Whether you’re adding a backyard shed, home office, workshop or storage unit, choosing the right location for your portable building is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. While it might seem as simple as “where it fits,” there are several critical factors that can affect everything from the delivery process to the structure’s long-term durability.

At Bestway Portable Buildings Inc., we want every customer to get the most out of their investment. That starts with placing your building in a spot that offers proper support, drainage, clearance and access.

1. Level Ground vs. Sloped Ground

Portable buildings are designed to sit on a stable, level foundation. Placing a structure on sloped or uneven ground can lead to problems such as:

• Doors and windows that won’t open or close properly
• Structural shifting or stress on support beams
• Water runoff issues and premature wear

Before your building is delivered, scout your property for level ground. Use a long level or string level if needed to check for grade differences. Minor slopes can often be corrected with concrete blocks or treated wood shims, but significant slopes may require grading or a gravel pad.

If you're unsure if the spot you want is flat enough for a portable building, contact the Bestway team. We can guide you on what level of slope is manageable and help assess whether a simple fix will work.

2. Avoid Low or Soggy Areas

Water is one of the biggest threats to any structure in the Panama City area. Choosing a location that regularly holds water, floods, or becomes muddy after rain can lead to:

• Rotting of the floor system
• Mold or mildew buildup inside
• Difficult access after storms
• A shifted or sunken foundation over time

Look for high ground or areas with good natural drainage. If your best available space is prone to pooling, your portable building installer may need to add additional gravel or a raised concrete pad to elevate the building and improve water flow away from the site.

3. Ensure Delivery Access

Your new portable building will arrive by truck, usually with the help of a mule skid system or similar machinery for precise placement. That means the route from the road to your site needs to be:

• Wide enough to accommodate the truck or delivery equipment
• Free of obstacles like fences, trees or narrow gates
• Solid enough to support the weight of the building during placement

If you’re working with a tight yard or limited access point, talk to us ahead of time. We may be able to deliver the building in sections or use alternative placement techniques. The more we know about your space, the better we can plan for a smooth delivery.

4. Consider Roof Overhangs and Door Clearance

When choosing your building’s spot, it's not just about having a solid foundation. What's around (and above) the structure matters just as much. When choosing a spot, take into account:

• Roof overhangs that might interfere with trees or walls
• Door swing clearance so doors open fully without hitting fences or landscaping
• Enough room to walk around the building for maintenance or repairs

If you're placing the building near an existing structure like a garage or home, be sure to leave enough buffer space for both airflow and visual appeal.

5. Think About Orientation and Sun Exposure

While not critical for tool sheds and storage structures that you won’t be accessing on a regular basis, the way your building faces can make a big difference in how functional and comfortable it is. For example:

• A north-facing window may bring in cooler light and reduce heat buildup
• Orienting the doors toward your main traffic path makes access more convenient
• Placing the building so it’s shaded during peak afternoon sun can reduce interior temperatures

You may prefer different orientations depending on whether you’re using a portable building for storage, a workshop, a hobby space or an office.

6. Plan for Long-Term Access and Expansion

Lastly, think beyond today. Will you need to run electricity to the building? Would you like to add a ramp or porch in the future? Will surrounding landscaping grow or change? Choose a site that gives you flexibility for future upgrades, wiring or other improvements down the road if that’s something you’re interested in.

Get Expert Help With Portable Buildings in Panama City

At Bestway Portable Buildings Inc., we make it easy to choose, customize and install a portable building that fits your lifestyle and property. Whether you're adding a shed, garage, workshop or office, our team can help with site planning, delivery logistics and long-term durability.

Contact us online to schedule an on-site consultation, or call (850) 747-8974 to explore our full line of customizable portable buildings.