Yes, shipping containers can be placed on concrete, tarmac and suitably prepared gravel. The most important factors are whether the surface is firm, reasonably level, stable and capable of supporting the container and its contents.
The right shipping container foundations can also help the doors operate correctly and reduce problems with standing water around the base.
Before hiring or buying a container, check both the final position and the access needed by the delivery vehicle. A location that can support the container itself may not necessarily be suitable for a heavy HIAB delivery lorry.
Unit Group’s shipping container transport guidelines provide further information about vehicle access, unloading and ground conditions.
Does a Shipping Container Need Foundations?
A shipping container does not always need a large concrete foundation like a permanent building, but it does need suitable support.
Containers are designed to carry their load through strong structural points, including their corner castings. The ground beneath the unit needs to remain stable once the container has been positioned and loaded.
Poor preparation can cause the container to settle unevenly. This may lead to problems opening and closing the doors.
When deciding where to place a shipping container, consider:
- Surface strength
- Ground level
- Drainage
- Container weight
- Weight of stored contents
- Delivery vehicle access
- Length of time the container will remain
- Future collection access
If the ground is unsuitable, preparation may be required before delivery.
Can You Put a Shipping Container on Concrete?
Concrete is commonly a good surface for shipping container placement when the slab or hard-standing is suitable for the expected loads.
It provides a firm, stable base and can work particularly well at warehouses, factories, commercial yards and other premises where concrete areas already exist.
Check the Condition of the Concrete
Existing concrete should be inspected before delivery.
Look for major cracks, damaged edges, badly uneven sections or areas where the slab has already started to sink.
You should also consider what is beneath it. A surface may look strong but contain drains, service ducts, voids or other areas that could be affected by heavy vehicle or stabiliser loads.
Keep the Container Level
Even a good concrete yard can have slopes designed for drainage.
Check the proposed position rather than assuming the entire surface is level. The container needs to sit correctly so the doors can operate as intended.
Suitable supports can sometimes be used to achieve the required level, depending on the site.
Can You Put a Shipping Container on Tarmac?
A shipping container can be placed on tarmac, but the condition and construction of the surface need consideration.
Commercial tarmac designed for heavy vehicles may be very different from a lightly constructed parking area.
The weight of the container and stored contents is only part of the issue. The HIAB vehicle delivering it is also heavy, and its stabiliser legs place concentrated loads on the surface during unloading.
Watch for Soft or Damaged Tarmac
Tarmac can soften during hot weather and may deform under heavy or concentrated loads.
Check for existing dips, cracking or other signs that the surface is not coping well with vehicle traffic.
If there is any doubt about whether the area can safely support the delivery vehicle or container, get suitable professional advice before delivery.
Can You Put a Shipping Container on Gravel?
Yes, gravel can provide a suitable base when it has been correctly prepared.
A compacted gravel area can offer good drainage and may be practical where a concrete slab is unnecessary.
However, simply placing a container on loose gravel spread over soft soil is different from using a properly prepared and compacted base.
Prepare the Gravel Base
The area should be level and stable, with the underlying ground able to support the container.
The exact preparation will depend on local ground conditions, drainage and the expected load. Poorly compacted material can move or settle after the container has been loaded.
For long-term installations or difficult ground, speak to a suitable groundworks professional about the base required.
Can You Put a Shipping Container Directly on Soil or Grass?
Placing a container directly onto unprepared soil or grass can create more problems.
Soft ground may settle unevenly under the weight. Heavy rain can also make access difficult for the delivery vehicle and increase the risk of movement or standing water.
The Unit Group delivery guidance asks customers to provide a hard-standing area suitable for the delivery vehicle and its stabiliser legs.
If the proposed site is currently grass or soil, consider preparing the area before ordering the container.
Why Drainage Matters Around a Shipping Container
A good base does more than carry the container’s weight.
Water should be able to drain away rather than collecting around or underneath the unit.
Standing water can make the surrounding ground softer and create muddy access routes. Poor drainage may also make future collection more difficult.
Check how water moves across the site during heavy rain. A location that looks suitable during dry weather may behave very differently after prolonged rainfall.
Should a Shipping Container Be Raised Off the Ground?
Depending on the site, a container may be supported at suitable structural points rather than having the entire underside sitting directly on the surface.
Raising it slightly can help with levelling and drainage.
Any supports need to be strong, stable and suitable for the expected load. Improvised or unstable materials should not be used.
If you are unsure about the correct support arrangement for your ground conditions, ask for advice before the container is positioned.
Remember the Weight of the Contents
Do not assess the base based only on an empty container.
The total load increases as equipment, stock or materials are added.
This is particularly relevant for businesses storing machinery, dense building materials or other heavy items.
Unit Group supplies shipping containers for hire and sale in sizes from compact storage units through to larger commercial containers. The container size, contents and intended use should all be considered when preparing the base.
Prepare for the Delivery Vehicle Too
A common mistake is preparing a suitable shipping container foundation without checking whether the delivery lorry can safely reach it.
Unit Group uses HIAB vehicles to lift containers into position. Depending on container size, these can be large rigid or articulated vehicles.
Stabiliser legs also need firm support during the lifting operation.
Our recent guide, How Much Space Do You Need for Shipping Container Delivery?, explains the vehicle dimensions, lifting clearance and manoeuvring space you should consider.
The route to the container position should also be checked for soft ground, narrow entrances, tight turns and overhead obstructions.
Which Surface Is Best for a Shipping Container?
There is no single surface that is right for every site.
Concrete
Often well suited to commercial premises where a suitable slab or hard-standing already exists. It provides a firm surface and can make access around the container easier.
Tarmac
Can work well where the surface has been constructed to handle the expected loads and remains in good condition.
Compacted Gravel
Can provide a practical and well-drained base when properly prepared. Ground conditions and compaction need to be considered.
The best option depends on the site, container size, intended contents and length of use.
Check the Site Before Ordering
Before arranging delivery, inspect the proposed location and answer these questions:
- Is the ground firm?
- Is the area reasonably level?
- Does water drain away?
- Are there drains or manholes underneath?
- Are underground services present?
- Can a heavy delivery vehicle reach the location?
- Is there enough room for stabiliser legs?
- Will the container doors have room to open?
- Can the same route be used for future collection?
Taking photographs of the proposed location can also help when discussing delivery arrangements.
For more preparation advice, read our recent guide covering shipping container delivery access requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best base for a shipping container?
Does a shipping container need a concrete slab?
Can I put a shipping container on my driveway?
Can a shipping container sit directly on gravel?
Does the container need to be completely level?
The unit should be positioned sufficiently level and supported correctly so it remains stable and its doors operate properly.
Prepare Your Site Before Container Delivery
Concrete, tarmac and compacted gravel can all provide suitable surfaces for a shipping container when the ground is correctly prepared.
Check the condition, level, drainage and access before ordering. Remember to consider the loaded container as well as the delivery vehicle.
Once your site is ready, Unit Group can help you choose a suitable container and arrange delivery to your premises.