Buying shipping containers for sale UK-wide often means coming across industry terms that aren’t always clearly explained. This container glossary explains the most common shipping container terminology in plain English, helping you confidently buy a shipping container UK customers rely on, avoid costly mistakes, and choose the right container for storage, shipping, or conversion.
What Is a Shipping Container Glossary?
A container glossary is a practical guide explaining the terminology used when buying new and used shipping containers. Understanding these terms helps you compare suppliers accurately, prepare for container delivery UK-wide, and ensure the container you choose is suitable for its intended use.
Knowing the correct terminology helps you:
- Choose the right container first time
- Avoid unnecessary certification costs
- Prepare your site properly for delivery
- Understand container condition and compliance
Container Types & Conditions
New One Trip Container
A New One Trip container is the closest you can get to a brand-new unit. It is manufactured overseas, loaded with cargo once, and then sold in the UK. These containers are clean, ISO-certified, and ideal for long-term secure storage or conversions.
Once Shipped Container
Another term for a New One Trip container. It confirms the container has completed only one cargo journey since manufacture.
Used Container
Previously used containers suitable for storage or modification. Cosmetic wear is normal, but units remain wind and watertight when supplied correctly.
High Cube Container
A High Cube container is 9ft 6in tall, offering extra internal height compared to standard containers. Popular for racking, bulky goods, and container conversions.
Cut-Down Container
A container that has been professionally shortened from a standard size. Ideal where space or access is restricted. – See more info here!
Shipping & Compliance Terms
Cargo Worthy Container
A Cargo Worthy container has passed inspection and is approved for international shipping. Structural components, flooring, and load capacity are checked to ensure it can safely transport goods overseas.
CSC Plated
All ISO containers have a CSC plate displaying manufacture date, serial number, owner, tare weight, payload, and maximum gross weight.
ACEP Sticker
An inspection sticker found on the CSC plate. The punched month and year indicate when the container must next be inspected to remain approved for shipping.
Shipping Containers
Containers that are cargo worthy and have a valid ACEP sticker, making them suitable for international transport.
Storage & Security Features
Wind and Watertight
A wind and watertight container is structurally sound, has working doors, no holes in the roof or walls, and a solid floor. Ideal for steel storage containers and on-site storage.
Storage Containers
Containers supplied for domestic storage use only. They may not be certified for shipping but are perfectly suitable for secure on-site storage.
Lockbox
A welded steel housing fitted over the door handles to protect padlocks from tampering.
Padlock Shroud
Another term for a lockbox, offering additional security against bolt cutters.
Ventilation Vents
Passive vents fitted to help reduce condensation inside containers.
Grafotherm
A specialist anti-condensation coating applied to ceilings or walls to absorb moisture and reduce dripping.
Refrigerated & Temperature-Controlled Containers
Reefer Container
A reefer container is a refrigerated shipping container designed to maintain controlled temperatures for food, pharmaceuticals, and other temperature-sensitive goods.
PTI (Pre-Trip Inspection)
A mechanical inspection carried out on refrigerated containers to ensure cooling systems and electrics are operating correctly.
Delivery & Handling Terms
HIAB
A HIAB is a crane-mounted lorry used for delivering containers. The onboard crane allows precise placement on site.
Ground Conditions
The surface the container is placed on. It must be level and capable of supporting the container’s weight.
Delivery Access
The clear route required for delivery vehicles, including road width, turning space, and overhead clearance. – See more details here.
Corner Castings
Reinforced steel blocks located on each corner of the container. Used for lifting, stacking, and securing containers.
Twist Locks
Mechanical locking devices used to secure containers together when stacking or transporting.
Weights, Dimensions & Capacity
Tare Weight
The empty weight of the container, shown on the CSC plate and doors.
Payload
The maximum weight of cargo the container can safely carry.
Maximum Gross Weight
The combined total of the tare weight plus payload.
Internal Dimensions
The usable internal space inside the container.
External Dimensions
The overall outside measurements, important for delivery planning.
Cubic Capacity (CBM)
The internal volume of the container measured in cubic metres.
Why Understanding Container Terms Matters
Understanding container terminology helps you:
- Plan site access and ground preparation properly
- Avoid failed deliveries
- Choose storage vs shipping containers correctly
- Prevent overpaying for unnecessary certification
Why Bosh Boxes Is the Best Choice
- Fast container delivery UK-wide
- Clear, jargon-free advice
- Quality-checked new and used shipping containers
- Secure storage upgrades available
- Specialists in modified shipping containers
- Trusted UK supplier with competitive pricing
How to Get Started
If you’re ready to buy shipping container UK customers trust, or you need advice on choosing the right unit, our team is here to help.
Contact Bosh Boxes today for expert guidance, fast delivery, and quality-assured containers —
Order Your Container Today. The Bosh Way
