Delivery is one of the most important factors to consider when you buy or hire a shipping container. Whether you plan to build a backyard retreat, brand new retail concept or a creative art studio, you need the facts about delivery.
At 1300SPAREBOX, we make the delivery process easy. We help you choose the right container that suits your needs and fits the space available at your location. We also organise reliable, Australia-wide delivery.
Site preparation
Your container will need to be placed on a level foundation. An uneven surface means that the walls will become unstable and it may be difficult to open and close your doors.
To prepare your site for your new container, place railroad sleepers, a simple stone bed or concrete slab foundation in place. The type you choose will depend on your intended use, budget and the length of time that your container will be in one location.
Short-term container hire, during a home renovation, may require a simple foundation of sleepers or wooden slabs. Speak to a professional about the best choice for building a house. A concrete slab is a popular option as it provides a structurally sound base that is suitable for long-term use.
Your container will need to be raised slightly (approximately 1-2 inches) from the foundation to allow drainage and underneath breathing space. This protects your structure from corrosion and allows moisture to drain away.
Where is your container going?
You need at least double the space of your container to allow enough room for delivery. For example, a 20ft may require up to 50ft of room for the driver to manoeuvre the container into place.
Ask your shipping container company questions about the room required for delivery. The space available will also determine the type of truck that will be used to deliver your order.
What type of truck will be used to deliver your container?
Shipping containers are generally delivered on three types of trailers – chassis, flatbed and tilt tray.
Semi Trailer
The most cost-effective way of transporting your container, a semi-trailer uses a crane or forklift to unload your shipping container.
Tilt tray
A tilt tray trailer lowers the end of the trailer to the ground. The container slides off, in a controlled way, usually with the help of a winch. The benefit of this type of truck is that it is suitable for delivery to most locations. Your container is loaded onto the vehicle facing the direction that will make it easy to slide off in the correct direction, ready to be placed on top of your foundation.
Side loader
A side loader truck will pick up your container on each end and then lower it onto your site directly next to the vehicle. It can only be unloaded on the drivers’ side, so it is vital to consider how the container will be loaded onto the vehicle. This method is ideal for compact spaces, such as a small backyard.
Crane truck
This method is used when a side loader and tilt tray can’t access your site. A crane truck allows delivery over walls and fences.
Site access obstacles
Consider whether there are overhead obstacles at your site, including trees or electrical cables. Site access restrictions can include parked cars, walls, fences, house eaves, narrow driveways and garden hedges. Talk to 1300SPAREBOX about these considerations and we will plan the easiest method of delivery.
Wet or muddy surfaces
Most drivers will not drive over wet grass or muddy ground as the safety of both the driver and your container are important. Dry and stable surfaces are required for delivery. Wet weather will delay your delivery.
Reliable, Australia wide delivery
When you compare shipping container companies, ensure that your chosen company offers reliable, Australia-wide delivery.
1300SPAREBOX has an expansive network that provides you with Australia-wide delivery. Whether you need delivery to Cairns, Canberra or Coonabarabran, we have you covered.
Contact us today and discuss your intended site and uses. Our expert team can answer your questions about container selection and delivery.
