How Do You Transport A 40ft Shipping Container

As the largest standard variety, 40ft shipping containers are enormous steel boxes that can transport many items to regions worldwide. At ContainerCo, we have a range of 40ft shipping containers that will fit whatever purpose you may have. As one of New Zealand’s largest independent shipping container depots, we also have the capabilities for transportation and delivery. 

Have a look at this blog to learn more about the process of transporting a 40ft shipping container from our depot to your desired location. While there is a similar process among all shipping containers, methods of transport will need to be specialised with the 40ft shipping container due to it’s massive size. 

Why Would I Need A 40ft Shipping Container? 

Owning or renting a 40ft shipping container really does provide endless possibilities. There are three common purposes for using 40ft shipping containers: 

  1. Shipping Items Domestically and Internationally

Just like the original purpose, a 40ft shipping container will be the perfect solution for large-scale exporting. Travelling via the roads, railways or sea, this enormous steel box would be an ideal option for transporting goods and ensuring their protection from the elements and physical damage.

If you have large products, or maybe there’s a plentiful amount, and require an effective means of transport, the 40ft shipping container should be your go-to. 

  1. Large-Scale Storage 

Just as perfect as they are for transport, 40ft shipping containers can provide you with the ultimate storage solution. Provide an exceptional amount of space; you may be looking to store business stock, vehicles, machinery, tools and perhaps even non-perishable food items. 

  1. Modified For Offices/Homes/Hospitality

The possibilities do not end at storage and export, in recent years, many businesses have explored options for using shipping containers for more creative purposes. Construction offices, tiny homes, eateries and cafes are all on the list of buildings that have been constructed or modified using shipping containers. 

For more information, please read – ‘Shipping Container Modifications Into Cafes

Can I Transport A 40ft Shipping Container By Truck? 

Absolutely. There’s no question that you will need a large truck, but it is possible nonetheless. A flatbed truck will be the ideal truck variation as it will be less money to run, per kilometre, than a step-deck or tilt-bed truck. 

If the journey to deliver your 40ft shipping container is less than 300km, you may be able to get away using a tilt-bed truck (which can ease the off-loading process). However, it’s important that you have an arranged drop-off location that is clear of debris. 

A clear and concise path will also be necessary to drop off the container via the truck – this is very important if this is a construction site or high-density area. This is why ContainerCo will recommend the use of either a flat-bed or hiab truck. 

Additionally, some trailers are suitable for the transport of a 40ft shipping container. As you can imagine, these trailers would be very large, but they are an effective means of transport.  

What Is The Best Method Of Off-Loading A 40ft Shipping Container? 

Given the size of the 40ft shipping container, there are limited options on how the shipping container can be dropped off.

A hiab truck is a secure option for off-loading a 40ft shipping container from a truck. Due to its strength alone, a crane would make lifting and set down the container so much easier. With a tilt-truck, you may be in control of the speed of the off-loading, but you can’t be as precise as to where it will land. 

Having wooden or cement feed to hold the container above the ground is standard practice – particularly on sites where the earth is moist. These feet will require a level of accuracy that a crane can provide. While forklifts are a common method of transporting the container from truck to ground, a 40ft shipping container will be too large to be removed safely. 

What Are The Benefits Of Using A Train Or Ship To Transport A 40ft Shipping Container? 

First and foremost, one of the key benefits of transporting your 40ft container by rail or sea is the lack of traffic. When your goods are on their way, they are truly on their way. When travelling by truck, there are several factors that could influence the transit time. 

Additionally, thanks to the sturdy structure of the shipping container, the contents within will be perfectly protected even though trains and ships can be heading through hostile weather conditions. 

ContainerCo

At ContainerCo, we pride ourselves on providing an extensive range of shipping containers for hire or purchase. Our range of 10ft, 20ft and 40ft containers can be used for various purposes, including shipment, storage or construction, to name a few. Featuring more than just containers in our product range, we also sell accessories and parts for shipping containers to ensure your container can be maintained and repaired after prolonged use. 

Offering specialised containers along with dry standard variations, ContainerCo’s containers include refrigerated, dangerous goods, high-ball, open-top and side-opening options. As a fully-established shipping container company, we also have the facilities to modify purchased shipping containers. In addition, our specialised team can assist you with altering containers into workspaces, cafes, tiny homes or construction site offices. 

We can serve Kiwis across the country with facilities operating in Auckland, Tauranga, Christchurch, Wellington and Waikato. So next time you require a shipping container, hire or buy yours at ContainerCo today! 

Contact us on 0508 732 873 or request a free online quote today!