Shipping containers are tough, weatherproof, and super handy—whether you’re turning one into a workshop, storage space, or even a tiny home. But before you get to the fun part, you’ve got to move the thing! If you’ve got a tractor and some open space, you can do it yourself without breaking the bank.
This guide walks you through the safest, easiest way to move a shipping container with a tractor—without wrecking your land or your equipment.
Is Your Tractor Even Strong Enough?
Before you start yanking on a 5-ton steel box, check if your tractor’s up for it.
- Horsepower (HP) matters.
- A 20-footer (empty, flat ground)? A 50–70 HP tractor might handle it.
- A 40-footer? You’ll want 100+ HP, especially if the ground’s uneven.
- Weight balance is key. If your tractor’s too light in the rear, it’ll either spin its wheels or tip. Add weights (wheel weights, filled tires, or rear ballast) if needed.
- Traction = non-negotiable. 4WD is best. Mud or soft dirt? Wider tires or chains help.
Pro tip: If your tractor struggles to pull a full hay wagon uphill, it ain’t moving a loaded container.
Prepping the Container (So It Doesn’t Fight You)
Empty it. Seriously. Even a "little bit of stuff" adds up fast. You don’t want 2,000 lbs of tools sliding around mid-move.
Get it off the ground. If it’s sitting in dirt, jack up each corner and slide wood blocks or railroad ties underneath. This:
- Makes attaching chains easier
- Stops it from digging into the ground like an anchor
- Prevents rust from moisture buildup
Scout your route.
- Clear rocks, stumps, and junk in the way.
- Avoid mud pits or steep hills unless you enjoy getting stuck.
- If the ground’s soft, lay down planks or gravel for traction.
Rollers Are Your Best Friend
Dragging a container bare? Good luck. Rollers make it 10x easier.
What to use:
- Steel pipes (2–4″ thick) – Best for heavy loads.
- PVC pipes – Only for light containers on smooth concrete.
How it works:
- Slide 3–4 pipes under the container.
- Pull forward until the back pipe pops out.
- Move that pipe to the front. Repeat.
It’s like rolling a giant beer keg—just way heavier.
Hooking It Up (Without Breaking Anything)
If you’re dragging it:
- Use grade-70 chains or heavy straps—not some old rope from the barn.
- Hook to the corner castings (those reinforced square holes).
- Attach to the tractor’s drawbar or a solid hitch point—not some flimsy bracket.
If you’re lifting one end:
- Front-end loaders or forks can lift part of the container while the rest rides on rollers.
- Don’t try to lift the whole thing unless you’ve got a telehandler or crane.
Biggest mistake? Letting the container twist while moving. Keep it straight, or you’ll bend the doors or warp the frame.
Moving It (Without Dying)
- Go slow. This isn’t a race. Sudden jerks = broken chains or a runaway container.
- Have a spotter. Someone walking alongside can warn you about ditches, stumps, or the container shifting.
- Avoid hills if possible. If you must cross a slope:
- Keep the container low to the ground.
- Use wheel chocks in case it starts sliding.
- If it feels sketchy, stop and rethink.
Safety Stuff (Because Hospitals Are Expensive)
- Wear boots, gloves, and a hard hat. Steel-toe preferred.
- No bystanders. Keep kids/pets far away.
- Inspect chains and hitches for cracks or rust before pulling.
- Don’t work alone. If something goes wrong, you’ll want help.
FAQs
“Can my tractor actually do this?”
Maybe. If it struggles with a plow, it’ll hate a container. Start small (20-footer, empty) and see how it handles.
“What’s the cheapest way to move a 40-footer?”
It costs between $500 and 2,500 , depending on distance.
“Can I drag it with my truck?”
Short distances, maybe—if it’s a heavy-duty truck and you use rollers. Otherwise, you’ll tear up the ground and possibly the container.
“What if I don’t have steel pipes for rollers?”
Railroad ties or thick hardwood logs can work in a pinch, but steel’s way better.
Bottom Line
Moving a container with a tractor isn’t rocket science—just heavy, slow, and kinda nerve-wracking. Prep well, take zero risks, and you’ll save a ton over hiring a pro.
Now go get that container where it needs to be. And maybe buy some extra chains.
