Painting a Shipping Container Build for Durability and Style

3 February 2025

One of the easiest ways to give a shipping container conversion a new lease of life is through paint. Painting a container build can completely transform the structure, giving a tired-looking container a new contemporary look that can become an extension of your company’s marketing strategy.

However, painting a custom build shipping container isn’t as straightforward as it may sound from the outlook, and there’s a lot to consider before starting. This article explores the benefits of painting a shipping container conversion.

Shipping container conversion after fresh coat of two-pack paint

Why paint a shipping container conversion?

Although a new shipping container will be in incredible condition and won’t need painting, the standard colour of shipping containers is blue or green. Painting a shipping container conversion can change its appearance.

Through paint, you’re adding a touch of individuality and character to a shipping container conversion which can improve the visibility of your business. With the addition of a business logo, you’re creating a marketing structure that reinforces your professional image.

Of course, painting a shipping container conversion comes with endless possibilities. You can paint a shipping container to seamlessly integrate with its surroundings to prevent it from standing out excessively. Or you can be as creative as possible, choosing colours, patterns or designs that align with your brand, campaign or vision for maximum impact.

Reasons for painting a custom build shipping container go far beyond physical appearance. By painting a shipping container, you’re protecting the structure against rust and corrosion. Giving a shipping container a lick of paint improves the durability of the structure and helps save costs down the line by expanding its life span.

Sand blasting shipping container conversion ahead of new paint application

Preparing your shipping container for paint

For shipping containers that might have rusted or have other external damage, thoroughly cleaning the surface, removing rust and applying primer are all vital steps that demand effort before the application of paint.

Although every project is different, you may need to spend one or two weeks grinding and sanding the shipping container to remove rust. For a smooth appearance, it is recommended to consider sandblasting the container. This will guarantee optimal adhesion and provide a smooth surface for painting the shipping container.

Leave it to the professionals

We always recommend hiring a professional to paint your shipping container conversion, it can save you a lot of inconvenience in the long run. Painting a 20″ ISO shipping container takes on average two days. A professional will know what paint to use to ensure the container looks good for longer and is protected from harsh environmental conditions.

A shipping container paint specialist will know what paint to use and where. At The Container Converter, we use a paint that has two-pack paint that uses two components – the paint and a hardener. The hardener is needed because it chemically cures when activated. It dries quickly, and once dried, it’s hard-wearing and weathers well.

This two-pack paint has anti-corrosive properties that prevent the container from rusting. The durability and the hard-wearing properties of the paint are ideal for containers as they’ll be exposed to different environments, whether placed in the sun or battling snow.

Conclusion

Shipping container painting isn’t an easy task, especially if the container has rust or other blemishes. The Container Converter can help transform an ordinary shipping container into something spectacular through paint and other modification techniques.

Get in touch

If you’re ready to explore the potential of container conversions for your business, get in touch with us today. At The Container Converter, we’re here to make your ideas a reality.

Enquire now
A bespoke custom shipping container build project with fitted windows, and electrics, finished with a fresh coat of two pack black paint.