When it comes to building shipping container houses, understanding the available shipping container house size options is crucial. The sizes of shipping containers for homes can significantly impact the functionality, layout, and overall feel of your living space. Whether you’re aiming for a cozy tiny home or a spacious multi-story residence, there’s a container size that can meet your needs. From the classic small units to the expansive large ones, each size of shipping containers for homes offers unique advantages.
The Compact 20-Foot Shipping Container House Size
The 20-foot shipping container house size is a popular choice for those seeking a compact and efficient living space. Measuring 20 feet in length, 8 feet in width, and 8.5 feet in height (standard height), or 9.5 feet for high-cube versions, these containers are incredibly versatile. For sizes of shipping containers for homes, the 20-foot option is ideal for single-room tiny homes, guest cabins, or even as an additional room like a home office or studio. Their smaller footprint makes them easier to transport and install, and they require less land space. Despite their compact size, with smart design and efficient use of vertical space, 20-foot containers can provide a comfortable living environment, making them a great option for individuals or couples looking for a minimalist size of shipping containers for homes.
The Spacious 40-Foot Shipping Container House Size
The 40-foot shipping container house size offers a more spacious living solution for homes. Twice the length of the 20-foot container, at 40 feet long, 8 feet wide, and also available in standard 8.5-foot or high-cube 9.5-foot heights, 40-foot containers can be transformed into multi-room houses. They provide enough space to create separate areas for living, dining, sleeping, and even a small kitchen. For those considering sizes of shipping containers for homes that can accommodate a family or offer more room to move around, the 40-foot option is a top pick. Additionally, their larger size allows for more elaborate interior designs and furniture arrangements, enabling you to create a truly comfortable and functional size of shipping containers for homes.
Combining Containers for Custom Sizes of Shipping Containers for Homes
One of the great advantages when considering sizes of shipping containers for homes is the ability to combine multiple containers. By joining 20-foot, 40-foot, or a mix of both, you can create custom shipping container house size configurations. For example, combining two 40-foot containers side by side can result in a wide and expansive living area, while stacking containers vertically can create multi-story homes. This flexibility in combining containers allows you to design a home that precisely matches your needs and preferences, offering endless possibilities for creating unique size of shipping containers for homes that stand out from the crowd.
Shipping Container House Size Half-Height Containers for Specialized Use
Half-height containers are another option in shipping container house size that are less common but useful for specialized purposes. These containers are typically around 4 feet in height and come in 20-foot lengths. While they may not be suitable for full living spaces due to their low height, they are excellent for creating basements, storage areas, or utility rooms in sizes of shipping containers for homes. Their lower profile makes them easier to bury partially underground, which can be beneficial for adding extra storage space without increasing the above-ground footprint of your size of shipping containers for homes.
Shipping Container House Size FAQS
What is the Most Popular Shipping Container House Size for Small Homes?
The most popular shipping container house size for small homes is the 20-foot container. Its compact dimensions make it perfect for creating tiny homes, studio apartments, or small cabins. It’s easy to manage in terms of transportation and installation, and it requires less material and labor for conversion. With some creative design, a 20-foot container can comfortably accommodate one or two people, making it a favorite among individuals looking for an affordable and minimalist size of shipping containers for homes.
Can I Fit a Family in a 40-Foot Shipping Container House?
Yes, a 40-foot shipping container house size can comfortably fit a family. With its larger space, you can divide the container into separate rooms such as bedrooms, a living area, a kitchen, and a bathroom. The extra length and width provide enough room for furniture, storage, and movement, ensuring that each family member has their own space. However, for larger families or those who prefer more spacious living, combining multiple 40-foot containers or adding additional smaller containers can further expand the living area and meet the family’s needs for a size of shipping containers for homes.
How Much Does the Cost Vary Based on Shipping Container House Size?
The cost of building a shipping container house varies significantly based on the shipping container house size. Generally, larger containers like the 40-foot ones cost more to purchase initially compared to 20-foot containers. Additionally, the cost of conversion, including insulation, plumbing, electrical work, and interior finishing, is often higher for larger sizes of shipping containers for homes due to the increased surface area. However, larger containers also offer more living space, which can be more cost-effective per square foot in the long run. Combining containers to create custom sizes can also impact the cost, as it may require additional structural work for joining and reinforcing. It’s important to factor in all these aspects when budgeting for your desired size of shipping containers for homes.
Are There Any Limitations to Combining Shipping Containers for Size?
When combining sizes of shipping containers for homes, there are some limitations to consider. Structurally, ensuring proper reinforcement and stability is crucial when joining containers. Different container sizes may have varying weight distributions, and you need to make sure the combined structure can withstand external forces like wind and earthquakes. Additionally, local building codes and regulations may impose restrictions on the height, size, and configuration of combined container homes. You’ll need to obtain the necessary permits and work with experienced contractors who are familiar with building size of shipping containers for homes through combination to ensure compliance and a safe, functional living space.
Can I Modify the Interior Dimensions of a Shipping Container House Size?
Yes, you can modify the interior dimensions of a shipping container house size to some extent. While you can’t change the overall external dimensions of the container without significant structural modifications, you can alter the interior layout. Removing internal walls, adding partitions, or creating openings for doors and windows are common ways to customize the interior space. You can also use built-in furniture and storage solutions to optimize the use of available space within the size of shipping containers for homes. However, any major structural modifications should be done carefully and in accordance with building codes to maintain the integrity and safety of the container home.
