Preparation of Ground for Shipping Container Delivery
Shipping containers are a great option for storage as well housing. They are cheaper to set up with a lower cost of maintenance which is why people are shifting towards this alternative. However, there is quite an effort that goes into making effective use of the container for a long period of time without having to face issues. After purchasing a shipping container the site where the shipping container will be put needs to be prepared well enough before delivery. Not doing so often leads to major issues in the future such as ground unleveling, rusting of the base and connection failures. Compliance with the local authorities is another major component of this use. This blog discusses the major points to keep in mind before preparing the site where the shipping container will be put to use.
Table of Contents
Understanding Land Size Requirements
The knowledge of the correct dimensions of the container and the size of the land is very important for planning. depending on these dimensions, you will be able to plan the usage of your land accordingly. Accurate site measurements are crucial to ensure the shipping container fits perfectly within the designated area specially in case it is being used solely for storage purposes. Repeated measurements help identify potential issues such as uneven ground, space constraints, or obstacles, reducing the risk of costly adjustments and ensuring a smooth installation process. In case of housing and shop purposes, you need an extra piece of land otherwise it might feel congested.
Buy shipping containers either a 20 feet or 40 feet container, depends on the intended use and available space. The surrounding area should also be evaluated for accessibility, ventilation, and ease of movement. Proper planning ensures the container’s size meets your needs without compromising functionality or site usability. Houses and shops often require modifications in the future for which it is important to have that extra space. This forward-thinking approach allows for seamless expansion, whether for additional storage, living space, or other uses, without needing significant modifications to the existing setup.
Maintain a horizontal level
The ground on which the storage container will stand ought to be completely horizontal without making any angle. Even if there is a slight tilt, it might increase over the years and create a problem. Not only does the land need to be horizontal, it has to be leveled throughout so that the doors can be opened and closed easily. Uneven ground can also result in bad grip of the container to the ground. Eventually, it can even start slipping as a result. Uneven ground also allows for gaps between the container and the base in which moisture can develop. This will result in the corrosion of the metal beneath even though slowly.
Paving vs. Compacting: Best Ground Preparation Methods
Leveling of the ground is usually done by paving or compacting. Paving means building a base usually using concrete for the container to sit. It is costlier and takes more time but is considered to be effective for a longer period of time.
Compacting means leveling the ground using a roller machine. This is why it is cheaper and easier, however it is less reliable as the soil integrity can change with changing seasons. Under the heavy weight of the container, the soil is also subjected to a lot of constant pressure. Both are good options, it all depends on your budget, period of usage, soil type of your land and the weather conditions in your area.
Ensure ease of delivery
A good amount of space is required for two reasons, one being the obvious that the container needs to fit easily. The second reason is that the truck delivering the container also needs to have space to maneuver. This space ensures the truck can position the container precisely, reducing the risk of damaging the container or surroundings. Proper planning facilitates a smoother installation process. People tend to neglect this which creates a problem when the container is being delivered. For example, Allocating 60’-100’ of space is good enough for safely positioning a shipping container, allowing for smooth delivery and installation. Ensuring a height clearance of 13’ to 16’ is critical for the safe delivery of shipping containers. This clearance accounts for the height of the truck, container, and any lifting equipment.
Possible obstacles to avoid
Clearing overhead obstacles like power lines, tree branches, and cables is essential for safe container delivery. These obstructions can interfere with truck movements, posing safety hazards and risking damage to both the container and infrastructure. Ensuring a clear overhead path facilitates smooth and uninterrupted installation. A clean site free from debris, clutter, and active construction ensures unobstructed access for delivery trucks. Removing obstacles prevents delays, reduces the risk of accidents, and allows for efficient placement of the container. Verifying that gates and access paths are clear and sufficiently wide is crucial for the seamless entry and maneuvering of delivery trucks. Adequate space prevents bottlenecks and potential damage to property. Properly sized access routes facilitate the precise placement of the shipping container, streamlining the overall setup.
Environmental concerns
Selecting a site with proper drainage is vital to prevent water from pooling around the shipping container. Poor drainage can lead to ground softening, which compromises the stability and foundation of the container, potentially causing it to shift or sink over time. Ensuring effective water runoff through natural slopes or added drainage solutions helps maintain the integrity and longevity of the container setup. Avoiding sloped sites is crucial to prevent water accumulation around the container, which can lead to erosion, foundation issues, and corrosion. Choosing a level site or implementing proper grading and drainage solutions ensures water is directed away from the container, hence protecting it from moisture-related issues and preserving its structural integrity.
Be in continuous contact with the Delivery Team
You don’t know what is going on with the delivery team and neither do they know about you. Therefore, it is important for both of you to be in continuous contact and exchange information. This will be crucial to manage the whole process with minimal problems. It helps in being up to date with immediate changes such as unexpected weather conditions, site accessibility issues, or the need for adjustments to the delivery path. One significant benefit of staying in touch is the ability to coordinate timing precisely, minimizing the risk of delays. If there are any unforeseen obstacles, such as traffic jams or road closures, you can quickly communicate with the team to find alternative routes or adjust the delivery schedule. In summary, keeping an open line of communication with the delivery team helps avoid logistical issues, ensures the container is delivered and installed as planned, and provides peace of mind that the project is progressing smoothly.
Is it better to prop the Container Off the Ground?
Definitely yes, It is highly beneficial for several reasons. Elevating the container using blocks or beams, such as railroad ties or 6 feet wooden square beams, prevents direct contact with the soil, reducing the risk of moisture absorption. This is crucial as prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to rust, corrosion, and weakened structural integrity. Keeping the container off the ground also improves air circulation beneath it, which helps keep the base dry and further prevents rust. Additionally, it aids in maintaining proper door functionality.
A container resting directly on the ground can shift or settle unevenly, making the doors difficult to open and close. Elevation helps maintain even weight distribution, ensuring the doors remain aligned. Such containers are less susceptible to shifts in the ground caused by weather conditions, preserving their structural integrity over time. Moreover, raising the container facilitates easier inspection and maintenance of the underside, allowing for early detection of any potential issues. Overall, elevating a container enhances its durability, longevity, and overall usability, making it a wise investment in the container’s long-term performance.
Key Takeaways
To prepare the site for a shipping container delivery, precise measurements are essential to accommodate its dimensions and potential future expansions. Proper drainage and avoiding slopes prevent water damage and ground instability. The site should be cleared of debris, with adequate height clearance and space for truck maneuvers to ensure smooth delivery. Maintaining open communication with the delivery team helps prevent logistical problems and guarantees correct container placement. Elevating the container off the ground using blocks or beams safeguards it from moisture, improves door function, deters pests, and facilitates maintenance. If you follow these guidelines, you will ensure a healthy life of your shipping container without heavy maintenance activities.