Roller Shutters for Shipping Containers: A Smart Solution for Security and Accessibility

When investing in a shipping container, be it for storage or as a conversion project, adding the right doors is a crucial modification. Roller shutter doors are an effective way to enhance both security and easy access to your container.

Ideal for storage, workspaces, or other uses, roll-up doors offer a convenient, space-saving solution, while providing durable protection for your valuables.

What are container roller shutters?

Container roller shutters are vertically opening doors. They’re made from individual slats which are rolled up around a barrel to open the door, then unrolled to close it. They can be harder to operate than conventional container doors, but they’re a secure and space-efficient option for both storage and residential uses. 

Most roller-up doors are made from high-grade aluminium or steel, just like shipping containers themselves. You install them by mounting a track system onto the container walls, then securing the shutter slats to the track so that they roll smoothly up and down. 

Types of shipping container roller shutters

Container roller shutters come in a range of sizes to fit different shipping container standards. They can be manually or electronically operated. Whatever you choose, they’re extremely space efficient. 

Electric shipping container roll up doors

To open or close electric roller shutter doors, you just press a button or use a remote control. Some models can even open automatically. They’re usually fitted with safety devices that stop them moving in the event of an accident. 

Electric shutters are a great choice if you need a door that opens fast and effortlessly. Because they move quickly, they’re suitable for containers where you’re concerned about temperature regulation or security. 

Manual shipping container roll up doors

Manual roll-up doors are operated by hand, using a crank or winder to open and close the shutter. That means they’re slower and more difficult to use. These doors are not a good fit for commercial or industrial uses. However, if you’re working on a container conversion for personal use, they are very budget-friendly.

Heavy-duty roll up doors

Heavy-duty roll-up doors are designed for serious security and durability. They’re made of galvanised steel and come in a range of widths, from 4 feet to 8 feet. 

The benefits of roller shutter doors compared to other shipping container doors

Roller shutter doors are a popular choice for shipping container conversions, whether you plan to use yours for storage, living space, work, or hobbies.

Quick and easy access

Roll-up doors are the fastest way to open up a container, ahead of convention or sliding doors. Electronic roller shutters – which move faster than manual rollers – can even be quicker than the default cargo doors on shipping containers. 

Efficient space management

Roller shutters are designed to take up as little space as possible. They literally roll up and out of your way, instead of taking up floor space or swinging out in front of the container. You don’t even need to leave clearance on either side of the door. That means even more storage space for you to use!

Increased security

Because they’re so sturdy, roll-up doors are popular with people who are concerned about security. They can be installed with a reinforced steel frame and added locks for extra peace of mind. 

Roll-up doors can also be safer than other door styles. For example, standard container cargo doors can swing around in strong winds, knocking items or even people over.

Enhanced durability

All the different types of roll-up doors are extremely durable. Like the main body of the container, they’re made from tough steel with weather-resistant seals and rust-proof coatings. Your container will be safe, dry, and secure for years to come.

How to install shipping container roll up doors

Although they’re simple to use, container roll-up doors are complicated to install. If you’re not experienced, then it’s worth hiring a professional to make sure the door is correctly put in. An experienced installer can fit roll-up doors to your shipping container quite quickly.

Here’s how it works: the fitter starts by measuring and cutting away a large section of the container. Next, they fit a threshold to the base of the door, and a horizontal metal beam across the top of the door. They reinforce the sides of the new door space with steel guide strips to keep the roller shutter on track. Finally, the shutter is installed above the door, ready to roll down.

How to maintain shipping container roll up doors

Just like the body of the storage container, the roll-up doors will also need regular maintenance. You can do some of this yourself, but it’s a good idea to get the door professionally maintained once or twice a year.

Check the doors regularly for signs of rust, dents, or debris. Take extra care after severe weather events and during winter. Don’t forget the nooks and crannies – if dirt gets stuck between the roller shutter and the base of the container, it could make the weather-proof seals less effective.

You can protect the roll-up door from damage by regularly lubricating the roller and hinges so that it moves smoothly. It’s also important to treat the shipping container for rust and re-paint it regularly to protect it from the elements. 

The bottom line

Roll up doors make your container conversion durable and secure, without sacrificing floor space. They’re also faster and easier to operate than the cargo doors which are built into most containers. Best of all, they combine versatility with being low-maintenance. 

Upgrade your shipping container with our wide range of quality shipping container door parts.