Materials to Use When Placing a Shipping Container on Your Property

Thinking about getting a shipping container for your backyard? Whether you’re using it for storage, a workshop, or a DIY guest house, the first thing you’ll need to figure out is what to set it on. A solid base will keep your container level, dry, and in good shape for the long haul. Here are five practical options—plus where you can find the materials or hire someone to help.

Level Ground

If you’re looking for the easiest and cheapest way to set up your shipping container, you might be able to get away with just placing it on level ground. This works best if the ground is solid and the container is only going to be there temporarily. You’ll want to make sure the area is packed down and as flat as possible. You can do it yourself with some basic tools or bring in a landscaper to help smooth things out. Just keep in mind this setup doesn’t do much to protect against moisture or rust over time.

Cement Foundation

If you’re going for something more permanent—like a shipping container home, office, or workshop—a cement foundation is your best bet. It gives you a stable, long-lasting base that can handle the weight and weather. You can hire a local contractor to take care of the whole thing, or if you’re handy, buy bags of ready-mix cement from stores like Lowe’s or Home Depot and save some money by doing it yourself.

Concrete Blocks

Concrete blocks are an inexpensive option to lift your container off the ground. Most people put them under the corners and maybe one or two in the middle for extra support. You can pick these up at any big-box hardware store or building supply yard. Just make sure you place them on solid, level ground so they don’t shift later. You’ll want to place the back two blocks and have the others ready when our driver arrives to place them as the shipping container is lowered off the trailer. 

Gravel Bed

Want a low-maintenance option? A gravel bed might be the way to go. All you need is a few inches of compacted crushed stone spread out over the spot where your shipping container will sit. It helps with drainage, keeps things level, and is relatively affordable. You can order gravel from a landscaping supply company, and if you’re not up for spreading and tamping it yourself, call a local landscaper to take on the job.

Railroad Ties

Railroad ties are a very popular option. You’ll need at least one on each end of the container and one to two in the center to create a solid, raised platform for your container to sit on. You’ll want to place just the back one before our driver arrives and slide the others into place as the container slides off the back of the trailer. Railroad ties are available at most gardening supply centers, lumberyards, and home improvement stores.

No matter how you plan to use your shipping container, giving it a good foundation is key. Whether you set it on level ground or on something more permanent like a cement foundation, there are plenty of options that fit different budgets and needs. Questions? Ask your sales representative for advice.