20ft Shipping Container Hire NZ

Need a 20ft container in New Zealand? SEA Containers can deliver directly to your site from 51 depots nationwide (Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Tauranga, Napier, and more). Hire short or long-term for storage, moving, construction, or events.

Why Hire a 20ft Container from SEA Containers?

At SEA Containers, we provide flexible 20ft container hire NZ wide to suit both short and long-term needs.

✔️ Nationwide coverage – 51 depots across NZ for fast, affordable delivery
✔️ Quality units – weatherproof, secure, and NZ-spec built
✔️ Flexible hire terms – short-term, long-term, or seasonal hire
✔️ Expert support – our local teams help you find the right solution

Hiring is the ideal option if you only need a container temporarily for secure storage, freight, construction projects, or events. It’s a cost-effective way to get space without committing to a purchase.

👉 If your requirements are ongoing, buying a 20ft container may be the better choice. The bonus? You can resell it later and recover much of your investment.

Container Delivery Across NZ

With 51 depots across the country, we can deliver your container directly to site using a HIAB crane truck or side-loading swing lift.

  • Metro deliveries: 24–48 hours

  • Regional deliveries: slightly longer, depending on distance

  • Delivery cost: tailored quote based on your location

Types of 20ft Shipping Containers for Hire

At SEA Containers, we offer both new and used 20ft container hire.

  • Standard 20ft container – 5.9m long, 2.35m wide, 2.39m high, approx. 33.2m³ capacity

  • 20ft high cube container – same footprint with an extra 4.2m³ capacity thanks to added height

Choose between new A-grade units (premium, weatherproof storage) or used containers in different grades at lower price points.

All units are secure, weatherproof, and built for NZ conditions.

Types of 20ft Shipping Containers
Standard containers
Suitable for the general needs of most customers.
High-cube containers
Feature extra height for storing larger items or creating additional workspace on-site.
Refrigerated containers
Temperature-controlled between -20°C and 18°C businesses storing perishable goods.
Insulated containers
Insulated to store goods at a consistent ambient temperature.
Flat-rack containers
Do not have side walls or a roof, allowing cargo to be accessed easily.
Dangerous goods containers
Made for the storage and transport of dangerous goods, such as chemicals, gas bottles, and petroleum.
Side-opening containers
Designed for easy access to load and unload bulky cargo.
Open-top containers
Roofless to facilitate transporting and storing heavy tools and machinery.

Frequently Asked Questions about 20ft Shipping Container Hire

What is a 20ft shipping container used for?

A 20ft container is the most popular size for general storage and transport. Common uses include moving house, construction projects, temporary storage, and event logistics.

How do I know if a 20ft container is the right size for me?

If you’re moving a 3–4 bedroom house, storing tools for a construction site, or need seasonal/event storage, a 20ft is the most versatile choice. Smaller needs? Go 10ft. Bulk storage? Go 40ft.

Can you modify a shipping container?

We do not modify containers for hire. Modifications, such as adding doors, windows, insulation, or shelving, are only available for containers you purchase from SEA Containers.

How long can I hire a container for?

As little as a few weeks or as long as you need. We offer short-term, long-term, and seasonal hire options.

Can you deliver to my property or site?

Yes, our Hiab trucks can place containers exactly where you need them, even in tricky spots.

Do you only hire containers in Auckland?

No—we operate 51 depots nationwide, delivering containers across New Zealand, including Wellington, Christchurch, Tauranga, Napier, and more.

Why hire instead of buying a shipping container?

Hiring is best for short-term, seasonal, or project-based needs. It avoids large upfront costs and resale hassle. Buying makes sense if you need long-term storage and want to own the unit.