The benefits of storing goods in a self-storage container are that they can be easily accessed as and when you need them. You enjoy peace of mind knowing that they’re being kept safe and secure, but are out of your way. However, your first step to storing and accessing your belongings or work inventory is knowing exactly how to open and close a self-storage container. This simple guide from Drive Up Storage will walk you through every step.

Self Storage Containers From Drive Up Storage

Before you begin, make sure the area around your unit is clear and that you have space to fully open both doors. 

Start by checking for padlocks on the door latches, including inside the protective lock box, and remove them. Keep it nearby so you can re-secure later.

Step 2: Release the Latch

Lift the metal bar out of the latch to free it. This allows the handles to rotate and disengage from their locked position.

Step 3: Unlock the Door

Always open the right door first. Swing the handle (or handles on certain container designs) all the way around to the other side to rotate the locking rods out of their brackets. Then let go of the handle, allowing it to drop down. 

Step 4: Open the Door

Once the handle is lying flat against the door, pull gently but firmly on the bar to swing the door open.

When the right door is fully open, repeat the same motion for the left-hand door. If the doors feel stiff - especially in cold or damp weather - apply steady pressure rather than pulling too sharply. Because containers are designed to be completely weather-tight, a bit of extra effort is sometimes needed to break the seal.

How To Open Your Self Storage Container

When you’re ready to close up your unit, the process is simply reversed. 

Step 1: Close the Door

Start with the left-hand door first. Push the door firmly until it fits snugly against the container frame.

Lift the handle and swing it slowly around so it’s perpendicular to the door. This will align the lock rods, and then you can rotate them into place by swinging the handle further across so the lock rods engage securely at the top and bottom of the door frame.

Step 3: Secure the Handles

Press the handle tightly against the door and lift it back into the latch to lock it. 

Step 4: Repeat on the Other Side

Push the right door shut, lock the vertical bar in place, and secure the handle as before.

Finally, reattach your padlocks to the latches and lock box. For maximum protection, use a disc lock or high-grade steel padlock that’s weather-resistant and designed to resist bolt cutters.

How To Close Your Self Storage Container

At Drive Up Storage, we make storage convenient with drive-up access and flexible units in Stroud, Walsall, and Widnes. Get in touch to find out more about our secure self-storage container units.