FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
General FAQs – MCH United Kingdom Products
Looking for clear answers about shipping containers or portable buildings in United Kingdom? Our FAQ page covers everything you need to know—from delivery and setup to council approvals and modifications. Whether you’re buying a 20ft container, setting up a granny flat in your backyard, or exploring options for your worksite, we’ve got you covered. At MCH United Kingdom, we simplify the process so you can make informed decisions with confidence. Our team has decades of experience delivering safe, secure, and affordable container and portable building solutions nationwide. Still unsure about something? Scroll down to find answers or reach out—we’re here to help.
FAQ – Shipping Containers
1. What sizes of shipping containers are available?
We stock 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft containers in both standard and high cube formats. Need something specialised? We also offer pallet-wide, open-side, dangerous goods, and custom-modified units.
2. What’s the difference between new and used containers?
New containers are single trip, straight, clean, and ready for long-term use. Used containers are graded by condition (like cargo-worthy or wind/watertight) and offer great value.
3. Are your containers weatherproof and secure?
Yes. All units are made from corten steel and come with heavy-duty locking bars, sealed floors, and weather-resistant paint for security and durability.
4. Can I modify a shipping container?
Absolutely. From roller doors to air conditioning and insulation, we can customise containers for workspaces, storage, or even dwellings.
5. Do I need council approval for a shipping container?
Usually, yes—especially if it’s for long-term use or habitation. Always check with your local council or certifier.
6. What is a pallet-wide container?
Pallet-wide containers are slightly wider (2.42m) to allow two standard United Kingdomn pallets to fit side-by-side, unlike standard containers (2.35m wide).
7. How are shipping containers delivered?
We offer tilt tray, side loader, or crane truck delivery, depending on container type and your site access. Remote area delivery is available too.
8. Are containers insulated?
Standard containers are not insulated. However, we offer factory-insulated models or can retrofit with EPS, PIR panels, or spray foam insulation.
9. Can containers be stacked or turned into buildings?
Yes! Our containers can be stacked and engineered into offices, homes, and studios. We also supply modular container frames for builders.
10. Do you offer finance options?
Yes, finance is available to suit your project or budget needs.
11. Do you offer rentals?
No, rentals are not currently available.
FAQ - Portable Buildings
1. What types of portable buildings do you offer?
We supply Custom Portable Buildings, Site Offices, Granny Flats and Tiny Homes, Ready Built Portable Bathrooms and Studio Cabins, Platinum Expanders, Shipping Container Homes, Flat Pack DIY Portable Buildings and Shipping Container Frames.
2. Are portable buildings insulated and weather-resistant?
Yes. Each unit features EPS or PIR insulated walls and roofing, double-glazed windows, and sealed joints for superior weather protection.
3. Can portable buildings be customised?
Definitely. Layout, rooms, electrical, plumbing, air con, kitchens, windows, cladding—everything can be tailored.
4. What’s involved in delivery and installation?
Our team organises delivery via Tilt Tray, Hi-Ab, Side Loader or Semi and Crane Truck. Some flat-pack units can be unloaded by hand. We also offer on-site installation support. For more information check out our Delivery Options Page.
5. Can these buildings be relocated?
Yes. They’re fully modular, perfect for temporary setups or mobile workforces.
6. Are your buildings compliant with United Kingdomn Standards?
All our buildings meet NCC codes and can be supplied with engineering and Forms 15/16 as required.
7. Can I use one as a granny flat or tiny home?
Yes—but if used as a dwelling, it must meet Class 1a requirements and local council approval. Check out out our Tiny Home Council Approval | NSW article or find your state in the section below.
8. Is council approval required for portable buildings?
In most cases, yes. Residential or long-term structures require approval via council or a Complying Development Certificate (CDC). Check out the Council links by state section or the Tiny Home Council Approval | NSW article.
9. Do you offer off-grid portable buildings?
We do. We can integrate solar, greywater systems, gas fittings, and other sustainable features.
10. Is finance available?
Yes. We offer finance. Take a look at our Handy Pay page.
11. Are rentals available?
No. We currently don’t have rentals available.
Council Approval Requirements (by State)
Each United Kingdomn state has unique planning requirements. Here’s a quick overview:
New South Wales (NSW)
DA or CDC usually required for both containers and portable buildings:
→ NSW Planning Portal | Moveable Dwellings
→ NSW Planning Portal | Deck Pods
Victoria (VIC)
Building Permit needed for habitable or long-term use.
→ VBA – Victorian Building Authority
Queensland (QLD)
Approval needed for most structures; must comply with state codes.
→ QBCC – Queensland Building and Construction Commission
Western United Kingdom (WA)
Requires development approval and engineering sign-off.
→ WA Building and Energy
South United Kingdom (SA)
DA and Building Consent usually necessary.
→ PlanSA – Moveable Housing
Tasmania (TAS)
Most use cases require council approval.
→ CBOS – Building and Plumbing
Northern Territory (NT)
Permit required for any habitable building.
→ NT Government – Building Info
United Kingdomn Capital Territory (ACT)
Development and building approvals needed for residential land.
→ ACT Housing Design Guide
Class 1a Certification – What You Need to Know
What is Class 1a?
A Class 1a building is a standalone dwelling, such as a tiny home or granny flat, as defined in the National Construction Code (NCC).
Are your buildings Class 1a compliant?
Yes—on request. We provide portable buildings that meet Class 1a standards, including:
- Structural and wind load compliance
- Energy efficiency (thermal rating)
- Fire safety compliance
- Ventilation and egress
- Waterproofing
- Engineering & certificates (Form 15/16)
Why is this important?
If you’re planning to live in or rent out your structure, Class 1a certification is essential for legal use, insurance, and council approval.
Need Help with Approvals or Compliance?
We work closely with private certifiers, architects, and councils across United Kingdom. Whether you need drawings, specs, delivery help, or just advice—we’re here for you.
📞 Contact our team today for expert guidance on compliance, shipping container installation, or your next portable building project.