Shipping Container Modifications
At SCF we do more than just supply containers. We also modify, customise and supply the extras to make it a perfect transport and storage solution for your needs.
Sometimes you might want a slight tweak to a standard container, such as lighting or power. Or you might like a complete custom solution for your specific requirements. SCF has completed broadcast boxes for FM radio stations, temperature controlled Dangerous Goods containers for temperature sensitive chemicals, workshops for major utility companies to drop on site during major project upgrades, and everything in between.
Our depot teams have the expertise and capability to make almost any container based modification that you need in a timely and cost-effective package.
Want something unique? We can do that
SCF’s depots can transform 20ft, 40ft or mini shipping containers into a customised unit that is ideal for your specific application.
Our design and engineering team can add a variety of functional features that assist with security, convenience, access, organisation, comfort, versatility and more. Some examples of container modifications include adding doors and windows; extending the length of the container; painting the unit in your preferred colour; adding ventilation, insulation, air conditioning power and more.
We can add accessories such as locks and lockboxes (for added security), shelving for equipment storage and organisation, ramps, and lockers and storage cabinets inside the unit.
We can also undertake custom modifications of all kinds. For custom designs, we work with our Australian-based engineering and design team to find a solution for you. We can complete most modifications - discuss your requirements with our sales team who will find you the perfect solution.
Modified Container Accessories
Our experienced depot teams can make a wide range of modifications to your container, from basic changes like a whirly bird or PA door, to full scale custom projects.
Shelving
Customised shelving can be added to your container to assist with packing, organisation, inventory storage and more.
Power
We can add 10, 15 or 32 AMP power points, in single phase or 3 phase, to help convert your shipping container into a fully functional workspace, recreational room, living space or retail space.
Air conditioning
We can install wall-mounted and recessed split system air conditioning systems to keep your container perfectly climate controlled in any weather conditions.
Insulation
Regulate temperature conditions and conserve energy by having insulation installed.
Lighting
Our team can arrange installation of custom lighting solutions into your container.
Painting
We can paint your containers in your company colour schemes, or customise the paintwork to better match the container’s surroundings.
Roller Door
Roller doors make loading and access to your container more convenient whilst providing lockable security.
Personal Access Door (PA Door)
Personal Access (PA) doors can be added to your container to convert it into an office, workshop or personal storage room.
Windows
For natural light, we have a range of window solutions for shipping containers, from simple sliding windows to more secure options.
Whirly Bird
Add whirlybird ventilation systems as a cost effective way to regulate temperature and airflow inside a shipping container.Our Container Modification, Maintenance and Service Capabilities
Dry Containers
- Undercover repair bays
- Repairs to CIC or IICL certified assessors
- Modification and refurbishment
- Reefer repairs and pre-trip
- Curtain-side repairs
Service
- 5 day inspection turnaround
- Off hire and in-service surveys to ITCO and IICL standards
- Photographing of containers
- Storage
System
- Proprietary depot management system
- Standard and custom reporting available
Modified Shipping Containers Australia: Examples of Our Work
Take a look at some of our recent modifications. If you have an idea, get in touch and we make it a reality. From our experience across industry, hospitality, mining, emergency services, utilities and energy, there isn't much we haven't done.
SCF completed a project for Open Air Bar, which included awning windows with a gaslift arm for safe, easy operator use on a 20ft shipping container.
The bar could be securely locked up when not in use.
Staff access was quick and easy, whilst multiple patrons could be served from multiple windows.
The internals included insulation, downlighting, multiple sinks, powerpoints and multiple marketing collateral holders for menus.
An alternate internal view, looking at the dedicated sinks in the Open Air Bar.
Similar to the Open Air Bar, this 10ft shipping container bar has a gaslift awning window to easily and quickly serve patrons.
A PA door enables staff to quickly and safely enter and exit the bar as needed.
This project required some unique combinations. Two roller doors were cut into the side of a 40ft high cube container.
In addition to the roller doors, the container was fully insulated, including the end doors. This is not a common modification, but provides much improved internal temperature control.
This 10ft container bar was an exciting project for a well known cold beverage supplier that is adored by many Australians.
The timber cladding on the dark 10ft container provides a striking contrast that stands out in a crowd.
The 10ft container bar in all it's glory, complete with logos and gas lift awning window in the secured position prior to transport.
The bar opened up and ready to go.
This 20ft container broadcast box was designed for Southern Cross Austereo to enable remote broadcasting at major events. Think Supercars, community events, footy, golf and everything in between.
The container ticked all the technical requirements and had a range of internal features to improve comfort, such as insulation, lighting, carpeted floor and a motorised blind for sun protection (less effective late in the day when facing west).
This 10ft container is made to accommodate smokers on a worksite. Built with shelving, this walk through styled solution provides protection from the elements.
This 40ft container project includes a whirly bird, internal shelving, and two separate internal sections (two thirds to one third).
This internal view of the larger partition highlights the built in, adjustable internal shelving, whirly bird in the roof and open end door (in addition to two open roller doors on the side wall).
How to Modify a Shipping Container
SCF makes modifying a shipping container as easy as it could be. Share your initial concept with our team, and they will work closely with you to refine, quote and estimate the time needed to complete your container modification.
Describe Your Vision to Our Experts
When you Get a Quote for a container, add additional extras on the quote form, or provide further information on in the comments field. If you just have an early concept, feel free to describe it in as much detail as possible. If you have drafted plans or specific requirements, you will be able to share these with our team once your quote is submitted.
Depending on the details of your requirements, our team may be in the position to provide an itemised quote within a short timeframe. Things like custom pain, whirly birds, power, lighting and air conditioning can all be quoted in a short timeframe.
A complete custom design with a wide range of specific requirements will be reviewed by our depot teams and quoted separately.
Watch Your Concept Come to Life
If your container modification is simple, like a PA door, our team will get it done in no time. If you have a build that includes multiple containers, or a highly customised setup, you can check in on progress throughout the build with our teams. Let us know at the start of the build if you wish to be notified of key milestones.
FAQs
The following modifications would be considered 'standard'. These are completed often, and stock is readily available for these modifications. Given the availability of products and the amount that are completed, these can be completed in a relatively short space of time, pending depot availability and other booked jobs.
- Lock box
- Whirly bird
- Personal Access (PA) door
- Basic external paint job
- Sliding window
- Sliding door
- Shelving (single or double side)
- Basic electrical setup
- Container door vent
- Internal paint job
- Split system air conditioner (recessed)
- Panel lined
- Roller door (side wall or in place of container doors)
For standard modifications, work can be completed within weeks, depending on depot capacity.
For highly custom container modifications, or those that apply to multiple containers, a longer time frame is required.
SCF is able to provide an ETA once plans have been shared and reviewed by our experienced team.
All SCF container modifications are completed in our depots. This ensures the most cost effective and timely solution for you, and provides our team with a safe working environment.
Absolutely. Our team has worked across a wide variety container modifications so they can sit down with you and discuss what works best. Once you're happy with the plans, our team will provide a quote and you can go from there.