When choosing the right storage solution, it’s important to look beyond the surface. While shipping containers and portable storage units may appear similar, they serve very different purposes. Shipping containers were built for global freight. Portable units, like Boxwells, are designed specifically for on-site storage, offering a more advanced, versatile, and visually appealing option.
Here’s a closer look at why purpose-built portable storage units are better suited for today’s storage needs than repurposed shipping containers.
Built for Storage, Not Shipping
Portable storage units are designed from the ground up for everyday use. They feature smoother doors, lighter materials, and easy ground-level access, making them ideal for both residential and commercial storage.
Shipping containers were created for transporting cargo across oceans. Their strength and uniformity are perfect for stacking long-distance travel, but not for customer-facing storage. Portable units focus on functionality and convenience, designed to be moved, loaded, and accessed with ease.
Because they can be moved even when fully loaded, Boxwells can be repositioned as your business evolves. offering the flexibility modern storage operators rely on.
Designed to Reflect Your Brand
When comparing portable storage units vs shipping containers, appearance and adaptability matter. Portable units can be tailored with features like custom steel, anti-condensation spray, and climate control. Our in-house design team works directly with clients to bring their brand to life, from clean logos to eye-catching graphics, all at no extra charge. Every Boxwell becomes a moving billboard, helping operators attract attention and boost brand visibility wherever their containers go.
Shipping containers, unless extensively modified, can look industrial and out of place. Retrofitting them for similar functionality often means welding, painting, and cutting, which adds cost and complexity. Portable units, on the other hand, offer a clean, uniform, and professional appearance right from delivery. They elevate your site’s curb appeal and customer confidence.
Smarter Tech, Safer Storage
Modern portable storage units can be equipped with smart locks, motion sensors, and remote monitoring systems – technology designed to enhance security and convenience.
Shipping containers, even when refurbished, typically rely on manual locking systems and require additional modification to support tech upgrades. Boxwells are built to integrate modern tools from the start, providing operators with secure, trackable, and easy-to-manage storage.
Made to Move
Portable storage units are lighter, stackable, and easy to move, a major advantage for operators who need temporary or flexible storage options. Boxwells can be relocated across a property or transported to a new location using basic equipment. Check out the various delivery systems available for portable storage. Because portable units are portable, they are ideal for temporary storage needs.
Shipping containers, by contrast, require cranes or heavy machinery to move, limiting where and how they can be used. For growing businesses or short-term storage needs, portables are the practical choice.
Fewer Rules, Faster Setup
Portable storage units are typically classified as temporary structures, meaning they often face fewer zoning restrictions than shipping containers. This makes it easier to install them on residential, commercial, or mixed-use properties without lengthy permitting processes.
And because Boxwells are considered business equipment, they may qualify for Section 179 tax deductions, allowing businesses to deduct the full cost of equipment purchased and placed in service before year-end (confirm eligibility with your tax professional.) Our current lead time is 10-14 weeks, order now to receive your units and qualify for the tax break.
Built to Last
Boxwells are designed to stand up to the elements with weather-resistant materials and protective coatings. Shipping containers, especially those that have already spent time on the ocean, often require regular painting, rust prevention, and structural repairs.
Over time, maintenance costs for used shipping containers can add up. Portable storage units deliver longer-lasting, lower maintenance solutions that save time, effort, and money.
The Smarter Storage Choice
Shipping containers will always have their place in transportation, but when it comes to on-site storage, Boxwells are purpose-built for performance. They’re customizable, moder, and designed for the way people store today.
With better aesthetics, more flexibility, and lower upkeep, portable units are a smarter, more cost-effective choice for facility owners and operators.
Build your success with Boxwell – the portable storage solution made for your business.
Boxwell designs, manufactures, and installs industry-leading storage solutions. Our lineup includes relocatable self-storage units, portable containers, hallway systems, and roll up doors. Every product is fully customizable and built to last—trusted by companies across the United States, Canada, Europe, the United Kingdom, Australia, the Middle East, Asia, and beyond.
Boxwell is Built For Your Success. From the start, our mission has been simple: create the best B2B storage products and back them with outstanding customer support. Our clients gain access to dedicated Account Managers, design and installation services, and extensive product warranties.
We are here to help. Contact Boxwell today via our email, sales@boxwell.co, or call 303-317-5850.