Side Door Shipping Containers: Perfect for Organized Storage

What Is a Side Door Shipping Container?

A side door shipping container is a steel container equipped with additional doors along one or both long sides. Unlike standard containers that only open at the ends, side door units allow full or partial access along the length of the container.

This design transforms how storage works by letting you reach items without unloading everything from the front.

Why Side Access Changes Everything

Standard containers require you to stack items from front to back. With side doors, you gain:

• Direct access to any section of the container
• Faster loading and unloading
• Better organization with shelving
• Reduced need to move items repeatedly

This makes side door containers ideal for high-traffic storage environments.

Common Uses for Side Door Containers

Side door shipping containers are widely used by:

• Construction crews organizing tools and materials
• Warehouses managing inventory overflow
• Retailers storing seasonal stock
• Event operators needing quick access
• Businesses converting containers into workspaces

They function more like mobile storage rooms than long, narrow boxes.

Available Sizes and Configurations

Side door containers are available in several formats:

• 20ft Side Door Containers – Compact with improved accessibility
• 40ft Side Door Containers – Full-length access for large storage needs
• High Cube Side Door Units – Extra height plus side access

Some models feature a single side opening, while others include multiple door sections along the entire wall.

Side Door vs Standard Containers

Both container types share the same steel construction and durability. The difference lies in workflow:

• Standard Containers – Best for bulk storage accessed occasionally
• Side Door Containers – Best for organized, frequent access

If you regularly retrieve specific items, side access can save significant time and labor.

New vs Used Side Door Containers

Side door units are available in both conditions:

• New (One-Trip) – Clean appearance, minimal wear
• Used – Cosmetic wear, same structure, lower cost

For most storage applications, used units provide excellent value.

Delivery and Placement

Side door shipping containers are delivered the same way as standard units—typically by tilt-bed truck and placed directly on your site.

You can learn how placement works on our Shipping Container Delivery page.

Many buyers also choose Pay on Delivery or arrange transport through our Pick-Up Service.

Things to Consider Before Buying

Before choosing a side door container, evaluate:

• Clearance along the side of your site
• How often items will be accessed
• Whether shelving will be installed
• Budget compared to standard units

Side door containers cost more than standard units, but the efficiency gains often justify the upgrade.

When Side Door Containers Are the Best Choice

If your storage requires frequent access, organization, or retail-style workflow, a side door shipping container offers a major advantage.

It turns a steel box into a functional storage room without sacrificing durability or security.