Delivery Requirements for Shipping Containers

40ft Container Delivery Requirements

Delivering a 40ft shipping container requires significant clearance due to the size of the container and the tilt-bed delivery process.

Space Requirements for a 40ft Container

• 120 feet of straight-line space required
• 25 feet of overhead clearance required
• 9 to 12 feet of width clearance recommended
• Delivery area must be:
  • Level and stable
  • Free of debris or soft ground
  • Clear of trees, power lines, roof overhangs, and utility poles

During delivery, the truck tilts the container at a steep angle while sliding it off the trailer. Because of this, overhead obstructions are one of the most common delivery issues.

Before Your 40ft Container Delivery

Make sure:

• The access road is wide enough for the truck to maneuver
• There are no low-hanging branches or utility lines
• The container site is accessible in a straight line
• Ground conditions can support the weight of a loaded truck and container

20ft Container Delivery Requirements

A 20ft container requires less room than a 40ft unit, but still needs adequate clearance for safe unloading.

Space Requirements for a 20ft Container

• 60 feet of straight-line space required
• 18 feet of overhead clearance required
• 9 to 12 feet of width clearance recommended
• Delivery surface should be:
  • Flat and compact
  • Dry and accessible
  • Free of obstacles

Tilt-bed trucks need room to safely lower the container to the ground and pull away cleanly.

Before Your 20ft Container Delivery

Check for:

• Tree branches
• Electrical or utility lines
• Fences or tight gates
• Soft or muddy terrain
• Narrow driveways or sharp turns

How Shipping Container Delivery Works

Shipping containers are typically delivered using a tilt-bed truck. The driver raises the trailer bed at an angle and slowly slides the container onto the ground while driving the truck forward.

Because the trailer tilts upward during unloading, additional overhead clearance is critical.

General Delivery Clearance Guidelines

Is Your Site Ready for Container Delivery?

Before scheduling delivery, confirm the site:

• Has adequate straight-line access
• Is free from overhead obstructions
• Has solid, level ground
• Allows enough room for the truck to enter and exit safely

If you’re unsure whether your location can accommodate delivery, contact Container King before ordering. We can help determine the best placement option for your container.

Watch a 20ft Shipping Container Delivery

See exactly how a tilt-bed truck unloads a container and what kind of clearance is needed during the delivery process.