Container Doors in NZ: 8 Places to Buy, Kits & Prices
You need a door for your shipping container. Maybe you're converting one into workshop space, adding side access for storage, or replacing old damaged doors. The challenge is finding the right supplier. Some companies only sell complete containers when all you need is the door. Others push expensive modifications you don't want. Prices bounce all over the place and it's tough to work out what's reasonable or what you're actually getting for your money.
This guide covers eight places in New Zealand where you can buy container doors. You'll find suppliers offering standard door sets, roller door conversions, complete kits, and custom fabrication services. For each option you'll see what they provide, who they suit best, typical price ranges, and practical details about delivery and installation. Whether you need a simple replacement set or a full commercial roller door setup, you'll know exactly where to look and what to expect from each supplier.
1. DoorsNZ
DoorsNZ sells garage roller doors that work as replacements or additions to shipping containers. You won't find standard shipping container door sets here, but you will find garage-style roller doors that fit container openings when you're converting one for workshop, storage, or commercial use. They manufacture doors in New Zealand and ship nationwide, which means you deal directly with the maker rather than through a middleman.
What DoorsNZ offers for container doors
DoorsNZ provides domestic and commercial roller doors in standard heights that match typical container openings. You can order custom-made doors manufactured to your exact measurements, which helps when you've cut a non-standard opening in your container. The doors use NZ-made Coloursteel and Zincalume materials. They also stock automatic door openers, remote controls, and accessories including locks, safety beams, and personal access doors that you might need for a container conversion project.
When a garage style door works on a container
A roller door makes sense when you're converting a container for regular access rather than just shipping or long-term storage. You get easier daily entry, better weatherproofing than modified cargo doors, and the option for automatic operation. This setup suits workshops, tool storage, small retail spaces, and commercial units where you need reliable opening and closing without lifting heavy metal doors.
Roller doors offer better day-to-day access than standard cargo doors, particularly for workshop and commercial container conversions.
Price ranges, sizes and colour options
Domestic roller doors start from around $800 to $1,500 depending on size, while commercial options run higher. DoorsNZ offers multiple Coloursteel colours to match your container or building exterior. They provide free North Island shipping and subsidised South Island delivery to their Christchurch depot, with additional costs for door-to-door service to southern regions.
Measuring, ordering and installation tips
You need to measure your container opening width and height accurately before ordering. DoorsNZ provides measuring guides on their website. They offer optional installation services if you're not confident tackling it yourself, though many customers handle installation independently to save costs. Check your site has adequate clearance above the opening for the roller door housing and confirm your container structure can support the door hardware before ordering.
2. Royal Wolf
Royal Wolf operates as New Zealand's largest shipping container supplier with depots across both islands. They offer modification services including various door installations, which means you can buy a container and have doors fitted as part of a complete package. Their scale gives them access to large inventories and consistent supply chains, though this also means you're dealing with a bigger company structure rather than a specialist door supplier.
Types of container door solutions available
Royal Wolf installs single doors, double-sided doors, sliding doors, and roller doors on both new and used containers. You can choose from personnel doors (standard entry doors), cargo doors with side access points, or full roller door conversions that replace the entire end of the container. They handle the cutting, framing, and installation in their depots before delivery. Their modification workshop can also add window installations, ventilation, and internal fitouts alongside door work if you need a turnkey container solution.
Who Royal Wolf suits best
Royal Wolf works best when you're buying a complete container and want modifications done professionally before delivery. You get a single point of contact for both the container and the door installation, which simplifies logistics. This approach suits commercial clients, construction companies, and anyone who values warranty coverage and established business processes over bargain pricing. Their depot network means you can view containers in person across Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Wellington, and Christchurch.
Costs, minimum orders and lead times
Expect to pay premium pricing compared to DIY options or smaller suppliers. A basic personnel door installation typically adds $1,500 to $3,000 to your container cost, while roller door conversions run significantly higher. Royal Wolf doesn't sell container doors separately as standalone products in most cases. Lead times for modified containers range from two to six weeks depending on depot workload and customisation complexity.
Royal Wolf's modification service means you receive a complete, ready-to-use container rather than managing separate door purchases and installation.
Pros, cons and things to watch
Royal Wolf provides professional installation, business insurance, and warranty coverage that protects you if something goes wrong. Their established processes mean consistent quality standards. The downside is higher overall costs and less flexibility if you only need doors without buying a full container. You also work within their standard modification options rather than getting truly custom solutions. Check what their warranty actually covers for door mechanisms and weathersealing, as some elements may have shorter coverage periods than the container structure itself.
3. ContainerCo
ContainerCo operates depots across New Zealand and sells both new and used shipping containers alongside replacement door sets and modification kits. You can buy complete door assemblies that match standard container specifications, or pick up individual components if you're replacing damaged hardware. They stock actual shipping container cargo doors rather than garage-style alternatives, which matters when you need authentic replacement parts or want to maintain the original container aesthetic.
New and used container door sets and kits
ContainerCo supplies left and right container doors designed to fit standard 8'6" high containers, sold as pairs for around $559 plus GST. These doors include the cam locks and hinges you need for installation. You'll find both new surplus doors from container manufacturers and refurbished doors salvaged from retired containers. They also stock door seals, locking bars, and individual hardware components for repair work rather than full replacement.
Who ContainerCo is best for
ContainerCo suits DIY builders and property owners who need genuine shipping container doors for modifications or repairs. You benefit if you're comfortable with basic metalwork and want to add side access to an existing container. Their pricing works well for budget-conscious projects where you don't need professional installation services. Farmers, small businesses, and home workshop owners make up most of their customer base for door components.
Genuine shipping container door sets maintain the original design aesthetic while providing reliable weatherproofing for modified containers.
Pricing, depots and delivery options
Door sets start around $559 for a pair before GST, which undercuts most modification services significantly. ContainerCo operates depots in Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Wellington, and Christchurch where you can collect doors directly. They arrange freight delivery if you can't collect, though transport costs vary based on your location and whether you need a truck with a hiab for unloading heavy door assemblies.
Practical points when buying used container doors
Used doors show weathering, surface rust, and paint wear that you need to assess in person when possible. Check the cam locks operate smoothly and door seals remain intact. You may need to repaint or treat rust spots before installation. Measure your container opening carefully, as older containers sometimes have non-standard dimensions that won't match modern door sets precisely.
4. NZBOX
NZBOX specialises in shipping container sales across New Zealand with a focus on double door configurations and standard cargo containers. They operate from their base and supply containers for both land and sea transportation, which means their products meet full maritime specifications. You get containers built for commercial cargo use rather than modified units, though they can arrange customisation work through their network. Their inventory includes both new and used containers with various door setups.
Container types and door configurations
NZBOX stocks 20ft double door containers designed with doors at both ends of the unit, giving you dual access points for loading and unloading. This configuration suits situations where you need to access both ends of the container without moving it around your site. Standard cargo doors use the typical shipping container locking mechanism with twist locks and cam bars. They also supply single door containers in various sizes alongside specialised units like refrigerated containers and open-top models.
Who NZBOX is a good fit for
NZBOX works well when you need a complete container rather than just replacement container doors or door kits. Their double door units suit transport operators, storage businesses, and commercial clients who regularly load containers from both ends. You benefit from their maritime-grade specifications if you plan to use your container for actual shipping rather than just static site storage.
Double door containers eliminate the need to reposition units when you need access from both ends, saving time on busy work sites.
Price points and upgrade options
Expect pricing that reflects marine-certified containers rather than budget modifications. NZBOX typically quotes prices on request based on your specific requirements and current stock availability. They can arrange delivery across New Zealand and work with modification specialists if you need custom door installations or internal fitouts after purchase.
What to ask about modifications and compliance
Confirm whether your container meets New Zealand building code requirements if you plan to use it as a permanent structure. Ask about warranty coverage for door mechanisms and seals, particularly on used containers. Check if they can arrange building consent assistance or connect you with approved modifiers who understand local compliance requirements for container conversions.
5. Cubex
Cubex operates out of Christchurch and specialises in containers fitted with roller doors rather than selling doors separately. You buy the complete container with the roller door already installed, which removes the complexity of measuring, ordering, and fitting doors yourself. They stock various sizes with roller doors pre-fitted and can arrange custom conversions if their standard options don't match your requirements. Their focus on Christchurch and South Island delivery makes them a practical choice for southern customers.
Roller door container products and conversions
Cubex supplies 10ft and 20ft containers with new roller doors fitted at the factory. A typical 10ft beige container with a new roller door costs around $5,250 based on their current listings. The roller doors provide easy access for storage, workshops, or commercial applications where you need regular opening and closing. You get weatherproof seals and the option for automatic door openers if you want motorised operation.
Best use cases for Cubex solutions
Cubex works best when you want a ready-to-use container solution without managing door installation separately. Their pre-fitted units suit site storage, mobile workshops, equipment storage, and retail applications where you need immediate functionality. South Island customers benefit from reduced freight costs and easier collection from their Christchurch base.
Pre-fitted roller door containers eliminate installation complexity and give you a functional unit ready for immediate use.
Pricing, hire versus buy and freight
Prices for roller door containers start around $5,000 depending on size and specifications. Cubex offers both purchase and hire options, though hire typically suits short-term projects rather than permanent installations. Freight costs within the South Island remain reasonable, while North Island delivery adds significant expense due to interisland transport.
Site access, foundations and installation needs
Your site needs level ground and clearance for delivery trucks. Containers require either concrete pads or timber bearers for proper drainage and stability. Check you have adequate access width for delivery and confirm ground conditions can support the container weight, particularly in wet areas where settling causes problems.
6. SEA Containers NZ
SEA Containers NZ operates across the country providing modified shipping containers with various door configurations. You can order containers with side access doors, personnel doors, and custom modifications beyond standard cargo door setups. They work directly with fabricators to cut openings and install container doors according to your specifications, which means you get professional modification work rather than tackling it yourself. Their service includes both the container supply and modification work in a single package.
Side door and modified container options
SEA Containers NZ cuts and installs side access doors, roller shutter doors, and personnel entry doors on both new and used containers. You choose the door location, size, and style based on your intended use. They can add multiple door openings on a single container if your project requires access from different sides. Standard modifications include weatherproof sealing, security locks, and painted finishes that match your container colour.
Ideal customers and applications
SEA Containers NZ suits commercial clients, construction companies, and property owners who need professionally modified containers rather than DIY solutions. You benefit from their modification experience if you're building site offices, workshop spaces, retail pop-ups, or storage units that require specific access points. Their work covers building consent requirements in many cases, which matters when you need compliant permanent structures.
Professional modification services ensure your container doors meet weatherproofing standards and local building compliance from the start.
Typical costs, regions and availability
Modification costs vary based on door type, size, and complexity of the installation work. Expect to pay from $2,000 to $6,000 for typical side door installations on top of your container purchase price. SEA Containers NZ operates nationwide with delivery coverage across North and South Islands, though lead times vary by region and current workshop schedules.
Extra services such as design and consent help
SEA Containers NZ provides design consultation to plan your container modifications and door placements effectively. They can assist with building consent documentation when your container conversion requires council approval, connecting you with engineers and consent specialists who understand container building codes.
7. Boxman
Boxman operates throughout New Zealand supplying shipping containers with various door modification options for commercial and residential clients. You can order standard containers with custom door installations or send your existing container to them for modification work. They handle everything from simple personnel doors to complex multi-door configurations, working with experienced fabricators who understand container structural requirements. Their workshop capabilities cover both minor door additions and major conversions that transform containers into functional buildings.
Door styles and modification services
Boxman installs roller doors, personnel doors, and sliding cargo doors on containers of all sizes. You specify the door type, location, and dimensions based on your project requirements. They cut openings, reinforce frames, and fit container doors with proper weatherproofing and security hardware. Their modification work includes painted finishes that match your container colour and structural supports that maintain container strength after cutting.
When to choose Boxman over other suppliers
Boxman suits projects requiring professional modification quality with reliable completion timeframes. You benefit from their experience when you need multiple door installations or complex access configurations that go beyond simple single door additions. Their established workshop processes mean consistent results rather than variable DIY outcomes.
Professional container modification ensures structural integrity remains intact when cutting new door openings.
Costs, delivery coverage and timeframes
Modification costs range from $1,800 to $5,000 depending on door complexity and installation requirements. Boxman delivers across major North and South Island centres with lead times typically running two to four weeks from order confirmation. Freight costs vary by distance and whether your site needs specialised delivery equipment.
Custom work, warranties and after sales support
Boxman provides design assistance for planning door placements and configurations that work practically for your space. They offer warranty coverage on modification work including door mechanisms and weatherproofing performance. After sales support covers hardware replacement and adjustment services if you encounter operational issues following installation.
8. Local steel fabricators and builders
Local steel fabricators and builders across New Zealand can custom-build container doors when standard options don't fit your project. You work directly with tradespeople who measure your container, design door solutions, and fabricate exactly what you need. This approach suits unusual container modifications, heritage colour matching, or situations where you want specific hardware that kit suppliers don't stock. Regional fabricators operate in most towns and cities, giving you face-to-face consultation rather than remote ordering processes.
What a local fabricator can build for you
Fabricators manufacture custom steel doors, sliding track systems, and roller door installations sized precisely for your container opening. They can replicate original shipping container door styles or create entirely new designs including hinged doors, bi-fold systems, and security shutters. You get doors that match non-standard container heights, extra-wide openings, or unusual configurations that pre-made kits won't accommodate.
When custom fabrication makes more sense than kits
Custom work beats kits when your container has modified dimensions or requires unique door placement. Fabricators solve problems like incorporating windows into door panels, creating weatherproof seals for irregular openings, or building doors that match existing architectural details on your property.
Local fabrication provides solutions for container doors that don't fit standard kit specifications or require special engineering.
Indicative costs, materials and finishes
Expect to pay $2,500 to $8,000 for custom fabricated container doors depending on size and complexity. Fabricators typically use Zincalume or Coloursteel with powder coat finishes in your chosen colour. Labour costs vary by region, with Auckland and Wellington pricing higher than provincial areas.
How to brief a fabricator for a container project
Provide accurate measurements, photos of your container, and clear descriptions of how you'll use the doors. Discuss security requirements, weatherproofing needs, and whether you want locks, handles, or automatic openers included. Ask about warranties on fabrication work and hardware components before committing to any quotes.
Making your choice
Your container door choice depends on what you're converting and how much hands-on work you want to tackle. Standard shipping container door sets from ContainerCo or local fabricators suit basic side access additions and repairs. Royal Wolf, SEA Containers NZ, and Boxman handle complete modification packages when you need professional installation and warranties. Roller door conversions from DoorsNZ or Cubex work best for workshops and commercial spaces where you need daily access.
Budget plays a big role too. DIY door kits start around $600 for basic sets, while professional roller door installations run from $2,000 to $6,000 depending on complexity. Used container doors save money but require careful inspection for wear and rust damage.
If you're converting a container for workshop or storage use and want reliable roller door access, check out DoorsNZ for custom-made garage doors that fit container openings with professional NZ manufacturing and nationwide delivery.