Shipping Container Delivery Information
At Steel Bay Containers, we deliver shipping containers nationwide, every day—safely, quickly, and efficiently. Whether you’re ordering a 20ft, 40ft, or custom modified container, our experienced delivery team ensures a smooth, stress-free experience from dispatch to placement.
Delivery Time & Expectations
A standard container delivery typically takes 15–20 minutes if the site is prepared, accessible, and ready for placement. Delays caused by blocked access, unclear drop-off instructions, or unprepared surfaces may result in extra time and potential additional fees.
Site Access & Delivery Requirements
We use tilt-bed trailers to deliver and offload containers. The truck reverses into position, tilts, and gently sets the container in place. The site must meet two key requirements: space to maneuver and straight-line clearance.
Minimum Trailer Width: 14 ft
Minimum Height Clearance: 18 ft
Ground Conditions & Accessibility
The combined weight of the delivery truck and empty container may exceed 50,000 lbs. Deliveries must occur on solid, level surfaces such as concrete, asphalt, compacted gravel, or blocks. Soft, wet, or uneven ground may prevent successful delivery. Drivers reserve the right to decline delivery if the site is unsafe or inaccessible, and failed delivery fees may apply.
Door Direction – Know Before Delivery
Shipping containers usually have doors on one end. Proper door orientation is critical:
Doors loaded facing the rear will be placed first
Doors loaded facing the cab will be placed last
Please inform us of your preferred door direction in advance.
Cold Weather Considerations
During winter, ensure container roofs are cleared of snow and ice before pickup. Frozen containers or tilt beds can delay pickup and may incur additional charges. This follows Ministry of Transportation safety requirements.
Obstructions to Avoid
Clear the area of low-hanging branches, power lines, parked cars, or tight turns that can hinder the truck’s access or offload ability.
Recommended Surfaces
To keep your container in optimal condition, place it on concrete, asphalt, gravel, wood beams, or blocks. Avoid grass or areas where water pools, as this can cause the frame to shift or the undercarriage to rust.
Clearance Requirements
20ft Container Delivery Requirements
To ensure a safe and successful delivery of a 20ft shipping container, a minimum of 65 feet of straight-line clearance is required. This space accounts for the full length of the truck, trailer deck, and the container itself during offloading. Please ensure the delivery path is clear of obstacles and provides enough room for the truck to back in and tilt the container into place efficiently.
40ft Container Delivery Requirements
Delivering a 40ft shipping container requires at least 110 feet of straight-line clearance. This includes the total length needed for the truck, trailer, and container during offloading. The delivery vehicle is significantly larger than that used for 20ft containers, so it’s essential that the site offers unobstructed access with adequate turning space, width, and height clearance to complete the drop-off safely and efficiently.