A shipping container is not an often-used commodity. But did you know that shipping containers are an irreplaceable product when it comes to storing furniture and home items when renovating or moving elsewhere?
Besides, shipping containers are used on cargo and shipping vessels. Though storing precious cargo is only part of the problem, keeping the goods safe is the most vital part of it. The shipping container can be an easy target for thieves if unlocked.
As a responsible ship owner, choosing a good lock for the shipping container is a critical element. In this review, we have tested, reviewed, and analyzed some of the best shipping container lock units in the market, and have presented them to you.
Based on our research, we felt that the Equipment Lock HDCDL Steel Heavy Duty Cargo Door Lock is the editor’s choice. It secures both doors of all semi-trailers by locking the two innermost vertical locking bars together.
We also felt that the Bulldog CT330 Container Lock is the runner-up. It gives added security to the shipping containers and is very easy to fit and remove and the keyless fitting comes as a good advantage.
Our Top Choice (our top three)
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- Equipment Lock HDCDL Steel Heavy Duty Cargo Door Lock (Editor’s choice)
- Bulldog CT330 Container Lock (Runner Up)
- Henry Squire WS75S Stronghold 6 Pin S Cylinder Container Block Lock (Budget Pick)
Best Shipping Container Lock
When we have to store something that is of great value to us and deliver it to another destination, then we take great pains and efforts to ensure that it is smoothly done. However, we have to also ensure that the security of the container is not compromised on.
We provide it with good security so that the items reach their destination safely in one piece. That is because, shipping containers have to travel great distances, and during the journey, any unforeseen circumstances and risks may happen.
This may cause the container lock to break and provide unwanted access to others. Nobody wants the shipping container to be opened due to damage caused by sudden forces. The best way to ensure that does not happen is to use a good, sturdy lock.
This way, one can secure the shipment and avoid claiming insurance. On that note, let us find some of the best shipping container lock models present in the market, who are they meant for, and how did we choose the lock.
Without wasting any time, let us read the post and learn more about the locks.
1. Equipment Lock HDCDL Steel Heavy Duty Cargo Door Lock – Editor’s Choice
The Equipment Lock HDCDL Steel Heavy Duty Cargo Door Lock is our editor’s choice on the list of the best shipping container lock units. It is one of the best heavy-duty shipping container locks.
Users have commended that the model was easy to use because no mounting was required. We certainly agree with them on that. Our team members were convinced that it could keep all the items safe inside the container.
It is able to secure the landing gear hand crank in place preventing the landing gear from being raised. There is a built-in high-security barrel lock system or combination lock. We could set the 4-digit code effortlessly.
The lock comes embedded with high-quality semi-truck accessories. The unit comes colored in a powder-coated red for high visibility. Moreover, it also helps in resisting corrosion. The lock is produced from a tubular pin tumbler lock for pick resistance.
We believe that the model is adjustable to fit doors with vertical locking bars. The model can fit doors that are from 9-3/4″ to 16″ apart. It is made of two square steel tubes, one 2″ and one 2-1/2″, with 3/16” thick walls.
The maker has provided an extension for the heavy-duty cargo door lock for the odd container bars 17-23 inches apart. Overall, it is a stunning lock model that comes infused with tremendous features.
- It secures the double swing doors.
- Locks the innermost vertical bars.
- Recommended for a construction site.
- No mounting is required.
- Adjustable for vertical bars.
- Built-in high-security barrel lock.
- Available in the combination padlock.
- It is expensive.
Bottom line:
The Equipment Lock HDCDL Steel Heavy Duty Cargo Door Lock is our editor’s choice. The model comes with features like securing the double swing doors, locks the innermost vertical bars, and is recommended for construction sites.
2. Bulldog CT330 Container Lock – Runner Up
The Bulldog CT330 Container Lock is second on our list of the best shipping container lock units. It is the best lock for shipping container with lock box. When shipping owners want a fantastic lock model, then it has to be this unit.
Besides, we noticed that the lock is quite simple to fit. We were able to use it on several containers that came in different sizes. No problem there and it is heavy-duty and fully portable. Besides, it is also fully case-hardened.
This is a drill and pick-resistant lock that worked like a charm and despite our repeated attacks on it with the tools, it just did not budge one bit. The maker has got its attack tested and approved by SCM.
There is a provision to fit a tamper-evident seal. We were delighted to know that it prevents doors from opening by tying both together when fitted. This British-manufactured container lock comes with a 5-year guarantee.
We respect the makers that provide warranties and guarantees on their models. This goes to show that they believe and understand their product well, better than anybody else. We recommend this lock.
- Sturdy design.
- Locked without using a key.
- Simple to fit.
- Heavy duty.
- Fully portable.
- A full case hardened.
- Attack tested and approved by SCM.
- Tying both together when fitted.
- Simple to work & use.
- 5-year guarantee.
- The model is costly.
Bottom line:
The Bulldog CT330 Container Lock is our runner-up on the list. It comes with several features including a sturdy design, locked without using a key, simple to fit, heavy-duty, and comes fully portable.
3. Henry Squire WS75S Stronghold 6 Pin S Cylinder Container Block Lock – Budget Pick
The Henry Squire WS75S Stronghold 6 Pin S Cylinder Container Block Lock is our budget pick. Let us read about the features and get to know more about them.
This is a 6-pin tumbler lock mechanism that has 250,000 key differences. It is hugely corrosion-resistant and can offer you with immense durability. It is also an electrophoretic black coating container lock 6-pin cylinder.
All in all, this is an extremely robust and solid lock. This lock has a CEN rating of 4, which makes it an exceptionally good value. The model is all-weather and simple to use, and our team members would recommend this to anyone looking for a container or straight shackle lock.
- Solid hardened steel lock.
- Hardened boron alloy steel shackle.
- 6-pin tumbler lock mechanism.
- It is corrosion-resistant.
- Electrophoretic black coating.
- All-weather lock.
- 1-year guarantee.
- The length could have been more.
Bottom line:
The Henry Squire WS75S Stronghold 6 Pin S Cylinder Container Block Lock is our budget pick. This model has some amazing features like a hardened boron alloy steel shackle, 6 pin tumbler lock mechanism, corrosion resistance, and electrophoretic black coating.
4. Kossie Container Lock – Best Safe Container Lock (https://www.kossie.com.au/products/kossie-container-lock)
The Kossie Container Lock suits shipping containers and Pantech trucks ensuring maximum security for your stored valuable items 24 hours a day. This KOSSIE container lock comes with a padlock, so users are ready to go.
The standard padlock can be used, and it is bolt-cutter-proof. Our team members got on working with the tools at their disposal. The lock was pretty sturdy. The steel sleeve protects the padlock, it is a tamper-proof locking pin and is suitable for Pantech truck overnight stops.
It is simple and safe to use. We felt that the lock is highly visible, comes locally made, and is readily available. Overall, it is a fantastic lock that has everything in it that any user would want in it.
- 100% patented product.
- Customizable to all containers.
- A standard padlock can be used.
- Bolt cutter proof.
- Steel sleeve protects padlock.
- Tamper-proof locking pin.
- It is simple and safe to use.
- Highly visible.
- Comes locally made.
- Readily available.
- Somewhat steeply-priced.
Bottom line:
The Kossie Container Lock is the best safe container lock. The model comes with features like it is a 100% patented product, being customizable to all containers, and one can make use of the standard padlock.
5. ABUS 215/100 Granit ConHasp with 37RK/70HB100 High-Security Rekeyable Padlock – Best High Security Rekeyable Lock
Our next product on the list of the best shipping container lock units is the ABUS 215/100 Granit ConHasp with 37RK/70HB100 High-Security Rekeyable Padlock. We are simply amazed to know the ratings of ABUS products in the market online.
That means it has a wide range of applications. So, once the shipping owners do not need to use it on the cargo vessel or ships, then they can make use of it on the doors or gates of their commercial establishment.
It is suitable for use with padlocks such as 37RK/70HB100. The model is designed from extremely tough steel, and the parts are corrosion-resistant. Our team members & participants felt that the model is durable with these features.
The lock comes manufactured with special welding technology for enhanced security capability. On the whole, the container lock is simple to install, intruders have to cut a hole in the container to get in, and we felt that the lock can solve a lot of security issues.
- Highly rated.
- Simple to install.
- Can fit most storage containers.
- Suitable for use with padlocks.
- Designed from extremely tough steel.
- Parts are corrosion-resistant.
- Special welding technology.
- Wide range of applications.
- Heavy to carry around.
Bottom line:
The ABUS 215/100 Granit ConHasp with 37RK/70HB100 High-Security Rekeyable Padlock is the best high-security rekeyable lock. The lock has incredible features including it being highly rated, simple to install, it can fit most storage containers, and is suitable for use with padlocks.
Buying Guide – Factors to consider when choosing the best shipping container lock
When looking for locks to use in transporting your shipping container, there are some things that you need to look for to get a lock that suits your needs. We have discussed about them briefly, and they are given below.
- Durable material
A good shipping container lock home depot uses a robust material to make sure that it does not break easily. This happens when somebody tries to break open the lock using maximum force.
For ideal security, consider getting the steel padlock. The steel that has gone through hardening provides the best protection. Other materials that can be considered include aluminum, zinc, stainless steel, and brass, which are tough and recommended for securing valuable cargo.
The stainless-steel padlocks offer the best performance for outside storage. The shackle can be designed with carbide, steel alloy, and plain hardened steel. We can say the same about the pins, as stainless steel or hardened pins offer the best protection.
Besides, it should be able to last for several years considering the price point. The shipping container locks do not come cheap, and most of the lock models that we tested, came around less than $400.
Here we thought that the Equipment Lock HDCDL Steel Heavy Duty Cargo Door Lock was sturdy.
- Weather resistance
The next factor to consider by users is the weather resistance of the lock. Users will want to make use of a shipping container lock that is able to withstand several weather conditions that include heat, rain, hail, and snow.
We may suggest that users use a lock that uses steel balls between the shackle and the body. It provides the padlock with adequate protection such that it will not be opened forcibly. This is something that can happen with the spring lock systems.
The shoulder shroud is recommended when it fits the container. In this case, we felt that the Bulldog CT330 Container Lock was quite weather-resistant.
- Design
The next criterion that users need to think about is the design of the container lock. It is also important to note that the different locks come with several designs & mechanisms for a wide range of needs.
It is vital that users get a design that they are comfortable with using. Besides, it should be able to blend with the shipping container. The should shipping container combination lock must blend in with the design of the shipping container lock.
We felt that the Henry Squire WS75S Stronghold 6 Pin S Cylinder Container Block Lock did well in the design aspect of things.
- Protection
The shipping container stacking locks must come with features that protect them from the usual break-in methods like lock picking, drilling, and bolt cutters. If someone wants to open the shipping container, they can either try to cut through the padlock, use force to open, drill through the lock, and pick the lock.
The Kossie Container Lock did well in this aspect.
- Customer service
Customer service is vital for any product that is available in the market. We are happy to let you know that these products come with good customer service. We came across some feedback about negative customer support but were amazed to find out the maker responded to our queries satisfactorily.
The ABUS 215/100 Granit ConHasp with 37RK/70HB100 High-Security Rekeyable Padlock came with good customer support. Whatever one ships, it is important that they secure it with a high-quality and durable lock that can withstand whatever happens to get it to its destination.
Who is this for?
The shipping container lock is meant for ship owners and those who are working in the ocean liners. However, the locks are specially designed for cargo ships, bulk carriers, Roll-on/Roll-off (RO-RO) ships, refrigerated cargo ships, tankers, and container ships.
They can also be used on specialized cargo ships such as LNG carriers and car carriers, and multi-purpose vessels. These vessels carry important cargo and need to be fastened properly, securely, and safely so that they are kept away from prying eyes.
It also boils down to the question; how much worth of goods are being stored inside the container ship? When the worth is a lot, which can run into millions, then it is imperative that the ship owners get a worthy lock that can protect the wares.
Owners may want to consider that a high-security shipping container lock should be of considerable importance. They are versatile storage choices that solidly built specialized cargo ships are often used for on-site or off-site storage at businesses.
Likewise, homeowners also make use of a residential-use shipping container on a lease that can hold their home’s furnishings. Businesses use containers when they need to store excess or their seasonal inventory.
Contractors require these containers for large infrastructure projects so that they can lease shipping containers to hold work equipment and large quantities of supplies. We all saw during the global pandemic that the sea route played a significant role in ensuring that the goods were transported safely to their destination.
This became another factor in the enhancement of shipping containers. At factories where space is the main concern, social distancing can be done using a commercial leased shipping container.
Besides, severe weather events in the last years have increased the demand for these shipping containers. They are replacing traditional wooden storage sheds and fragile storage warehouses.
Moreover, mobile businesses are demanding temporary office shipping containers that are designed robust, strong, and flexible for durable use. So, if you belong to the above categories, then you may strongly want to consider using the shipping container lock.
What are the types of shipping container locks?
We do not leave our homes unlocked when we go outside on personal or professional work. Similarly, we must not leave the storage container that contains precious cargo unlocked. Is it not?
We are not only referring to the shipping containers that are used on ships and vessels but also containers that are used for other purposes as we discussed in the above segment. Though intruders might not want to mess around with a container, there is no need to take a risk.
Using a good lock ensures that the goods are kept safe and prevents unwanted & unauthorized access. Besides, ship owners do not have to lose sleep over lost goods and communicate with the insurance firm because everything is safe and sound.
Here are some of the popular shipping container locks.
- Container padlocks
The container padlocks are a classic. They have been around for many years now and are popularly used among shipping firms. These locks are ideal to secure the cargo. We were able to get our hands on a special version of a padlock designed for shipping containers.
It is shaped like a U steel lock that attaches to the loop inside the lockbox. These units come in a wide range of materials, styles, and colors. We can assure users that they can provide them with good security for the shipping container.
It is possible as the lock is able to hold the padlock’s shackle, which makes it quite tough for intruder’s tamper with it. The container padlocks come shaped like in the line-keyed batches from the maker.
- Crossbar locks
The second type of shipping container would be the crossbar locks. These are produced from tubular steel and are extendable clamps. The locks can be attached to the container’s door lock, using their handles or the rods.
Due to the keyed lock mechanism, the clamp can be securely fastened to ensure that the container’s doors do not open. It can resist bolt cutters and even lock picks. Some of the units come with extensions for bars placed inside the standard 9” – 16”.
They are shaped like the keyed batches for convenience to open and close the container shipping lock.
- Truck seals
The truck seals are the next type of shipping container locks. These are quite cheap, and the most common type of lock found on most cargos. It can work similarly to plastic zip ties and must be used in low-security risk areas.
They are also ideal for ensuring that the shipping container lock doors do not open all of a sudden. These things can happen and cause fatal accidents. However, some of the locks can be used as high security as they are produced from thick metal bolts.
- Hidden shackle padlocks
The hidden shackle padlocks are easy to use, offering users with the functionality of a padlock that makes the tampering protection of a single latch lock or deadbolt. It is possible because the shackle is hidden inside the body and is impossible to cut using tools.
This kind of lock can be used when there is a cargo of very high value, that the user wants to protect. Please make sure that the locks are matched with the right kind of hasps to ensure additional security.
- Roll door lock boxes
The roll door lock boxes are our final type of shipping container lock that can help protect the goods inside the cargo ship. They are produced for shipping container roll-up doors and come in several designs.
They can be installed at the bottom of the door, and users can make use of a more traditional hasp-style lock. It could make use of the padlock. The roll door lock boxes can ensure that the goods are kept safe inside.
We may add that the bigger the padlock, the better the protection it offers. There are a few important considerations to make. We were amazed to note that though most shipping containers looked the same, they are quite different.
It is vital because not all locks fit all containers. Users need to take a close look at the fittings of the container. While some containers have a lock box with an extra layer, others might not have. Users may have to find out the dimensions of this lockbox, the depth, and whether there is a loop bar behind it.
Knowing these details, one can make a guess on the type of lock that they require. Besides, factors like the thickness of the shackle, shackle clearance required, and how big the padlock would fit beneath the lockbox should be known.
As users are waiting for the container to be delivered, they can try talking with the delivery company to get the necessary measurements. After the measurements are found, the users can safely continue to get a new shipping container lock.
The key padlock is going to offer better security when compared to the combination lock. Moreover, the longer the key, with more pins, the harder it is going to be for someone to pick the lock.
Users may want to look for hardened anti-drill plates. They provide crucial protection against people that may try to drill the locks to open them. This was the above list of the types of shipping container locks.
We hope that users can choose the right kind of lock that can help protect their wares inside the cargo ship. We sincerely hope that the locks chosen are suitable for the shipping container.
How have we tested for the best shipping container lock?
| Product Name | Durable material | Weather resistance | Design | Protection | Overall score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bulldog CT330 Container Lock | 98 | 98 | 98 | 96 | 97.5 | Check Price |
| Henry Squire WS75S Stronghold 6 Pin S Cylinder Container Block Lock | 97 | 97 | 97 | 96 | 96.75 | Check Price |
| ABUS 215/100 Granit ConHasp with | 96 | 96 | 96 | 96 | 96 | |
| Equipment Lock HDCDL Steel Heavy Duty Cargo Door Lock | 99 | 99 | 99 | 98 | 98.75 | Check Price |
| Kossie Container Lock | 96 | 98 | 96 | 96 | 96.5 | Check Price |
We strive to provide our readers with the best possible products after intense research, analysis, and review. We want to ensure that ship owners, business establishments, and shipping companies make the best purchase decisions.
That is only possible when they are provided with the right kind of shipping container locks. Now, these locks can’t be tested or reviewed in an ordinary lab. Hence, we had to shift our base near the port and communicate with shipping experts, get their views, and do the tests there live.
We have arduously researched these products, conducted interviews with some of the industry experts, and evaluated items. Based on the information, we have compiled our recommendations into an informative list for shipping owners.
The container lock models were able to go through the testing phase with immense success where we used tools like hammers, cutting pliers, and others. The locks could take a beating on them, and will some did get broken after some time, and some did not?
Like, as we mentioned in the earlier part of this review, no shipping container lock is safe and can be broken by a determined thief or intruder. But it is important that shipping owners are careful about their wares.
We first checked the intense packaging of the container locks as they come to us. This gives us an idea of the dedication of the manufacturer. A serious maker will always ensure that their products are packed well, such that they do not get damaged during shipping.
We are happy to tell you that the products came well-packed giving them no room for any sort of wear & tear. Second, we checked for the material used in constructing the container locks. The material should be durable and produced from robust materials like stainless steel and even on occasion, zinc.
This also makes them resistant to different kinds of weather like heat, snow, rain, and so on. The weather can affect the resistance ability of the container locks and if the lock model can’t withstand the different weather conditions, then it may break down easily.
We checked the design of the container lock because it must come with a sublime production. This helps users to make use of it easily. We were delighted with the make, model, and flexibility of most of the locks.
They are pretty easy to use and work with. You do not want to be struggling with the functionalities of the lock. We also checked for the protection that it provided from unwanted elements.
We tested the shipping container locks using some tools like lock picking, drilling, and bolt cutters. We were amazed at how sturdy in build quality they were. These models were able to withstand it for quite some time until they eventually gave in.
Those who have worked, produced, and designed locks, will tell the same thing. No lock can 100% protect your wares. But using a sturdy lock plays a mental game with thieves and intruders, who are not determined enough.
Lastly, we noted the customer service of the brand. Most of the top brands come with exceptional support. When users find themselves having some issues with the container lock, then they can make use of customer support.
Besides, when they find themselves having to get a warranty or replacement, then they can make use of it. We have given container lock units that come with a warranty and replacement. The models that we have given also comes with professional customer support.
They were able to respond quickly and answer questions up to our satisfaction considering the price of some of the models.
Why should you trust us?
You can trust us as our main editors have a combined experience of more than 20 years in the shipping container locks market. Our main editors have stable connections with some of the most popular shipping container locks producers in the world.
Our team member worked in the shipping company for more than 8 years before deciding to call it quits and begin a career in content writing. He has a liking towards the working of the shipping container locks.
Our team member was always intrigued at how tough some of the container locks were designed for protecting the cargo transported on the ships. In fact, our editors, team members, and participants were pleasantly suspired at how the models were able to withstand the pressure of pliers, cutters, and grinders.
They took everything that was thrown at them. It was quite evident through their sturdy production and design. We were also quite satisfied with the user feedback on the strength of the models, which have been awesome.
Our team members and participants researched, reviewed, and analyzed the shipping container locks. It enabled us to have a better idea of the construction, working, and capabilities of the locks.
They come with warranties and replacements. We also went through different websites and communicated our doubts with shipping container lock experts. We also took some suggestions from sailors who spend more than 8 months in the sea on cargo ships that transport goods both nationally & internationally in the United States and other countries.
We decided on the list only after reviewing, testing, and analyzing the locks. Our team members tested these locks and gave their feedback to us. They were quite impressed with the testing period, and the locks were able to do their job.
To help you understand them better, we have offered you with the pros & cons, and the buying guide. We can tell you that the information provided in this review is accurate and was based on our testing and reviewing.
Of course, we took the suggestions of our editors, team members, and participants.
FAQs
1. What lock to use on shipping containers?
There are a few things that one must look into regarding the lock to use on shipping containers. But the main thing we feel would be the high thickness, and that it should be produced from a hardened steel lock.
It helps to secure the doors and ensure that the container door remains closed all the time when you are not there. Users can also use bolt locks and cylinder locks because they are durable and can withstand bolt cutters.
2. How do you lock a shipping container?
The shipping containers can be locked by using certain techniques. It depends on the lock style. These are usually mentioned on the locks when purchased. One can also make use of the video tutorial if they feel overwhelmed by it.
There are many container lock styles like traditional padlocks, keyless locks, disc locks, and crossbar locks. Having so many options, people tend to face some storage security obstacles that can be managed if done properly.
3. What size lock do I need for a shipping container?
This entirely depends on the size of the shipping container. It is quite simple, isn’t it? When you purchase something large or smaller, then there can be massive problems. For shipping container padlocks that range from a 10mm shackle thickness up to a 12mm shackle thickness, they can fit any container, mostly.
We may suggest that when in doubt, then please go in with the shutter padlock or the slide bolt type padlock, as they are produced for shipping containers. We hope this helped you choose the right size lock for your shipping container.
4. What are the different types of container locks?
There are several types of container locks like container padlocks, which are a classic type of lock for securing cargo. Second, we have crossbar locks that are extendable clamps made from tubular steel.
Third is the truck seals which are the least expensive and most common type of lock for shipping containers. Fourth, we have the hidden shackle padlocks that are easy to use, giving immense functionality of a padlock, and the tampering protection of a deadbolt.
Finally, we have the roll door lock boxes that are designed specifically for shipping container roll-up doors. So, there you have it. These were some of the commonly designed container locks for ships.
5. Are lock and lock containers safe?
Yes, they are no doubt. Their container locks come with everything that any ship captain would look for. Because shipping containers are designed for transporting goods on the ocean. They need to be very strong and secure.
This feature makes them really phenomenal for storage. However, given the size and weight, and that they are nearly air-tight, means that there are some crucial precautions to take when working with containers.
Conclusion
We have come to the end of our review on the best shipping container lock. It is quite obvious that every aspect of a shipping container is quite challenging to handle & manage. But with the right kind of tools, man management, and locks, things can get somewhat smoother.
For any captain or crew, the shipments need to be delivered to their destination safely, promptly, and without any damage. To ensure protection for the shipping container, we strongly feel that one must get a lock like the Equipment Lock HDCDL Steel Heavy Duty Cargo Door Lock.
It secures both doors of all semi-trailers by locking the two innermost vertical locking bars together. We also felt that the Bulldog CT330 Container Lock is the runner-up as it gives added security to the shipping containers and is very easy to fit and remove and the keyless fitting comes as a good advantage.
Please do write to us in the comment section below giving us your feedback about the product. Please do let us know which locks you liked or have been using in the shipping containers. We would love to hear about your experiences and thoughts about the container locks.
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