A smooth delivery starts with good preparation. This guide explains how shipping container delivery works in the UK, which delivery vehicle suits your site, how to prepare the ground, and what happens on the day, so your container arrives and goes into position without any surprises.
How shipping containers are delivered
Containers are delivered on one of two main types of lorry. The right one depends on your site.
HIAB (crane) lorry
A HIAB lorry has a crane mounted on the vehicle that lifts the container off and places it in position. It can lift a container over a low wall or fence and set it down precisely. It needs space for its stabiliser legs, firm ground to stand on, and clear overhead space with no power lines or low branches.
Tilt-and-slide lorry
A tilt-and-slide lorry tilts its bed and slides the container off the back onto the ground. It needs a long, straight, clear run: roughly 25 to 30 metres for a 20ft container and more for a 40ft. It works well on open sites with good access but cannot lift over obstacles.
Tell us about your site when you order and we will recommend the best vehicle. If access is very restricted, a flat pack container can be delivered in pieces and assembled where you need it.
Check your site access
Before delivery, walk the route from the road to the drop-off point and check:
- Width: gateways and lanes need to be wide enough for a lorry, usually at least 3 to 3.5 metres.
- Height: look for overhead cables, trees, arches and bridges.
- Ground: the lorry is heavy, so soft verges, lawns and wet fields may not take its weight.
- Turning space: the lorry needs to get in and out safely.
- Parking and permits: if the lorry must stop on a public road, you may need permission from your local council.
Photos of the access route and drop-off point help us plan the delivery properly.
Prepare a firm, level base
A container should always sit on a firm, level base. This keeps the doors opening and closing properly, stops the frame twisting and keeps the floor off damp ground. Good options include:
- Railway sleepers or timber beams under each end.
- Concrete pads under each of the four corner castings.
- Compacted hardcore or a concrete slab for permanent installations.
Leave a small gap under the container so air can circulate, and make sure it is level from end to end and side to side.
Decide which way the doors should face
Once a container is down, it is hard to move by hand. Decide in advance where you want it and which way the doors should face, and leave about 1.2 metres in front of the doors so they open fully. Tell our driver on the day and mark the spot if you can.
What happens on delivery day
- We confirm the delivery date and give you an estimated arrival window.
- The driver checks access and the drop-off position with you.
- The container is unloaded by crane or tilt-and-slide and set onto your base.
- You check the container, doors and keys before the driver leaves.
Someone should be on site to meet the driver and confirm the position.
After installation
Once your container is in place, fit a lockbox and a good padlock, add vents or accessories if needed, and read our guide to shipping container maintenance to keep it in good condition for years.
Where do we deliver?
We deliver across the UK. Delivery cost depends on the distance, the size of the container and the vehicle needed. See our delivery areas and our guide to regional delivery coverage.
Frequently asked questions
How much does shipping container delivery cost?
Delivery cost depends on your postcode, the container size and the type of lorry needed. We include delivery in your quote so you know the full price up front.
Can a container be delivered to my back garden?
Often, yes, if a HIAB lorry can lift it over a fence or wall safely. If there is no access at all, a flat pack container may be the answer.
Do I need to be there for the delivery?
Yes, someone should be on site to meet the driver, confirm the position and check the container.
Can the container be moved later?
Yes. A container can be lifted and moved with the right lorry, so you can relocate it later if needed.
Get a delivered price
Request a quote with your postcode, the container you want and a few details about access, and we will confirm the best delivery method and a delivered price.