When we say ‘Accessorize it’ we’re not talking about your outfit. We’re talking about making your newly purchased shipping container as functional as possible for your specific needs. Whether you’re outfitting it to be an office, home, garage, or just simply just for storage – you should know you have a lot of options for add-ons and customization.
In this article we’ll be breaking down some of the most common (and most useful) accessories for shipping containers:
Since your shipping container will likely remain outside, it’s highly recommended that you invest in some additional security to protect your belongings. Here are a few examples of the different types of locks we recommend:
While you can secure your shipping container with any old lock, you’ll probably want to invest in one with some added security. Regular locks can be exposed to bolt cutters, allowing relatively easy access to thieves. This is why we highly recommend purchasing a lockbox!
A lock box is covered on 3 sides so that only the bottom portion of the lock is exposed (where you insert the key). Some models will require you to weld them directly onto the container, the lock boxes we carry at Coast Containers do not require any additional welding and are just bolted on. If you’re looking for a shipping container lock box in Canada, check them out here.
Another great shipping container lock is the ‘Sobo Lock’, these locks have a unique design featuring a high-security shackle with a unique key system that is extremely difficult to pick or duplicate. Additionally, they also hold the key in place when opened so that you never forget to lock it!
The twist lock isn’t a traditional lock that keeps your container closed – instead it is used to connect 2 shipping containers together vertically. If you’re looking to stack your containers together safely – this is a must-have!
While this is not a traditional lock to prevent theft, it does however lock two units in place horizontally. These are fantastic options to ensure the safety and stability of multiple containers when placing multiple units together.
Another simple, yet effective way to organize the contents of your shipping container, and to keep items off the floor is to add in a shelving unit or shelf brackets. What’s great about these is that you can hook them right onto the lashing rings (that are inside your container) and choose the size you need. Lashing rings are typically located every 5 feet inside on the container walls, so depending on the length of your container you may have several options for placement.
If you’re looking for a shipping container shelf or shipping container shelf brackets in Canada, check out our online accessories store here. We have both 3 shelf and 4 shelf units available!
Another effective way to organize the contents of your container is to invest in some shipping container racking systems. Depending on what you’ll be storing, there are many different options available, but one of the most commonly used are pipe racks.
Pipe racks allow you to store and organize your different pipes horizontally and, much like the shelving brackets, they attach directly to the lashing rings inside the container. Investing in shipping container racks will make it much easier to organize and find the materials you’re looking for.
When converting a shipping container into a home, office, or any other frequently used shelter, chances are you’ll want to have some source of light coming in to illuminate the unit. Adding a window will not only allow sunlight into the container, but it will also allow you to increase airflow and reduce moisture build up.
Installation also doesn’t have to be hard, many window units are ‘bolt-on’ so no welding is required. At Coast Containers we carry 3’ x 4’ windows that also come with bug screens and drip plates (to prevent water from dripping in). Take a look at our accessories page here for more info: https://coastcontainers.ca/accessories/products
One of the biggest concerns with shipping containers is moisture / damage to the contents. This is why shipping container vents are often a crucial accessory for most owners. They allow you to increase the airflow in your unit and prevent excess moisture / humidity build-up.
When considering adding additional doors to your unit, there are a ton of choices. Much like all the previously mentioned accessories – the best choice will depend heavily on your specific needs. Some of the most common doors are, a regular man-door (or pedestrian door), which is a heavy duty and insulated door. Another option is a shipping container garage door (or shipping container roll up door) which is a great choice if you’re looking to store vehicles, equipment, or larger items.
Adding an internal shipping container wall is a handy way to segment your unit for a variety of reasons. Whether you’re splitting it with someone else or just dividing the contents, it’s a relatively simple and cost-effective way to create additional space – without having to purchase a separate shipping container.
If you’re in the market for a new shipping container, or just want to purchase some additional accessories after-the-fact, we can help! At Coast Containers, we specialize in the sale of new and used shipping containers in Canada and we even offer shipping container modification services!
When you buy a new or used container from us, we can install the shipping container accessories that you add-on from our store before we ship it to you! To learn more about this, take a look at our Shipping Container Modifications page!
