When it comes to shipping container modifications, doors are one of the most important upgrades you’ll make. Whether you’re creating a workshop, office, retail kiosk, or backyard storage space, the type of door you choose will determine how functional (and secure) your build is.
Let’s go over the most common container door options, their uses, and how to install them, plus where Container Modification World (CMW) products fit in to make the job faster and easier.
Types of Doors for Containers
1. Standard Cargo Doors
These are the factory steel double doors every shipping container comes with. They’re secure and weather-tight but heavy and not very convenient for daily access.
- Best for: Storage and industrial applications.
- Upgrades: Add a CMW Door Flashing Kit to finish the interior around the doors cleanly when insulating and lining your container.
- If you want to learn how to remove these doors from your container, check out our video here.
2. Man Doors
Lightweight steel man doors make containers feel more like a traditional building. They provide quick entry without swinging open two massive cargo doors.
- Best for: Offices, shops, and container homes.
- Pro Tip: CMW offers pre-framed Man Door Kits designed for easy, weld-free installation, making the process simple and professional-looking.
- Watch our video on Man Doors here.
3. Roll-Up Doors
Roll-up doors save space by coiling upward instead of swinging out.
- Best for: Storage and commercial access.
- Pro Tip: CMW’s Roll-Up Door Framing Kits take the guesswork out of cutting and reinforcing the container wall, so you get a clean, strong install.
- Watch our video on Roll-Up Doors here.
- Leaking? Check out this video.
Basic Installation Steps
- Plan & Mark – Choose your door location carefully. Mark the cutout so it aligns with your container’s framing and doesn’t interfere with structural members.
- Cut the Opening – Use a plasma cutter or grinder with a cutting wheel. Work slowly to avoid warping the steel.
- Frame It In – Reinforce the opening to maintain structural integrity. This is where pre-fabricated CMW framing kits save hours of work compared to custom welding.
- Install the Door – Fit your man door, roll-up, or window into the framed opening and fasten securely.
- Seal & Flash – Use sealant, flashing, and trim to keep out water, pests, and drafts.
- Finish Inside – If insulating, make sure the door framing ties cleanly into your stud walls.
Final Thoughts
Doors are what make your shipping container functional. The right choice balances convenience, security, and aesthetics. Whether you’re keeping the original cargo doors or upgrading to man doors or roll-ups, installation is straightforward when you use the right tools and framing systems.
With CMW’s Door Flashing Kits, Man Door Frames, and Roll-Up Door Kits, you can cut, frame, and finish openings faster — all without welding.
