When renting or buying a storage container, one of the most overlooked but critical steps is preparing your site for delivery and placement. Even a perfect container won’t perform well if it’s set on uneven ground, in a puddle, or in a spot no delivery truck can reach. At NWR Storage Containers, we work with clients to plan delivery logistics and site prep to ensure smooth installation. Below is a comprehensive guide to preparing your site for container placement.

1. Evaluate Truck Access & Clearance

• Driveway and access path: The delivery truck (often a tilting flatbed) must back into or approach the site. Ensure the path is cleared of debris, vegetation, low-hanging branches, wires, or obstacles.
• Swing radius and turning space: Provide enough room for the truck to maneuver. Many site-prep guides suggest at least 15 feet of clear space for backing in.
• Overhead clearance: Check for tree branches, power lines, overhangs, or structures. The container and truck need vertical space for placement.
• Ground firmness: Soft, muddy, or unstable ground can cause the delivery truck to sink or get stuck. The route and pad must support heavy loads.

2. Clear & Level the Site

• Remove debris & vegetation: Clear rocks, roots, stumps, trash, brush, or other obstacles that might interfere with the container or leveling.
• Slope & drainage: Avoid low spots or depressions where water can pool. The ideal site will slope slightly away from the container so rainwater runs off.
• Level the surface: Use equipment (grader, compactors) to make the pad fairly level. Even small slopes or dips can lead to uneven stress or door alignment issues.
• Foundation options: Depending on soil and usage, you can place the container on wood blocks, concrete piers, gravel pad, or compacted crushed stone. These help distribute weight and prevent shifting.

3. Block & Support Points

• Even on level ground, containers should rest on supports rather than on an uneven surface.
• Place wood blocks, steel pedestals, or concrete piers at the corners and along rails if needed. These supports lift the container slightly off the soil, reducing moisture contact and protecting surfaces.
• Always ensure the supports are stable and won’t shift under load or weather changes.

4. Door Orientation & Access

• Decide the direction the container doors will face (e.g. toward driveway or workspace) so you don’t block them with terrain or infrastructure.
• Leave clearance in front of doors to fully swing open, and ensure no obstruction in the door arc.
• If you plan multiple containers, consider alignment and spacing to allow access to each unit without one blocking the other.

5. Utilities & Site Details

• If the container requires power, lighting, or HVAC, plan where electrical lines or conduit will enter.
• Consider site grading around the container to avoid water flow toward walls.
• For longer-term or modified containers (e.g. office, workshop), check local building codes, setback requirements, and permit needs.

6. Final Walk-through & Pre-Delivery Check

• Before delivery, walk the full route from street to pad with the delivery team to check for surprises.
• Mark corners, supports, or obstacle zones with flags or chalk.
• Confirm that your site dimensions, clearance, and slope match the container size and delivery equipment.

Why This Matters

When a container is placed on a poorly prepared site:

• The container may be off-level, causing doors to bind or seals to fail.
• Rainwater or runoff may collect under or against the container, increasing corrosion risk.
• The delivery truck may struggle to reach the site, resulting in delays or extra costs.
• Over time, shifting or settling may cause structural stress or damage.

By contrast, a properly prepared site ensures smooth delivery, optimal performance, and longevity.

If you’re planning to rent or purchase a storage container, don’t leave delivery to chance. With NWR Storage Containers’ experience and your preparation, you can ensure your container arrives safely, levels perfectly, and provides reliable storage or workspace for years to come.