Storage containers are both durable and versatile, making them an ideal choice for all manner of uses – from storage to building structures. It is, however, very important to ensure that the ground is properly prepared to receive the container to ensure your new container is secure and stable. This guide will walk you through the essential steps you should take to get the ground prepped and ready to take delivery of your new container.
Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing the Ground for Taking Delivery of a Shipping Container
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- Choose the right location
Selecting the best and most appropriate site is the first step. These are the factors to consider:- Accessibility: Is the site accessible for large delivery vehicles, such as the ones that will arrive with your new container? You will want to make sure the entrance is wide enough and the ground is stable enough (not sodden etc) to receive a shipping container.
For a 20ft container, we use a 35’ long x 9.5’ wide rigid vehicle and for 40ft containers we use a 62’ long x 9.5’ wide rigid vehicle, the site needs to accommodate this in order for the delivery to take place. Please bear in mind that our delivery vehicles can only offload from the side of the vehicle, never the front or back, so enough space for this is imperative, as this is a safety measure that we cannot (and will not) make any exceptions for under any circumstances.
Ensure your area is level and has a hard-standing capacity as it is your responsibility to ensure the site/delivery location is accessible and suitable for HGV deliveries. - Level ground: you don’t want your container stored on a slope. Choose the flattest area you can to minimise any ground levelling that may be required.
- Drainage: Water damage can be a very expensive and disruptive thing to make right after the event – it is much better to avoid it in the first place. So make sure the site has good drainage and avoid low-lying areas that may be prone to flooding.We offer a site survey service to our customers, so if you are in any doubt whatsoever about the suitability of the location the container is to be placed at, we would love to help you figure it out to ensure that the container is placed in a safe, secure and dry location.
- Accessibility: Is the site accessible for large delivery vehicles, such as the ones that will arrive with your new container? You will want to make sure the entrance is wide enough and the ground is stable enough (not sodden etc) to receive a shipping container.
- Clearing the site
Once you have identified where you want the container, your next job is to clear the ground of any debris, vegetation or other obstacles. This step will help ensure there are no unexpected hitches on delivery day.Look up as well as down – clear away any overhanging tree branches above the site too.Check for any underground or overhead cables or manholes that the vehicles may need to drive over. - Levelling the ground
A level surface to place the container on, is critical for ensuring the stability of the container. This is how to achieve a flat, level surface to receive your storage container:- Mark out the area: Using string and stakes, mark out the container’s footprint on the land you wish to place the container on.
- Excavate: Remove the topsoil and any uneven patches.
- Compact the soil: You can use a compactor to ensure the ground is firm and stable for your new storage container.
- Creating a foundation
There are several options for creating a suitable foundation for your container. You can of course opt for just placing it on grass, but for a more stable and secure foundation we recommend considering the following:- Concrete Slab: This is ideal for long-term installations as it provides a permanent and solid base for your new storage container to be placed on.
- Concrete Footings: If the ground is uneven, then you can place footings at each corner and along the sides.
- Gravel Bed: This is a cost-effective solution, that is quick and easy to implement. Spread a layer of gravel on the area you wish to place the container on. This will have the added advantage of aiding drainage too, so is a great solution if you’re on a tight budget.
- Installing Support Blocks
If you choose a concrete slab, then there are some extra steps you need to take to install support blocks:- Position Blocks: Place concrete blocks or railway sleepers at each corner and at intervals along the container’s length.
- Check levels: Use a spirit level to make sure all the blocks are level and even.
- Final Checks
Before delivery day, you should perform these final checks:- Recheck levels: This is to ensure the foundation is level and stable.
- Clear Access: Make sure the delivery path is clear and free of any obstacles.
- Choose the right location
Ground preparation is vital for the longevity and stability of your container. Follow the steps above to ensure a smooth delivery and a secure foundation for your new storage container.
Check out our Delivery / Collection Information page for further guidance on what to expect from us on delivery day and what responsibilities lie with you in order to receive your container safely and as planned.
If you are stuck on any of the above points or would like peace of mind that the site you have earmarked for your storage container is suitable for it, get in touch for a site survey.
