Shipping Container Turnstile Gates

What is a shipping container turnstile gate?

A container turnstile is a bespoke turnstile built from a converted shipping container. They’re typically made from 20ft or 40ft containers and provide a secure access control system suitable for a range of industries and uses.  

Units can feature a choice of waist or full height spinning turnstiles and can even incorporate keycard, biometric, or pin code access. Container turnstiles are beneficial thanks to their quick deployment time and portability, without any difference in security and durability when compared to traditional turnstiles. 

How does a container turnstile work?

The turnstile mechanism is mounted within the container's opening, so the container itself channels foot traffic through the gate. A person can only pass through once the gate receives a valid entry signal, whether that's triggered by staff inside the booth or automatically via an integrated access control system.

Integrated access control systems

Security is key, which is why BCL Container’s turnstiles can incorporate a range of access control systems. These include, but are not limited to:

• Biometrics - We can add fingerprint, palm, and facial recognition terminals for accurate identification. 
• Key card tech - RFID card readers are ideal for high volume environments such as construction and industrial sites.
• Mobile and digital access - QR code scanners and mobile apps can be used to unlock turnstiles. 
• Physical keys/manual entry - Manual key entry is also an available option to restrict entry. On top of this, manned terminals can be added for ticketed event entry. 
• Time and attendance management - We may integrate systems with time management software upon request. 

Turnstile gate types: full height vs waist height

BCL container turnstile gates can be built with either full-height or waist-height mechanisms. The choice depends on your security requirements, expected throughput, and the environment in which the gate will operate.

Full-height turnstile gates are the standard choice for construction and industrial sites where access must be strictly controlled and tailgating eliminated. Waist-height options are more common at events and stadiums, where throughput and visitor experience take priority.

Shipping container turnstile uses

Container turnstiles are used across a broad range of industries and settings wherever controlled pedestrian/worker access is a requirement.

Common applications include:

• Construction sites, where contractors need to log workers in and out to meet health and safety obligations
• Festivals and events venues, where ticket validation and crowd management are essential
• Sports grounds and stadiums for supporter entry and exit
• Tourist attractions, theme parks, and leisure facilities
• Schools, colleges, and universities managing visitor access
• Industrial and logistics sites restricting entry to authorised personnel
• Temporary installations where a permanent gatehouse is not viable
  
  

Because the unit is self-contained, it can be delivered, positioned, connected to power, and operational without the delays involved in constructing a permanent structure.

You can also take a look at one of our recent turnstile projects to see the kind of work we produce.

10ft and 20ft container turnstile gate sizes

Container turnstiles are built using standard ISO container footprints, most commonly 10ft and 20ft units. The right size depends on how many lanes you need and what facilities have to be housed inside.

A 10ft container turnstile is a compact solution well suited to single or dual lane access points. There's enough internal space for a small staffed area and basic access control equipment.

A 20ft container turnstile provides considerably more interior room, allowing for multiple turnstile lanes, a larger staffed area, visitor-facing counters, and additional equipment racks or barriers. 

Planning permission for a container turnstile gate

For temporary installations, such as those used for construction projects or seasonal events, planning permission is generally not required. If the unit is to be placed on a more permanent basis, particularly if it involves groundworks or significantly alters the appearance of the site, you may need to submit a planning application to your local authority.

Permitted development rights can apply in some circumstances, exempting certain structures from requiring full planning consent. It is always worth checking with your local planning authority before the unit goes in, especially if it is intended to stay for an extended period.

Container turnstile gate vs traditional gatehouse

For clients weighing up their options, the table below sets out the key practical differences between a shipping container turnstile gate and a traditional permanent gatehouse structure:

Build your turnstile with BCL containers 

BCL has over 50 years of experience in shipping container conversions, working with clients across construction, events, sport, leisure, and industry. Every container turnstile we produce is built to your exact requirements, from the number of lanes and access control integration to internal fit-out, electrics, and in-house paint finish.

The full process is handled under one roof. From initial design through fabrication and quality assurance, every unit leaves our facility ready to work straight off the delivery truck.

To discuss your project or request a quote, get in touch and a member of our team will be happy to help.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How much does a shipping container turnstile gate cost?

The cost depends on the container size, number of lanes, turnstile type (full or waist height), access control specification, and internal fit-out requirements. Because every unit is bespoke, we provide a detailed quote based on your exact brief. Contact us to get started.

Can a container turnstile gate be moved between sites?

Yes — portability is one of the primary advantages of a container turnstile gate over a permanent structure. Units can be transported between sites on a standard flatbed vehicle and repositioned as requirements change, making them ideal for contractors working across multiple sites or event organisers with rolling programmes.

What is the throughput of a container turnstile gate?

Throughput depends on the turnstile type and access control method. Full-height turnstile gates typically allow 12–20 persons per minute per lane. Waist-height gates can achieve higher flow rates. A multi-lane 20ft container unit significantly increases total capacity. Contact us with your peak-flow requirements and we will specify accordingly.

What access control systems can be integrated with a container turnstile gate?

BCL container turnstile gates can be specified with RFID card readers (including CSCS card compatibility), biometric systems (fingerprint, palm, and facial recognition), QR code scanners, PIN keypads, and full manned-entry configurations. Systems can also be integrated with time and attendance management software.

What is the difference between a full-height and waist-height turnstile gate?

A full-height turnstile gate (approximately 2,100mm) provides a higher security threshold — preventing climb-over and offering greater physical deterrence. A waist-height gate (approximately 980mm) supports higher throughput and is better suited to venues where visitor experience and entry speed are priorities, such as stadiums and events.

Do I need planning permission for a container turnstile gate?

For most temporary installations — construction sites, events, short-term deployments — planning permission is not required. If the unit is intended as a permanent or semi-permanent fixture, consult your local planning authority. Our team can advise based on your specific site and duration.