How To

How to Prepare for an Onsite Storage Container Delivery

Whether you need to store construction materials during a months-long project, or are undergoing a commercial or residential renovation, an onsite storage container (often referred to as a shipping container) is an excellent solution for keeping your items secure.

With a number of different storage container sizes available as well as rules on what you can and cannot store, renting a storage container requires a good amount of consideration. ZTERS wants to ensure a seamless onsite storage container delivery, so we’re sharing the most important information to help make the whole process hassle-free.

Here’s what you need to know to prepare for your storage container delivery.

1. Choose the Right Location

The area where you plan to place the storage container should be safe, accessible, and flat. Common placement options include driveways, jobsites, or even streets, but be sure to check local permitting regulations if you plan to place the container on a public road or if it might obstruct traffic (more on that later).

Pro Tip: Measure the area beforehand to confirm the container will fit comfortably. Don’t forget to factor in space for the doors to open fully.

2. Coordinate the Door Placement

Understanding how the container will be positioned is important, especially when it comes to door placement. The direction the doors face can impact how easy it is to access your stored items. Make sure to communicate your preferences to the delivery company well in advance.

For instance, if you need the doors to face a certain direction, the onsite storage container might need to be loaded onto the delivery truck in a specific way. This simple step can prevent delays or complications during drop-off. Check out our other post on things to know about storage containers for more.

Note that there is some variability in container manufacturing so ask your ZTERS account manager about the swing radius of the container door.

3. Schedule Your Onsite Storage Container Delivery Early

Timing is everything when it comes to scheduling a storage container delivery. Once you’ve finalized your rental agreement, deliveries typically take between two to four business days. However, since orders are often on a first-come, first-serve basis, it’s wise to book your container as early as possible. This is especially important during busy seasons when storage containers are in high demand.

Pro Tip: Even if your project is months away, reach out to schedule your container as soon as possible. Early planning helps ensure your container arrives when you need it.

4. Prepare for Rush Deliveries (If Needed)

Sometimes, plans change, and you might need a storage container on short notice. While rush deliveries are often possible, they may come with additional fees. If you find yourself in this situation, communicate with ZTERS to explore available options.

5. Do You Need to Be Present for Delivery?

The good news is you don’t have to be present when your storage container is delivered. By coordinating with your account manager, you can arrange a smooth delivery without needing to be on-site. Ensure all necessary details, like placement and door orientation, are confirmed beforehand to avoid any issues.

6. Confirm Container Permits and Accessibility

If your container will be placed on public property or in an area with strict regulations, ensure that all necessary permits are in place before delivery day. Every city has different requirements, and some may not require a permit at all. You’ll want to navigate your local municipality’s website to determine whether you need a permit (see the Houston Mini-Warehouse permit as an example). You can also get help from a ZTERS account manager.

Lastly, ensure that the path to the placement site is clear and accessible for the delivery truck, including any overhead clearance needs. If the delivery truck is unable to access your site, that could delay your project.

ZTERS Makes Your Onsite Storage Container Delivery Easy

Proper preparation is the key to a successful onsite storage container delivery. What else helps ensure that your onsite container is delivered seamlessly? Working with the right storage container rental company. Give us a call right away so we can create a solution that fulfills your project needs. We can even bundle all your needs into one simple invoice.

Want to read more about onsite storage containers? Our storage container blog archives are a treasure trove of useful information.