When it comes to repurposing shipping containers, their versatility is boundless. From trendy pop-up shops and cozy backyard offices to innovative storage systems, these rugged metal boxes have found their way into various aspects of our lives.
One crucial aspect often overlooked during these transformations is lighting. In this blog, we delve into the world of shipping container lighting – from the options we have available to the considerations and modifications that can make your container truly shine.
Do Most Shipping Containers Come with Lighting?
In their original intended use, shipping containers are designed to securely transport goods across vast distances. Because of this, containers generally do not come equipped with built-in lighting fixtures, as stored materials are not accessed during transit.
Manufacturers focus on durability and structural integrity when building shipping containers, leaving details like windows, doors and lighting for the container’s eventual owner to decide.
Shipping Container Lighting Options
When embarking on a container conversion project, lighting becomes a fundamental consideration for transforming a steel box into a functional and efficient space. Here are four popular lighting options to consider:
1. LED Strip Lights
These flexible, energy-efficient lights are a popular and affordable choice. They can be easily affixed to the container’s ceiling, walls or even under shelves, providing both ambient and task lighting.
2. Recessed Lighting
For a more streamlined and modern look, you can install recessed lighting. These fixtures sit flush with the container’s ceiling, offering a polished appearance. Use recessed lighting if you have floor-to-ceiling racks that get in the way of a traditional lighting fixture.
3. Solar Lighting
Embracing sustainability, solar-powered lights can be an excellent choice for outdoor or off-grid container projects. They harness sunlight during the day and illuminate container lights at night. Solar lighting might be necessary for locations without electricity if you need lighting but don’t want to run a generator.
4. Skylights
Skylights are great lighting options for seeing what you have stored without requiring maintenance or electricity. While skylights won’t help much at night, they’re an affordable option that can significantly reduce your reliance on artificial lighting during daylight hours. This saves you money that otherwise would have gone to paying for electricity.
Important Things to Consider
Selecting the proper lighting for your shipping container involves more than just aesthetics. Consider these three crucial factors:
1. Purpose
Define how you’ll be using the container. Will it be a workspace, living space or storage space? Different purposes require different lighting setups.
For instance, you may not need a light if you plan on using the container to store materials you want to access during the day. But if you’re using a container as a mobile office or workspace, you will need a lighting option to keep things illuminated in the dark.
2. Power Source
Plan how you’ll power the lights. If the container is stationary and connected to the grid, traditional electrical wiring might be the way to go. For mobile setups, you should investigate generator options or consider adding a skylight.
A generator allows you to provide electricity to your container without connecting to the grid. If you need to connect power to a mobile office, you may find our blog on the topic helpful.
3. Lighting Levels
Container spaces have different requirements for light intensity. Workspaces might require brighter, task-oriented lighting, while storage spaces, break rooms and living spaces benefit from softer, ambient lighting.
How Is Southwest Mobile Storage Different from Other Container Providers?
When venturing into the world of container conversions, choosing the right provider is paramount. Southwest Mobile Storage stands out for several reasons:
Expertise
Our team has decades of experience. We understand the intricacies of container modifications, including how to effectively install a variety of lighting installations.
Customization
Southwest Mobile Storage offers tailored solutions, ensuring your container meets your needs, including lighting preferences. In addition to lighting customizations, we can also add a variety of window options.
We can customize a container with sliding glass windows, security windows, skylights and more.
Quality
Our commitment to quality guarantees that your container, including its lighting components, will serve you and your projects well for a long time.
Dedicated Support
At Southwest Mobile Storage, we understand that a container purchase has a lot of moving parts. You’re looking for a container solution that can accomplish your goals for an affordable price, and you don’t want to be transferred from department to department to find someone who can help you find what you need.
That’s why we make the container purchasing process as efficient as possible. When you call us, you’ll speak with a dedicated sales representative who will be your go-to contact whenever you need us. If you have any questions about the containers we have in stock or want a container quote they’ll be able to assist.
Summary
Illuminating a shipping container isn’t just about practicality – it’s a creative endeavor that can significantly enhance its functionality and aesthetics. Whether crafting a modern living space, a bustling workspace, or a unique retail outlet, the right lighting choices can make a world of difference.
From skylights to solar-powered fixtures, the options are as diverse as your imagination. Remember to align your lighting choices with the container’s intended purpose, and don’t hesitate to explore customization options.
When it comes to container providers, our experience, customization options and commitment to quality make us a standout choice in the industry. So, shed some light on your container project by contacting us today regarding your container needs.
