Shipping Container Delivery Guidelines: Safe & Efficient Practices with Pelicancontainers

Common Challenges
and Solutions

It's almost impossible to avoid challenges within the container delivery process (unless you're blessed). However, they are simple to solve.

Isometric digital illustration of a blue shipping container sitting securely on top of wooden pallets or blocking, representing proper ground placement after delivery.

1. Uneven terrain

Uneven or slanted sites are often the cause of instability. To prevent it, level out the ground with gravel or wooden beams before delivery. If needed, consult with our specialists to make sure the site is prepared properly.

Isometric illustration of a red semi-truck hauling a blue shipping container on a flatbed trailer, representing the vehicle used for final mile delivery.

2. Tight spaces

Limited space restricts the movement of delivery vehicles and complicates container placement. Clear the area and take precise measurements. In case it's necessary, arrange for a crane to help with placement and discuss logistics with us beforehand

Isometric illustration showing trees, logs, and unpaved ground, representing common site obstructions that must be cleared before container delivery.

3. Access route restrictions

Narrow paths and low-hanging branches can stop a shipping container delivery truck in its tracks. Inspect all potential access routes and address any obstructions. If you can't clear them, discuss alternative shipping container pickup and delivery approaches with us.

Digital illustration of a female delivery agent handing a clipboard and receiving final confirmation from a male customer after successfully setting the container.

4. Communication gaps

Miscommunication about delivery details leads to delays or improper container placement. Confirm all details — time, location, shipping container delivery cost, special instructions — before delivery day. Communicate with the driver to quickly address any unforeseen issues.

Do you have any questions?

If there's anything amiss or if you need to make a change, don't hesitate to inform us — our shipping container delivery service team is available 24/7.

Want To Buy

Customer Responsibilities

Pelican Containers' container delivery services are undoubtedly responsible for safe, efficient shipping container deliveries and your satisfaction, but you also need to manage some tasks before, during, and after delivery.

Before delivery

Make sure the delivery site is clear of obstacles and the ground is level. Your container deserves a stable space to call home.
Ensure the path to your site is wide open — no low-hanging branches, narrow gates, or other barriers blocking the way.
Notify your neighbors of the storage container delivery date and time to prevent any inconvenience and secure necessary access through shared spaces.

During delivery

Be present at the site during the delivery container to guide and communicate any last-minute instructions to the delivery team.
Help the delivery team spot any low-hanging objects or potential hazards that may escape the delivery driver’s notice.
Ensure the container is placed in the correct orientation and location as planned. Also, check for any immediate issues before the container delivery team departs.

After delivery

Once you have shipping containers delivered, thoroughly inspect them to ensure they are in the expected condition. If anything seems amiss, let our container delivery service team know immediately.
Lock and secure the container to prevent unauthorized access and protect your investment.
Keep a tidy area around your container to make it easy to access and maintain in the future.

Not only will your assistance during the delivery process help with logistics, but it will also ensure that your container is installed on your property safely and correctly.

Post-Delivery Care

Now that you have a shipping container delivered to your property, it’s time to ensure it stays in excellent condition. Follow these simple care tips

To prevent moisture buildup and keep your container fresh, maintain proper airflow. Consider installing vents or regularly opening doors to allow air circulation, especially if you’re using the container for storage.

Sweep out any debris and dust from the interior, and occasionally wash the exterior to remove dirt and grime. This will maintain a container's appearance and extend its lifespan.

Keep your container secure — it's a valuable asset. Use a robust lock on the doors and consider additional security measures like surveillance cameras or motion sensor lights to deter unauthorized access.

If you notice any signs of wear, such as rusty patches or weakened seals, take action quickly. Apply rust-resistant paint to metal surfaces and replace any worn-out seals to keep the container weatherproof.

A little care goes a long way in preserving your investment and keeping it in prime condition, so don't neglect our tips, and remember to ask for our container delivery company's advice if needed.

The Trucks are Big, 
We Need Space to Deliver

One of the biggest considerations when determining what size container you should buy is where it will be delivered.

20 Foot Container

10 & 20 foot containers are delivered on a tilt-bed and need an additional 55 feet of space for the truck to deliver. That is 75 linear feet of total space necessary.

40 Foot Container

40 & 45ft containers use a roll-off truck and need a total of 120 linear feet of space for the container to be dropped off.

Both truck types need clearance from obstacles of 12 feet wide & 13.5 feet high (up to 16ft high when tipped at delivery).

*These measurements need to be confirmed before placing your order.

Keep Your Container Out of Standing Water

To support heavy loads, shipping containers have steel cross-members underneath the wood floors. The cross-members are strong enough to withstand some rust but will fail if left over standing water after only a few years. Please make sure to keep your cross-members out of water by having 8 foot long 4”x4” wood blocks, railroad ties, etc. ready for the driver at delivery.

Digital illustration of a green shipping container set on wooden blocks, with water droplets symbolizing the importance of drainage and moisture prevention from the ground up.

Make Sure the Doors are Level

Stuck or hard to open doors is the most common issue after delivery.

Even though containers are made from solid steel, they can still twist. Containers sitting on uneven surfaces, or loaded heavy to one side, can twist enough for the doors to misalign and be very difficult to open and close.

To ensure your doors line up properly and open/close smoothly, the best solution is to place wood blocks under the door frame and ideally the full length of the container. Most major hardware stores or lumber yards will have 8 foot long 4×4 boards or railroad ties available for purchase.

We recommend:

2-3 4x4x8 boards for 10-20 foot containers
4-6 4x4x8 boards for 40-45 foot containers
The most important spot is under the cargo doors

Digital illustration of a blue shipping container sitting unevenly on rocks, causing the front doors to be misaligned and symbolizing a common issue with unleveled ground.

What Type of Truck will be Used To Deliver your Shipping Container?

When buying or renting a shipping container, one of the most important factors to consider is delivery. You need to know the facts regarding delivery whether you're planning a backyard retreat, a brand new retail concept, or a creative art studio. 1. Semi Trailer : A semi-trailer uses a crane or forklift to unload your cargo container, making it the most cost-effective way of delivery. 2. Tilt tray: The end of a tilt tray trailer being lowered to the ground. A winch is frequently used to help the container move off in a controlled manner. 3. Side loader: Your container will be picked up on both ends by a side loader truck that will drop onto your site right next to the vehicle. 4. Crane truck: When a side loader and tilt tray are unable to access your site, this method is used. Deliveries may be made over walls and fences with the help of a crane truck. You’ve got questions or just want to discuss your options? Contact us today and we'll be happy to assist you! Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/pelicancontainers Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pelicancontainers/ Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PelicanContain Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pelicancontainers/

FAQ

How much does it cost to deliver a shipping container?

The shipping container delivery cost varies based on the size of the container and the delivery location. Our pricing policy guarantees competitive rates with no hidden fees, so you can expect transparent costs for your shipping container deliveries. Fill out a quote on our website to receive detailed container delivery information, and our specialist will get back to you right away.

Does delivering a 40ft shipping container cost more than a 20ft container?

Yes, the cost of delivering a 40ft shipping container typically exceeds that of a 20ft container due to its larger size and weight.

Is the container delivery cost included when financing a container?

The cost of the delivery container is included in our financing package and will be calculated once all the purchase details have been discussed with our customer support team. Feel free to ask additional questions about our container delivery service.

What are the different shipping container delivery methods?

We offer various container delivery services, including truck delivery with flatbed or tilt-bed options. Our intermodal transport services also accommodate long-distance deliveries using trains, ships, or barges.

When you place my shipping container, where will the door face?

You get to choose! Let us know if you want the doors facing the cab or the back of the shipping container delivery truck, and we’ll make sure the shipping container delivered fits perfectly into your space.

What do I need to do to prepare for delivery?

To prepare for shipping container pickup and delivery, ensure the drop area is level, free from obstacles, and has adequate clearance for the delivery truck. Keep in mind that we cannot turn our vehicle during the delivery process, so ensure that there is at least 60 feet (direct route) for a 20-foot container and at least 100 feet (direct route) for a 40-foot container.

How does inclement weather (rain or snow) affect delivery or price?

Adverse weather may influence delivery schedules, but not the cost of shipping container delivery. Our team monitors weather conditions to ensure safe and timely storage container delivery.

What if the weather causes a delivery issue?

In case of severe weather, we’ll reschedule your delivery at no extra charge. Our container delivery company places safety first and strives to ensure that your shipping containers are delivered without any issues.

Do drivers work for Pelican Containers or do you use a shipping container delivery service?

Our drivers are part of the Pelican Containers team. They have all the necessary expertise in managing tight spaces and challenging conditions for your delivery. Revise our container delivery guidelines to learn more about how shipping containers are delivered by our shipping container delivery service.

What else about your shipping container delivery process sets you apart?

Pelican Containers distinguishes itself with fast (2–5 days) error-free shipping container delivery, supported by state-of-the-art equipment and a first-class team. Every storage container delivered is treated with the utmost care and precision.