Shipping containers fill a crucial niche in the world’s economy. They are large and sturdy enough to uniformly transport goods but small enough to fit on trucks and light enough to be moved by cranes and forklifts. However, over the decades a challenge emerged: an excess of used containers.
Where some saw a problem, innovative architects saw an eco-friendly opportunity. Since the mid-2000s, designers began repurposing containers into a wide array of buildings. Some structures can be simple—a single compact shipping container outfitted for dwelling—while others are complex designs that use multiple containers merged with other structural components.
So what exactly goes into building a shipping container home? And are they as economical, sustainable, and livable as claimed? We break down what you need to know below.
What is a shipping container house?
A shipping container house is any dwelling made from a shipping container, but the resulting structures can be quite diverse. Shipping containers usually come in two sizes, either 20 feet by 8 feet or 40 feet by 8 feet. The smaller of the two equals about 160 square feet of living space, while the larger container gets you 320 square feet. There are also two height types, regular (8.5 feet high) or a high cube container that provides about a foot of extra vertical living space. Some shipping container homes stop here, using these compact spaces as standalone tiny homes or offices.
Where do the shipping containers come from and how do you buy one?
If you buy an empty, brand-new shipping container, it will likely come from manufacturers in China; the Chinese company CIMC produces around 82 percent of the world’s steel shipping containers. Used shipping containers are a more eco- and budget-friendly option, but you need to carefully inspect their condition. Pay attention to the different certifications. Some are certified for being able to ship goods overseas, and more stringent certifications designate containers that are wind and water tight.
However, a new batch of companies are providing shipping container homes ready for purchase. These tiny homes range in style and price, but they offer a one-stop-shop for anyone who wants a shipping container home but doesn’t want to build it themselves.
That’s where we come in.
We provide ready made converted sea containers into the living space that meets your needs. We have a number of different models available to enable you to expand your home, office or retail unit.
Do I need to apply for planning permission for one of these containers?
No. Not for up to a size of 25 square meters
You are entitled to construct/install selfcontainer up to a maximum size of 25 square meters (270 Sq ft) provided you leave 25 square meters of free space in your Garden. If you are planning a house extension down the line it is important that you leave the 25 square meters free area after both the selfcontainer and house extension are completed/installed. The 25 sq m free space can be made up of the side and the rear of the property.
The height must not exceed 3 meters.
Our 20ft Selfcontainers are under 15sqm and less than 3 meters high.
Final thoughts
If you are looking for a sustainable, high quality structure to work or live in. The units we offer are perfect for you. You can customise your space to suit you and don’t have to worry about red tap involved with building. From when you place the order, your unit will arrive in 12 weeks.
So give us a call and we can get you started on your future.