How Much Space Do You Need for Shipping Container Delivery?
Learn how much space you need for a shipping container delivery. Check clearance, driveway width, and truck access before ordering.
BUYING GUIDE
By KD MES USA Team
3/25/20262 min read
How Much Space Do You Need for Shipping Container Delivery?
One of the most important questions before ordering a shipping container is:
“Do I have enough space for delivery?”
Many delivery issues happen simply because there isn’t enough room for the truck to safely drop off the container
Why Space Matters
Shipping containers are delivered using:
Pickup trucks
40ft tilt-bed trailers
These trucks need enough space to:
Enter your property
Position the container
Tilt and unload safely
Without proper space, delivery may be delayed or even fail.
Space Requirements by Container Size
40ft Container
For a standard 40ft container, you should have:
100 – 120 ft of straight clearance space
This allows the truck to:
Drive in
Tilt the trailer
Place the container safely
20ft Container
For a 20ft container, the required space is:
80 – 100 ft of straight clearance space
Even though the container is smaller, the truck still needs room to maneuver.
Driveway Access Requirements
To ensure smooth delivery, please check the following:
✔️ Width
Minimum 10 ft wide driveway
✔️ Height Clearance
Preferred: 14 ft clearance
Minimum: 13 ft (may still work depending on conditions)
Watch out for:
Tree branches 🌳
Power lines ⚡
Roof overhangs
Important Tips Before Delivery
Before placing your order:
✔️ Measure your property carefully
✔️ Check for obstacles (trees, fences, slopes)
✔️ Make sure the ground is stable and level
✔️ Confirm access with your supplier
👉 If you're unsure, it's always best to send photos or ask for guidance before delivery.
📞 Need Help with Delivery Planning?
At KD MES USA, we help customers plan safe and efficient container deliveries across the United States.
Not sure if your space is enough?
Send us your site details, and we’ll guide you step by step.
KD MES USA sources containers directly from manufacturers in Asia, allowing us to offer competitive pricing without unnecessary markups.
In addition, we secure container supply through annual agreements with major shipping lines, ensuring stable availability across key markets.
Established in 1997, with operations in the U.S. since 2007, and an active member of National Portable Storage Association (NPSA) since 2007, we have built strong industry credibility and long-term partnerships.
With ready inventory and consistent supply, we provide reliable container solutions to meet immediate and ongoing demand.
Contact KD MES USA
If you are interested in container trading, one-way leasing, or buy-back solutions, please contact us.
KD MES USA, Inc.
14715 S Western Ave
Gardena, CA 90249
USA
Phone: +1 310-516-9600
Email: usa@kdmes.com