Shipping Container Home Beginner's Guide

Shipping container homes are built from large steel containers originally used for intermodal freight transport. Architects, builders, and DIY enthusiasts have begun transforming these containers into eco-friendly homes and cabins. These homes are typically long and rectangular, unless multiple containers are welded together. Many container homes feature open-plan designs, but some have narrow hallways and separate rooms. Some homes are equipped with modern amenities, while others are completely off-grid. Shipping container homes are becoming increasingly popular!

What Types of Shipping Containers Are Available?

Before designing a shipping container home, it's important to understand the different types of containers available! Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, so you should choose the style that best suits your needs.

Standard

General purpose (or standard) containers typically come in three sizes: 8x10, 8x20, or 8x40. These standard containers are 8.6 feet tall. Because standard containers were designed for easy train transport, they are relatively compact. The smallest containers offer just under 100 square feet of living space, but containers can be stacked or placed side-by-side to provide more space.

High Cube

High cube containers are almost identical to standard containers, except they are one foot taller. Many homeowners say the extra height is helpful when building a container home, especially for insulation. It's important to note that high cube containers cost about 50% more than standard containers.

Refrigerated

Refrigerated containers are often referred to as reefer containers. They are traditionally used to transport food products such as dairy, meat, and produce. Unlike high cube and standard containers, reefer containers come with built-in insulation, so a major advantage of using them as a home is their inherent insulation. However, reefer containers also present some challenges, such as higher costs, maintenance of the refrigeration system, and specialized flooring structures.

Advantages of Shipping Container Homes

Fast Construction

One of the main reasons people are drawn to shipping container homes is the speed of construction! The containers themselves serve as the frame of the house, eliminating the need to wait for external structure construction, saving valuable time. Small container homes can be built in just a few days or weeks. You can even buy prefabricated container homes, which are manufactured by companies and ready for occupancy upon delivery.

Expandable

While individual containers have limited dimensions, they are actually expandable. These Lego-like modules can be stacked up to eight containers high, equivalent to the height of a traditional two-story house! Expanding a container design may require additional building planning, but it's not impossible.

Customizable

Container homes are far more customizable than you might think! You can design various layouts, add personalized elements, and create a home that's uniquely yours. Consider installing floor-to-ceiling windows, building a rooftop terrace for entertaining friends, stacking containers to create a loft, or designing a front porch. Whether you build your container home yourself or choose a prefabricated home from a company, you can design your container home to your heart's content, making its appearance and style exactly how you want it!