Shipping Container Groundworks & Base Preparation: A Complete Guide

When planning the delivery of a shipping container, one of the most important steps you can take is preparing the ground. Known as shipping container groundworks, this process ensures your container has a stable and secure foundation. Whether you are buying a container for storage, hiring one for temporary use, or investing in a container conversion project, proper ground preparation for shipping containers is essential for long-term durability and performance.

Why Container Groundworks Are Essential

A shipping container may look indestructible but placing it directly onto uneven or unsuitable ground can cause serious problems. Investing time in preparation has several key benefits:

Prevents rust and corrosion – good drainage avoids water pooling under the container.
Keeps the container level – reducing movement that could damage contents or compromise converted units such as offices, workshops, or welfare facilities.
Improves door function – ensuring they open and close properly without sticking.
Allows safe container stacking – making the most of valuable space on your site.
Protects your investment – extending the lifespan of your container and minimising costly repairs.

In short, container groundworks not only improve durability and usability, but also help safeguard your stock, equipment, or workspace.

How to Prepare the Ground for a Shipping Container

1. Choose a Level Site

The first step is to choose a flat, level site for your container. Uneven ground can put stress on the structure, cause the doors to misalign, and lead to gradual shifting over time.

Once you’ve identified a suitable location, level the ground as much as possible. For added stability, place concrete slabs or railway sleepers under each corner of the container. This creates a sturdy base while ensuring good air circulation underneath.

Pro Tip: Keep a few spare slabs or packers nearby. Delivery drivers often use them to make last-minute adjustments so that container doors open smoothly on installation.

2. Install a Concrete Hardstanding Base for Long-Term Use

If you expect your shipping container to stay on-site for a long period, a concrete hardstanding base is the best option. While sleepers and slabs provide adequate support in the short term, hardstanding offers significant long-term advantages:

Provides even weight distribution
Improves drainage and reduces rust risk
Prevents ground settlement and sinking
Allows safer stacking of multiple containers

A concrete base is a worthwhile investment for anyone planning to use containers for years — particularly if you are converting them into offices, workshops, or storage units.

3. Support Additional Weight from Container Conversions

Container conversions are increasingly popular, but adding doors, windows, or shelving introduces uneven weight distribution. If not supported correctly, this can cause the container to warp or sink.

By using ground rails or reinforced foundations, you can spread the weight evenly, maintaining both the stability of the container and the safety of its contents. This is especially important for long-term conversions used as commercial spaces.

4. Avoid Drain Covers and Access Points

One common question is whether it’s acceptable to place a container over a drain cover. The answer is no. While containers are portable, frequent movement will damage your groundwork and reduce stability. It’s best to choose a site that doesn’t obstruct access points or utilities.

Local Shipping Container Groundworks in the West Midlands & Across the UK

If you’re planning to install a shipping container in Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Dudley, Walsall, or anywhere in the West Midlands, our team can advise on the most suitable groundwork. From selecting the right type of base to ensuring correct weight distribution, we help you maximise the safety and lifespan of your container.

We also provide nationwide delivery, meaning wherever you are in the UK, our experts can support your project.

Common Questions About Container Groundworks

Can I stack containers without groundwork?

Stacking is only safe with a solid, level foundation. Groundworks ensure containers sit securely and reduce the risk of instability.

Do I always need a concrete base?

Not always. For short-term use, slabs or railway sleepers will usually provide sufficient stability. For long-term or converted containers, a concrete hardstanding is strongly recommended.

What happens if I skip groundwork?

Placing a container directly onto uneven or damp ground risks rust, door problems, movement, and structural stress. Skipping groundwork often leads to higher costs later.

Why Choose S Jones Containers for Advice & Supply?

At S Jones Containers, we’ve been supplying and converting containers for over 40 years. We understand how vital correct installation is, which is why our team always offers expert guidance on shipping container groundworks and base preparation.

Looking to buy a shipping container for storage or conversion?
Need to hire a shipping container for a project or temporary use?
Want expert advice on the best base for your site?

We can help.

Get in Touch Today

Preparing your site properly before delivery is the best way to ensure a smooth, problem-free installation. Whether you need a short-term storage container or a fully converted container building, our experts will guide you through every step — from choosing the right size to advising on the best groundwork solution.

Call us today on 01922 741751 or request a free quote online. Our team is ready to help you get the most out of your shipping container.