Modified Shipping Containers

Before we can talk about “specialty” or modified containers, first we must define a standard shipping container.

Shipping containers, sometimes called “cargo containers” or “CONEX boxes,”are the unsung heroes of the global transport industry. They are durable steel boxes designed for one primary purpose—securely transporting goods across oceans, highways, and railways.

To ensure consistent loading, transporting and unloading of goods in ports around the world, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) was established in 1947, after a United Nations Standards Coordinating Committee (UNSCC) proposal to standardize global trade. 

Standard shipping containers have one cargo door and measure 20 or 40 feet in length, 8 feet in width and 8.5 feet in height. Another common shipping container, a “40 ft High Cube,” is a foot taller than standard shipping containers at 9.5 feet tall. 

Although other container sizes are fairly common, for purposes of this article, anything deviating from the standard shipping container described above will be considered a specialty or modified container.

In recent years, the demand for modified shipping containers has surged. Businesses and individuals alike are seeking out tailored containers that meet their specific needs—whether it's extra access points, climate control, or specialized interiors. 

Shipping containers have proven their versatility in various industries. Their modular shape and robust structure make them prime candidates for transformation. Whether being used as mobile storage units, makeshift offices, garages or even container homes, their adaptability is astonishing.

The potential to customize these containers with various accessories has opened the door to endless possibilities. Some of these customizations are already done for you in the modified shipping containers below.

Two of the most common specialty shipping containers for sale have cargo doors on both ends of the container or on the side of the container. 

Containers with extra doors tend to cost a bit more than standard containers. Watch the video below to learn more about shipping container prices. 

Here are some more details about these special containers…

For those who need quick and efficient access, double door shipping containers are a perfect solution. These containers feature cargo doors at both ends instead of just on one end, providing a remarkable advantage when it comes to loading and unloading goods. 

No more struggling with accessing items that have been packed at the back. Instead, double cargo doors offer a seamless, flexible solution for industries that require fast turnaround times.

These containers are a favorite in warehousing and logistics environments, where efficiency is key. They’re also highly valued in mobile storage situations, allowing for easier access to the contents without needing to reposition the entire container. 

From agricultural storage to pop-up retail, the uses of double door shipping containers are only limited by your imagination.

Both 20 ft double door shipping containers and 40 ft double door containers are available to purchase with low monthly payments with our financing options.

When you need full-length access to your container’s interior, side door shipping containers step up to the plate. These containers feature large, full-side doors that open up the entire length of the container. 

This innovation allows for a more thorough internal reach, making it easier to store and retrieve goods without having to dig through stacks of items.

Side cargo doors shipping containers are particularly popular in the retail and exhibition industries. Whether you’re setting up a pop-up store or displaying products at a trade show, having full access to the container's interior makes setup and teardown a breeze. 

Additionally, they’re ideal for workshops and garages, where being able to open up the entire side of the container can provide valuable working space.

There are countless ways to modify a shipping container. You can even build a whole home out of shipping containers. However, with each modification, the container becomes more customized and more expensive.

There are some container upgrades that are so useful you can buy modified containers that already have them. Check them out below….

The 20ft modified shipping container from Container One includes a roll-up door and window, offering a secure, portable solution for various needs, such as mobile offices, workshops, or sheds. It features exterior security enhancements and can be used at construction sites, remote locations, or as part of a container home setup. 

With dimensions of 20' x 8' x 8'6" and a roll-up door size of 7' x 6'8", it is designed for flexibility. The window is 48" x 36" which is big enough to fill the whole container with light and air it out on stuffy days. 

Delivery is nationwide with a lead time of 7-10 days, and financing is also available for modified containers.

Some industries require more than just a strong, secure box—they need climate control. 

Refrigerated shipping containers, or "reefer" units, are the answer to this. These specialized containers are equipped with temperature control systems that keep the internal environment at a precise level, whether freezing cold or moderately cool.

Refrigerated container units are indispensable for transporting perishable goods. Whether it’s fresh produce, pharmaceuticals, or any temperature-sensitive product, these containers ensure that items remain in perfect condition during transit. They are also often used as temporary cold storage at events, farmers’ markets, or remote locations where refrigeration is needed on-site.

There are 20 ft refrigerated containers and 40 ft refrigerated containers for sale with financing available for below monthly payments. 

The modern workplace is no longer confined to traditional office buildings. In fact, many businesses and individuals are turning to shipping container office conversion kits as a solution for portable, flexible office spaces. 

These kits come with everything you need to transform a standard shipping container into a functional office, complete with insulation, lighting, HVAC systems, and more.The also come with complete DIY instructions to assemble the kit yourself. 

The appeal of these office conversion kits lies in their adaptability. Whether you’re setting up an office on a construction site or creating a remote work hub in your backyard, shipping container offices provide a cost-effective, quick-to-assemble solution. With modern interior finishes, they can be as comfortable and professional as any traditional office, while offering the added bonus of mobility.

There are both 20 ft container office kits and 40 ft shipping container office kits available to purchase. 

Whether you need storage, workspace, or climate control, the world of modified shipping containers offers a myriad of possibilities. Consider your next project, think about how you’ll use the space, and don't hesitate to explore the endless customization options that can help you create the perfect container for your needs.

Glenn Taylor is the founder and CEO of Container One. With over 35 years in the shipping industry, Taylor pioneered online container sales. Today Container One is a leading provider of shipping containers for sale in the USA.