Tilt-bed delivery
The trailer tilts and the container slides into place. It is usually the simplest option when there is enough straight, firm access.
No unloading equipment required on siteContainer delivery guide
Prepare the site before the truck arrives
A successful delivery depends on access, ground conditions, clearance, and the direction the container needs to face. Use this guide to identify issues before transportation is booked — we'd rather adjust the plan than fail the drop.
Delivery methods
The equipment changes with the site
The final method is selected with the transport provider after the container, route, and placement area are reviewed.
Flatbed delivery
The container arrives on a standard flatbed. You arrange a suitable crane, forklift, or other lifting equipment.
Useful when placement requires a separate liftCrane or side-loader
Specialized equipment can help with tighter placement, but it still requires stable access and room to deploy safely.
Quoted individually based on local availabilityPlanning dimensions
Leave more room than the container footprint
ContainerStraight approachClear widthOverhead clearancePlacement footprint
20 footApproximately 80 ft12–14 ft14–16 ftAt least 22 × 10 ft
40 footApproximately 120 ft12–14 ft14–16 ftAt least 45 × 10 ft
These are conservative planning guidelines, not a carrier approval. Trailer dimensions and maneuvering requirements vary, so the transport provider must confirm the exact site.
Ground and foundation
Firm, level, and able to drain
The truck and loaded trailer are substantially heavier than the empty container. The complete access route must support the delivery equipment, not just the final placement area.
Not sure about your ground?
Send photos of the entrance, approach, and pad to sales@containerspy.com. We'll tell you plainly whether it will work before anything is booked.
Generally suitable
- Compacted gravel
- Concrete or asphalt
- Dry, compacted soil approved by the driver
- Level timber or concrete supports
Requires review
- Wet grass, mud, sand, or loose soil
- Steep slopes or uneven approaches
- Drainage ditches and soft shoulders
- Snow, ice, low branches, or overhead wires
Before booking delivery
Walk the entire route, not only the pad
Photographs or a short video of the entrance, turns, approach, and placement area are often the fastest way to resolve uncertainty.
Send site photos- 01Measure the entrance, approach, turning area, and overhead clearance.
- 02Confirm the access route and placement area are firm and level.
- 03Remove vehicles, branches, wires, gates, and other obstructions.
- 04Mark the exact container position and desired door direction.
- 05Prepare supports before the driver arrives.
- 06Share photos and disclose slopes, soft ground, or tight turns.
- 07Keep the site contact available throughout the delivery window.
Site looks ready? Choose the container for your project.
We review access, surface, and door direction with you before a driver is scheduled.