From shipping container homes to accessory dwelling units, unused shipping containers can be repurposed in all sorts of ways. Intermodal shipping containers can be used to build small houses or massive modular palaces all while helping reduce your carbon footprint and break away from traditional architecture.
Read on to learn what container homes are, their benefits, safety, how to choose the best ones, and whether they’re worth the investment.
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What is a container home?
We’ve all seen shipping containers at one point, whether stacked on top of one another like LEGOs in ports, riding on the backs of trucks, or even repurposed for school and business purposes.
Container homes, on the other hand, are shipping containers converted into living spaces. A lot of the time, owners combine multiple containers to create gigantic modular dwelling masterpieces. Shipping container homes give owners more flexibility and creativity over how their homes appear without breaking the bank.
Pros and cons of shipping container homes
Just like other homes built with non-traditional materials, shipping container homes have their own set of pros and cons. Here are a few things to consider.
The advantages of living in a container home
Shipping container houses offer several advantages over traditional house construction including:
Durable - Most containers are made of Corten steel, otherwise known as weathering steel. This type of metal is low-maintenance, slows corrosion, and is more fire-resistant than most building materials.
Affordable - Shipping container homes are much cheaper to build than traditional houses of the same size. (More on container home costs below.)
Quick to build - Because container homes are already partially constructed, you just need to modify them to turn them into a house — taking much less time than traditional home framing.
Customizable - By combining or even stacking multiple shipping containers, you can design a truly unique house of your dreams.
Are there any disadvantages to living in a container home?
Nothing’s perfect, and neither is living in a shipping container home. If you’re not used to living in cramped quarters, a container home may not be the best fit. Most containers are only, at max, 8 feet wide — after all, containers were built for products, not people. This narrowness makes it difficult to move around unless you combine multiple containers.
If you do decide to combine containers, you’ll need to watch your budget. Modifications (like opening up a side to combine containers) add more to the cost because once you cut a container open, it loses structural integrity. That means the building will require additional steel reinforcement to remain durable.
Another disadvantage is the difficulty of installing insulation—essential for a container home — due to the stud-less steel walls. This means any insulation will eat up some interior space, potentially making your new home feel even smaller.
How do I select the right shipping container for my home?
When selecting a shipping container for your new home, you have two options: new or used. With new shipping boxes, you’ll pay more, but you’ll get better quality. Meanwhile, used shipping containers can be a great way to save money.
You may think opting for a used container means it will be lower quality than new, but that’s not always true. Some of the best shipping containers you can find are One-Trip containers. These are generally manufactured overseas, shipped to the United States, unloaded, and sold. Their one-time use means you’ll get the best bang for your buck without worrying about issues that would cost you more in the long run if you bought a more heavily used container.
If you can’t find One-Trip containers, make sure you carefully inspect your second-hand shipping containers. Here are some red flags to look out for:
Doors that won’t seal
Noticeable holes throughout its structure
Used to transport dangerous substances like chemicals
Lack of identifying containers as, for example, watertight. This is also a consideration for new and One-Trip containers.
Are container homes safe?
Unless you purchase a new shipping container, investing in a second-hand one carries plenty of risks. For example, since various parties previously used them for shipping who-knows-what, there could be residue from toxins like pesticides or industrial materials. Plus, coatings used to protect the containers from the elements are intended for industrial use and may contain lead or other harmful substances.
On the other hand, their durability may outweigh the dangers associated with these massive metal boxes. Due to their materials and build quality, container homes have the potential to withstand wind speeds up to 175 mph when attached to a strong foundation.
How much does a shipping container home cost?
Shipping container houses vary in cost. For a single container model, average costs are between $25,000 to $80,000. If you choose to use multiple containers in your build, the price goes up, with most multi-container homes costing between $80,000 to $$250,000 to build.
You can also expect to pay more depending on the elements you add to your shipping container house. For example, a simple container home with basic plumbing, electricity, and other utilities will cost significantly less than luxury shipping container homes that include all the latest and greatest amenities.
Are container homes cheaper than traditional homes?
The answer depends on how elaborate you want to get with your creation. More complicated designs that use lots of shipping containers come with higher price tags. For example, luxury container homes like some of these featured in Architectural Digest could cost several hundred thousand dollars. Simpler or smaller designs will cost a lot less. If you look hard enough, you can find shipping container home plans for under $50,000.
If you opt for purchasing pre-made homes, the price gap between traditional and container homes shrinks significantly. However, with how durable shipping container homes are, they require less maintenance and can withstand more weather conditions.
If you’re building a container home, factors that can raise the cost include:
Deep-cleaning services if buying used containers
Mandatory insulation installation
Maintaining structural integrity if you cut it open
Electrical and plumbing installation
Transporting the box once you buy it
Costs for the land where you’ll put your container home
Interested in other types of non-traditional homes? Check out our guide on modular vs. manufactured homes.
Are container homes a great investment?
If you use our tips to pick the right shipping container, avoid cutting corners, and assemble it the right way, you’ll have an attractive yet functional living space that makes a worthy investment. And if they’re well-built, they’ll withstand tough weather conditions and require less maintenance over time.
Shipping container homes, with their durability and appeal, can also be a great money-maker. If you invest in land in an attractive area you can rent a shipping container house as a short-term rental on marketplaces such as HomeAway or Airbnb.
What permits do I need to build a container home?
While there are no specific permits needed at the moment to build a shipping container home, you should always consult lawyers or research local laws and regulations before proceeding.
You should also ensure your container house’s construction meets existing building codes and doesn’t violate any zoning regulations.
If you need site plans for these permits or help with general planning, My Site Plans is here for you! We’ll help you visualize your property’s full potential and can provide 3-D rendered designs, floor plans, and other planning services.
Shipping container home FAQs
What are the environmental benefits of using shipping containers for homes?
Shipping containers provide an eco-friendly housing option by repurposing materials that would otherwise take up space in landfills. Using these containers also often involves using fewer new building materials, reducing the carbon footprint associated with new construction.
Can container homes be expanded after initial construction?
Yes, container homes can be expanded by adding more containers. Their modular nature makes expansion relatively straightforward, although careful planning is required to maintain structural integrity and aesthetics.
How long do container homes typically last?
Container homes, when properly maintained, can last as long as traditional homes. The lifespan depends on the condition of the container before conversion and the level of maintenance performed. With good corrosion protection and regular upkeep, they can last several decades.
What are the most common customization options for container homes?
Common customizations include adding large windows, sliding doors, and external cladding to improve aesthetics and functionality. Internally, owners often customize the layout and add insulation, electrical systems, and plumbing to suit personal preferences and local building codes.
How do container homes perform in extreme climates?
Container homes can perform well in extreme climates if properly insulated and weatherproofed. They are inherently strong and can withstand harsh conditions, but proper modifications are necessary to ensure comfort in very hot or cold environments.
This post was originally published by Ryan Crownholm on 2021-03-31. It was updated on 2024-06-05 to reflect the latest information available.
