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Tunnel vs. Open Side Shipping Containers: Which Type Is Right for Your Project?

Looking for the right specialized shipping container for your next project or job site? Whether you’re in need of secure storage, ocean transport or a custom build, understanding the difference between Tunnel (Double Door) and Open Side shipping containers is critical.

These two new/one-trip container types are designed for maximum access and long-term durability—perfect for industrial, commercial, and custom-modified use cases.

At Container Sales Group, we’ve been supplying specialized shipping containers across the United States since 1998 – trusted by businesses nationwide for reliable, expert service and wholesale pricing.

Double Door Shipping Containers

Double door tunnel shipping container with open ends for dual access on both ends of the shipping container.

Tunnel containers, also called double door shipping containers, are built with doors at both ends—providing full access from either side. These specialized units are only available as New/One-Trip containers, ensuring top-tier condition and durability for demanding, high-use environments.

Key Benefits:

  • Dual-End Access – Load and unload efficiently from both ends.
  • Streamlined Workflow – Perfect for rotating stock or frequently accessed inventory.
  • Flexible Layout – Can be sectioned off or used as a full-length pass-through space.

Common Uses:

  • Quick-access tool storage on construction sites
  • Walk-through tunnels for events and crowd control
  • Inventory storage for retail setups needing front and back access

Open Side Shipping Containers

Open side container with side doors open, showing full-length access

Open Side containers feature full-length side access, in addition to standard double doors at one end. This unique design allows for wider and more flexible access to stored goods like oversized items or applications requiring a side entry. These containers are exclusively offered as New/One-Trip containers, providing superior condition and longevity.

Key Benefits:

  • Maximum Access: Easily load wide or oversized items from the side.
  • Improved Organization: Access stored materials without unloading from the end.
  • Mod-Friendly: Great base for pop-up shops, mobile exhibits, or custom-built units.

Common Uses:

  • Mobile storefronts and vendor booths
  • Equipment storage with frequent in-and-out use
  • Custom container conversions that require side access

Tunnel vs. Open Side Containers: How to Choose

When deciding between a Tunnel vs. Open Side shipping container, the key factor is how you plan to access and use the container:

  • Choose a Tunnel Container for job sites that require dual access, walk-through layouts, or inventory rotation.
  • Choose an Open Side Container for oversized item storage, frequent in-and-out access, or modular container builds.

Specialized Containers. Honest Pricing. Unmatched Service.

With nationwide delivery and exceptional customer service, Container Sales Group makes it easy to get the right container for your needs – whether you’re managing a construction site, running a business, or creating a custom build.

Since 1998, Container Sales Group has been a trusted nationwide supplier of Specialized New/One-Trip Shipping Containers, including Tunnel and Open Side models. We focus on delivering top-quality containers tailored to your needs, backed by honest pricing, fast response times, and exceptional customer support—all at direct-from-source wholesale rates

Call us today at 888-320-5938 or request a quote to get started!

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Container Sales Group buys containers directly from the steamship lines to offer our customers the highest quality containers at the most competitive prices. We’re a women-owned business, established in 1998, and have locations throughout the US.