Overview
Strongholds storage and shipping container storage are both forms of drive up storage units, but they are designed for different purposes. Shipping container self storage is adapted from freight transport, while strongholds units are purpose built for self storage use.
Strongholds storage focuses on regular access, site presentation, and long term use. Storage from shipping containers prioritises flexibility and simplicity, often in more industrial settings.
From a user perspective, the main differences relate to design intent, appearance, and how the units function within a self storage site.
Drive up storage units allow customers to load and unload directly at their unit. This removes shared internal spaces and simplifies access. Within this category, strongholds storage and storage from shipping containers are often compared, even though they are designed for different purposes.
Both formats provide external self storage, but their origins, design priorities, and typical use cases vary. Understanding these differences helps users make informed decisions based on how they plan to use their storage.
What shipping container storage is designed for
Shipping containers were originally built for transporting goods. Their dimensions, materials, and structure reflect that original purpose. When used for self storage, containers are adapted rather than purpose built.
Shipping container self storage is often found on industrial or low visibility sites where practicality and deployment speed matter more than visual integration. Containers are familiar and widely recognised, which can make them a straightforward option in certain contexts.
Because containers are repurposed, the storage experience is shaped by freight design choices rather than customer access patterns.
What strongholds storage is designed for
Strongholds™ (drive up self storage units) is a range of drive-up self storage units.
Strongholds units are designed specifically for self storage use. The focus is on regular access, ease of use, and a format that suits customer-facing environments.
Strongholds combines the look of a permanent building with modular flexibility. This allows it to function as external self storage while visually aligning with more traditional built settings.
Strongholds is positioned as climate-stable storage. Aerogel insulation is standard. Aerogel is a highly efficient insulating material that helps stabilise internal conditions using a very thin layer, without complex systems.
Drive-up access is standard across the range.
How drive up storage units differ in everyday use
Both strongholds units and shipping container units offer drive up access, but daily use can feel different.
Strongholds are designed around frequent access. Layouts prioritise vehicle movement, visibility, and clear circulation across the site. This suits both household storage and business users storing tools, stock, or furniture.
Shipping containers storage may also allow direct vehicle access, but site layouts are often shaped by stacking or space efficiency. This can influence manoeuvring space and access flow during busier periods.
Appearance and site setting
A key difference between strongholds self storage units and shipping containers storage units are how each format looks within its surroundings.
Strongholds is designed for high-visibility sites such as town centres, design-sensitive settings, and prominent customer-facing locations. Its appearance reflects this role and supports integration with nearby buildings.
Shipping containers retain a utilitarian appearance. In industrial areas this may be appropriate, but in more visible locations it can limit where container storage is considered suitable.
Planning considerations in general terms
Planning requirements depend on site context and local considerations. In general educational terms, storage formats that resemble permanent buildings may be better suited to sites where appearance matters.
Strongholds units are designed with long-term site presence in mind while retaining a modular approach. Shipping containers storage is often used where flexibility and rapid deployment are prioritised.
No assumptions should be made about planning outcomes, as each site is assessed individually.
Strongholds explained
Strongholds™ (drive up self storage units) are a range of drive-up self storage units. Aerogel insulation is standard. Drive-up access is standard. Strongholds combines the look of a permanent building with modular flexibility. Strongholds is positioned as climate-stable storage.
Strongholds is used for both household and business storage and is suited to storing tools, stock, or furniture.
When shipping container storage may be suitable
Container storage can still be appropriate in certain situations. Short term storage, industrial locations, or sites with limited visual constraints may suit container-based solutions.
For some users, familiarity and simplicity are key factors. Containers are widely understood and can meet basic storage needs when access frequency and setting are less critical.
Choosing between strongholds storage and containers
The choice between strongholds and shipping containers storage depends on access needs, location, and how the storage will be used.
For users who value regular access, clearer site layouts, and a more building-like presence, strongholds self storage offers a distinct alternative to traditional container storage.
Understanding the design intent behind each option helps ensure the chosen drive up storage unit matches real-world use.
Find out why Strongholds are the future of self storage here.
Common Questions People Ask
What is strongholds storage?
Strongholds units are purpose built drive up self storage units designed for regular customer access.
How is shipping container storage different?
Shipping container self storage uses adapted freight containers rather than purpose built storage units.
Are both considered drive up storage units?
Yes. Both formats allow direct vehicle access to the storage unit.
Are strongholds units suitable for businesses?
Yes. It is commonly used for business storage such as tools, stock, or equipment.
Do both options suit long term storage?
Both can be used long term, but they are designed around different priorities and environments.
Key takeaways
- Strongholds units are purpose built for self storage, while containers are repurposed
- Both options offer drive up storage units, but layouts and usability differ
- Strongholds is designed for high-visibility and customer-facing locations
- Shipping container self storage suits more industrial or short-term contexts
- Choosing the right format depends on access patterns and site setting
Summary
Strongholds storage and shipping container storage are both forms of drive up storage units, but they are designed for different use cases. Strongholds are purpose built self storage units, while shipping container storage is adapted from freight transport.
- Strongholds storage focuses on regular access and site presentation
- Shipping containers storage prioritises flexibility and simplicity
- The right choice depends on use patterns and site context
This comparison applies broadly across self storage environments. Storage options nearby may vary by site design and operator.