Shipping containers are rugged and versatile, but one thing they aren’t is ground-level. With the container floor sitting about 6 inches to a foot above grade, accessing the inside can be a challenge, especially when you’re moving heavy gear or equipment. That’s where a container ramp comes in.
The Basics: What to Consider in a Ramp
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Capacity: What are you rolling in/out? Foot traffic, carts, ATVs, forklifts? The ramp must support the heaviest load you expect.
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Material & durability: Steel vs rubber vs composite: each has trade-offs in cost, longevity, grip, and maintenance.
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Surface & ground under the ramp: Flat concrete works best; if the ground is soft or uneven, that might affect performance.
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Slope & height: The steeper the ramp, the harder it is on equipment and safety. Try to keep the incline manageable.
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Safety features: Chains, lips, anti-slip surfaces, edge guards. These prevent slips, sliding, or ramp shift.
Ramp Options
The 18,000-lb Steel Forklift Ramp
If you’re planning to move heavy pallets or drive equipment directly into your container, this is the heavy-duty option you need. Built from thick checker-plate steel with reinforced ribs, it’s rated to handle up to 18,000 lbs. The ramp hooks securely onto the container’s threshold and comes with safety chains to lock it in place.
This ramp is designed for forklifts, skid steers, and other machinery that would destroy improvised solutions like wood blocks or makeshift inclines. If you’re turning your container into a warehouse or industrial storage unit, the steel forklift ramp is the right tool for the job.
Rubber Container Ramps (2-Pack)
For lighter-duty use, CMW also offers industrial-grade rubber ramps. Each block is compact, UV-resistant, and rated to handle about 2,200 lbs. They’re sold in pairs and can be placed at the container entrance to smooth out the step up.
Because they’re lightweight and easy to move, these rubber ramps are a great choice for ATVs, carts, dollies, or smaller vehicles. They’re also ideal for temporary setups or job sites where you want something you can quickly reposition or store inside the container when not in use.
Choosing the Right Ramp
Think about what you’ll be moving in and out of your container:
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If it’s heavy machinery or pallets on forklifts, go with the steel forklift ramp.
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If it’s lighter equipment, small vehicles, or occasional rolling loads, the rubber ramps will get the job done without the bulk.
For an overview of Container Modification World's ramps, check out this video by The Container Guy.
To see these ramps get put to the test, check out this video by The Container Guy.
