Alexei Volkov
Shipping containers are often used for storage, and it is important to keep the items inside secure. One way to do this is by using a padlock. While simple padlocks can be easily broken into, there are ways to improve security. One method is to use a lockbox, which is a small box welded to the right-hand door with a steel post welded to the left-hand door. When the doors are shut, the post fits inside the box, and a padlock can be added for extra security. Another way to improve security is to use a high-thickness, hardened steel lock, which can withstand bolt cutters.
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What You'll Learn
Use a padlock on the locking rods
Using a padlock on the locking rods is one of the simplest and most efficient ways to protect your shipping container from unwarranted entries. All shipping containers open in the same way: first, the right-hand door, then the left-hand door. You can add a padlock where the door levers are set in the lever holders for additional security.
When buying a padlock, consider a high-thickness, hardened steel lock. These locks will help secure the doors and keep the container closed when you're away. You can also use bolt locks and cylinder locks as they can withstand bolt cutters. Compared to other padlocks, they have a shorter, thicker neck, making it difficult to use the bolt cutter's blade on them.
Disc locks are also a good option as they can withstand bolt cutters and the elements. However, these locks do not fit most container types and can still be picked or broken. When buying a padlock, you should also consider its weatherproofing. A lock that corrodes quickly can be detrimental to security. Although all locks may eventually deteriorate over time, buying a weatherproof lock that does not degrade rapidly is always better. If you want to check how secure your padlock is, look for its CEN (Central European Norm) rating. Padlock manufacturers introduced this system to measure the security of the locks they sold. The CEN grading system rates locks from Grade 1 to Grade 6, with Grade 1 providing low security and Grade 6 offering maximum security.
You can also add an extra layer of security by installing a lockbox. A lockbox is a small, square-shaped unit that you can weld onto the doors of your container. It is a box welded to the right-hand door and a steel post welded to the left-hand door. When the doors shut together, the post fits inside the box perfectly, and you can put a padlock on the post. A lockbox adds extra security and protects the padlock. It helps prevent thieves from forcing open or cutting through the padlock and shields your padlock from the elements.
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Use a lockbox to protect your padlock
Using a lockbox is an effective way to protect your padlock and add an extra layer of security to your shipping container. A lockbox is a small, square-shaped unit that is typically welded to the right-hand door of the container, with a steel post welded to the left-hand door. When the doors are shut, the post fits inside the box, and you can secure it with a padlock. This setup makes it very difficult for thieves to break or cut into the padlock.
There are a few different types of lockboxes available. New or one-trip shipping containers usually come with a lockbox, but it's important to confirm this before purchasing. These lockboxes tend to be quite narrow, so you'll need to find a padlock that fits perfectly inside. If you're buying a used container, it typically doesn't come with a lockbox unless it's specifically mentioned. However, some companies can install a lockbox for you before delivery, or you can purchase one separately and weld it yourself.
There are also lockboxes that don't require welding, which is a more convenient option if you don't want to use tools on your container. With this type of lockbox, you simply close the door as usual, slide the lockbox over the lever and keeper, and then lock it. This provides an easy way to add security without making any permanent modifications to your container.
When choosing a padlock for your lockbox, consider a high-thickness, hardened steel lock. These locks provide strong security and can withstand bolt cutters. Additionally, look for a weatherproof lock that won't corrode quickly, especially if your container is exposed to harsh weather conditions. You can also check the CEN (Central European Norm) rating of padlocks to determine their level of security, with grades ranging from 1 to 6.
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Choose a weatherproof lock
Shipping containers are often exposed to harsh weather conditions like rain and snow, so choosing a weatherproof lock is essential to ensure the security of your container. Padlocks are the simplest and most efficient way of protecting your container. When choosing a padlock, opt for a high-thickness, hardened steel lock with a shorter, thicker neck to prevent bolt cutter blade attacks.
Look for locks with a highly corrosion-resistant electrophoretic coating, such as the Squire Hi Security Hardened Steel Weatherproof Container Padlock. This lock is perfect for containers and comes with two keys. You can also check the CEN (Central European Norm) rating of locks to determine their security level, with Grade 1 offering low security and Grade 6 providing maximum security.
Another option is to use a lockbox, which adds an extra layer of security by protecting the padlock. New or one-trip shipping containers typically come with a lockbox, but you can also purchase and weld one yourself. A lockbox with a sliding mechanism that doesn't require tools can also be a good option for those who don't want to use tools on their container.
Additionally, consider the location of your container and the value of the items inside. If your container is in a remote area with fewer onlookers, you may not need an expensive lock. On the other hand, if you're storing valuable items, investing in a heavy-duty lock with extra security features may be worthwhile.
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Use bolt locks and cylinder locks
When it comes to securing your shipping container, you want to ensure your belongings and valuable items are protected. One option for locking your container is to use bolt locks and cylinder locks.
Bolt locks are a great way to add an extra layer of security to your shipping container. Inner bolt locks have two ways of locking: one on the outside and another on the inside. You can use a simple sliding bolt on the inside and a padlock to secure the doors from the outside. This inner bolting system prevents the container from opening, even if someone tampers with the door lock. Bolt locks are also effective against bolt cutters, as they have a shorter, thicker neck that makes it difficult to use the bolt cutter's blade on them.
Cylinder locks are another option for securing your shipping container. These locks are often used in conjunction with a lockbox, which is a small, square-shaped unit that is welded onto the doors of your container. The lockbox conceals the cylinder lock, making it more difficult for thieves to cut through the shackle or shank. Cylinder locks also have a shorter, thicker neck compared to other padlocks, which makes them more resistant to bolt cutters.
When choosing a bolt or cylinder lock, consider a high-thickness, hardened steel option. These locks will provide greater security and help keep your container closed when you're away. You can also look for locks with anti-drill plates or metal stop plates, which protect the inner mechanism by preventing drill bits from penetrating.
Additionally, consider combining your bolt or cylinder lock with a lockbox to create an even more secure system. A lockbox adds an extra layer of protection by shielding the padlock and preventing tampering. It's important to note that lockboxes are usually not included as standard shipping container accessories, so you may need to purchase and install them separately.
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$10
Opt for a keyless padlock
If you're looking to secure a plastic shipping container with a padlock, one option is to opt for a keyless padlock. Keyless padlocks offer several advantages over traditional padlocks, especially when it comes to convenience and security.
One of the most prominent keyless padlock options available is the Seguratainer Lock Box Lock. This lock is a robust, traditional lock box and small lock evolution that does not require a padlock. Instead, it uses NFC technology, allowing your smartphone to function as the key. This provides remote access control, enabling you to control the lock from your laptop and set custom geofencing rules or time limits. The Seguratainer Lock Box Lock also features a patented locking mechanism that prevents the doors from opening, even under severe attack, and offers a high level of corrosion resistance.
Another benefit of keyless padlocks is that they eliminate the need for physical keys, reducing the risk of lost or stolen keys. With a keyless padlock, you can also grant temporary access to others without having to provide a physical key. This can be especially useful if you need to provide access to a shipping company or if you're managing access for multiple people.
When choosing a keyless padlock, it's important to consider the level of security you require. Assess the value of the items you're storing and the likelihood of tampering or theft. While keyless padlocks offer convenience, it's crucial to ensure that the lock you choose meets your specific security needs.
Additionally, keep in mind that shipping containers are often exposed to harsh weather conditions. Opt for a weatherproof lock to prevent rapid deterioration and ensure the long-term security of your container. Consider checking the CEN (Central European Norm) rating of the lock, which indicates the level of protection it provides, with Grade 1 offering low security and Grade 6 providing maximum security.
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Frequently asked questions
To lock a plastic shipping container with a padlock, first, open the right-hand door, and then the left-hand door. Next, push the padlock spindle through the locking pin, turn the key, and remove the key to secure the padlock.
It is recommended to use a high-thickness, hardened steel lock to secure the doors of your plastic shipping container. You can also use bolt locks and cylinder locks as they are more resistant to bolt cutters. If you are looking for a cheaper option, simple keyed padlocks can cost as little as $20.
Yes, you can use a lockbox to secure your plastic shipping container. A lockbox is a small, square-shaped unit that is welded onto the right-hand door and a steel post welded onto the left-hand door. When the doors are shut, the post fits inside the box, and a padlock is placed on the post. This adds an extra layer of security by protecting the padlock.
