3 Methods of Locking your Shipping Container

by Tori Smiley

Not all locks (or lock boxes) are created equal. Here’s a quick guide to the main options, from “bring your own padlock” to high-security puck systems, plus when each makes sense.

1) BYO Padlock on the Existing Hasps (Exposed Hardware)

What it is: You put a regular padlock through the factory door hasps—no add-ons.
Pros: Cheapest, zero install, works with any container.
Cons: The lock is fully exposed—easy target for bolt cutters & pry bars.
Best for: Low-risk locations, short-term storage, or when you’re on a tight budget.
Pro tip: At least use a shrouded or hardened padlock to reduce exposed shackle.

2) Padlock-Style Lock Box (Shrouds a Standard Padlock)

What it is: A steel “house” welded or bolted over the hasps that hides your padlock from cutters and prying.
Pros: Big security jump for a small price; uses common padlocks; easy to operate with gloves.
Cons: Still relies on a traditional padlock inside; quality of the padlock matters.
Best for: Job sites, retail yards, and everyday storage where you want strong security without changing how you lock/unlock.
Good to know: Most One-Trip (new) containers come with a padlock-style lock box already installed.

3) Puck Lock + Puck-Style Lock Box (Maximum Shackle Protection)

What it is: A round, “hockey puck” lock that has no exposed shackle, used with a low-profile steel shroud.
Pros: Excellent resistance to bolt cutters and prying; compact and very hard to attack.
Cons: Requires a puck lock (different key/format than a standard padlock); slightly higher cost; a bit more finesse to align the keyway.
Best for: Higher-risk areas, unattended sites, and anyone prioritizing maximum physical security in a compact form.

Bolt-On vs. Weld-On

  • Bolt-On: Fast, reversible, minimal downtime. Easiest to install or for when welding isn’t practical.

  • Weld-On: Permanent, tamper-resistant, and extra rigid. Best for long-term setups.

What Comes Standard on New (One-Trip) Containers?

Most One-Trip units include a factory padlock-style lock box on the primary door, so you can drop in a quality shrouded padlock on day one. If your box is missing one, or you want to upgrade to puck-style, we’ve got you.

 

We Install Both Styles

ConexTalk can install padlock-style or puck-style lock boxes (bolt-on or weld-on), supply compatible high-security locks, and paint-match the housing so it blends in.

Not sure which to pick? Swing by our Cincinnati depot, try both on a demo door, and we’ll set you up with the right mix of security, cost, and convenience for your site.

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