Shipping Container vs. Storage Shed: Which One Should You Get?
If you’re running low on space and need somewhere dependable to keep tools, lawn equipment, hobby gear, or seasonal belongings, a backyard shed is usually the first idea that comes to mind. But there’s another option many homeowners overlook: a repurposed shipping container. Designed for international transport and built to survive harsh conditions at sea, containers are emerging as one of the most secure and durable backyard storage options available.
Before you invest in a traditional wooden or vinyl shed, it’s worth breaking down how shipping containers compare in cost, construction, security, setup, and long-term durability. The differences are bigger than most people realize.
Cost: Where Containers Deliver More for Your Money
Cost is often the first deciding factor, and this is where shipping containers immediately stand out. A new 20-foot container (20′ x 8′ x 8.5′) usually costs around $3,475, which averages to about $22 per square foot. A 12′ x 12′ wooden or vinyl shed often ranges from $4,300 to $6,000, coming in at $30 to $50 per square foot.
Not only are containers more affordable per square foot, but they also offer a sturdier structure at that price point. You’re not paying extra for cosmetic materials, delicate siding, or add-on reinforcements. You’re paying for solid steel built to handle thousands of pounds and extreme weather. When you compare durability alongside cost, the value gets even clearer.
Construction and Longevity: Steel vs. Wood and Vinyl
Shipping containers were engineered for long-term, heavy-duty use. They’re made from Corten steel, a metal designed to resist corrosion and withstand years of challenging conditions. Traditional sheds simply aren’t built with the same expectations.
What shipping containers offer:
- Corten steel exterior with industrial-grade protective coatings
- Underside treated with a rot-resistant undercoating
- Marine-grade plywood floors supported by steel cross members
- A rigid structure capable of supporting the weight of multiple stacked containers
- Weather-tight sealing designed for global transit
By contrast, wooden sheds require regular painting, sealing, and repairs to keep rot, warping, and moisture damage under control. Vinyl sheds handle moisture better but lack the strength and impact resistance of steel. If a branch falls on a vinyl shed during a storm, the results can be costly. A container, on the other hand, can handle serious impact without structural damage.
If you want a storage solution that will last for decades with minimal upkeep, the construction quality of a shipping container is hard to beat.
Rodent and Pest Protection: One Clear Winner
Anyone who has battled mice in a backyard shed knows how frustrating and expensive it can be. Wooden sheds expand and contract with the seasons, creating tiny entry points. Even new vinyl sheds often have gaps around seams and door frames.
Mice, insects, and other pests only need a quarter inch to get inside.
Shipping containers solve this problem through:
- A fully enclosed steel structure
- No seams, gaps, or chewable materials
- Double-gasketed doors that create a tight seal
This is especially important if you want to store equipment with wiring, upholstery, fabrics, paperwork, or anything pests like to nest in or chew through. A rodent-proof storage option prevents repairs and replacements down the road.
Site Preparation and Setup: Containers Keep It Simple
Traditional sheds require prep work. You need to build or buy a platform, ensure the foundation is level, and bring in multiple people for assembly. If you’re hiring out the labor, the cost goes up quickly.
Shipping containers are much easier. If the ground is level, a container can be placed directly on:
- Dirt
- Gravel
- Concrete
- Asphalt
Delivery and placement typically take just a few minutes. There’s no construction, no assembly, and no need for a foundation unless you want one. This makes containers an ideal solution for homeowners who want hassle-free installation with no ongoing structural concerns.
Security: A Major Difference Most People Overlook
Security is one of the biggest advantages shipping containers have over traditional sheds. A basic shed can be breached in seconds with common tools. Wooden panels can be pried open. Hinges can be forced. Even vinyl sheds can be cut through with the right blade.
Containers are built to protect valuable cargo during global transit. Their steel construction and reinforced locking systems make them extremely resistant to break-ins. Without power tools, getting into a sealed shipping container is nearly impossible.
If you’re storing:
- Power tools
- Lawn equipment
- ATVs or dirt bikes
- Machinery
- Household valuables
- Business supplies or inventory
A container offers a level of security a shed can’t match.
Weather Resistance: Containers Stay Solid Through Every Season
Another major advantage is how well containers handle weather. While sheds often suffer from moisture damage, UV exposure, and storm-related wear, containers are designed to endure ocean winds, salt spray, temperature fluctuations, and rainstorms for years at a time.
Wood sheds warp. Vinyl cracks. Steel containers stay solid.
For homeowners in areas with extreme temperatures, high humidity, or harsh storms, steel construction is a reliable long-term investment.
How to Decide Which Option Fits Your Needs
Choosing between a storage container and a shed comes down to what matters most to you. Here’s a clear way to assess your priorities.
A Shipping Container Is the Better Choice If You Want:
- Maximum durability
- Superior security
- Rodent and pest resistance
- Minimal maintenance
- More storage space for your money
- The ability to store heavy equipment
- Quick, hassle-free installation
Containers are ideal for homeowners who prioritize function, reliability, and long-term value.
A Traditional Shed Makes Sense If You Want:
- A smaller, more decorative structure
- A backyard feature that matches your home’s aesthetic
- Light storage without heavy equipment
- A DIY project you want to build yourself
Sheds still work well for simple, lightweight storage needs or when appearance is the top priority.
Contact Transocean Equipment
If you want a dry, secure, rodent-proof alternative to a traditional shed, get in touch with our team. We’ll walk you through our container options and help you choose the right size and setup for your property.
