The utilization of a lock box for shipping container safety has been very useful.
A lock box is a metal shroud or enclosure that protects the container’s padlock from being tampered with or cut to ensure the security of your contents.
It is a welded or bolted-on steel cover that goes over the container’s lock area (typically on the right-hand door latch).
It generally consists of two parts. On the left side of the door, there is a steel plate protruding from the side of the door. When the door is closed, it snaps into the lockbox body on the right side of the door.
Lock boxes are ideal for construction site storage, rural container setups, retail pop-ups, events, container homes, and container offices in unsecured areas.
This is a small but crucial security upgrade. Get to know more about lock box for shipping container safety only in this article!
Contents
Container Lockbox Types
The choice of lockbox you will use depends on your needs. There are ISO and non-ISO lock box designs that follow standardized container design specs.
However, when it comes to lockboxes, you can choose the best. To help you choose, here are the differences between the two:
ISO Lock Box
An ISO lock box follows ISO 1496-1 and ISO container door geometry design for container padlocks or disc locks. It is compatible with most standard ISO containers as it has high-precision fit blocks tools security level.
You can use ISO lock boxes when you have a standard 20′, 40′, or 45′ container for shipping, resale, or rentals, and want an off-the-shelf solution.
Non-ISO Lock Box
If you want custom-designed for modified, or older container units, the non-ISO lock box will fit.
This type may need adjustments for non-standard builds, but it offers a unique solution for your container home, store, or workshop. However, it is more flexible, allowing you to use general locks.
You can pick non-ISO lock boxes when your container door configuration isn’t standard, like roll-up doors or barn-style.
Recommended Lock Types for Either Box
Disc padlocks with Hidden Shank
Disc padlocks with hidden shanks are considered ISO-safe and are commonly used with ISO-standard containers, especially when paired with a lock box.
These disc padlocks are widely accepted and trusted across the container industry
Shrouded padlocks
Shrouded padlocks are generally ISO-safe and well-suited for use on ISO-standard shipping containers, especially when paired with a lock box or heavy-duty container hasp.
They feature a built-in steel guard (shroud) that covers most of the shackle, the part that’s vulnerable to bolt cutters. This makes it much harder to cut or pry open than a regular padlock.
High-security container locks
High-security container locks are specifically designed to protect shipping containers from theft, tampering, and forced entry.
These locks are trusted across shipping, storage, military, construction, and commercial sectors due to their superior build quality and resistance to attack.
Benefits of Using a Lock Box for a Shipping Container
Enhanced Theft Protection
Many thieves targeting containers often look for easy targets. Lock box adds a strong visual and physically shields the padlock from bolt cutters, crowbars, grinders, and other common break-in tools.
It prevents direct access to the shank or keyhole, making unauthorized entry much harder.
Tamper Resistance
Lock boxes reduce the risk of cut locks, picked padlocks, and lock drilling by minimizing leverage points, making it nearly impossible to pry open the locking area.
Weather Protection
If you need something to cover the container lock from rain, dust, snow, and salt air, a lock box is what you need. It reduces corrosion, extends the life of your padlock, and prevents freezing in winter, which can otherwise jam the lock.
Compatible with High-Security Locks
A lock box makes full use of industrial-grade locking mechanisms. It is designed to work with disc locks, shrouded padlocks, or container-grade locks.
Simple and Cost-Effective
Installing a lock box is a low-cost upgrade for your container with a high impact on security. It can be welded for permanent use and bolted on for removable/reusable use.
Moreover, the installation process is also quick, often in under 30 minutes.
Essential for Remote or Job Sites
Containers left unattended in construction areas, farms, rural properties, disaster relief, and emergency sites need lock boxes. They protect not just goods, but tools, equipment, and critical supplies.
Conclusion
Using a lock box for a shipping container provides a significant upgrade in security and durability, especially when the container is used for storage, business, or remote deployments.
Buy or rent shipping containers with side doors from Tradecorp, a reliable container sales, purchase, rental, and modification service company.
Tradecorp provides modification and custom shipping container services by adding windows, doors, walls, and roof insulation.
Our experienced staff is ready to help you arrange the shipping of your container to your requested location. Fill out our quote form to buy or rent from us!