The Challenge

To continue to meet customer demand for bespoke storage solutions despite the impacts of coronavirus.

How did we help?

Squab urgently needed to expand its mini-warehousing facilities at a time when containers were in short supply due to the outbreak of COVID-19 in China. We managed to source appropriate units and convert them to Squab's specifications despite lockdown - the mini-warehouses were completed and installed within three months of our first visit.

The whole story

Squab, a leading supplier of storage facilities in the Midlands, designed a mini-storage option using shipping containers to complement their existing self-storage units in Leamington Spa. Willbox has considerable expertise in understanding the needs and customer experience of commercial and domestic storage facilities, and we were pleased to help deliver this self-storage concept.Chris Williams, Managing Director of Willbox, visited the site to discuss Squab's requirements in April. The project comprised a mix of self- storage areas including doors and windows, each to be constructed from two or three 40ft containers bolted together, with internal sides removed to optimise storage space. Containers are perfectly-suited to this type of ground-floor access storage, since they are strong, adaptable and easy to install whilst avoiding the need to build a permanent warehouse.Thanks to Willbox's excellent relationship with a number of UK depots we were able to source the right combination of containers at a time when UK stock levels were low because of supply problems caused by the pandemic.

Converting containers for self-storage

Willbox has been careful to protect its workforce by respecting lockdown, health and social restrictions introduced to limit the spread of coronavirus. “Our teams have worked hard to continue to convert and fit out containers for our customers despite the difficulties,” says Williams. “We are very grateful for their dedication and support, which has allowed us to deliver containers on time to many urgent projects around the country.”Once the necessary structural modifications had been made, including the sourcing and fitting of suitable doors and windows, the self-storage units were branded in Squab's orange and grey livery, and delivered to site along with two smaller, unbranded 20ft containers.“We are delighted with the speedy and effective service provided by Willbox,” says Emlyn Evans, Director of Squab Group. “Chris was extremely helpful and responsive, and his experience helped us tailor the containers exactly to our requirements. The whole process was smooth and flexible, and I would wholeheartedly recommend Willbox services to anyone interested in self-storage solutions.”

Bespoke container service

Willbox has extensive experience in complex container conversions and modifications, and now offers a consultancy service to assist customers in identifying the best self-storage option for their needs. We consider every aspect of your requirements, from structural modification to interior fitting, insulation and anti-condensation grafo treatments. We deal with the transport and installation of the containers on site, and can provide flexible purchase or hire terms, including rent to buy or full finance packages.

About Willbox

Willbox, part of the Williams Shipping Group, has over 25 years' experience in container hire and new and used shipping container sales. We can supply containers to meet any need, including site accommodation, storage, and bespoke containers modified to your requirements, and our consultancy service is here to help you make the best choice.We deliver nationwide from over 20 depots across the country – contact us now for fast and efficient container services.