Shipping containers are heavy and require large vehicles and machinery to transport them. Unless you have a CDL, Chauffeur’s License or other similar drivers license, hiring professional container delivery services is the best option.
For long delivery distances, Flatbed trucks and Step Deck trailers are the most affordable transport methods. However, a crane or forklift is needed to remove your metal shipping container from the truck upon delivery.
Truck
The most common way to move a shipping container is with a truck. The type of truck used will depend on the size of the container and its cargo weight. Typically, shipping containers are transported by flatbed trucks or trailers. These are the safest and most efficient options for shipping containers, as they provide a flat surface that is easy to latch onto. They also do not require a crane or forklift to load and unload.
If you need to move a shipping container less than 200 miles, a tilt-bed (rollback) truck is the best option. These trucks have a bed that can be tipped at an angle to allow the container to slide off and then pulled forward. This is the most convenient and cost-effective method of transporting a shipping container.
However, if you need to transport your container for longer journeys, it’s better to use a flatbed truck or step-deck trailer. These trucks have a fixed flat platform, but they are lower to the ground than tilt-bed trucks and are therefore more suitable for taller containers.
You can also use a tractor to move a shipping container, but only if it has a high towing capacity. Using a tractor to move a shipping container can be dangerous, so it’s important to only try this if you have the proper equipment and knowledge.
Crane
Whether your shipping container is loaded or empty, there are several different ways to move it. The best method depends on the size of the container and the distance to its destination. Loaded containers are typically transported on a truck with a special bed that hydraulically tilts behind the driver’s cab. This is known as a Landoll or sidelifter truck. This is the safest and most efficient way to move a cargo container.
Standard 20ft containers usually weigh over 5,000 pounds, while 40ft units weigh up to 8,200. Because of their weight, they are often transported using a semi-truck or on a flatbed trailer pulled by large passenger trucks.
If you need to move a smaller shipping container, you can use a forklift equipped with 6-foot tines that are rated to lift at least 15,000 pounds. If you are moving a larger container, however, you’ll need a HIAB crane equipped truck. These trucks have a single crane arm that can deliver your container to either side of the truck, or to a trailer or flatbed for transport.
Attempting to use chains or other methods for moving a container is not recommended because it could damage your vehicle or the container. It’s also illegal to transport a crane without the proper permits, which can result in fines and penalties. Contact your local shipping container delivery company for more information.
Forklift
Shipping containers are used worldwide and are one of the most popular options for storage solutions. While they are very versatile, they can also be a bit heavy. A standard 20ft shipping container can weigh up to 5,000 pounds and 40ft units may be even heavier. These weights make shipping containers a challenge to move without the right equipment or expertise.
A forklift can be used to lift a shipping container and place it on a flatbed truck or chassis. This option typically works best for short distances. It is important to choose a forklift with a high weight capacity and wide arms (forks) so that the machinery can easily pick up and carry the container. A standard warehouse forklift cannot handle a container this size, so it is necessary to invest in a specialized machine for this task.
If a longer distance is involved, the best option might be to hire a long-haul trucking company. These companies have the bigger trucks that can pull shipping containers hundreds of miles over varying terrain. They also have the resources to find and coordinate return loads so that they can make money on the trip.
A shipping container can also be transported by train. This method is most appropriate if the intended destination is located close to a rail line. It is important to note that trains require more time and effort than other modes of transportation, but they can be very cost-effective.
Trailer
Shipping containers are large and require specialized machinery to move them. These machines can be expensive, but they are necessary if you want to transport your container long distances. The price of shipping a container will vary depending on the distance, size, and condition of the container.
One of the most common ways to move a shipping container is with a trailer. These trucks are specially equipped with a flatbed that allows the container to slide off the bed when needed. This method is the cheapest per mile, but it’s important to make sure your trailer has enough power to handle the weight of the container.
Another way to move a shipping container is by using a tractor. A tractor can be used to move a shipping container for short distances, but you need to have a high towing capacity. If you’re not sure about your tractor’s towing capability, ask a professional about the maximum load it can carry.
If you’re looking for a way to move a shipping container across a larger distance, you can also use a crane. These vehicles are specially designed to handle the weight of shipping containers, and they’re often cheaper than flatbed trucks. However, you should always hire a qualified professional to operate a crane. This will ensure that your shipping container is moved safely and without any damage.