Keystone Containers Delivery Preparation Guide

Getting a shipping container delivered is usually straightforward when your site is properly prepared. Understanding the delivery requirements ahead of time helps avoid delays, extra fees, or failed delivery attempts.

At Keystone Containers, we help customers across residential, commercial, and rural properties prepare for safe and efficient container delivery. This guide covers everything you need to know before delivery day, including site preparation, truck access, space requirements, and common delivery challenges.

Before your container arrives, the delivery area should be stable, level, and accessible for heavy equipment.

Shipping containers can be delivered on gravel, asphalt, concrete, or compacted level dirt.

A properly prepared surface helps prevent shifting, uneven settling, and drainage issues over time. Soft or unstable ground, especially after heavy rain or recent grading, may require additional site preparation before delivery.

The delivery area should be level from front to back and side to side, free of rocks, mud, standing water, stumps, and debris, and strong enough to support both the container and delivery truck. Even slight slopes can affect alignment and make the doors difficult to open or close properly.

Proper drainage is also important. Avoid placing containers in low-lying areas where water collects, as standing water can lead to erosion, uneven settling, and moisture buildup beneath the container.

For long-term storage, Keystone Containers may recommend elevating the container with railroad ties, concrete blocks, or steel supports, depending on site conditions.

The amount of space needed for a shipping container delivery depends on the container size and the type of truck used. Most containers are delivered using a tilt-bed truck or roll-off trailer, which requires enough room to safely position, unload, and exit the property without obstructions.

Space Requirements by Container Size

20-Foot Shipping Container

Recommended minimum space:

• – Approximately 60 feet of straight-line clearance
• – At least 12 feet of width
• – Around 16 feet of vertical overhead clearance

40-Foot Shipping Container

Recommended minimum space:

• – Approximately 100 feet of straight-line clearance
• – At least 12 feet of width
• – Around 16 feet of overhead clearance

Longer containers require significantly more room because the truck must tilt the container during unloading.

Gate Width Requirements

Most delivery trucks require:

• Minimum 12-foot-wide gate openings
• Additional room for turns and maneuvering

Narrow gates, fencing, or landscaping can prevent access even if the container location itself is clear.

Overhead Clearance

Drivers also need adequate overhead clearance along the entire delivery route. Common obstructions include tree branches, utility lines, carports, roof overhangs, or other structures that extend into the delivery path. Most shipping container deliveries require approximately 16 feet of vertical clearance to allow safe access and unloading.

HOA and Permit Considerations

Before delivery, check for any HOA rules, local permit requirements, temporary placement restrictions, or property line setback regulations that may apply to your property or area. Customers are responsible for obtaining any necessary approvals prior to delivery day.

Most deliveries are scheduled within a delivery window rather than an exact arrival time. On delivery day, customers can generally expect:

• A call or text from the driver before arrival
• Updates if traffic or weather affects timing
• Communication regarding any site concerns

Should Someone Be Present During Delivery?

Yes. In most cases, someone should be on-site during delivery to confirm the placement location, open gates if necessary, answer driver questions, and approve the final positioning of the container. If no one is present and the delivery instructions are unclear, the delivery may need to be rescheduled.

How Long Does Shipping Container Delivery Take?

Most shipping container deliveries take approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour onsite. Deliveries involving difficult placements, limited access, steep grades, or restricted maneuvering space may take longer.

When you choose Keystone Containers, you’re working with a company that understands the local market and values long-term customer relationships.

What Sets Us Apart:

1. Family-owned and operated
2. Based in Lebanon, PA
3. Serving all of Pennsylvania
4. Competitive pricing on sales and rentals
5. High-quality new and used containers
6. Responsive customer service
7. Local knowledge of Harrisburg and Central PA

We take pride in helping customers find the right shipping container solution for their specific needs.