How are shipping containers delivered in Australia?
Shipping containers are delivered across Australia by truck, or by a combination of rail and road for longer distances. Container Traders has built a nationwide network of local transporters to deliver shipping containers to homes, farms and businesses in every state and territory. Whether you’re in suburban Perth or remote Queensland, we handle the logistics so your shipping container arrives without the hassle.
This guide covers how our deliveries work, what they cost, and how to prepare your site before your container arrives.
Compare shipping container delivery options
Container Traders delivers shipping containers via one of four truck types. Our container specialists will match you with the right option based on your site access and where you need the shipping container placed.
How much does shipping container delivery cost?
As of January 2026, shipping container delivery starts from $430 for inner metro areas. Regional pricing is calculated per kilometre from our nearest depot. Final pricing depends on distance, truck type, and whether the delivery is a standard metro or regional route. In some cases, our team can find backload opportunities to reduce your delivery cost even further.
Looking for a hire container delivery? Container hire includes two transport movements: one to deliver your container and one to collect it when your hire period ends.
*Delivery prices are indicative only (ex GST). Contact Container Traders on 1300 89 89 70 for current rates.
Where your shipping container can be placed
If there’s space in front or behind the container placement
If there’s enough space, a tilt tray unloads the container and lets the truck drive forward smoothly.
If space is limited in front or behind the delivery area
In tight spaces, a side loader lifts the container from the truck’s side and places it securely beside the vehicle.
If your need an angled placement or obstacles to lift the container over
For angled placements or when obstacles are in the way, a Hiab crane is used to safely position the container on the landing pad.
Recent shipping container deliveries across Australia
How to prepare for your container delivery
Prepare your landing area
Your container needs a stable, level surface to sit on. The surface matters more than most people expect, because an uneven base can put pressure on the door hinges and make them difficult to open over time.
Check your site access
Delivery trucks are large and heavy, especially loaded with a container. Walk your access route from the street to the landing area and check the following:
If your access is unsealed or conditions are wet, let us know ahead of time so we can plan the right approach. Any recovery costs from poor access are the customer’s responsibility.
Clear the delivery zone
The more room the driver has to work with, the faster and safer the delivery will be. Before delivery day, clear the path from your entry point to the landing area.
Decide on your door orientation
This is one detail that catches people off guard. The direction your doors face needs to be confirmed before loading, because it determines how the container sits on the truck. Think about how you’ll access the container day to day, and whether the truck will need to reverse in.
Not sure which way works best? Our team can help you work it out based on your site layout. Just let us know when you get your estimate.
Be ready on delivery day
Our transport operator will contact you with an estimated arrival time before delivery. From there, it’s straightforward:
Our quote covers up to 30 minutes for unloading. If you need to reschedule, let us know at least 24 hours in advance to avoid additional fees.
Shipping Container Delivery FAQ’s
Get a Shipping Container Delivery quote
We’re happy to help. Fill out the form below and one of the team will get back to you, or if you’d prefer to talk it through, give us a call.
Call our sales team
Speak directly with a container expert by calling 1300 89 89 70
Email us
Send your questions to: [email protected]
