Easy Access - 5 variations on container doors

Standard ISO shipping containers are built with two swing doors located on one short end. This provides a reliable and straightforward way to access the inside of the container. While this design works well for many uses, it isn’t always the most practical solution for every situation. However, different container projects and industries often require unique access points or modifications to fit their specific needs.

In this blog, we’ll highlight the various door configurations and customization options available when purchasing a shipping container. So whether you're looking to improve accessibility, enhance functionality, or modify your container to meet a specific purpose, these options can make all the difference. Let's look at the choices and find the right fit for your needs.

Types of Shipping Containers Doors

Double-door Containers

Double-door containers are containers with standard swing doors on both ends of the container. The benefit to these containers is that nothing in a 20’ “double door” is more than 10’ from a door and nothing in a 40’ “double door” is more than 20’ from a door. Because these are not used by the shipping lines as often, but are ordered up for use in the after-market, they are generally only available as "one-trip"/new containers, meaning they are manufactured in Asia, make one trip to the US, and then sold to you. Since they are one-trip containers, they are painted a neutral color and have no markings. This makes them a great option for individuals and businesses. Because they have an additional door compared to your basic shipping container, they will be more expensive.

Roll-up Doors

If you want a used container and need the access, but not the price tag, consider adding a roll-up door. Roll-ups can be added either to the end or the sides of shipping containers to add extra access to the container. The only place we do not recommend putting it is where the original doors are located. Those doors are connected into the corner posts that support the container, so you do not want to mess with that. You can have the door added on before it comes out to you, or use a kit to add the door on yourself. You get the same access at usually half the price.

Personnel Doors

If you don’t require a full roll-up door or prefer to avoid dealing with larger doors, a personnel door could be the ideal solution. Similar to roll-up doors, these can be added before purchase or through a DIY kit. This option is particularly beneficial if you anticipate frequent access to the container and desire a building-like entry experience.

Open-side Container

Open-sided containers are available in both 20' and 40’ long, one-trip containers. They feature doors that open on the long side of the shipping container. The traditional ones have full openings on one side. There is a 40’ option rising in popularity that has 4 sets of doors on one long side separated by posts or sections of wall that allow for 4 openings on one 40’ side of the container.

These are a great option for retail containers, industrial applications, and more. Although these containers offer the largest and most secure container door opening, they also come with a pretty large price tag.

Open-top Container

Open-top containers are an ideal shipping container option if you have to load the container from above. Some use cases would be for oversized cargo such as building materials or bulk contents like minerals or agricultural products. In order to protect the load being stored or transported within the container, they come with a tarp that functions as the roof. Open-top containers are designed to meet the specific needs of numerous situations but would not be intended for those needing a basic container.

Get the Shipping Container You Need

Shipping containers are an excellent solution for storing and transporting and can be customized into countless structures. Because they are so flexible, even if they don't come the way you want them, they can be easily modified to fit your needs. At Super Cubes, we can help you not only with your next shipping container purchase but also with adding doors, windows, and other customizations. Contact our team to discuss your container needs. Whether you need a ready-to-use solution or prefer a DIY approach, we’ll make sure your container works exactly the way you want it to.

Super Cubes is a family-owned business located in Minneapolis, MN, that provides containers anywhere in the continental US. We offer personalized service for individuals and businesses, providing high-quality containers at competitive prices. With nationwide facilities, we can modify and deliver containers close to you. Contact our experienced team for your next container project.

The Saner Container

5 Types of Doors for Your Shipping Container