How Shipping Container Offices Are Delivered

One of the most common questions buyers have is how shipping container offices are delivered and placed on-site. While the process is straightforward, site conditions and access play a major role in how delivery is handled.

This guide explains how container office delivery works, what to expect, and what factors can affect delivery cost and logistics.

This article is part of our Container Conversion Resources library.

How Container Office Delivery Works

Shipping container offices are typically delivered as fully finished units. Once the container arrives, it is placed on the prepared site and is ready for setup.

The most common delivery methods include:

• Tilt-bed trucks

• Roll-off trucks

• Crane-assisted placement

The delivery method used depends on site access, container size, and placement requirements.

Tilt-Bed Truck Delivery

Tilt-bed delivery is one of the most common and cost-effective options.

How it works:

• The container is transported on a flatbed truck

• The bed tilts and slides the container into place

• Best suited for open, level sites with clear access

Tilt-bed delivery works well for:

• Driveways

• Open yards

• Job sites with room to maneuver

Crane Delivery

Cranes are used when containers need to be placed in locations that are not accessible by tilt-bed trucks.

Common reasons for crane delivery:

• Tight or restricted access

• Placement behind buildings

• Elevated placement

• Precision positioning

Crane delivery adds cost but allows for placement in challenging locations.

Site Preparation Requirements

Before delivery, the site must be properly prepared.

Typical site preparation includes:

• Level ground or pad

• Gravel base, concrete pad, or footings

• Clear access path for delivery equipment

Proper site preparation ensures safe placement and long-term stability of the container office.

How Delivery Affects Cost

Delivery costs vary depending on:

• Distance to the site

• Container size (20-foot vs 40-foot)

• Delivery method

• Site accessibility

• Crane requirements

Delivery is often handled separately from the container conversion itself and should be considered as part of the overall project budget.

For a full breakdown of how pricing is affected by size, features, and logistics, see our guide on container conversion costs.

Can a Container Office Be Moved Later?

One advantage of container offices is that they can be relocated if needed.

Containers can be:

• Picked up and moved to a new site

• Repurposed for a different use

• Resold or redeployed

Relocation costs depend on distance, access, and placement requirements, similar to the original delivery process.

Delivery Considerations Based on Use Case

Delivery needs can vary based on how the container office will be used.

Examples:

• Backyard offices may require careful placement around landscaping

• Jobsite offices often prioritize speed and ease of relocation

• Business offices may require precise placement for customer access

Understanding how you plan to use the container helps determine the best delivery approach.

Delivery vs Traditional Construction

Compared to traditional construction, container office delivery offers:

• Faster deployment

• Fewer on-site trades

• Less site disruption

• Predictable timelines

This is one reason many buyers choose container offices over sheds or stick-built structures.

Preparing for Delivery Day

To ensure smooth delivery:

• Confirm site access and clearance

• Verify pad or foundation readiness

• Coordinate delivery timing

• Ensure utility hookups are planned

Proper planning minimizes delays and unexpected costs.

Explore Container Office Options

Once delivery logistics are understood, the next step is selecting the right container office configuration.