DIY Steel Container Cover Solutions for the Right Customer

If you’ve spent any time browsing steel building kits or shipping container accessories, you’ve likely come across something called a DIY steel container cover. These rugged arch-style or straight-wall roofing solutions are designed to span two shipping containers and create a covered space between them.

Before we get too far, let’s clear something up: “shipping containers” go by a lot of names. Whether you know them as steel storage containers, cargo containers, freight containers, conex (or connex) boxes, or portable storage containers, we’re talking about the same big metal boxes you’ll find on construction sites, farms, backyards, or behind commercial buildings.

And here’s the thing a lot of people don’t realize: DIY steel container covers aren’t for everyone. They’re not a magical all-in-one solution that gives you containers and a roof in one purchase. They’re a strategic add-on—a smart choice for people who already own shipping containers and want to make better use of the space between them.

So, if you’re scratching your head wondering who actually buys these things—and why—it’s time to set the record straight.

We’re talking to a very specific kind of person or business here. The DIY steel container cover is ideal for folks who already have containers on-site for storage or workspace. This includes:

What all these buyers have in common is that the containers came first. Whether purchased, leased, or salvaged, the containers were already solving one problem—then the idea of turning them into a full-blown covered workspace, garage, or shelter emerged later.

That’s a fair question. If you don’t already own containers, it almost never makes sense to go out and buy two just so you can place a container cover between them.

A standalone steel building kit is usually a more cost-effective and efficient solution if you’re starting from scratch. It’ll be designed from the ground up to do what you need—without having to try and make a solution out of an existing asset.

But for those who already have containers, a DIY steel container cover turns that underutilized gap between them into serious functional space—at a fraction of the cost of a traditional building.

Here’s where container covers really shine.

One of the key decisions when installing a DIY steel container cover is whether to go with an inside or outside mount. Assume your containers are set a fixed distance apart—the mounting method changes how much space and coverage you get.

Inside Mount: The cover attaches to the inside edges of the containers.

Pros:
– Maximizes head space under the arch.
– Simple installation.

Cons:
– Tops of containers are left exposed to rain, snow, and UV.
– No added usable space on top of the containers.

Outside Mount: The cover attaches to the outside edges of the containers.

Pros:
– Containers are fully protected from the elements.
– Creates extra covered storage on top of each container.
– Offers even more head space thanks to the wider base.

Cons:
– Uses more steel, and thus costs a bit more.

👉 Still unsure? We break down some of the most common misconceptions in our blog: Debunking 3 Steel Container Cover Myths: What You Need to Know

It’s worth noting that shipping containers are built tough—but not invincible. Over time, constant exposure to moisture and UV can degrade seals, cause surface rust, and increase maintenance headaches. Regular maintenance will extend the useful life of a steel shipping container for years to come.

A DIY steel container cover not only adds usable space, but if an outside mount is used, it extends the life of your containers by shielding them from the worst of the weather. Think of it as a smart insurance policy for your site assets.

👉 Want to learn more about what makes shipping containers so useful? Check out our blog: 10+ Facts About Steel Shipping Containers

Let’s be blunt—if you don’t already own shipping containers, you probably don’t need a container cover. The DIY steel container cover is a bolt-on solution to a very specific need. It’s not a starter pack. It’s an upgrade for what you already have.

If you’re starting with bare ground and need full coverage, a traditional prefab steel building is going to serve you better.

For those who want even more headroom or are looking for a cleaner aesthetic, our M-Model straight wall container covers offer a great alternative to traditional arch styles. You can explore multiple options depending on your space, width needs, and mounting preference.

👉 Explore your options in our guide: Discover 3 Styles of M-Model Container Covers