Container Delivery & Site Preparation Guide
We deliver shipping containers to all 50 states with professional placement. Learn about delivery options, timelines, site preparation requirements, and foundation choices to ensure a smooth, successful delivery.
Site preparation — who does what
Site Readiness: Prepared by You — or by Our Crew
To be clear: site preparation is done by you, the customer. Outback does not perform site work automatically — your delivery covers transporting and placing the container, not preparing the ground. In her on-site video, Donna Jean Graham explains exactly what you need to do to prepare your site, from clearing and leveling the placement area to confirming safe truck access before delivery day.
Prefer to leave it to us? You can pay Outback to prepare the site for you as an arranged service — we come out and do the work. The photo shows one of these arranged projects: Donald J. Graham reviewing the site with the client while our crew forms, levels, and finishes the concrete pad. Final foundation design, reinforcement, drainage, and permits remain subject to the project requirements and the appropriate local professionals.
- A level, compacted placement area, prepared by you
- Clear truck access and overhead clearance on delivery day
- Permits, drainage, and utilities arranged before delivery
How Delivery Works
Delivering a jobsite office? Review our shipping container office site-prep checklist before your delivery date.
Order
Place your order online or by phone. Confirm container type, size, and condition.
Coordinate
Our logistics team contacts you within 1 business day to arrange delivery details and schedule.
Transport
Container ships via tilt-bed or flatbed truck with a professional driver trained in container placement.
Placement
Professional placement at your desired location. Driver ensures level positioning before departure.
Delivery Options
Free Standard Delivery
Complimentary ground delivery — included at no cost. Handling 1-3 business days · Transit 7-12 business days. Available throughout the continental United States. No crane, forklift, or customer unloading equipment required.
Tilt Bed Truck — Express
Flat rate ($1,500 for container homes). Handling 1-3 business days · Transit 4-7 business days. Faster express transit than free standard (7-12 business days). Container is tilted off the truck directly onto the ground — no crane required.
Flatbed Truck — Express
Flat rate ($2,500 for container homes). Handling 1-3 business days · Transit 4-7 business days — express transit. Used for Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and mainland sites where tilt-bed access is not available. Outback coordinates and provides all required offloading equipment.
Delivery Timelines by Region
We deliver to all 50 states. Timelines vary by region and site accessibility.
West Coast
CA, OR, WA, NV, AZ
Mountain
CO, UT, MT, ID, WY, NM
Midwest
IL, OH, MI, MN, WI, IN, IA, MO
South
TX, FL, GA, NC, SC, TN, AL, LA
Northeast
NY, PA, NJ, MA, CT, ME
Plains
KS, NE, SD, ND, OK, AR
Site Preparation Guide
Proper site preparation ensures safe delivery, level placement, and long-term structural integrity. Follow our comprehensive guide below.
Choose the Right Foundation
A proper foundation prevents settling, moisture damage, and door misalignment. Choose based on your intended use and placement duration.
Concrete Pad
Most permanent and stable option. Best for long-term or permanent placement. Requires pouring concrete in advance.
Pour 4–6" reinforced concrete pad, slightly larger than the container footprint.
Gravel Bed
Cost-effective with excellent drainage. Good for semi-permanent placement. Quick to prepare.
Lay 4–6" of compacted 3/4" minus gravel on level ground.
Railroad Ties
Elevates container off the ground, preventing moisture damage. Durable and long-lasting.
Place treated railroad ties at each corner and every 8ft along the length.
Concrete Blocks
Quick, adjustable, and budget-friendly. Ideal for temporary placement or leveling uneven ground.
Place solid concrete blocks at corners and mid-points; level with shims.
Site Preparation Steps
Choose Location
Select a level area with adequate access for the delivery truck.
Clear Site
Remove debris, vegetation, rocks, and any overhead obstructions.
Level Ground
Ensure the surface is level using a spirit or laser level for accuracy.
Compact Soil
Compact the soil to prevent settling. Add gravel or pour concrete as needed.
Install Foundation
Place your chosen foundation — concrete pad, gravel, ties, or blocks.
Final Check
Verify access path, clearance, and overall site readiness for delivery.
Access Requirements
Site Clearance Guide
Always allow 3–5ft clearance on all sides for maintenance access and door swing.
Permit & Compliance Checklist
Delivery FAQ
About Our Company
Outback Shipping Containers LLC is a registered, licensed, and insured business based in Houston, Texas. We deliver nationwide with full compliance with all consumer protection and shipping policies.
Ready to Schedule Your Delivery?
Get a free delivery quote or browse our nationwide inventory of ready-to-ship containers. Our logistics team is standing by.