A Brief History of the Cargo Container: The Box That Changed the World
Home Get a Quote It’s not flashy. It’s not complicated. It’s literally a big metal box. But the humble cargo container, also known as the shipping container, has completely...
It’s not flashy. It’s not complicated. It’s literally a big metal box.
But the humble cargo container, also known as the shipping container, has completely transformed the way goods move around the globe. It’s made global trade faster, cheaper, more efficient, and more reliable. From the shoes on your feet to the tech in your pocket, chances are those products made their way to you inside one of these steel giants.
But where did the cargo container come from? Who invented it? And why was it such a game changer?
Let’s take a trip back in time.
Before the 1950s, shipping goods across oceans was a logistical nightmare.
Cargo came in all shapes and sizes, wooden crates, sacks, barrels, you name it. At ports, dock workers had to load and unload every single item by hand, stacking them carefully in the hold of a ship. It was slow, labour-intensive, and expensive. Items would often be damaged, lost, or even stolen in the process.
It wasn’t uncommon for a ship to spend days in port just being loaded and unloaded.
Shipping was chaotic. Disorganised. And ripe for disruption.
The revolution began in 1956 with an American trucker named Malcolm McLean.
Frustrated by how long it took to get his truck’s cargo onto ships, he had a simple but powerful idea: What if the cargo didn’t need to be removed from the truck at all? What if you could just lift the whole box and place it onto a ship, intact, secure, and ready to go?
McLean worked with engineer Keith Tantlinger to design the first multimodal shipping container, a strong, standardised, sealable box that could be loaded straight from truck to ship to train without ever unpacking the contents.
And just like that, the modern shipping container was born.
On April 26, 1956, the first container ship, the SS Ideal X, set sail from New Jersey to Houston carrying 58 containers. What would have taken days to load now took hours. The experiment was a massive success, and the shipping industry would never be the same.
At first, traditional port authorities and unions resisted. The new system threatened jobs and disrupted the status quo. But the benefits were too big to ignore.
Let’s break down the impact:
With containers, ships could be loaded and unloaded in hours instead of days. This meant faster turnaround, shorter delivery times, and fewer delays.
Labour costs dropped dramatically. Fewer workers were needed to load and unload, and the faster process meant less time in port and more time moving goods.
The container was designed to fit every form of transport, from trucks, to trains and ships, without ever unpacking the contents. That consistency is what made global trade scalable.
Goods were now locked inside metal boxes, reducing damage and theft. Containers could be sealed at the factory and not opened until arrival, no more “missing” cargo.
With lower costs and faster shipping, it suddenly became practical to manufacture goods in one country and sell them across the world. Entire supply chains moved overseas.
In short, the cargo container kickstarted globalisation.
Today, there are more than 20 million containers in circulation. Standard sizes like the 20-foot and 40-foot container are now the norm in freight forwarding and logistics.
If you’ve ever shipped goods internationally, odds are your items travelled in one.
From fashion to food, electronics to machinery, everything moves in containers. And in the modern freight world, they’re essential.
As a freight forwarder or logistics provider, understanding the power of the cargo container means recognising just how much planning, precision, and infrastructure goes into every global delivery.
The shipping container hasn’t changed much in decades, but now, we’re seeing innovation around it:
Even as the world goes digital, the steel container remains a vital part of the real-world infrastructure that powers international trade.
The cargo container may not look like much, but its invention revolutionised the global economy. What started as one trucker’s frustration became a system that now moves 90% of the world’s trade.
At Nationwide Courier Service, we might not move 40-foot containers on the high seas (yet!), but we’re proud to be part of a logistics industry built on efficiency, speed, and innovation. Whether it’s pallets, parcels, or freight, we get it from A to B, fast.
Sometimes, the smartest ideas come in the simplest packages.
Home Get a Quote It’s not flashy. It’s not complicated. It’s literally a big metal box. But the humble cargo container, also known as the shipping container, has completely...
When you need something moved urgently, safely, and reliably, you want more than just “a man and a van”. You want a partner who understands the logistics, timing, and...
The Chelsea Flower Show is one of the most prestigious and highly anticipated events in the horticultural calendar. Every May, the eyes of the world turn to London as...
When you need something moved urgently, safely, and reliably, you want more than just “a man and a van”. You want a partner who understands the logistics, timing, and care involved in every delivery.
That’s where we come in.
At Nationwide Courier Service, we do more than just same day deliveries (although we’re really good at those too). From transporting hazardous goods to managing scheduled contract runs, here’s a full breakdown of the services we offer, tailored to businesses who need deliveries done right.
Let’s start with the bread and butter of what we do: urgent same day delivery.
When time is critical, we send a dedicated driver straight from collection to delivery. There are no stops, no other goods onboard, and no waiting around. Whether it’s a forgotten laptop, a vital machine part, or sensitive documents, we’ll collect within 30-60 minutes and go direct.
It’s fast, secure, and stress-free.
Got something a bit more specialist? We’ve got ADR-trained drivers ready to transport hazardous or chemical goods safely and legally.
Whether it’s corrosive materials, flammable substances, or any goods that require care and compliance, we understand the safety protocols and regulations inside out. And we don’t cut corners, our drivers are trained, our vans are compliant, and every job is handled with the highest attention to detail.
"Used several times for urgent same day delivery of parts throughout the UK, fast collection & delivery times, rates are competitive, communicated from when collected to when delivered, would recommend."
Need regular collections at the same time every day, week, or month? Our contract runs take the hassle out of scheduling.
We work around your business needs whether you have weekly returns, stock transfers, or scheduled medical sample deliveries. You get consistency, the same friendly drivers where possible, and the peace of mind that your deliveries are sorted without needing to book each one manually.
It’s perfect for businesses that rely on predictable, reliable logistics.
Sometimes it’s not just about collecting something quickly, it’s about getting it delivered at the right time.
Our scheduled delivery service is ideal for customers who have a strict delivery window (for example, a 2 hour unloading slot at a depot or a retailer drop off). We’ll calculate the correct collection time to ensure we arrive exactly when we need to, no early arrivals, no late shows.
You focus on your business, we’ll handle the timing.
Need something bigger than a van? No worries, we also offer a haulage brokerage service.
That means we can source and manage larger vehicles for big or bulky loads, including curtain siders, tail lifts, and HGVs. Whether it’s a full trailer of goods or large pallet deliveries, we’ll arrange the right vehicle at the right time for the right price, without you needing to hunt around.
You make one call to us, we handle the rest.
Need to get something across the water? We also provide deliveries to Northern Ireland, handled with care, speed, and full compliance.
Whether you’re sending goods to Belfast, Derry, or anywhere in between, we’ll manage the logistics, ferry crossings, paperwork, and timings, so your shipment arrives safe and sound.
At the end of the day, what makes our service different is simple: we care.
We don’t just throw your parcel in the back and hope for the best. We work with you to figure out the best solution, whether it’s an urgent drop-off or a complex, recurring logistics need.
Here’s what you can expect from us every time:
If you’d like to read some of our reviews you can do so here!
Home Get a Quote It’s not flashy. It’s not complicated. It’s literally a big metal box. But the humble cargo container, also known as the shipping container, has completely...
When you need something moved urgently, safely, and reliably, you want more than just “a man and a van”. You want a partner who understands the logistics, timing, and...
The Chelsea Flower Show is one of the most prestigious and highly anticipated events in the horticultural calendar. Every May, the eyes of the world turn to London as...
The Chelsea Flower Show 2025 is one of the most prestigious and highly anticipated events in the horticultural calendar. Every May, the eyes of the world turn to London as designers, gardeners, and exhibitors unveil breath taking displays of flowers, foliage, and creativity.
But behind the beauty of every exhibit is precision, timing, and logistics, and when something goes wrong or needs to be delivered last-minute, that’s where a same day courier service becomes a lifeline.
Exhibiting at the Chelsea Flower Show isn’t just about flowers, it’s about perfection. Whether it’s a rare plant species being flown in from abroad or custom-built display materials crafted to bring a designer’s vision to life, exhibitors are under huge pressure to get everything on-site in time.
Sometimes things go wrong. Maybe:
In these moments, speed matters, and that’s where a reliable same day courier steps in.
We’re not florists, but we’re often the reason your roses, trellises, or display signage arrive on time and intact.
Our same day courier service offers:
We know how much hard work goes into preparing for the show, and we treat your delivery with the care and urgency it deserves.
"We needed a last minute delivery of part of a floral arrangement to the Chelsea Flower Show, and honestly, Nationwide Courier Service saved the day. Not only did they collect within the hour, but the driver kept us updated the whole way and delivered everything in perfect condition, right to our stand."
We’ve supported clients in the lead up to major UK events like Chelsea before, and here are just a few of the items we’ve been trusted to handle:
Every delivery is treated as a priority, whether it’s a single box or a full van load.
Standard couriers or next day services just aren’t built for the kind of precision and care required for Chelsea exhibitors. You don’t want delays. You can’t afford damaged goods. And you definitely don’t want a package arriving once the judges have already passed by your display.
A same day courier is about:
We get it, you’re busy pruning, planting, designing, or dealing with last minute nerves. Let us handle the logistics. We’ve helped artists, retail brands, and even VIP clients get their deliveries in place for big events, and we’re proud to bring that experience to Chelsea.
Our team is friendly, professional, and used to working under pressure, so when you’re on the verge of a horticultural meltdown, we’ll be there with a van and a smile.
And when it comes to high profile venues like Chelsea, we know the ropes, we’ll make sure your delivery gets to the right person, at the right time, with the right care.
The Chelsea Flower Show might be about flowers on the surface, but beneath the soil, it’s about preparation, coordination, and timing. Whether you’re a first-time exhibitor or a seasoned show garden designer, having a same day courier in your corner can make all the difference between stress and success.
So if you’re preparing for Chelsea this year and want a delivery partner you can rely on, give us a call on 0115 986 5276. We’ll get you blooming on time. You can also take a look at our reviews here to see what our customers have to say.
Home Get a Quote It’s not flashy. It’s not complicated. It’s literally a big metal box. But the humble cargo container, also known as the shipping container, has completely...
When you need something moved urgently, safely, and reliably, you want more than just “a man and a van”. You want a partner who understands the logistics, timing, and...
The Chelsea Flower Show is one of the most prestigious and highly anticipated events in the horticultural calendar. Every May, the eyes of the world turn to London as...
When it comes to a courier company, it’s easy to think that they’re all the same. A van shows up, takes your parcel, and drops it off somewhere else. Simple, right?
But here’s the thing… they’re not like us.
We’ve spent years perfecting the art of same day delivery, and we’ve seen it all from other courier companies. The missed pickups, the unanswered emails, the “Sorry, we’re closed” messages when you really need someone. And that’s exactly why we’ve built our service to be everything they’re not.
Let us show you what makes our courier company different.
Unlike many courier companies that shut up shop at 5pm, we’re on it from 6am to midnight every single week day. That means if you have a delivery crisis at 7am or a last minute order that needs sending at 11:30pm, we’re here for it. Even on weekends and bank holidays we have extended opening hours from 8am – 8pm.
Need a collection at 3AM?
No problem. Our team of dedicated drivers operate 24/7 for collections and deliveries, so we’re ready when you are.
That’s not just customer service. That’s commitment.
Emails going unanswered is frustrating. Waiting on hold, getting passed around, or being told to “raise a ticket” when your item is urgent? That’s not how we roll.
Our inboxes are always monitored, and we’re quick to reply, because your time is valuable, and your deliveries matter. Whether it’s a booking, a question, or just checking in for an update, there’s a real person at the end of the line who actually cares.
Our phone lines are also always monitored by real people as well, with our transport managers and operations team ready to help you every week day 6am – midnight.
98% of our ASAP collections are collected within 30-60 minutes, and if there are ever any delays, such as traffic, we will always let you know.
You don’t want a courier “some time today.” You want one now. We pride ourselves on being able to collect in just 30–60 minutes from booking. That’s not just fast, it’s game-changing.
We’re able to do this because we’ve built a smart network of trusted, vetted drivers across the UK, ready to move at a moment’s notice.
We’re not just delivery people, we’re logistics people. That means we’re always thinking about how to get your item from A to B in the smartest, safest, and quickest way possible.
Where others offer a “van and a plan,” we offer a personalised service, tailored to your needs. Whether you’re a business that needs regular support or an individual sending something valuable, we’ve got your back.
Our expert team of transport managers and operations assistants are on hand to help you make the most of our service, and they have the knowledge to answer any questions you may have along the way, no matter how small.
Our customers don’t just use us once and forget us. They come back again and again, and that’s because they trust us to deliver, literally and figuratively.
We’ve helped:
…and so much more. They know that when it really matters, we’ll deliver.
| Feature | Us | Them |
|---|---|---|
|
Customer Service |
Real people, fast replies |
Automated or slow responses |
|
Availability |
6am – midnight office hours, 24/7 collections and deliveries |
9-5 office hours, limited collections and deliveries outside of these hours |
|
Collection Times |
30-60 minutes, ASAP |
Maybe today, maybe tomorrow |
|
Email Support |
Monitored at all times |
Eventually replies (maybe) |
|
Tailored Service |
Yes, every time |
One size fits all |
|
Urgency Handling |
Expert level |
“We’ll get to it when we can” |
|
Additional Services |
Dangerous Goods, Haulage, Medical and Pharmaceutical Deliveries |
Usually only offer same day or next day delivery |
You can choose any courier company. But when time is ticking, when reputation’s on the line, or when you just want to know your delivery is in good hands, you want someone who’s not like the rest.
You want us.
Get in touch today and see how much better courier service can be when you work with people who care, and take a look a look at our reviews here to see what our customers have to say.
Home Get a Quote It’s not flashy. It’s not complicated. It’s literally a big metal box. But the humble cargo container, also known as the shipping container, has completely...
When you need something moved urgently, safely, and reliably, you want more than just “a man and a van”. You want a partner who understands the logistics, timing, and...
The Chelsea Flower Show is one of the most prestigious and highly anticipated events in the horticultural calendar. Every May, the eyes of the world turn to London as...
When it comes to optical care, speed and reliability are crucial. As the UK’s leading and most trusted optician, Vision Express operates over 550 stores nationwide, ensuring customers receive top tier service and care.
With their expansion of 50 new stores, Vision Express needed a courier service they could rely on, one that could provide fast, efficient, and secure deliveries to support their growing business. That’s where Nationwide Courier Service stepped in.
Expanding a business is no small feat, especially when it involves managing stock, merchandise, and prescription eyewear across hundreds of locations.
We’ve worked closely with Vision Express to ensure that every new store gets the stock it needs on time, every time. Whether it’s a last minute request, an urgent prescription delivery, or ensuring a new store is fully stocked before opening, we make it happen.
When a Vision Express store closes, whether due to relocation or refurbishment, a swift and organised removal of stock is essential. Our same day courier service assists by transporting stock, equipment, and essential business items to designated warehouses or new store locations. By providing a secure and efficient collection service, we help minimise downtime and streamline the transition process.
At Vision Express, customer service is everything. Their team goes the extra mile to prioritise eye health and customer satisfaction, and that sometimes means making sure customers receive their glasses or contact lenses on the same day.
With our 24/7 availability, Vision Express can request urgent same day deliveries at any time, knowing we’ll handle them with speed and precision. Whether it’s an emergency prescription order or a last-minute stock transfer, we ensure their service remains seamless.
Opening a new store comes with a lot of moving parts, literally! From removing old stock to delivering new merchandise, our same day courier service has been a key player in making sure every new Vision Express store is ready to welcome customers.
Our timed delivery service means that when a new store is set to open in a bustling high street or shopping centre, their deliveries arrive exactly when needed, avoiding delays and disruptions.
Over the years, we’ve built a strong working relationship with Vision Express. We’re proud to now be their go-to courier service, providing the personal touch they were looking for in a logistics partner.
Here’s what Vision Express had to say about working with us:
" We have tried many couriers, but none offered the personal touch we wanted. Since working with Nationwide, all our items have been delivered safely and on time, and we've had great feedback from our stores.
Another massive help is that our stores sometimes have large, heavy items that need collecting and delivering. Nationwide's drivers always go the extra mile to assist, making the process so much easier.
We will always use Nationwide when opening new Vision Express stores because they consistently deliver on time, with no issues."
When businesses like Vision Express grow and develop, they need a logistics partner that can grow with them. Our same day courier service ensures they can continue to expand, serve customers, and operate efficiently without worrying about deliveries.
If your business needs a reliable, fast, and professional same day courier, get in touch with Nationwide Courier Service today. We’re ready to help you meet your deadlines, no matter how urgent! Check out our customer reviews here to see what our other clients think!
Home Get a Quote It’s not flashy. It’s not complicated. It’s literally a big metal box. But the humble cargo container, also known as the shipping container, has completely...
When you need something moved urgently, safely, and reliably, you want more than just “a man and a van”. You want a partner who understands the logistics, timing, and...
The Chelsea Flower Show is one of the most prestigious and highly anticipated events in the horticultural calendar. Every May, the eyes of the world turn to London as...
When booking a same day courier service, choosing the right vehicle size is essential. Whether you’re sending small parcels, large pallets, or fragile goods, selecting the correct van size ensures a secure, cost effective, and efficient delivery.
At Nationwide Courier Service, we offer a range of vehicle sizes, from compact small vans to spacious Luton vans. Here’s a guide to help you determine the best vehicle size for your shipment.
Load Space: 1.2m (L) x 1.0m (W) x 1.0m (H)
Ideal for: Small parcels, documents, urgent letters, and lightweight boxes
Capacity: Approx. 1 standard pallet, a standard pallet being around 1.2m x 1m x 1m.
Maximum Load Weight: 400kg
Best For:
If you need a fast, low-cost solution for small deliveries, a small van is the perfect choice!
Load Space: 2.2m (L) x 1.2m (W) x 1.25m (H)
Ideal for: Multiple boxes, small furniture, and trade tools
Capacity: Approx. 2 standard pallets
Maximum Load Weight: 800kg
Best For:
Short wheelbase vans are versatile and cost-effective for small business deliveries, what comes to mind when you think of a standard transit van is probably a SWB van!
Load Space: 3.3m (L) x 1.3m (W) x 1.75m (H)
Ideal for: Large pallet deliveries, heavy machinery, and bulk shipments
Capacity: Approx. 3 standard pallets
Maximum Load Weight: 1000kg – 1300kg
Best For:
For businesses needing to move big or long loads efficiently, the LWB van is a reliable workhorse.
Load Space: 4.1m (L) x 1.3m (W) x 1.8m (H)
Ideal for: Large furniture, bulky equipment, and oversized shipments
Capacity: Approx. 4 standard pallets
Maximum Load Weight: 1000kg
Best For:
XLWB vans are the go to choice when you need serious cargo capacity without stepping up to a truck (i.e luton van). Perfect for larger deliveries, these vans offer a great balance between size, efficiency, and accessibility.
Load Space: 4.2m (L) x 2.0m (W) x 2.1m (H)
Ideal for: Furniture, large retail shipments, and bulk stock deliveries
Capacity: Approx. 4-6 standard pallets (depending on if it is a box or curtain side luton)
Maximum Load Weight: Vehicle – 1000kg Tail Lift – 500kg
Best For:
With a tail lift available for easy loading, or a curtain side for side loading longer items or oversized pallets, the Luton van is perfect for heavy or high-value shipments.
Consider the Size & Weight of Your Items – Larger shipments require MWB, LWB, or Luton vans.
Think About Fragility – A dedicated van reduces handling, keeping fragile goods safer. Larger vans also tend to have straps and blankets available to help keep your goods safe.
Factor in Cost-Effectiveness – Using the right sized vehicle avoids unnecessary costs.
If you have any questions, or need any help selecting the right vehicle size, particularly if you’re between sizes, please feel free to give us a call on 0115 986 5276!
Collection Within 30-60 Minutes – Fast, reliable service across the UK.
Direct Deliveries with No Multi-Stop Delays – Your goods go straight to their destination.
Business Accounts Available – Cheaper rates, invoice payments, and priority service.
Secure & Tracked Deliveries – Real-time updates for peace of mind.
Book Your Same Day Courier Today!
Need a fast, reliable courier service? Whether you’re sending a small parcel or an entire truckload, we have the right vehicle size for the job. Contact us now to book your delivery! Take a look at our reviews here to see what our customers have to say.
Home Get a Quote It’s not flashy. It’s not complicated. It’s literally a big metal box. But the humble cargo container, also known as the shipping container, has completely...
When you need something moved urgently, safely, and reliably, you want more than just “a man and a van”. You want a partner who understands the logistics, timing, and...
The Chelsea Flower Show is one of the most prestigious and highly anticipated events in the horticultural calendar. Every May, the eyes of the world turn to London as...
Cambridge is known for its world renowned university, thriving tech sector, and a growing number of innovative businesses. From research labs and manufacturers to law firms and retail stores, businesses in Cambridge operate in a fast paced environment where delays can be costly.
That’s why more and more companies are turning to same day courier services to keep their operations running smoothly.
At Nationwide Courier Service Ltd, we specialise in urgent same day deliveries, whether it’s transporting critical medical supplies, delivering legal documents, or ensuring last minute stock replenishments arrive on time.
Here’s how a same day courier service can benefit your business in Cambridge.
Time is money, and waiting for a standard delivery service isn’t always an option. With Nationwide Courier Service, your urgent package can be collected within 30-60 minutes and delivered directly to its destination, no unnecessary delays or detours.
Whether you’re in the science and technology sector at Cambridge Science Park, running a manufacturing business, or managing a busy retail store, our fast and efficient service ensures you get what you need, exactly when you need it.
Cambridge is home to cutting edge research institutions, biotech firms, and tech start-ups that rely on speed and efficiency to stay competitive. When you need to move sensitive lab samples, IT equipment, or confidential documents, our dedicated same day courier service provides:
For tech firms working on tight project deadlines, we ensure vital components, prototypes, or repair parts reach their destination on time, keeping operations running smoothly.
"We needed an urgent delivery from Cambridge to London, and Nationwide Courier Service was incredible. They collected within the hour and delivered straight to our client without any hassle. The driver was professional, and all updates gave us peace of mind."
Cambridge’s legal sector, financial firms, and academic institutions often deal with sensitive documents that can’t afford to be delayed. Our same day courier service ensures:
Whether you’re sending contracts, legal paperwork, or urgent financial records, we provide a trusted, professional service that guarantees safe and on time delivery.
In the healthcare industry, speed can be a matter of life and death. We work with medical facilities, pharmacies, and research labs across Cambridge to ensure urgent medical deliveries, including:
Our direct and priority delivery options mean that urgent medical shipments reach their destination without delays.
Retail stores, restaurants, and event venues in Cambridge need to keep their shelves stocked and their businesses running. With our same day courier service, you can:
From delivering fresh produce to a restaurant, to supplying urgent retail stock, we provide a fast and efficient logistics solution that helps businesses avoid lost sales and unhappy customers.
Collection in 30-60 Minutes – No waiting around; we act fast.
Nationwide Coverage – We deliver across Cambridge, the UK, and beyond.
Business Accounts Available – Enjoy cheaper rates, invoice payments, and priority service.
Secure, Direct Deliveries – No multi-stop delays, your package goes straight to its destination.
Need a Same Day Courier in Cambridge? Get in Touch!
If your business in Cambridge needs fast, reliable, and professional same day delivery, Nationwide Courier Service is here to help. Whether you have an urgent order, last-minute stock delivery, or time sensitive documents, we’ll get it there, quickly and securely.
Call us now on 0115 986 5276 to book your same day courier service or set up a business account for priority deliveries! Check out our reviews here.
Home Get a Quote It’s not flashy. It’s not complicated. It’s literally a big metal box. But the humble cargo container, also known as the shipping container, has completely...
When you need something moved urgently, safely, and reliably, you want more than just “a man and a van”. You want a partner who understands the logistics, timing, and...
The Chelsea Flower Show is one of the most prestigious and highly anticipated events in the horticultural calendar. Every May, the eyes of the world turn to London as...