Shipping containers have revolutionized the way goods are transported around the world. Their versatility and durability have made them a popular choice for storage and modification. Sea Cans are also a big steel box that requires a lot of space to get them into a convenient position in order to access without being in the way.
You've purchased a shipping container, now what? How do you prepare for a successful delivery on a tilt n load trailer?
To ensure a successful delivery, proper preparation is essential, especially when dealing with tilt-n-load or tilt deck delivery methods. In this blog, we will provide step by step instructions on how to get ready for your container delivery. We will discuss the importance of level ground, and using dunnage and packed gravel to ensure a smooth and safe process.
Step 1: Choose the Right Location
Selecting the right location for the shipping container delivery is crucial. It should be a flat and level surface that can accommodate the size and weight of the shipping container. Avoid soft or uneven ground, as this can cause stability issues during loading and unloading.
Step 2: Assess Access Points
Ensure that there is enough space for the delivery truck to access the chosen location easily. Take into account the overall dimensions of the container and the turning radius of the delivery truck. Clear any obstacles that may obstruct the truck's path, such as low-hanging branches or debris.
When the container is being offloaded, the trailer (40’), truck (25’) & container (20-40’) need to be in a straight line as it offloads. The length of a Landoll or Tilt Deck we deliver with require approx 120 ft straight shot for a 40’ HC or 100 ft for a 20’ container to allow enough room to drop and turn out.
Step 3: Gather Necessary Equipment
For a tilt-n-load or tilt deck delivery, you will need specific equipment to facilitate the process. This includes dunnage, which are pieces of wood or blocking material used to stabilize and level the container during loading and unloading.
We recommend 2 @ 4x6 pressure treated dunnage at 8’-9’ lengths. These only need to be placed across the front and back near to the corner castings running the short direct of the container. Sea Cans are engineered structurally to bear all the weight at the corners, therefore you do not need any other supports in the center unless for the purpose of distributing weight if you are on soft ground.
Note - Raising the container slightly with dunnage can allow for doors to swing in winter condition if snow & ice build up is a concern.
Alternatively, or additionally you can use packed gravel to create a stable and even base for the container to rest on.
Step 4: Prepare for Tilt-N-Load
As the delivery truck arrives, communicate with the driver to ensure they are aware of the designated drop-off location. The driver will skillfully operate the tilt-n-load or tilt deck mechanism to safely unload the container onto the dunnage.
Step 5: Monitor the Process
While the container is being unloaded, carefully monitor the process to ensure everything goes smoothly. Check that the container remains stable on the dunnage and that the tilt-n-load operation is carried out correctly.
Step 6: Leveling
Check to ensure the gaskets at the top of the doors are lined up. If one is higher than the other this means the container is not level and if it is significant it may cause the doors to bind when opening making it difficult to get into the container.
Conclusion
Proper planning & preparation is the key to a successful shipping container delivery, particularly when using the tilt-n-load or tilt deck method on level ground. By selecting the right location, confirming container details, and using dunnage and packed gravel effectively, you can ensure a smooth and safe delivery process. Remember to communicate effectively with the delivery driver and monitor the unloading to make the experience hassle-free. Following these steps will guarantee the safe arrival of your C-Can, saving you time & ensuring the delivery goes smooth.