We understand; the security of your shipping container is a priority.
Whatever you’re using the container for, it’s likely to contain items of significant value. And you need to be sure that, when you shut the doors and walk away, those items will be safe.
Fortunately, shipping containers are inherently secure. Constructed from corten steel, they’re extremely strong and robust – designed specifically to protect the goods inside and carry them safely across the world. But, to put your mind at rest, there are several additional steps that you can take to enhance your shipping container’s security and reduce its vulnerability to thieves.
Here we take a closer look.
3 essential shipping container locks
1. In-built shipping container locks
Shipping containers benefit from cargo doors with an in-built locking mechanism.
Essentially, this mechanism uses steel bars and a ‘cam and lock system’ to fasten the doors and keep them securely shut – and it should be utilised every time you leave your container unattended.
Always close the left door first. Take the handles and push the door in towards the container. Lock the hooks at the top and bottom of the door into the cam keepers. Push both handles in and rotate the latches to hold them in place. Then finally, repeat this process on the right-hand side.
If the structure has been modified to include a different type of door (e.g. personnel doors), alternative shipping container locks (such as a latch guard or coded entry lock) can be added.
2. Heavy-duty shipping container padlocks
Shipping container padlocks are one of the easiest ways to improve the security of your structure.
Also known as shutter padlocks, they’re made from hardened steel with a thick heavy-duty shackle and are significantly harder to break than a standard everyday lock. Simply align the shackle with the loop of the container door, slide it shut and give yourself that little bit extra peace of mind.
3. Shipping container lock boxes
Lock boxes are used in combination with padlocks to achieve a heightened level of security.
The box itself acts as a shield of armour. Made from steel and placed over the shipping container padlocks, it prevents tampering. You can still unlock the padlock by inserting the key (via the underside of the box). But it’s incredibly difficult for the padlock shackle to be cut using tools – such as bolt cutters – and, therefore, virtually impossible for an intruder to gain access to your container.
Other security considerations
To enhance container security further, you may also wish to consider:
Alarm systems – whilst some systems require a mains power connection, others are battery-operated. If motion is detected inside your shipping container, a loud siren will be activated – drawing attention to the area – and you will be notified via text message of the attempted break-in.
CCTV – if you’re particularly concerned about theft, you may wish to install CCTV cameras to watch over your container. These act as a good deterrent and can be used to help police enquiries.
Fencing – a traditional physical barrier, with barbed or razor wire, is another effective way to deter potential intruders and prevent opportunistic robberies. But before putting a fence in place, be sure to check with your local council regarding the ‘fencing rules and regulations’ in your area.
Shipping container locks at Gap Containers
Shipping containers are an incredibly strong and secure structure and, as long as their doors are shut correctly, inside contents will be protected. But for those who prefer to air on the side of caution, we stock a range of high-quality shipping container padlocks and lock boxes, here at Gap Containers. These can be bought as a standalone product for £45 + VAT each. Or they can be supplied free of charge, with all of our shipping containers for sale and hire. Just let us know at the time of ordering if locks are required.
Also, keep in mind, we’re experts in this area and always happy to help. If you’d like further guidance on how to secure a shipping container or need advice on the best shipping container locks for your requirements, please feel free to get in touch. You can either give us a call on 0870 240 9405 or send an email to sales@gapcontainers.co.uk and we’ll respond to your enquiry as soon as possible.
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