How to Install Your Container Dome Shelter

Before you begin, watch our full installation video — it covers the complete process from unboxing to finished dome.

The steps below follow the same sequence. If you have questions at any stage, call us directly on 0493 310 211 — our team has assembled these structures and can walk you through any step.

We offer professional installation services if you prefer a quick, hassle-free setup — click here for a quote!

Before installing your Toughcover Container Dome Shelter, make sure the site is clear and level, with enough space to work safely around the structure. Gravel or a concrete pad works best.

All components — base plates, bolts, arches, purlins, and cover — arrive neatly packed in a shipping crate.

Basic tools such as spanners are required, and using an Elevated Work Platform or scissor lift will make lifting and securing the arches much easier and safer.

If you're unsure about tools or equipment, don't worry — our team can guide you step-by-step and recommend suitable hire options. We're always here to help with any installation questions.

Position the two shipping containers parallel and level according to your shelter layout plan. Use string lines or a laser level to make sure everything is square.

Most customers use a Hiab truck, telehandler, or heavy-duty forklift to position containers quickly and safely.

In high-wind regions, it's recommended to anchor the containers securely. Options include bolting to concrete pads, installing anchor plates, or using internal ballast blocks for extra stability.

Need containers?We also supply and deliver ISO-certified side-opening shipping containers across Australia. Ask our team for a quote or delivery option.

Connect the base rails on the ground first, then secure them to the containers using our Clamp-On Bracket System.

This no-welding design makes installation faster, safer, and damage-free — while keeping your containers fully intact and allowing easy relocation in the future.

Compared with traditional welded base plates, the Clamp-On System comes at a small extra cost, but it saves significant time and labour during installation.

☆ Pro Tip for Site Managers:

By choosing our no-weld design, you aren't just saving $500+ in welder costs; you are protecting the resale value of your containers by keeping them 100% intact and free from structural alterations.

Unpack all arches and lay them out on level ground.

Follow the supplied assembly guide to bolt each section together, making sure every connection is tight and correctly aligned.

Important: Do not fix the arches onto the base rails until all arches are fully assembled and checked on the ground.

Use a scissor lift (or similar equipment) to lift each fully-assembled arch into position and bolt it securely onto the base rails.

Start by fixing the first two arches, then install the purlins between them using the pre-drilled holes and supplied bolts.

Continue adding arches one by one, connecting each bay with purlins as you go. Once all purlins are in place, fit the cross bracings in the designated bays for added stability.

When the roof frame is complete, visually check that everything is aligned correctly and ensure all bolts are tightened properly.

Pick a calm day with minimal wind for this step.

Unroll the PVC cover and lay it out neatly along one side of the containers, keeping it clean and facing the right direction.

Slide the tensioning tube into the pocket along the bottom edge of the cover.

Tie the ropes onto the tube, then throw the ropes over the roof frame to the opposite side. With a few helpers, pull the cover up and over the arches from the far side, making sure it stays centred and sits evenly across the frame.

Once the cover is in place and sitting evenly, slide the second tensioning bar into the opposite pocket.

Feed the ratchet straps around the bar and into the ratchets on the base rails.

Start tensioning the cover symmetrically on both sides, working your way along the shelter.

Tighten the straps gradually to remove slack and pull out any wrinkles, ensuring the cover sits smooth and firm across the frame.

Finish by securing the front and rear edges as shown in the guide, making sure all straps and tension points are tight and even.

If required, install the end panels, front wall with door, or half panels according to your shelter model.

Once everything is in place, complete a final check of the entire structure:

● Ensure all bolts, joints and tensioning points are tight

● Confirm the cover is evenly tensioned

● Make any small adjustments for a proper fit

Finish with a full visual inspection to make sure the shelter is secure, aligned, and ready for use.

How long does it take to install a container dome shelter?

Most Toughcover dome shelters can be assembled in two days with 2-4 people using standard spanners. Two free spanner kits are included with every order. Larger models such as the 10m and 12m wide domes may take slightly longer depending on crew experience and site conditions.

Do I need welding equipment to install a Toughcover dome?

No. The Toughcover Lock-Clamp system is a no-weld design — the base rail clamps directly onto the shipping containers using bolt-on hardware. No welding equipment, no drilling, and no permanent modification to the containers is required.

Do I need a scissor lift or elevated work platform?

A scissor lift or similar elevated work platform is recommended for lifting and positioning the arch frames. It makes the process significantly faster and safer. If you don't have access to one, contact us and we can suggest hire options in your area.

Can I install the dome shelter by myself?

Two people is the minimum recommended for safe assembly, particularly during arch lifting and cover installation. Having three or four people available for the cover installation step makes the process significantly easier.

What tools do I need?

Two standard spanner kits are included with every Toughcover dome shelter. Power tools or specialist equipment would definitely make bolt-together faster. An elevated work platform is recommended for arch installation.