starting with a cubic volume estimate. Factor in pallet sizes, stacking limits, and enough clearance for safe access.
Think about what you’ll be storing and how it needs to be handled. Large machinery might need open floor space with minimal stacking. Boxed goods can often be stacked higher to save room. Temperature-sensitive stock may even need an insulated unit with A/C to keep it in a stable condition.
By mapping this out early, you avoid paying for space you don’t use or running short halfway through the job. Our Container Selector Tool makes it simple to match your requirements to the right container size and type, so you can set up efficient storage from day one.
At Instant Sea Containers, we group our range into two main size categories. Our small shipping containers run from 5′ to 7′ for compact storage needs. Our standard shipping containers are available in 10′, 20′, and 40′ sizes for larger loads or bulkier equipment.
2. Choose the Right Container Type
Once you know how much space you need, the next step is matching that requirement to the right container type. Each option has its own advantages, and the right choice can make your storage setup more efficient and easier to manage.
General Purpose (GP) vs High Cube (HC)
General Purpose containers are the standard choice for most storage needs, offering secure, weather-resistant space that’s easy to transport and position.
High Cube containers give you an extra 300mm in height, making them perfect if you’re storing taller items, need extra clearance for machinery, or want to maximise stacking space.
Options for Specific Needs
If your project requires more than a standard GP or HC unit, we can provide:
- Dangerous Goods Shipping Containers – designed for safe, compliant storage of hazardous materials.
- Side-Opening Shipping Containers – allow fast, easy loading of bulky or oversized items.
- Store Room Shipping Containers – fitted with lighting and power points for added functionality on site.
If you need a custom solution, we can purpose-build a container to match your exact requirements. That can include insulation, shelving, additional access points, or other modifications to make your storage work exactly how you need it to.
3. Plan for Site Access and Layout
Getting the container to site is only part of the job. It also needs to be positioned so it’s safe, practical, and easy to access throughout your project.
We take this into account when arranging delivery, making sure vehicles can reach the spot without blocking access routes and leaving enough clearance for doors to open fully. We also ensure the container is placed on a stable, level surface so it remains safe to use and easy to operate.
Site conditions matter too. Sea containers are built to handle some of the toughest environments in the world, which makes them ideal for exposed sites. However, in cyclonic wind regions like Region D2, extra anchoring and tie-down measures are needed to keep the unit secure and compliant.
4. Decide on Hire Duration
Your storage timeline should match the demands of your project, not the limitations of a rigid contract. With us, you have the freedom to hire a container for as little or as long as you need. Whether that’s a few days for an event, several weeks for a short-term build, or multiple years for an ongoing operation.
We offer some of the most flexible hire options in WA, so you’re never locked into paying for time you don’t use. And if you find you need the container long-term, our hire-to-buy option lets you transition from rental to ownership without starting from scratch. It’s an easy way to secure a permanent container while spreading out costs over time.
5. Understand Compliance and Safety Requirements
It’s also important to note that some of the storage decisions aren’t optional, and are dictated by regulations based on what you’re storing and where you’re located. These requirements override everything else in your planning.
For example, if you’re storing chemicals, fuels, or other hazardous materials, you must use a dangerous goods shipping container. These are built with bunded floors, ventilation, and secure locking to meet safety standards and legal obligations.
The same goes for projects in cyclonic wind regions like Region D2, where engineered tie-down systems are required to keep containers secure and compliant. And depending on your site, local councils may require specific approvals before a container can be placed.
We can guide you through these requirements from the start, so you get a container that’s not only fit for purpose but also meets every compliance box from day one.
Get Your Storage Sorted Today
The right storage setup keeps your project moving and your assets secure. Instant Sea Containers supplies sea containers for sale or hire across WA, with flexible terms, fast delivery, and options built to suit your site and storage needs. Our team works with you from the first call to final placement to make the process simple and stress free.
Get your storage sorted today by contacting us through our website or calling our team on 08 9406 6600.
Managing Director at Instant Sea Containers
Scott Rawson is the Managing Director of the Instant Products Group, a specialist group of companies that offer portable building solutions, including sea containers, transportable offices, and portable sanitation products.
