How to Transport a 20' Shipping Container

How to Transport a 20 Foot Shipping Container

How to Transport a 20 Foot Shipping Container

If you’ve recently purchased a 20’ shipping container, you’re likely presented with the problem of transporting it from point A to point B. While the process of buying a shipping container may be a cake walk, moving it is an entirely different story. Fortunately, there are professional shipping container transport companies that have the experience, skill, and resources to handle such heavy items. If you’re wondering how to transport a 20’ shipping container, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s a brief run-down on the process:

Required Vehicles

Generally speaking, there are a number of different types of vehicles and equipment that may be required in order to transport a 20’ shipping container, or a container of any size for that matter. For starters, a forklift is needed in order to safely lift the container up and position it onto the transport truck.

Depending on the dimensions and number of shipping containers that are to be moved, one or more trucks that are up to 24 wheels long may be needed. Lastly, a crane often comes in handy if there are potential unloading problems or in the instance where containers will be stacked.

20’ Shipping Container Loading & Delivery Methods

When it comes to the actual loading and delivery of your 20’ shipping container, there are typically three main methods that you can choose from. These include:

1. Chassis: This method involves the shipping container being loaded onto a chassis, which is essentially a metal frame with wheels that is connected to a trailer truck. Once the container reaches the destination, the chassis is detached from the truck and the container is removed.
2. Flat Bed Truck: This method works best for situations in which additional cargo or more than one container is being transported. It involves the containers being loaded onto the flatbed truck and then unloaded at the destination using a crane or forklift.
3. Tilt Bed Truck: As the most popular method, transporting a shipping container via a tilt bed truck operates almost identical to how a dump truck delivers garbage to a landfill. The truck will back up to the loading location and tip the bed slowly, which lowers that end of the shipping container. Then, the truck carefully pulls away, leaving the container behind. Although this method is typically the most expensive option, it is the safest way to load and deliver a 20’ shipping container.

Driving the Transport Truck

Driving a truck that is hauling massive shipping containers requires special skills and, oftentimes, a CDL (commercial driver license). One of the most important things that drivers must keep in mind is the clearance that is required in order for the truck to maneuver effortlessly and carefully across the road and at the delivery location. As a general rule of thumb, a truck that is carrying a 20’ shipping container requires 60 feet of clearance.

Dropping off the 20’ Shipping Container

As you are planning for the delivery of your shipping container, you must verify that the area in which the container will be dropped off at is both level and sturdy. The last thing you want is the container sinking into the ground or tipping over on one end. A flat, tough surface will also make positioning the container a much easier process.

How your shipping container must be transported to your desired location will depend on a number of factors such as weather, distance, terrain, and accessibility to your property. For this reason, it is absolutely crucial that you inform your professional shipping container moving company about all the details of your move. That way, they can craft an effective delivery plan for your 20’ shipping container.

If you have questions about how to transport a 20’ shipping container or you’re in need of professionals to handle the job for you, give us a call at (888) 202-0036. Our transport specialists are standing by to answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide you with a free, no-obligation quote today!