How to Move a Shipping Container for a Hassle Free Relocation

Added: 31/07/2024

Start by planning the logistics

Size, weight and distance are three of the key factors when it comes to how hard or easy it is to move a shipping container, and what the most appropriate equipment to use for the task is.

Container size

Shipping containers tend to come in two sizes; 20 foot long and 40 foot long. Depending on your location, moving a 20 ft shipping container can be easier and cheaper than moving a 40 foot container which requires larger trucks, cranes and other machinery. 

Weight

The equipment selection is also influenced by the weight, as heavier containers require more robust machinery to lift and move them. Transport vehicles must be rated for the container's weight to ensure safe transit, and route planning should account for any weight limits on the roads and bridges. 

Distance 

Short distance moves, such as within your property or to a nearby location, can often be managed with basic equipment and minimal hassle. Long distance moves on the other hand, require more technical equipment and detailed planning. 

Choose the right equipment

Taking into consideration the three factors just covered, here’s how to move a shipping container with or without heavy equipment.

Moving a shipping container without heavy equipment 

Moving a shipping container without heavy equipment can make small scale relocations easier and more cost effective. Here’s some of the equipment that could be used to achieve this.

Container Dolly

A heavy duty dolly designed to handle the weight of shipping containers, this specialized piece of equipment can be combined with a winch or vehicle for easier movement over short distances.

Rollers and Skates

Rollers or skates can be placed under the container’s corners to allow people to manually move it. This method often requires several people and a flat, solid surface, but can be effective for short moves. To lift the container high enough to place the roller a lever and fulcrum could be used or a set of container lifting jacks.

Tow Straps and Vehicle

If the container is on a dolly, rollers or has wheels, tow straps could be secured to the container enabling it to be pulled by a sturdy vehicle such as a truck or trailer to its new location.

Pipe Rollers

Sturdy pipes can be placed under the container which is then rolled over them to a new position before the pipes are removed. This method requires manual effort and is only for short distances in straight lines.

Moving a shipping container with heavy equipment 

When it comes to moving shipping containers with heavy equipment, what you use can vary depending on the distance and specific requirements of the move. 

For short distance relocations, equipment like tractors and forklifts are often used. Tractors are useful on large properties or farms as they can be easily attached to containers with heavy-duty straps or chains to tow them across short distances. Forklifts that have sufficient lifting capacity can be ideal for maneuvering containers within confined areas, ensuring precise placement.

For long distance moves, more robust equipment is required. Trucks, particularly those designed for container transport, are essential for efficiently moving containers over extended distances. The type of truck can vary and include a trailer truck, tilt bed truck or crane truck. A crane by itself can also be  necessary for lifting and repositioning containers in tight spaces or onto transport vehicles, offering precise control and lifting. These heavy equipment options ensure that whether moving a container across a yard or across the country, the process is handled smoothly and effectively.

Ensure the move is compliance

A big part of moving a shipping container is understanding the legal requirements and government regulations you need to abide by.

To ensure compliance when moving a shipping container in theUnited States it’s best to consider these key steps.

• Check federal (FMCSA), state, and local laws for requirements on container size, weight, and road use

• Obtain the necessary permits including oversize load permits, road use permits, and placement permits from local authorities

• Use professional movers with a valid USDOT number and appropriate insurance

• Adhere to OSHA guidelines for loading, securing, and transporting the container

• Document everything, keeping records of permits, contracts, and inspections

• Communicate with Authorities, notifying local law enforcement and transportation departments of your move and follow any additional guidelines.

How much it costs to move a shipping container

The cost to move a shipping container varies depending on many of the factors we’ve discussed, including size, weight, distance, the equipment required and if there are any compliance costs like permits or escorts. For a container within the United States you can generally expect the cost to fall somewhere around $3000 for a domestic move and above $7500 for international.