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Moving a shipping container can seem daunting, especially if you need access to heavy equipment like cranes, forklifts, or winches. However, you can use some simple techniques and tools to move a shipping container without a lot of equipment. In this article, you’ll explore some of these methods.
Use a Tilt Bed Trailer
A tilt bed trailer is one of the simplest ways to move a shipping container without heavy equipment. This type of trailer has a hydraulic system that allows the trailer bed to tilt up and down. To move a shipping container with a tilt bed trailer, you’ll need to have the trailer backed up to the container with the bed in the down position. Then, you can attach the container to the trailer using chains or straps and slowly raise the bed until the container is lifted off the ground. Once the container is securely attached to the trailer, you can drive it to its destination.
Pros
- Relatively easy and affordable to rent or buy.
- It can be used with minimal training or experience.
- Can handle heavier loads compared to some other methods.
- May be maneuvered into tight spaces.
Cons
- Not suitable for moving containers over rough terrain or up steep grades.
- Need access to a flat surface for loading and unloading.
- Requires additional equipment like chains or straps to secure the container.
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2trtUfEwhYM
Flatbed Trailer
Another option for moving a shipping container without heavy equipment is to use a flatbed trailer. This type of trailer has a flat surface with no sides or roof, making loading and unloading large items like shipping containers easy. To move a shipping container with a flatbed trailer, you’ll need to have the trailer backed up to the container with the flatbed level on the ground. Then, you can attach the container to the trailer using chains or straps and drive it to its destination.
Pros
- Need minimal training or experience.
- Used to move other large objects besides shipping containers.
- Can handle heavier loads compared to some other methods.
Cons
- Requires access to a flat surface for loading and unloading.
- It may require a more extended trailer compared to a tilt bed trailer.
- Requires additional equipment like chains or straps to secure the container.
Use Rollers
If you can’t access a trailer, you can also use rollers to move a shipping container. Rollers are large metal pipes that are placed under the container and used to roll it along the ground. To use rollers, you’ll need a team of people to help you position the rollers under the container and push it along. This method is more labor-intensive than a trailer, but it can be effective if you need access to heavy equipment.
Pros
- Easily usable without heavy equipment or machinery.
- Can be used on uneven terrain.
- Mostly need minimal training or experience.
Cons
- Requires a team of people to move the container.
- Slow and labor-intensive.
- Difficult to maneuver around tight corners or obstacles.
A Skid Steer Loader
If you can access a skid steer loader, you can also use this equipment to move a shipping container. A skid steer loader is a small, maneuverable piece of heavy equipment that can be used to lift and move heavy objects. To use a skid steer loader to move a shipping container, you’ll need to attach chains or straps to the container and then use the loader to lift and move it to its destination.
Pros
- Can be used to move other heavy objects besides shipping containers.
- Can handle uneven terrain and steep grades.
- Can be maneuvered into tight spaces.
Cons
- Requires specialized training and experience to operate safely.
- More expensive to rent or buy.
- Need to be able to handle heavier loads compared to some other methods.
Use Leverage
Using leverage is one of the simplest ways to move a shipping container. You can use metal bars, wooden beams, or pipes to create a lever system that will lift the container off the ground and allow you to move it. First, you’ll need to find a sturdy object to use as a fulcrum, such as a concrete block or large rock. Then, you can place your lever under the container and use your body weight to lift it. You can move the container to its new location with a few people working together.
Pros
- Low-cost
- It can be done with materials readily available at most hardware stores.
- The method can work well for moving containers short distances on flat surfaces.
Cons
- Moving a container with leverage requires considerable physical effort and may only be suitable for some.
- The method is not recommended for moving containers over long distances or uneven terrain.
Use Skates or Dollies
Another way to move a shipping container without heavy equipment is to use skates or dollies. These tools are wheeled platforms that you can place under the container, making driving easier. To use skates or dollies, you’ll need to put them under each corner of the container and secure them with straps or chains. Then, you can use your body weight to push the container in the desired direction. Skates or dollies are ideal for moving containers short distances on flat surfaces.
Pros
- Skates and dollies are relatively affordable and easy to use.
- They can be used on flat surfaces, making moving a shipping container much easier.
- This method is ideal for moving containers short distances.
Cons
- Skates and dollies can be challenging to maneuver over rough or uneven terrain.
- They may need to be more suitable for moving containers over long distances.
Use Hydraulic Jacks
You can use hydraulic jacks if you need to lift the container off the ground. These jacks can be purchased or rented from most hardware stores and efficiently lift heavy objects. To use hydraulic jacks, you’ll need to place them under the corners of the container and pump them until the container is lifted off the ground. Then, you can use skates or dollies to move the container to its new location.
Pros
- Hydraulic jacks can easily lift heavy objects, making them an efficient method for moving a shipping container.
- They can be rented or purchased from most hardware stores.
- Hydraulic jacks can lift the container off the ground, allowing it to be moved with skates or dollies.
Cons
- It can be expensive to purchase or rent.
- They require a flat, stable surface to work effectively.
- Hydraulic jacks can be time-consuming, requiring the jacks to be pumped manually.
Use a Tractor or Bulldozer
If you can access a tractor or bulldozer, you can use these machines to move a shipping container. Attach chains or straps to the container and use the machine to lift and move it. Tractors and bulldozers are ideal for moving containers over long distances and rough terrain.
Pros
- Tractors and bulldozers are powerful machines moving shipping containers over long distances and rough terrain.
- They can save time and effort compared to other methods.
- This method is ideal for moving multiple containers at once.
Cons
- Using a tractor or bulldozer requires experience and training to operate safely.
- These machines can be expensive to purchase or rent.
- They may need to be more suitable for moving containers in tight spaces.
Hire a Professional Moving Company
If you need help moving a shipping container alone or access to the necessary equipment, you can always hire a professional company. These companies have the tools and expertise to move your container safely and efficiently.
Pros
- Hiring a professional moving company takes the physical effort out of moving a shipping container.
- These companies have the expertise and equipment to move containers safely and efficiently.
- They can handle all aspects of the move, from loading and unloading to transportation.
Cons
- Hiring a professional moving company can be expensive, especially for long-distance moves.
- It may take longer to schedule and coordinate with the moving company.
- There needs to be more control over the process when hiring a professional moving company.
Bottom Line
Moving a container without heavy equipment is possible with various techniques, including leverage, skates, hydraulic jacks, a tractor, or a professional moving company. These options are helpful for businesses involved in commercial freight shipping, who may need access to heavy equipment. With the right tools and expertise, shipping containers can be moved safely and efficiently to their desired location.
