FAQ for Moving Containers

FAQ for Moving Containers


Shipping containers (or as we in the removals industry call them, moving containers) are becoming more and more ubiquitous. They are popping up everywhere from architectually designed homes to pop-up bars. From hydroponic farms to art installation pieces. In the self pack interstate removalists industry, they are the back bone of our business and we have long been advocates of their versatility.

If you're planning on moving house using a shipping container and have never used the 'self-pack' system before, you probably have a lot of questions about how it works. Here are the answers to some of the most common ones we are asked by customers who are undertaking an interstate move.

Where do you put a shipping container at my home? Can it go anywhere I want it?
At the time of booking in your interstate move, we will take a look (usually via Google earth images) at your property and discuss with you the best place to put the container. A flat site is essential, as is space for the truck to drop off and pick up the container. Sometimes there is a parking bay or space on the verge where a container can be placed but in these instances you would need to contact your local council and get a permit for having the container put there (this is usually an easy process).

I've got no room at my property for a shipping container - what are my options?
In some instances you can undertake a "rapid unload", this is when the truck will wait while you unload the container. Hiring labour is usually a good idea with this option to speed things up. The container can generally be unloaded in 1-2 hours. As loading the container takes longer, we can at some locations, offer use of our depot for you to load the container. It's a great idea to ring our office and speak to one our removalists about your options if you have limited space for a container.

Are my goods insured inside the container?
We offer transit insurance and public liability insurance. The transit insurance covers you in the unlikely event of theft, fire, explosion, lightning, flood, collision, overturning, jack-knifing and derailment (up to 150k). We reccomend calling your insurance company to check your household contents are covered while in the container at your property and for any damage caused by something other than the events above.

Can I store my household goods before they're delivered?
Yes! This is one the big advantages of moving using a shipping container. Storage is so easy! Instead of double handling your goods by unpacking them into a storage unit and then repacking them when your house is ready, you are able to store the whole container and send it on its way again when you're ready. It saves a lot of time and expense using a shipping container.

Can I move my car in a shipping container?
You certainly can. Many people who live in a small household (1-2 bedroom apartment or unit) are able to fit their entire household contents as well as a small car in one 20ft container - making for a very cost-effective move. For those who live in a larger household (3-4 bedroom) they will generally need a whole 20ft container for the household contents but many customers order two 20ft containers and move their car in the second container, which also gives them room for any additional items that perhaps wouldn't have fit in one container.