Delivery Guidelines

for Shipping Container

Find out What to Avoid

Minimum Access & Clearance Requirements

To ensure a smooth and efficient container drop-off, your site must meet the minimum access and clearance requirements. This includes adequate space for roll-off delivery trucks, safe maneuvering room, and obstacle-free routes. Check Full Requirements Below!

What to Avoid for a Smooth Shipping Container Delivery

""

Height Restrictions: Trees, Power Lines & Low Bridges

Container trucks require a minimum of 14 feet of vertical clearance along the entire route. Low-hanging obstacles like tree branches, power lines, arches, and building overhangs can block access and pose safety risks.

Rough Roads

Dirt or gravel roads — as well as those with damaged pavement — may not support the weight of a shipping container delivery. These surfaces increase the risk of trucks getting stuck, damaging equipment, or disrupting the surrounding environment.

""

Width Restrictions


A minimum of 14 feet in road width is needed for a truck to safely deliver a shipping container.

Narrow or unmarked roads, especially in rural areas, may prevent access and result in canceled deliveries. Ideally, your access road should be a standard two-lane route with clear shoulder space.

TIGHT TURNS

To safely position a container, trucks need enough space to turn without causing delays or damage. A 20ft container requires at least 60 feet of straight-line clearance, while a 40ft unit needs 125 feet to complete a proper turn.

Access routes with sharp bends, narrow rural paths, or tight urban streets may be unsuitable for standard container transport.

""

Weather-Affected Roads

Weather-damaged roads can delay or block container transport. Snow, ice, mud, floods, or storm debris all reduce access and increase risk during delivery.

We work closely with customers to schedule drop-offs safely, based on local weather and road conditions.

Steep Road Inclines and Declines

Steep inclines can make it difficult or even impossible to haul a shipping container uphill, while steep declines may create serious safety risks for the delivery crew and nearby property.

Need Help Evaluating Your Access Route?

Not sure if your property is accessible for container delivery? Get in touch for a free site assessment. We’ll review your road conditions and provide guidance before you place an order with Used Conex.

SHIPPING CONTAINER DELIVERY SPACE CLEARANCE

SPACE NEEDED FOR 20FT CONTAINER

  • 80ft Straight Line Clearance:
  • 14ft Vertical Clearance on the Road
  • 12-14ft Width Clearance.
  • 16ft Vertical Clearance at Drop-Off Site.

SPACE NEEDED FOR 40FT CONTAINER

  • 100ft Straight Line Clearance
  • 14ft Vertical Clearance on the Road
  • 12-14ft Width Clearance.
  • 16ft Vertical Clearance at Drop-Off Site.

See it on a illustration bellow

"Truck delivery space clearance for shipping container placement – required width and height"

SHIPPING CONTAINER DROP SITE PREPARATION

Why Site Preparation Matters for Shipping Container Delivery

Being prepared is key to a smooth and efficient container drop-off. With the right site conditions, delivery can be completed in under an hour — without risk to your property, the equipment, or the container itself.

Scroll down to find the checklist you need to follow to make sure everything is ready when your container arrives.

  • Short-Term or Long-Term Site Preparation?

Your site setup should align with how you plan to use the container. Temporary storage may require minimal prep, while long-term or permanent placement often needs extra measures to protect the container from damage over time.

Contact us to learn what type of site preparation best fits your goals.

  • Delivery Vehicle & Trailer Clearance

Limited clearance can prevent successful container placement. To avoid delays or failed delivery, your site should provide enough space for the truck, trailer, and container to maneuver safely into position.

Proper access also supports easier removal, relocation, or future use.

Need help evaluating your space? Learn more about clearance requirements for safe and efficient container drop-offs.

  • Level Ground

A level surface is essential for both safe container delivery and long-term stability. Flat ground allows the truck and trailer to position the unit properly and ensures even weight distribution across all four corners of the container.

Uneven ground can cause issues like pinched doors, misalignment, or structural damage over time.

If your site isn’t naturally level, you can stabilize the container using wood blocks, gravel, pavers, or railroad ties under the corners.


Preparing the foundation in advance helps ensure a smooth drop-off and protects your investment long-term.

  • Drop Site Ground Surfaces

Shipping containers can be placed on a variety of surfaces—as long as the area is level, stable, and dry. The most reliable options include concrete or asphalt, which provide a firm foundation and reduce the risk of shifting over time.

In some cases, compacted gravel, firm dirt, or grass may also work, provided they allow for even weight distribution and are not affected by poor drainage or weather.

Avoid soft or unstable ground types such as mud, sand, or loose soil, as they can lead to container settling, misalignment, or long-term structural issues.

  • Drop Site is Free of Debris and Obstacles

Before your container arrives, make sure the drop site is clear of debris, including rocks, tree stumps, branches, or any other obstacles. These can interfere with the delivery process, damage equipment, or create safety hazards. A clean and open space allows for faster placement and reduces the risk of delays or complications.

  • Drop Site is Free of Safety Hazards

In addition to proper clearance, make sure the area is free of potential hazards like low-hanging wires, overhead branches, and nearby equipment that could interfere with the delivery process. If visibility is limited, using a spotter can help guide the vehicle and ensure safe and accurate placement of the container.

  • Weather Conditions

Weather plays a major role in successful container delivery. Wet, icy, or muddy ground can delay placement or even prevent delivery altogether. By planning ahead and monitoring the forecast, you can help ensure the site remains accessible and stable for trucks and equipment. We're here to help you choose the best time for delivery based on your location and seasonal conditions.

Frequently asked questions

How much does shipping container delivery cost?

Delivery is typically included in the total container quote, but the exact cost depends on your location, and container size. We offer transparent, all-in pricing — no hidden fees. You can get an instant quote by entering your ZIP code on any product page.
How long does delivery take?

Most containers are delivered within 7 to 10 business days after order confirmation. Delivery times may vary based on your location and weather conditions. Our team will coordinate a convenient time window and call ahead before arriving.
Do I need a foundation or permit for my container?

In most areas, no permanent foundation is required — containers can be placed on compacted dirt, gravel, or concrete pads. Permit requirements vary by city or county. We recommend checking local zoning codes or asking our team if you’re unsure.
Can I choose where the doors face?

Yes — when ordering, you can specify door orientation (facing cab or rear of truck). This ensures your container is positioned correctly when it slides off the delivery trailer.
What happens if the delivery site isn't ready?

If the site isn’t accessible or safe, delivery may be rescheduled, however, you need to inform the logistics team ahead of time or you could incur a dry-run fee. Make sure to contact us in advance if anything changes.