The Day the Box Arrives — What Actually Happens?
Container delivery is a unique beast. It’s not like waiting for an Amazon parcel — it’s a 36-tonne steel behemoth rolling towards your property. And whether you’re expecting it in a field, a construction site, or behind a retail unit, knowing what to expect makes all the difference.
At Containerlift, our delivery day process is designed to be efficient, safe and surprisingly smooth — assuming you’ve done a little prep. Here’s what typically happens:
- Your container is loaded and inspected at our depot
- Our driver confirms ETA and route conditions
- On arrival, we assess your site for positioning
- Using side loader equipment, the container is lifted off
- It’s carefully positioned exactly where you want it
- You sign off and we’re gone
Sounds easy, right? It is — when everything’s in place.
Prepping Your Site: The Checklist You Didn’t Know You Needed
You’d be amazed how many people don’t check whether a 40ft container can get through a gate built for a Mini Cooper. Or assume the delivery truck can float across wet grass.
Here’s the essential checklist before your delivery:
| Item | What to Do |
| Access width | Minimum 3m required, ideally more for longer containers |
| Overhead clearance | Watch for tree branches, cables, signage |
| Turning space | A 40ft side loader needs approx 18m clearance to turn safely |
| Ground surface | Hardcore, tarmac or concrete are ideal — avoid soft grass or loose gravel |
| Drainage | Make sure water doesn’t pool where the container will sit |
| Delivery instructions | Clear signage or someone on-site can prevent wrong placement |
Top tip: If in doubt — ask us. We can assess your site in advance or request images to verify access.
What Type of Vehicle Will Be Used?
This depends entirely on what you ordered and where it’s going.
Side Loader / Self-Loading Truck:
- Most popular for 20ft–45ft containers
- Can place the container beside the truck
- Requires only one operator
- No crane hire required
Flatbed Truck:
- Used when a crane is already on-site
- Container remains on trailer until lifted by others
Hiab Crane Truck:
- Includes a mounted crane for overhead delivery
- Useful for tight urban areas or if vertical lifting is essential
At Containerlift, we’ll always match the vehicle to your job, and if you’re unsure what’s needed — we’ll advise.
How Long Does Container Delivery Take?
A typical delivery — assuming clear access — takes 30 to 60 minutes from arrival to completion.
But factors that slow things down include:
- Blocked access routes
- Unstable ground
- Lack of space to operate the side loader
- Last-minute site changes
- Waiting for on-site sign-off
The best way to stay on schedule? Prep your site and communicate early.
Do You Need to Be There on Delivery Day
Ideally, yes. But we get it — life happens.
If you can’t be there:
- Leave clear written instructions
- Mark the area for placement with spray paint, cones or pegs
- Make sure access is unlocked
- Provide a contact number the driver can use if needed
At Containerlift, we can often deliver unattended if everything’s clear — but you assume responsibility for placement errors unless we’ve been advised otherwise.
Can Containers Be Delivered on Sloped or Uneven Ground?
Short answer: sometimes. It depends on:
- Degree of slope
- Ground type
- Container size
- Weight of the unit
A minor slope (e.g. driveway incline) is often fine. Steep gradients or unstable ground (boggy grass, sand) are a no-go.
If you’re unsure, we may recommend:
- Hardcore installation before delivery
- Timber or pad support to level the container
- Pre-inspection visit for large or complex jobs
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Booking delivery before your site is ready
Your ground’s still being dug? Skip the delivery until it’s sorted.
❌ Not measuring access
Remember: a 40ft container is about the size of a coach. Don’t wing it.
❌ Forgetting overhead clearance
Containers might be short, but the delivery arm isn’t — 6m of height might be needed.
❌ Relying on your mate’s forklift
They rarely have the right lifting height or reach. Trust us — we’ve seen the disasters.FAQs About Delivery Day
Can you deliver on residential roads?
Yes — but access must be suitable for HGVs.
Do I need to lay a concrete base?
Not essential, but level hard ground is a must. For long-term use, concrete pads are ideal.
How much notice is needed to book delivery?
Usually 3–5 working days, but we offer next-day slots where possible.
What if I need to change the delivery date?
No problem — just give 24–48 hours’ notice to avoid rescheduling fees.
What Happens After Delivery?
Once your container is in place, you’re good to go. But there are a few extra bits to think about:
Security
- Install a container padlock or lockbox
- Consider CCTV or motion lights for high-value storage
Drainage
Make sure water can flow away from the base of the container. Blocked gutters = flooded floor.
Internal Fit-Out
Plan shelving, insulation or electrics? It’s easier to do now than after loading.
Case Study: Flawless Farm Delivery in Devon
Client: Agricultural machinery supplier near Exeter
Need: Deliver a 40ft container full of tools to a rural workshop
Challenge: Sloped gravel access, narrow gate, no crane available
Solution:
- Containerlift conducted a pre-site survey via photos
- Recommended minor ground prep: hardcore base and trimmed foliage
- Delivered using a self-loading side loader
- Container was placed precisely alongside the barn in under 45 minutes
Results:
- No damage, no delays, no drama
- Delivery signed off same day
- Client avoided crane hire or ground crew
Booked a container? Make sure your delivery day runs like clockwork.
Speak to our team for free site checks, access advice, and vehicle options tailored to you.
No surprises. No stress. Just containers, delivered right.
👉 Book Your Delivery Now
