After you have purchased your shipping container, you must take the next big step: prepare for delivery. Continue reading to explore the steps to prepare for your shipping container’s arrival.
STEP 1: CONTACT LOCAL CODE ENFORCEMENT
You may need to obtain a permit in some areas; contact the local code enforcement office before delivery. In many cases, a permit will not be required if it is for temporary solutions. If you are planning to make the shipping container a permanent structure, a permit may be required. This is dependent on your property’s location.
STEP 2: CHOOSE DELIVERY SITE
There are two factors to consider when choosing your delivery site:
1. Accessibility
Make sure your delivery site is easily accessible for the delivery driver to unload the shipping container. To ensure the site is accessible, make sure the area is twice the length of the shipping container in a straight line. It is vital to ensure your delivery site does not have any driving obstacles, such as trees, utility poles, or tight corners.
Note: XCaliber Container’s delivery drivers will not deliver to areas that do not have improved roads that allow the trucks to maintain good traction.
2. Delivery Site Surface & Stability
The ground should be level and stable. If the ground is uneven, you might need to prepare a foundation, such as concrete pads or gravel, to prevent the container from sinking or tilting.
You must assess if your delivery site can support the weight of a shipping container. A 20’ shipping container weighs around 5,000 pounds, and a 40’ shipping container weighs around 9,000 pounds. You will need a site that can support at least 9,000 pounds. If your planned delivery site is on bare ground, it must be solid to support the weight.
If this is not possible, other ideal delivery site surfaces include concrete and gravel pads.
Avoid unloading your shipping container in low-lying areas without adequate drainage to prevent sinking. If the container falls, the structural integrity will deteriorate, causing the sides to bend and flex.
Unloading 40' Shipping Container
STEP 3: DECIDE HOW THE CONTAINER WILL BE UNLOADED
At XCaliber Container, our sales team will ask in advance if you would like the cargo doors of the shipping container facing the cab or facing the back of the trailer. This will determine the direction of the shipping container when it is unloaded.
Doors to cab means the container will slide off the trailer with the cargo doors hitting the ground last; the cargo doors will face the truck as it unloads. On the other hand, doors to the back means the cargo doors will hit the ground first and face away from the truck as it unloads.
STEP 4: PREPARE FOUNDATION
First, remove any low-hanging branches, trees, or anything in the way. If you are laying a foundation, such as cement, gravel, pier blocks, or pavement, be sure the surface area is level. Concrete pads provide a durable foundation. Gravel pads provide good drainage and are an easier and cost-effective solution. Pier blocks are concrete blocks that elevate the container slightly off the ground. They are useful for creating airflow under the container and preventing moisture building. Pavement is durable and requires little maintenance compared to some other foundation methods.
If you do not have access to cement, gravel, pier blocks, or pavement, you can use wood blocks, railroad ties, or mobile home pads to support your storage container.
XCaliber Loading 40' Bunkhouse Cabin
STEP 5: CLEAR WAY FOR DRIVER
Clear anything that may be in the way of the delivery driver. Remove any overhanging materials, such as power lines and low-hanging tree limbs. The driver needs at least 10 feet of width on each side of the container and 13 feet of overhead clearance.
STEP 6: UTILITIES & SERVICES
Depending on your intended use, you might need to set up utilities and services, such as electricity, water, and internet connections. Plan the layout to accommodate these requirements and hire professionals to handle the installation.
STEP 7: PLAN FOR DRAINAGE
Proper drainage is essential to prevent water accumulation around the container. Ensure the area is properly graded to direct water away from the container’s base. Installing gutters and downspouts can help channel rainwater away from the container.
By following these steps, you will be prepared for your shipping container to be safely and properly unloaded onto your property.
Contact our team to learn more about our delivery process! We are here to help you with any concerns and questions, and we do our best to work with you throughout the entire process!
📞 (940) 242-3178
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