The Importance of Preparation
Before your mobile storage container arrives, the most important thing you can do is prepare your driveway properly. A smooth, safe, and accessible setup not only protects your property but also ensures the delivery process is quick and damage-free.
Whether you’re storing seasonal items, decluttering your home, or managing a move, mobile storage delivery requires space, stability, and safety awareness. At Big Box Mobile Storage, we’ve seen how just a few minutes of prep can make all the difference between an easy drop-off and an unnecessary headache.
The Customer Point of View
We often see that customers don’t realize how much a little preparation can simplify their delivery until they go through it themselves. That said they are not alone. Typically, once a Big Box container is ordered, our delivery team calls ahead to confirm space and access. Most homeowners are not aware how much a quick talk can make a difference. We remind them to clear their driveway of vehicles, bins, or other obstacles and, in some cases. We talk with them about if place wooden planks beneath the container to protect asphalt are needed or desired. We cover all the bases to make sure the delivery will be the best drop it can be.
When everything is ready, the result is almost always the same — a smooth, accurate, and stress-free delivery. Containers are positioned exactly where the customer needs them, and loading can begin right away. In our experience, working together to ensure a bit of thoughtful preparation truly makes the difference.
Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Your Driveway
At Big Box Mobile Storage, we aim to make delivery day stress-free. Here’s how you can prepare your driveway for a flawless container drop-off:
Step 1: Check Space and Accessibility
Before your delivery date, measure your driveway.
- Length: A 20-foot container requires at least 40 feet of clear space for the delivery truck to safely position and lower it.
- Width: Ensure 10–12 feet of width for maneuvering.
- Height Clearance: Verify there are no low branches, overhead wires, or carports that could interfere.
Pro Tip: If your driveway is on an incline or close to a busy road, notify Big Box Mobile Storage in advance. Our team can assess alternative placements.
Step 2: Clear the Area Completely
Remove all obstacles from the delivery zone:
- Vehicles
- Garbage or recycling bins
- Lawn ornaments or planters
- Bicycles, toys, or temporary structures
A clear space allows the driver to position the container accurately and safely.
Pro Tip: Mark the preferred spot with chalk or cones to guide placement.
Step 3: Inspect and Prepare the Surface
Your driveway surface plays a big role in container stability.
- Paved or Concrete Driveways: Generally ideal for containers. Sweep away gravel, snow, or debris to ensure an even surface.
- Asphalt Driveways: Consider placing wooden planks or 2x4s under the container corners to distribute weight and prevent marks.
- Gravel or Dirt Surfaces: These can shift or sink under load. If this is your only option, discuss ground reinforcement with our delivery team.
Pro Tip: Avoid soft or waterlogged ground—it can cause container tilt and make pickup difficult.
Step 4: Plan for Access and Safety
Delivery trucks need a clear path from the road to the driveway. Make sure:
- No vehicles block the street entrance.
- Neighbours are informed if access crosses shared property.
- Children and pets are kept indoors during delivery.
A safe environment protects both the crew and your property.
Step 5: Confirm Your Delivery Details
Big Box Mobile Storage will always contact you ahead of delivery. Confirm:
- The exact drop-off date and time.
- Your preferred container position (door-facing house, street, or side).
- Any special instructions (narrow driveways, slopes, obstacles).
We handle the heavy lifting, but your communication ensures everything goes according to plan.
4. Expert Voice: Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring uneven ground: Containers need level support to prevent door jams.
- Forgetting clearance space: Delivery arms and tilt beds need room to operate safely.
- Not preparing for rain or snow: Moisture can affect traction—clear ice and debris before drop-off.
- Skipping confirmation: Always double-check your delivery time to avoid conflicts or obstructions.
Each of these issues can be prevented with a quick inspection and five minutes of preparation.
5. Company Voice: Why Big Box Mobile Storage Makes It Easy
At Big Box Mobile Storage, we pride ourselves on reliability and convenience. Our drivers are trained to navigate challenging driveways and ensure safe placement every time.
From home renovations to moving and seasonal storage, our containers are weatherproof, secure, and built for peace of mind. Preparing your driveway ensures that the Big Box experience stays smooth from delivery to pickup.
Ready to schedule your container delivery?
Contact Big Box Mobile Storage today to book your drop-off and get personalized guidance on your setup.
Summary Checklist: Driveway Preparation at a Glance
Task | Why It Matters |
Measure space (40 ft long × 12 ft wide × 14 ft tall) | Ensures truck access and placement |
Clear vehicles and obstacles | Prevents delays or property damage |
Check surface level and condition | Stabilizes container during loading |
Use boards for protection on asphalt | Avoids pressure marks or dents |
Confirm delivery details | Ensures timely and accurate drop-off |
Keep pets and kids inside | Maintains safety during delivery |
Final Thoughts
Preparing your driveway for container delivery is simple, but essential. With just a few quick steps, you’ll protect your property, save time, and help your delivery team do their job safely.
At Big Box Mobile Storage, we’re more than a storage provider, we’re your moving partner. Together, we’ll make sure your storage container experience is fast, safe, and stress-free from start to finish.
