From Order to Delivery: What to Expect When Buying a Shipping Container

Whether you’re buying a shipping container for self storage, general storage, a construction project, or to convert in to something, knowing what to expect makes the process a whole lot smoother. From the moment you place an order to the day it shows up on your site, here’s a step by step guide explaining how it all works.

Step 1: Choosing the Right Shipping Container

Before you commit to buying, it’s important to determine which container best meets your needs. Sizes, types and conditions vary, and our team can help you identify what works best for you.

We can send sample photos, so you know exactly what to expect when your shipping container arrives.

Take a look at some options - Shipping Containers for Sale and Shipping Containers for Hire

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Step 2: Checking Site Access Before Delivery

It’s essential to think about delivery logistics and placement early on — the last thing you want is to realise there’s no access for the lorry on delivery day.

Make sure you have:

• Adequate space for the container and full door opening (measure up the space for where the container needs to be placed)

• Enough space for the HIAB delivery vehicle to park, stabilise, turn and reverse.

• Clear offloading space free from overhead wires or obstructions

• Firm, level ground (HIABs generally can’t drive on grass unless pre-arranged in dry summer conditions)

The best way to avoid surprises is to send us photos or a short video of your access. We can check these ourselves or with our hauliers before booking delivery.

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Step 3: Agreeing a Delivery Date

Once we’ve confirmed that access and placement are suitable, we’ll agree a delivery date with you. For standard containers, we aim to deliver within around two weeks, but if you need it sooner, let us know — we’ll always do our best to accommodate.

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Step 4: Preparing for Container Delivery

You will need to consider the foundations the container will be placed on. You may need to prepare for this using concrete blocks, sleepers or slabs to support the container. The ground must be level to ensure that the doors open and close easily.

We will call or email the site contact listed on your account in the afternoon of the working day prior to delivery (usually around 3-4pm) to advise an ETA time slot for the following day, e.g. 8am-12pm or 12pm-5pm. The driver will also call approx. 1hr prior to arrival to narrow down the window of delivery and keep you updated on the day.

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Step 5: Delivery Day – What to Expect

When delivery day arrives:

1. The driver will call with notice before arriving.

2. The container arrives on a HIAB lorry.

3. You’ll confirm where it’s being placed and the driver will check this will work. 

4. The container is offloaded and levelled using the onboard HIAB crane.

5. A quick inspection ensures everything’s working as expected.

And that’s it — you’re officially a container owner!

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Step 6: After Delivery – Using and Maintaining Your Container

Once your container’s in place, it’s ready for use straight away. To keep it in great condition:

• Avoid opening it during heavy rain to prevent moisture inside.

• Don’t store damp or wet items inside. (This will help keep your goods dry, mould free and protected)

• Consider adding lighting or shelving for easier storage — we can provide options to suit your needs.

Buying a container should be a straightforward process. With a bit of planning — choosing the right size, checking access and preparing your site — you can enjoy a smooth, stress-free delivery. Once it’s positioned, moving it later can be tricky and costly, so thinking ahead really pays off.

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Ready to Get Started?

If you’re thinking about buying or hiring a shipping container, our team is here to help from start to finish — from choosing the right size to arranging delivery to your site.

Get a quote today or visit our FAQs to find answers to the most common questions about delivery, access, and container preparation.