At Equilhaul, we handle container delivery across the U.S. and help customers avoid common transport pitfalls. This guide covers your best options for moving a container without damage, delays, or hidden costs.
1. Know Your Container Size and Weight
Before moving a container, you need to know:
- Container size (10ft, 20ft, 40ft, 45ft)
- Weight — empty or loaded?
- Pickup/drop-off site conditions (sloped, soft ground, access roads)
???? Example: A 40ft container weighs ~8,000 lbs empty, but can exceed 60,000 lbs when full.
2. Use Tilt-Bed Trucks for Ground-Level Delivery
For most residential and light commercial deliveries, a tilt-bed or roll-off truck is the easiest solution. It:
- Tilts the trailer to slide the container onto the ground
- Requires minimal equipment at the drop-off site
- Is ideal for 10ft or 20ft containers
✅ Equilhaul’s standard flat-rate delivery uses this method for fast, safe placement.
3. Crane Delivery for Tight or Elevated Spaces
If you’re placing the container:
- On a platform or second story
- In a narrow alley or urban lot
- Over a fence or wall
…you’ll need crane delivery. Cranes can precisely place containers where trucks can’t reach — though they cost more and may require a site inspection.
4. Forklift or Heavy Equipment Transport
For on-site repositioning or short moves (e.g., yard rearrangement), use:
- A heavy-duty forklift (10,000+ lbs capacity)
- A skid steer with lifting attachments
- Or a container mover trailer
These options give you control but may damage containers if not used properly.
5. Flatbed Truck + Loading Dock (or Forklift)
For long-haul transport, many shipping companies use:
- A flatbed truck
- With a forklift or crane at both ends
Make sure your delivery site is equipped to unload the container — otherwise, use tilt-bed or crane delivery instead.
6. Site Access: Plan Ahead to Avoid Extra Fees
When booking delivery, confirm:
- Wide enough entry (at least 10 ft for truck)
- No overhead obstructions (wires, trees, signs)
- Stable, dry ground to support weight
???? At Equilhaul, our team helps verify site access to avoid failed delivery attempts.
Conclusion
Knowing how to move a shipping container is key to a smooth delivery experience. From tilt-bed trucks to crane lifts, the right method depends on your location, layout, and budget.
???? Contact Equilhaul for delivery options in your area or shop containers with delivery included.