When it comes to film productions, you need a cost-effective solution for storage space, dressing rooms, and more necessities. Ideally, you’d like a solution that is weather-resistant, durable, and easily deployable. Shipping containers can be an effective solution. Whether you are renting or purchasing your shipping container, these steel boxes provide a ton of benefits for film production. Here’s how.
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Learn MoreShipping Container Use Cases for Film Production
Shipping containers are made from durable steel which makes them perfect for inclement weather and being deployed to multiple locations. Their box frame means they can be stacked, combined, and modified to create a variety of spaces needed on a film set. With heavy usage, shipping containers can be used for around 10-15 years, while lighter use (such as for storage) can get you up to 30 years of usage. Some of the common use cases for shipping containers for film production include:
- Prop/valuables storage
- Production office space outfitted with tables/computers/lighting/electricity etc.
- Dressing rooms
- Makeup and hair studios
- Part of a set or painted in a backdrop effect
- Covered eating space for crew and cast
- Onsite editing suite (or permanent editing bay with correct setup at the studio)
- Durable workshop for the construction of props or other materials
- Rehearsal space for actors and crew
- First aid stations for medical staff on larger productions
Benefits of Shipping Containers for Film Production
While there are many use cases for shipping containers, there are also many benefits to using a shipping container if you are a film producer. Some of those benefits include:
Cost-effective:
Shipping containers are a budget-friendly alternative to traditional construction or rental spaces. You can buy shipping containers outright or rent them. You can also rent shipping containers that are outfitted for specific purposes.
Versatility:
Containers can be converted into a variety of structures, including office spaces, dressing rooms, custom-built sets, and storage units. This versatility enables innovative solutions that are adapted to the individual needs of each production.
Mobility:
Shipping containers were originally created to be transported over cargo ships across oceans. This makes them ideal for film companies that may need to move containers from one location to another and have the steel construction hold up over time.
Sustainability:
Repurposing shipping containers for film production increases sustainability by lowering the need for new construction materials and reducing trash. Furthermore, their reusability means that they can be used for multiple purposes, reducing the cost of new construction across productions.
Speed of Setup:
Setting up production facilities can be significantly shortened with containers since they can be quickly modified and deployed. Time is often of the essence in the fast-paced environment of film production.
Customization:
The modular structure of shipping containers allows for great customization, allowing production teams to create environments that fit their exact demands. Create a bedroom for a film set, outfit it to be a covered eating area, use the space as a hair salon with water hookup and electricity, or add shelving for storage. Shipping containers add a ton of flexibility to your business.
Security:
Shipping containers can be outfitted with special locks to secure your possessions even when working remotely. This is especially important for protecting camera equipment and high-value props. This storage can also be climate-controlled, and it is common throughout the industry.

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