HIAB crane lorry — no separate crane, no groundworks, no fuss. UK-wide delivery via Phil's depot network.
Shipping containers are delivered by HIAB lorry — a truck with a built-in hydraulic crane arm that lifts the container off the vehicle and places it exactly where you need it. No separate crane, no groundwork, no fuss. Phil's team delivers UK-wide, typically within 3–5 working days of order confirmation (remote Scottish Highlands and islands: add 2–3 days).
HIAB stands for Hydrauliska Industri AB — the Swedish manufacturer who invented the lorry-mounted crane. The name is now used as a generic term for any crane truck in the UK container trade. The crane arm is mounted on the rear of the lorry and operated by the driver from the cab. It lifts the container off the flatbed and positions it on your site with no second vehicle required.
This is the standard delivery method for shipping containers in the UK. You don't need to hire a separate mobile crane, prepare a hardstanding for the vehicle, or organise a second crew. Phil's driver does everything.
Order and confirm your site address
Call Phil, agree the container spec and delivered price. Confirm your site address and any access details at this stage.
Phil's team confirms delivery date
Phil's team books the delivery slot and confirms the date with you when it's locked in.
Driver calls 30 minutes out
The driver calls 30 minutes to 1 hour before arrival so you can be on site and ready.
Driver assesses access on arrival
The driver checks the route and siting spot. He'll flag any issues before unloading — not after.
Container lifted and placed
The HIAB arm swings out, lifts the container off the flatbed, and positions it exactly where you've agreed. The driver can rotate it for door orientation if needed.
You sign off — done
Once you're happy with placement, the driver is away. Order confirmed and paid before the lorry leaves the depot — no surprise charges on the day.
Most sites have no problem. Before booking, Phil discusses your access so there are no surprises on the day. Here's what matters:
Width — minimum 3 metres clear
The lorry needs at least 3 metres clear width to drive to the delivery point. Ideally 3.5m or more. Tight access is common — Phil will tell you honestly whether it's workable.
Height — 4 metres clearance
Allow 4 metres clearance for overhead wires, branches, or structures. The crane arm extends upwards during the lift — low obstacles are the most common access problem.
Ground — firm enough to support the lorry
The lorry weighs 20+ tonnes. Tarmac, concrete, or compacted hardcore is ideal. Soft or waterlogged ground can be a problem — mention it when you book and Phil will advise.
Reach — standard arm extends 6–8 metres
The HIAB arm reaches 6–8 metres from the vehicle. If your siting spot is further, let Phil know in advance — options include a longer-reach lorry or repositioning the container drop point.
Someone on site to confirm placement
You or your representative must be present. The container won't be moved once placed — so the driver needs confirmation before he sets it down.
Generally not recommended for a permanent site. Soft ground can sink under the static weight of a container (up to 3 tonnes empty) over time. A temporary hardstanding or railway sleepers under the four corners is the minimum recommended preparation for grass or earth sites.
That said, many short-term site containers sit on grass without issue. Phil's driver will flag any concerns on the day and won't leave you with a container at risk of sinking.
Most UK postcodes
3–5 working days
From order confirmation.
Remote Scottish Highlands & islands
Add 2–3 days
Distance supplement quoted upfront.
Need an exact lead time for your area? See the full HIAB delivery page or call Phil on 020 8226 0007.
