Are Shipping Container Homes a Good Idea? Pros and Cons of Container Homes

Shipping container homes are popping up everywhere, from compact inner-city flats to rural fields. They’re cost-effective, versatile, and have a minimal impact on the environment. But, like any other build, container home conversions have pros and cons.

Find out the advantages and disadvantages of building a container home before you make a final decision.

What is a container home?

A shipping container home is exactly what it sounds like – a type of home made from converted shipping containers. Shipping containers are large, strong steel structures which can be placed almost anywhere. Once they’re no longer used to transport goods, they can be adapted and modified for living in.

Advantages of shipping container homes

Shipping container homes are a great option for modern living thanks to their affordability, strength, and eco-friendliness. Beyond their durability, these homes offer flexible and customisable designs allowing homeowners to create a unique living space. Because they offer so many advantages, it’s no wonder more and more people are choosing a container home over traditional builds.

Shipping container homes can be cost effective

Container conversions usually cost less than traditional building methods. Costs can vary, depending on factors such as the condition of the container, how large it is, and how much modification it needs. Land costs are also important: if you already own the land where you place the container, you’ll save a lot of money. 

Some people choose to convert shipping containers into homes by themselves. This can be cost-effective if you know what you are doing. However, most people are better off working with a container conversion company. They can make modifications that are up to code—with fixed prices that you’ll know in advance.

If you plan to use multiple containers, add luxury furnishings, or make special modifications, then the cost will go up. Buying or renting land for the container will also add to your costs over time.

It can be quicker to build shipping container homes

Shipping container homes are quick to build. That’s because the walls, floor, and roof are already complete: you just have to modify them. Professional container home builders can complete a small home in as little as three weeks. They can make modifications off-site, so that when you receive the container, it’s ready to live in. 

Converting a shipping container into a home only takes a short time because containers are generally smaller than traditional homes. However, as their popularity rises, build times have slowed down. Your container home could be delayed by a shortage of materials or labour. 

Shipping container homes are a sustainable option

Shipping containers are made of durable steel that can last for years. But in practice, shipping companies often treat them as disposable. It costs more money to return a shipping container to its original port than to buy a new one. Unfortunately, this means that many shipping containers are scrapped. 

When you convert a used container into a small home, you’re saving it from landfill and reducing the strain on natural resources. If the environment is important to you, you should check whether the container has really been used. Some container homes are built with nearly-new “one trip” containers, which have less green credentials.

Shipping containers offer greater flexibility for homes

Shipping containers come in a range of standard sizes and shapes. They’re designed to be stacked horizontally and vertically. For container homes, that gives you a lot of design options. You can connect shipping containers for extra space, cut out walls for windows, and tack extra storage onto your home. 

Container homes are also highly portable. Containers under 10,000 lb can be moved with a forklift, while larger containers are moved with a crane. If you ever move, you can pick up the container home and take it with you.

Shipping containers are very durable

Shipping containers are made from strong corrugated Corten steel. They’re designed to survive months at sea, battered by wind, waves, and extreme temperatures.

That makes container homes safe, strong and secure. With the right maintenance, container homes can potentially last for decades. 

Shipping containers are highly adaptable

Container homes are extremely versatile for two reasons. First, you can construct a home out of any size, shape, or combination of containers. Second, the individual containers themselves can be adapted with your choice of windows, doors, skylights, and shelving. 

It’s also important to insulate your shipping container. Because they’re made of steel, they can become very warm or very cold depending on the weather. Insulation, including wall finish, vents, and air conditioning, will make it comfortable all year round.

Bear in mind that the more you extend or customise a container home, the more expensive it becomes.

Shipping container homes provide a unique ambience

Shipping containers have an eye-catching, unique look. You can customise yours, inside and out, to match your style. Lighting, heating, furnishings, and wall panelling can all help to create a cosy ambience.

Disadvantages of shipping container homes

Shipping container homes are compact, versatile, and cost-effective. But they’re not for everyone. When you convert a container, you’ll need to think about its origin, planning permissions, and potential sale value. 

Single use shipping containers are not always eco-friendly

Not all shipping containers have the same history. Some container homes are built from “one-trip” containers: shipping containers which were sent on a single voyage, then sold for other purposes. These containers are in great condition, but they don’t have the environmental impact of upcycling an older container.

Used containers can also have problems. For example, if a container was used to carry toxic chemicals, then it may need extra treatment to make it safe for use. You should always inspect a container before converting it to make sure it has been adequately cleaned and treated for home construction.

You may need professional guidance to ensure the safety of your shipping container home

Shipping containers make great homes, but that’s not their original purpose. They need modifications before they are safe and comfortable to live in. The biggest challenge for shipping container construction is rust. The steel structure is very durable, but it can be weakened by water damage. 

Container homes have to be thoroughly reinforced, sealed, and protected from damp. The weakest point of any shipping container is the roof. Most container homes will need a new roof fitted. 

You’ll also need to add reinforcements if you cut the walls for windows and doors. Finally, if you plan to join multiple containers, they must be welded together and reinforced. It’s always best to get professional guidance to make sure your container home is safe.

Shipping container homes can have specific limitations

Container homes are extremely versatile because of their modular construction. However, if you’re on a budget, you might find that a single container is quite small. 

Adding more space isn’t always the solution, either. If you join containers together, your home will be less easy to move around. Some container homes will need planning permission for each new space that they move to, even if you’re installing shipping containers on private land.

Shipping container homes may require additional permits and building codes

Container homes have only become popular in the past few years. That means that planning regulations and building codes are still catching up. 

Your container home design must comply with building safety regulations and local planning rules. Start by contacting your local authority for information about their shipping container planning permission requirements, or ask a building company that specialises in container conversions. 

Some conversions might be exempt from planning permission—for example, if they fit within the height limit for a dwelling. However, the regulations exist in order to keep you safe and comfortable, so they are still important to consider. 

Shipping container homes may be harder to sell than traditional homes

Just like planning regulations, estate agents and home buyers are still getting used to container homes. It’s a niche market, which means that selling your container home could take longer than a conventional house. 

However, with the right buyer, your container home could become a valuable investment. They’re cost-effective to build so you could turn a healthy profit. 

The bottom line – are container homes worth it?

Shipping container homes are versatile, modern, portable, and quick to build. However, they’re not for everyone. If you plan to sell your home, have strict local planning laws, or are concerned about the environment, then you’ll need to do some extra research. 

Shipping container homes offer a unique blend of affordability, durability, and sustainable living. While they provide flexibility in design and can be more cost-effective than traditional builds, they also come with challenges such as insulation, building restrictions, and potential structural concerns. 

Ultimately, whether a container home is worth it depends on your specific needs, budget, and willingness to adapt to the unique aspects of container living. For those seeking an eco-friendly, customisable, and modern housing option, container homes can be a great investment—if you’re ready to embrace their pros and tackle their cons.

Contact us today, and we’ll be happy to guide you through every step of the process. From planning and design to construction, we’ll help you create a container home that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.