Collecting a Container from the Depot
You do not have to wait for our lorry. Plenty of customers collect their container from our Darlington A66 depot themselves or send their own haulier. Here is how collection works and what to sort out before you set off.
Where you are collecting from
Our depot is on the A66 at Sadberge, just outside Darlington (DL2 1TD), roughly 15 minutes from the A1 (M). The yard has good turning space and easy access for cars, vans, trailers and larger haulage vehicles. We are open Monday to Friday, 8am - 4pm.
Your own transport or your own haulier
To collect a container you need a suitable flatbed lorry or trailer rated for the weight of the unit, plus the means to unload it at the other end. If you do not have your own vehicle, you can send your own haulier - just let us know who is coming and when.
Containers are heavy even when empty, so check the weight of the unit you are buying against your vehicle and trailer ratings before you commit. If you are not sure, ask us and we will tell you what the container weighs.
We load it for you
By prior arrangement, we will have your container prepared and ready on the ground, and our forklift will load it onto your transport when you arrive. You do not need lifting gear at the depot - just a vehicle the container can sit on securely.
Bring suitable straps or chains to secure the load for the journey. A container that is not properly restrained is dangerous on the road, and it is your responsibility once it leaves the yard.
Before you set off
- Tell us you are coming. Call ahead or use the visit booking form so the right unit is ready and someone is free to load you.
- Check your transport. The vehicle or trailer must be rated for the container's weight and long and wide enough to carry it.
- Plan the unload. You will need a forklift, crane or other lifting arrangement at your end - or we can quote for HIAB delivery instead, where the lorry lifts the container off for you.
- Bring securing kit. Straps or chains to keep the container on the vehicle.
Collection or delivery?
Collection makes sense if you already have suitable transport or a haulier you trust, or if you want the container the same day. For most customers, delivery on our HIAB crane lorry is simpler: the driver lifts the container off and places it exactly where you want it, with no lifting gear needed at your end. We quote the container and haulage together as one delivered price, so you can compare the two options honestly.
Planning a collection? Ring us on the number at the top of the page or book a depot visit and we will have everything ready.
Still not sure? Ask us.
Tell us the job, the site and the delivery postcode and we will tell you what fits. You can also come and see the containers on the yard at A66 Depot, Stockton Road, Sadberge, Darlington, DL2 1TD.
More reading in our container guides.