Are shipping containers actually secure enough to protect my valuables?

Our containers are built tough, and the yard is set up to keep people out. Each container is solid steel with a three-point locking system and an anti-theft lockbox that shields your own padlock, so only you hold the key. The yard at 15 Carrington Drive, Albion, has high fences, two factories either side and an electronic card-access gate. Every customer has their own access card and alarm code.

On top of that, back-to-base movement alarms and motion-activated cameras are monitored 24/7. If an alarm is not switched off within one minute, the monitoring company calls and sends a security officer or the police.

That said, we will be straight with you about valuables. Storage is at your own risk, and insurance is up to you. Under our standard storage agreement, irreplaceable items, or goods worth more than $1,000 in total, can only be stored if they are itemised and specifically insured. Things like family heirlooms, cash, jewellery and one-off pieces are often better kept somewhere else.

For everyday valuables like tools, furniture, stock and equipment, our customers have been storing with us for over 20 years. Self Storage Insurance Australia (ssia.au, 1300 477 662) is one insurance option.

Want to see the security for yourself? Call us 03 9010 6147 to book a time at the yard.