Yesterday, one of our Container Solutions Sideloader trucks became bogged during a container delivery to a new construction site in Officer, Victoria. The client had recently laid down fresh gravel, but beneath it was soft ground that had not yet been compacted.
As the loaded sideloader (grossing nearly 43 ton) reversed into position, the steer wheels sank, and the drive tyres lost traction — leaving the truck immobilised mid-delivery. With help from a recovery team, the unit was eventually extracted, but it caused unnecessary downtime and additional costs.
This incident highlights an important point for anyone booking container transport with us: ground conditions must be suitable for heavy vehicles.
Site Preparation Is the Client’s Responsibility
Before we dispatch a sideloader or tilt-tray truck, clients must ensure:
- The surface is solid, compacted, and level.
- There’s clear, unobstructed access for semi-trailers up to 19 m long.
- There is adequate turning space and no soft spots, slopes, or unstable areas.
Our sideloaders are designed to handle heavy loads safely and efficiently, but even a small patch of soft ground can result in the truck sinking, spinning, or becoming stuck — which immediately stops the job.
Important: Recovery Costs Are Payable by the Client
As clearly stated in our Terms & Conditions, if a delivery or pickup vehicle becomes bogged, stuck, or immobilised on your property, the full cost of recovery is payable by the client. This includes the use of towing, cranes, or other recovery equipment required to remove the vehicle safely.
Clients can read the full policy and site requirements here:
Container Solutions – Sideloader Terms & Conditions
We encourage all customers to review this document before booking, especially if the delivery site is a construction area, rural block, or unsealed yard.
Avoiding Delays and Extra Costs
To avoid issues like the Officer job:
- Compact and test freshly spread gravel or crushed rock before delivery.
- Avoid scheduling deliveries after heavy rain or when the site is still curing.
- If unsure, send us photos or a short video of the delivery area — we’ll assess suitability in advance.
At Container Solutions, safety and efficiency are our top priorities. We’re committed to completing every container delivery and relocation across Melbourne and regional Victoria smoothly — but stable access is key.
If you’re unsure about your site’s suitability for a sideloader or tilt delivery, contact our team before booking. It’s always better to check first than to get bogged down later.
Based in Brooklyn, Victoria – Delivering Statewide