--- title: "winch: Definition and Meaning | NPSA" description: "A winch is a mechanical device that pulls in or lets out a rope or cable on a drum." url: https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/winch publisher: National Portable Storage Association (NPSA) phone: "(816) 960-6552" email: info@npsa.org --- Delivery equipment # winch A winch is a mechanical device that pulls in or lets out a rope or cable on a drum. On a tilt-bed truck, a winch pulls a container up onto the bed or lets it slide down to the ground in a controlled way. ## Why it matters The winch is the key part of a tilt-bed delivery. It controls the container as it slides on or off the bed. Operators inspect the cable, drum, brake and controls often, since a failure can drop or damage a box. Cable wear and kinks are a common hazard. A common mistake is to run a winch at the edge of its rating or to pull at a bad angle. Another is to leave a worn cable in service because it still works. Follow the maker's inspection schedule, replace worn parts and train drivers. Record each inspection. Keep people clear of the cable line. [Read: Container delivery equipment: Tilt-bed, roll-off, side-loader, and crane trucks](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/guides/container-delivery-equipment) Definition source: [en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Winch) ## 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.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/tilt-bed-truck)[### roll-off truck A roll-off truck is a truck with a cable hoist and tilting rails that pulls a container or dumpster onto its frame and rolls it off. Roll-off trailers also exist. Some operators use them to move storage containers. It is common in waste hauling and some container work.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/roll-off-truck)[### skid A skid is a steel runner or base fitted to a container so it can be towed, dragged or slid across a yard. Quick-attach skids bolt to the box. Oilfield skids are a heavier, full version. The word also has other uses in trade.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/skid)[### container jack A container jack is a portable lifting device that raises one end or corner of a container. It lets crews lift a box off the ground, level it or slide wheels or skids under it. Hydraulic jack sets are common.](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/container-jack)[### 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)[### 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) [All 220 terms](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/glossary) For the industry ## Grow your portable storage business with NPSA Members get event rates, the Community Forum, the directory listing and leads from this website. [Join NPSA](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/join-us)[See member benefits](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/member-benefits) Need storage? ## Get quotes from NPSA member companies Tell us what you need and where. A member company that serves your area will contact you. [Request a quote](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/request-a-quote)[Which unit do I need?](https://npsa.preview.multisites.ai/find-storage)