Moving and self-storage
container shuttle
A container shuttle is a short trip that moves a container from one point to another nearby, such as from a yard to a job site, from one address to another, or from a customer site to a storage center. It is a local container relocation, not a long haul.
Why it matters
Operators use the word loosely, so check how a customer or driver means it. A shuttle may mean a repeat run between a yard and a project site, or a single relocation on the same property. Either way, it needs the right truck, such as a tilt-bed or side loader, a driver, a place to set the container down and a plan for access. A common mistake is to price a short shuttle like a full delivery, or to forget that tight sites need a turning radius and overhead clearance. Track shuttle charges separately in the rental agreement so the customer is not surprised.
Read: Container delivery equipment: Tilt-bed, roll-off, side-loader, and crane trucks
Definition source: sasroadsolutions.com
Related terms
tilt-bed truck
A tilt-bed truck has a bed that tilts down toward the ground. A winch pulls a container onto or off the bed. It places a 20 ft or 40 ft container on the ground without a crane or forklift. It is the most common delivery truck in portable storage.
side loader
A side loader is a trailer with two lifting arms that picks up a container, carries it and sets it on the ground or on another trailer. It can lift from the side, so it needs less room at the front or back.
turning radius
Turning radius is the minimum space a vehicle needs to make a turn. A long delivery truck with a trailer needs wide, open space to turn without hitting fences, curbs or buildings. It is often given as a radius or a diameter.
overhead clearance
Overhead clearance is the free vertical space above a road or drop site. Trees, power lines, bridges and roof edges limit it. A delivery truck and container need enough clear height to travel and tilt without contact. Check it along the full route.
pick-up charge
A pick-up charge is a fee for collecting a container. In container leasing, One Way Lease describes it as a one-time fee at the origin depot for releasing a container into the lessee's possession. In portable storage rentals, companies often charge a separate fee to pick up a unit from the customer.
delivery fee
A delivery fee is a charge for bringing a container to the customer's site. Complete Container Services notes that delivery and pickup may be handled separately from the monthly rental. The fee often depends on distance, placement needs and site access.
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