Not only is container haulage a key part of Hayward Transport, it is a vital part of the worldwide shipping industry, and understanding the processes involved in container storage, transport and lifting is essential for anyone involved in the logistics sector.

In this guide, we will delve into the world of container haulage, exploring everything from the basics of container storage and transport, to the latest innovations in container lifting technology. Whether you are a container driver, a logistics manager, or an individual interested in the world of shipping, read on for our guide to container storage and lifting.

Different from general haulage services, container haulage refers to the transportation of shipping containers from one location to another. Shipping containers are used for a wide variety of purposes, including the movement of goods around the country, or from one country to another, along with long and short term storage for a wide range of materials. 

Containerisation has made it possible to transport an extensive range of goods, including perishable items, waste and recyclables, oversized cargo, and even hazardous materials. As a result, containers are an essential part of modern logistics, ensuring safe and efficient transport of goods over long distances in short periods of time, along with secure storage.

Understandably, container haulage requires a wide range of specialised equipment for safe movement, storage and transportation. Given that containers are designed to store a diverse range of materials, there are a range of different sizes and styles of containers that are used for different needs.

To provide safe storage for all materials, as well as protecting them from the elements, containers are constructed from anti-corrosive materials. In the UK, the commonly seen style of shipping container used for storing and transporting goods is the ISO standard container. This style of container is highly versatile and can be modified to suit different storage needs, making the ISO container the go-to choice for businesses in various sectors. Whilst ISO containers are available in various sizes, 20 feet and 40 feet containers are the most commonly used.

Other types of container

In addition to the commonly used ISO, there are several other types of containers available for specific purposes, including:

• Flat rack containers
• High cube containers
• Open side containers
• Insulated containers
• Tunnel containers
• Open top containers
• Tank containers
• Half-height containers

Each of these specific containers has distinct features designed for the storage and haulage of certain goods or materials, to provide extra functionality and/or protection.

At Hayward Transport, we can provide flexible storage services to meet your needs, including:

• Block storage
• Long stay storage
• Transit storage
• Individual customer container stacks

Container haulage is carried out using trucks and trailers that are specifically designed to transport shipping containers. These specialist vehicles allow for containers of different sizes to be loaded directly onto the trailer at shipping ports, warehouse or haulage depot, ready to be transported to their intended destination. 

In order to be safely transferred onto container trailers, loaded onto ships, or lifted onto container stacks at storage depots, containers require specialist container lifting equipment. As there are numerous sizes and types of container used in the UK and further afield, different lifting equipment is also required to ensure the safe and efficient lifting of each container.

As time is of the essence at container storage facilities and shipping docks, the most efficient container lift equipment is vital. The wrong lifting equipment not only prevents the accurate lifting of containers, but also considerably increases the risk of serious accidents and safety violations.

Whilst some fork lift vehicles may be suitable for smaller containers with a lower weight, in the majority of cases, specialist container lifting equipment is required to ensure fast, accurate and safe lifting.

When lifting, loading and stacking containers weighing up to 45 tonnes, reach stackers are essential. Working in a much smaller footprint than other container lifts, reach stackers ensure safe and flexible loading for containers of practically all sizes, lifting them to be stored in stacks of up to 5 containers high.

If you are looking for a container transport partner, or specialist container storage facilities for the short or long term, you can contact Hayward’s. Widely known as the people’s haulier, we are here to find a solution to your specific container needs.