Shipping Containers for Commercial Storage Facilities

Storage facilities are pretty common and heavily used around the United States and Canada, and one of the fastest ways to set up a storage facility, or expand an existing facility, is by using modified shipping containers.

20' and 40' shipping containers can be quickly converted into both single unit storage containers, and multiple unit storage facilities. Depending on the size of the unit needed and there are companies that specialize in adding internal walls, roll up doors or man doors, and in some cases even power and lighting features.

Single Unit Storage Container

Converting a shipping container into a single unit storage container requires very few adjustments or modifications, and depending on the needs of the facility it could require no adjustments at all. However, to make it easier to use for the person storing their items in it there are a few features to add that would make the unit professional, and possibly provide a higher rental rate for you.

• Roll Up Doors: Adding a roll up door makes it easier to access the container. Like any garage door, the door rolls up and inside of the unit and doesn't obstruct the walkway or consume a great amount of space inside of the container.
• Vents: Shipping container vents provide fresh air circulation that keeps condensation and moisture to a bare minimum, of not eliminate it all together.
• Sky Lights: Skylights installed in the roof of the container provide basic lighting that can help clients find things in the corners or back of the storage unit.

Multiple Unit Storage Containers

40' shipping containers are ideal for converting into multiple unit storage containers. By adding a few features you can easily create three storage units with great access and security. To convert a 40' container into three storage units you'll need the following components:

• Wall Material: Depending on what type of walls you need you can use wood or aluminium 2x4's and drywall. You'll only need to build two walls 13' from each end of the container.
• Roll Up Doors (3x): Each until will need it's own access, so you'll need three doors, one for each unit. Roll up doors can purchased at most building supply stores.
• Vents: Adding two vents to the rear of each storage unit allows adequate airflow that helps to prevent excess condensation and moisture built up. It also helps to keep the air from becoming stagnant.
• Optional Items: Lighting, electrical services, steel ramp access into the entry way.

Converting shipping containers into storage units is a great way to quickly expand a storage facility at a minimal cost. Shipping containers are widely available in most parts of the United States and Canada, and you can either purchase them already converted into storage containers or buy the components and convert the containers into storage units yourself. Many of the components can be purchased online at ContainerLockBox.com, or at a local building supply store.