HOW TO MOVE A SHIPPING CONTAINER: BEST OPTIONS FOR SAFE DELIVERY

How to Move a Shipping Container: Best Options for Safe Delivery

How to Move a Shipping Container: Best Options for Safe Delivery

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You’ve picked out the perfect shipping container — now what? Whether you’re using it for storage, housing, or business, knowing how to move a shipping container safely is just as important as selecting the right one.

At Equilhaul, we handle container delivery across the U.S. and help customers avoid common transport pitfalls. This guide covers your best options for moving a container without damage, delays, or hidden costs.

1. Know Your Container Size and Weight


Before moving a container, you need to know:

  • Container size (10ft, 20ft, 40ft, 45ft)

  • Weight — empty or loaded?

  • Pickup/drop-off site conditions (sloped, soft ground, access roads)


???? Example: A 40ft container weighs ~8,000 lbs empty, but can exceed 60,000 lbs when full.

2. Use Tilt-Bed Trucks for Ground-Level Delivery


For most residential and light commercial deliveries, a tilt-bed or roll-off truck is the easiest solution. It:

  • Tilts the trailer to slide the container onto the ground

  • Requires minimal equipment at the drop-off site

  • Is ideal for 10ft or 20ft containers


✅ Equilhaul’s standard flat-rate delivery uses this method for fast, safe placement.

3. Crane Delivery for Tight or Elevated Spaces


If you’re placing the container:

  • On a platform or second story

  • In a narrow alley or urban lot

  • Over a fence or wall


…you’ll need crane delivery. Cranes can precisely place containers where trucks can’t reach — though they cost more and may require a site inspection.

4. Forklift or Heavy Equipment Transport


For on-site repositioning or short moves (e.g., yard rearrangement), use:

  • A heavy-duty forklift (10,000+ lbs capacity)

  • A skid steer with lifting attachments

  • Or a container mover trailer


These options give you control but may damage containers if not used properly.

5. Flatbed Truck + Loading Dock (or Forklift)


For long-haul transport, many shipping companies use:

  • A flatbed truck

  • With a forklift or crane at both ends


Make sure your delivery site is equipped to unload the container — otherwise, use tilt-bed or crane delivery instead.

6. Site Access: Plan Ahead to Avoid Extra Fees


When booking delivery, confirm:

  • Wide enough entry (at least 10 ft for truck)

  • No overhead obstructions (wires, trees, signs)

  • Stable, dry ground to support weight


???? At Equilhaul, our team helps verify site access to avoid failed delivery attempts.

Conclusion


Knowing how to move a shipping container is key to a smooth delivery experience. From tilt-bed trucks to crane lifts, the right method depends on your location, layout, and budget.

???? Contact Equilhaul for delivery options in your area or shop containers with delivery included.

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