Construction sites are chaotic by nature — materials, tools, and equipment need to be protected from theft, weather, and unauthorized access. A reliable steel storage container provides secure, on-site storage that helps contractors stay organized and avoid costly delays. Whether you're managing a short-term job or a long-term project, here’s a breakdown of the best container types and features to consider for construction site storage to keep it secure, organized, and efficient with our lineup of steel containers.
How WestSteel Containers Improve Construction Sites
- Security: Western steel standard containers have heavy-duty corrugated steel walls, and reinforced doors that deter break-ins
- Weather Resistance: All our containers keep power tools, equipment, and sensitive materials dry and safe
- Portability: Can be relocated as the job site evolves, eg. skid containers with even manual pallet jacks
- Organization: Internal shelving, dividers, walls, ramps can be added to store supplies, PPE, hardware, tools and equipment
Ultimately, this reduces theft, tool replacement, and downtime—making it highly cost-effective. A properly outfitted jobsite container can hold: power tools (saws, drills, generators), safety gear (helmets, gloves, harnesses), building materials (fasteners, adhesives, lumber), plans, blueprints, inspection binders, site signage, cones, caution tape, temporary electrical gear (chargers, cables, batteries)
Must-Have Features for Jobsite Security
| Feature | Included in WestSteel Containers |
|---|---|
| Reinforced bar door locks | ✅ Yes — all units secure with heavy duty hinges and bar lock |
| Relocatable design | ✅ Yes — forklift and skid-ready |
| Stackable units | ✅ Yes — for space optimization |
| Weather-resistant build | ✅ Yes — all-steel, sealed edges |
| Heavy equipment friendly | ✅ Yes — withstands loader handling |
| Lockbox compatibility | ✅ Yes — upgrade options available |
| Custom interior options | ✅ Yes — shelving, lighting, partitions available |
| Vents for airflow | Can be added to any container, (not by default to keep them weather-resistant) |
Jobsite Scenario: Real-World Example
Imagine a residential construction site on the outskirts of Winnipeg. The general contractor is managing a 3-month home addition project. Here's how containers are used:
- Standard container: is placed at the edge of the lot, prepped on treated sleepers. It's stocked with drills, saws, PPE kits, adhesives, and all required stock. A standard container is the best choice as can be stacked to conserve site space.
- Modular container: partitioned into half-storage, half-office space with a desk and charger setup. It becomes the supervisor's planning hub and warm break room in cold weather. Modular containers have flat walls making them ideal for insulation, add shelves for storage etc.
- Skid container: A 60″ or 78″ skid containers can be moved to wherever work is happening. It carries extra screws, nails, tape, and safety vests etc. — right beside the crew as skid containers need very little space and easy to move even with manual pallet jacks.
- Lockers: Each employee can have there own lockers to store clothing, PPE or their assigned tools.
Here is a sample list of best container types for construction use
Standard Steel Containers (half, single, double)
Standard containers ( mix of 18 & 24 gauge galvanized steel) offer exceptional security and durability with their heavy-duty, weather-resistant, and rust-resistant construction, making them ideal for long-term use. They provide the perfect storage solution for general tool storage, lumber, PPE, and small equipment. These are stackable if space is limited and forklift-ready. View Standard Containers ➡️
Modular Containers
Modular Container can sits on gravel, tiles or even grass, as they have wooden floor and pressure treated feet made with 18 gauge galvanized steel, making them secure, rust resistant and easily movable with pallet jack. The smooth walls allow them to be insulated and customized with shelving, lighting, and partitions. They are ideal for break rooms, powered tools, or plans. Browse Modular Units ➡️
Skid Containers
Skid containers are compact made with 18 gauge galvanized steel and corrugated sides and back. They can be placed on wood, gravel, or standard 48" skids, and are weather and rust resistant. Due to their lightweight, and easy to reposition with pallet jack or loader, they are perfect to be dropped close to work zones and moved frequently. They are ideal for storing small tools, hardware, and PPE. See Skid Containers ➡️
Need Help?
All of these are available from Western Steel & Tube Ltd. — with delivery and customization options. Need help choosing the right setup for your next jobsite? Talk to our team — we’ll recommend the most secure, practical fit for your crew and layout.