If you are looking for a secure and practical containment and transportation solution, a storage container is your best choice. Large, versatile, and stackable, they have become a staple in logistics, as well as other applications, like movable on-site workplaces, convenient sheds, and even living spaces. However, without proper precautions, even the toughest units can fall prey to damage or theft.
But no need to fret! Your valuable cargo can be protected with our shipping container security measures. At Midstate Containers, we are committed to helping your unit serve you long and well, and today, we will share our professional tips on protecting your unit from harsh weather, wear and tear, criminals, and any unauthorized access. Let’s take a look at how are shipping containers secured and all the best ways to secure them effectively.
Shipping Container Vulnerabilities
Despite their sturdy steel constructions, shipping units are not invulnerable. Although your specific container may have its own weaknesses, there are certain pain points that all storage units share. Identifying them is the first step in applying the right safety measures and ensuring your goods remain safe under any circumstances.
Physical vulnerabilities
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Doors and locks: Just like in any construction, container doors are the most vulnerable point for criminals. In addition to that, weak or damaged locks make it so much easier for criminals to break in. Reinforcing these points is the most crucial step in securing your cargo.
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Structural issues: In the long run, steel frames can be worn down and damaged by rust or dents. In addition to that, the panels themselves may get loose, compromising the protection of the unit and making the inside easier to gain access to.
Environmental risks
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Weather conditions: Extreme weather, like heavy rains, snowstorms, or strong winds, can be a challenge for a unit’s integrity. The longer the unit is exposed to them, the more serious deterioration it may cause if not tended to properly and promptly.
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Moisture and condensation: Weak sealing or improper ventilation can cause moisture to build up inside, potentially damaging sensitive cargo and creating long-term issues with mold or corrosion.
Technological threats
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Unauthorized access: Even many modern shipping container security systems, like alarms or cameras, can be bypassed by tech-savvy intruders if not installed correctly or maintained properly.
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Lack of surveillance: Units stored in remote or poorly lit areas without adequate video protection are at a higher risk of unauthorized entry or theft.
Secure your shipping container with professional tips from Midstate
If all those risks make you feel anxious - no need to worry; Midstate Containers is here to help enhance your storage container security. We are proud to provide the most reliable shipping container locks, lockboxes, and advanced safety solutions. Visit our modifications page to see all of our high-quality options that will help you safeguard your valuable storage.
5 best ways to secure a shipping container
Now that we have acknowledged all the main vulnerabilities, it is time to implement actionable solutions. Here are five of the best ways to secure a shipping container and ensure the safety of your cargo.
1. Use heavy-duty padlocks or a container lockbox
As we have already mentioned, weak locks are usually the main factor to compromise cargo container security. Therefore, one of the most basic yet effective ways to enhance is to install strong padlocks or a secure lockbox. Strong locks can withstand significant force, often making it impossible for criminals to penetrate the unit. If you want to add level of protection, lockboxes can be a great option. They encase the lock, making it practically impossible to tamper with it. If you are wondering how to lock a shipping container reliably, we at Midstate Containers provide tamper-resistant unit locks designed to meet all your safety needs. Check out our lockbox options here.
2. Make sure your container is sealed and maintained
Although they are the primary security for any storage unit, seals tend to wear off over time, leading to their reduced effectiveness. Routine maintenance is essential for detecting and eliminating any integrity issues that may arise. When inspecting your container, pay attention to signs of wear, such as rust, cracks, or loose panels. If found early, they can be repaired fairly quickly and cheaply, preventing further deterioration and restoring the unit’s integrity. Also, pay particular attention to the doors and their sealing mechanisms - they must close tightly, preventing moisture or pests from entering. A well-maintained storage unit not only protects against weather conditions but also extends the lifespan of your investment.
3. Point cameras at the targeted area
Surveillance cameras are some of the most underrated security measures you may take. Besides, giving you tangible evidence of thieves breaking through, it often works as an intimidating deterrent. Most modern video systems offer real-time monitoring, helping you keep an eye on your property anywhere, at any time. If you want to maximize the coverage, consider placing the cameras strategically, facing vulnerable points, such as doors or windows. Additionally, you can pair video protection with motion-sensor alerts to ensure maximized security and immediate response to suspicious activity.
4. Install an alarm system inside the container
Not only the outsides of your unit need protection - an advanced shipping container alarm can add a necessary extra layer of defense to your security system. Alarms can detect unauthorized access, vibrations, or temperature changes and alert you instantly. Such a feature is extra helpful if your unit is in a remote area where arranging physical monitoring is not feasible or too costly. Integrated alarm systems are an excellent security solution if you are looking for comprehensive protection that will reduce the risk of theft or damage to your cargo.
5. Maintain a consistent record book
Many cargo breaches happen during the loading and unloading of the goods, so keeping a detailed record book is a great extra safety measure. It helps boost accountability and always know what exactly is happening with your unit. Consider documenting everyone accessing the shipping unit, all the items stored or removed, as well as any incidents that occur. In case of a security break, the record can provide helpful insights into the actual damage and help prevent such cases in the future, reinforcing your protection strategy.
What other steps can you take to secure your shipping container?
While the five primary strategies above offer substantial protection, there are additional steps you can take to bolster your shipping container security further:
Install Perimeter Fencing
If you are wondering about how to secure a shipping container from the outside, consider fencing. A physical barrier, such as a sturdy fence, around the area where your shipping unit is stored can act as the first line of defense. Fencing not only prevents unauthorized access but also creates a psychological deterrent for potential thieves. Adding barbed wire or motion sensors to the fence can enhance its effectiveness, ensuring comprehensive protection.
Use Bright and Strategic Lighting
Well-placed lighting around your container storage site is a cost-effective way to improve safety. Bright lights eliminate shadows where intruders might hide and make your shipping unit more visible to passersby, reducing the risk of theft. Motion-activated lights are particularly useful for startling intruders and drawing attention to suspicious activity.
Employ Professional Security Services
Hiring a safety team or contracting a professional service to monitor your container storage site can provide peace of mind. Trained guards and surveillance patrols can react swiftly to potential breaches and offer an extra layer of protection that surpasses automated systems. Additionally, some companies offer remote monitoring services, combining physical and technological safeguards.
Opt for a Secure Location
Where you place your container matters significantly. Choose a location with natural surveillance, such as a site visible from your home or office. Avoid isolated or poorly lit areas that may attract criminals. Whenever possible, store your container in a secured facility or lot specifically designed for cargo container security.
Weatherproof Your Container
Prolonged exposure to extreme weather can weaken even the most robust steel containers. Invest in weatherproofing measures such as specialized coatings, durable tarps, or custom roofs to shield your container from rain, snow, and UV rays. These measures not only protect the contents inside, but also maintain the structural integrity of your container over time.
Combine Multiple Security Measures
No single solution offers complete protection. Combining multiple safety measures—such as cameras, alarms, fencing, and lighting—creates a layered approach that makes it increasingly difficult for criminals to breach your defenses. Redundancy ensures that if one measure fails, others are still in place to safeguard your cargo.
By integrating these additional strategies, you can achieve comprehensive shipping container security, safeguarding your investment against a wide range of potential threats.
