---
title: "site preparation: Definition and Meaning | NPSA"
description: "Site preparation is the work done on a spot before a container arrives."
url: https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/site-preparation
publisher: National Portable Storage Association (NPSA)
phone: "(816) 960-6552"
email: info@npsa.org
---

Site and permits

# site preparation

Site preparation is the work done on a spot before a container arrives. It includes clearing the access path, checking overhead room, making the ground firm and fairly level, and sometimes adding a gravel or stone base. The goal is a safe drop and a unit that sits flat.

## Why it matters

A good site lets the truck reach the spot, place the unit and leave without getting stuck. NWR Storage Containers lists a clear driveway, room to turn, overhead clearance, firm ground and good drainage as basics. A common mistake is to prepare only the final spot and forget the path to it. Another is to ignore soft or wet ground, which can trap a loaded truck. Operators often send customers a short checklist. Customers who skip the steps may face a failed delivery, a return trip fee or damaged landscaping.

[Read: How to prepare your site for a storage container delivery](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/guides/site-preparation-for-container-delivery)

Definition source: [nwrcontainers.com](https://nwrcontainers.com/how-to-prepare-your-site-for-delivery-placement-of-a-container/)

## Related terms

[### delivery access Delivery access is the space and route a truck needs to reach the drop spot. It includes the road, driveway, gates, turning room and overhead clearance. XCaliber Container gives a guide of about 10 feet of width on each side of the container and 13 feet of overhead clearance.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/delivery-access)[### level ground Level ground is a flat, firm surface without noticeable slope or dips. XCaliber Container advises that a site for a container should have level, firm ground free of pooling water and with few tree roots. Level ground helps placement and prevents tilting or sinking.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/level-ground)[### gravel pad A gravel pad is a prepared base of crushed stone or gravel placed on the ground for a container to sit on. Conexwest calls a compacted gravel pad one of the most practical base options for many storage containers because it improves drainage and is generally easier to install than concrete.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/gravel-pad)[### compacted base A compacted base is a layer of soil or crushed stone that has been pressed down so it is firm and stable. It sits under a container to carry the weight and resist settling. Conexwest notes that some sites need compaction, stone, piers or professional soil review before placement.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/compacted-base)[### utility locate A utility locate is the marking of buried utility lines before digging. In the U.S., 811 is the free national before-you-dig service. A caller asks for the approximate location of buried lines to be marked with paint or flags so no one hits a line by accident.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/utility-locate)[### 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.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/turning-radius)

[All 220 terms](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary)

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