Understanding Container Spaces FAQs

For those outside of the United States interested in purchasing and shipping their home, we can arrange to ship the finished container home to a U.S. port. Once the container reaches the U.S. port, all liability is assumed by the buyer/owner during the shipping to the final destination. If the final destination has different codes, we might not be equipped to build the container as our plans are based on the IRC codes. However, if the location does not have any codes or permits, or will accept IRC codes, then there shouldn't be any issues.

Delivery is an important part of a successful experience start to finish. We have provided a list of requirements for what will be needed for a standard delivery fee:

1. Roadways leading up to the property have at least 14'6" clearance from any low hanging objects.
2. Entrance to your driveway is approx. 40' wide and solid; we will be delivering with a semi.
3. The driveway and/or path to foundation is solid with compacted gravel or a hard surface so we don't get stuck.
4. An open unobstructed area around the foundation is critical so we can straighten our semi with the foundation. We require approx. 150' of almost level ground.
5. The foundation is fully cured.
6. For a standard delivery make sure the foundation is not elevated more than 3" to 4" above grade.

If your site does not meet all these requirements, then most likely it will not qualify for the standard delivery fee. Most site visits range from $1,000-$1,500 depending on your location.

Our delivery process is set up to make your life hassle free. We are the build team and the installation team supplying the truck, trailer, and tools to get your project delivered and installed safely. With each commercial project we collaborate with the owner/general contractor to arrange the delivery of each container to the jobsite. Our goal is a completed project so that when we leave it will be ready for inspection.

Our starting price shown on each floor plan does not include the delivery and installation cost. Our delivery and installation costs are calculated on the "Start Your Journey" form or on the "Delivery" page. It is particularly important to enter the correct zip code when prompted so the delivery distance is calculated correctly from Butler, MO.

Our standard installation would include welding down the container to the steel plates in the foundation, buttoning up any seams, utility connections from container to container if it is a multi-container home, and complete a final walk-through and cleaning.

This is the most asked question. Our goal is to provide you with a realistic idea of what it will cost using the tools we offer on our website. Each floor plan offered will show the base price and the items included in the standard package.

To get a complete quote, please visit the "Start Your Journey" section. This will prompt you to enter the information we need to calculate an overall price. When you decide to move forward with us, you have the option to place a small deposit and sign a contract to start the process.

Another common question asked is what is the delivery cost? When you complete the "Start Your Journey" section, it will calculate the delivery cost based upon the zip code you provided on the form or you can visit our "Delivery" Page to see the cost.

The Container Home movement is still relatively new, and financing options are evolving as lenders adapt to these unique structures.

Please note: Custom Container Living, Inc. does not offer loans or financing, and we are not affiliated with any of the lenders listed. These resources are informational only.

There are usually two types of traditional loans you should start with:

1. Traditional home loan (15 year or 30 year): This type of loan is often found through a mortgage lender. Once you have selected a mortgage lender that will lend on a modular/manufactured home then you should apply for a pre-approval letter. This is vital for your budget and your construction loan approval.
2. Construction loan: In most cases you will work with a local bank that you have a relationship with. A construction loan allows for upfront money to make the purchase of the land, home, site improvements, etc. Typically, once the home is near completion, you would contact the mortgage lender you received your pre-approval letter from and start the process of rolling the construction loan into a permanent mortgage.

We have found there is not an out of the box one size fits all when it comes to commercial projects due to the size, purpose, site limitations, codes & zoning, and etc. When you are ready to explore the possibilities of using containers for your project, we are happy to help determine if it is feasible using containers and if it makes sense financially. When you are ready, please use the "Contact" page to send your information or email us at [email protected].

It is well known that you can use many containers to construct many types of projects. You can use containers to achieve many things such as: workforce housing, transitional housing, student housing, restrooms, and more, which is why we are here to help you understand all the possibilities and benefits of using containers for your next project. If it makes sense to use containers for your next project, we can build as small as you need or as large as you need.

A huge benefit is the peace of mind that each home is built to a proven building code making for a safe and sound home. All our certified containers are constructed to the International Residential Code. Another benefit is having a certified plan when applying for your building permit. The local jurisdiction knows it has already been reviewed and approved to meet the state building and safety codes.

The process of buying a container home can seem like a daunting task, but don't worry. We've got you covered. Please review the "How It Works" section for some pointers in making the process easier. If you have any questions or need more information throughout the process, we are here to help.

It is well known that you can use many containers to construct a new home, however, we offer a variety of homes ranging from 160 sq. ft. to 960 sq. ft. It is very possible to build your home with more containers than what we offer within any of our standard floor plans, however, our standard floor plans are either state certified or ready to be state certified as a modular built container home.

If you desire to build a custom home, then the local city or county may require permits. We would then need to go through the process of getting your custom design state certified which can take extra time and be more costly.

We use the most common container sizes which are 20' and 40' in length and 8' wide. They have a "standard" height container measuring 8'6" tall and they also have a "high cube" measuring 9'6" tall. All our floor plans, whether a single- or multi-container model, will be built from a 20' or 40' one-trip container. Our smallest floor plan is 160 sq. ft., while our largest floor plan is 960 sq. ft.

Currently we offer two stacked floor plan options. Check out the links below to view each model.

While shipping containers were made to be easily transported, they are not conducive to placing on a trailer and moving around each weekend as some of the "tiny homes" you see on TV. Our homes are made to be transported, set in place, and stay put. This doesn't mean that you could not easily move them to a new location should you have the need. This will require a call to your local tow company that has the proper equipment.

Codes and zoning will differ depending on the state/city/county where the container home will be located. In many counties and smaller towns across the country, there may not be any zoning which will expedite the construction process.

Call the building/zoning department with your local jurisdiction and ask:

• Do they require a building permit for a new residential home?
• Do they allow shipping container homes?
• Find out minimum square footage?

The utilities (electric, water, sewer) connect the same as a traditionally built house. Your main utility connections will be one ¾" pex water pipe, one or two 3" sewer connections, and a 2" LB mounted on the side of the house for your electrical service. We will work closely with your general contractor to provide any information they might need.

A common question we hear is "are we able to upgrade or add large windows and large doors?" We can definitely consider that; however, the strength of a container comes largely from the container walls and when you start removing larger sections, it requires additional engineering, bracing, and welding. If larger openings are desired, we will work with our engineer to make the modifications for the additional bracing and welding.

In short: No. All our homes are fully complete when they leave our shop due to certifications and inspections that must take place during and after a build is finished.

The process of buying an off-grid container home can seem like a daunting task, but don't worry. We've got you covered. Please review the "How It Works" section for some pointers in making the process easier.

It is well known that you can use many containers to construct a new home, however, we currently offer three off-grid homes ranging from 320 sq. ft. to 640 sq. ft. one and two bedroom. In the coming years we plan to expand our off-grid lineup with a few larger models.

Our off-grid floor plans come standard with a tanked water heater. The option for a gas tankless is available.

The short answer is yes, we would love to build the home you desire. When customizing one of our off-grid homes, a team member will work with you to understand what you are looking for. It is important that we build the home so it will function within its limitations of being off-grid. We strive to give the best off-grid experience possible, but there are some limitations for which we must account for.

The idea of having an off-grid home typically means minimal utility connections unless you desire to connect them to your home. Each off-grid home we build has the ability to connect to sewer (city or septic), connect to water (city or well), and electricity.

Water:

If water is not available through the city or a well on your property, you might have to haul in water through a local water hauling service.

Sewer:

If sewer is available through the city or you have a septic system installed on your property, you have the ability to order your home with a standard flushable toilet instead of using a composting toilet.

Electricity:

Your off-grid home is designed to supply power through the solar system that has been installed. However, if you're in an area that does not produce the needed power due to overcast sky, weather related, etc., don't worry as you have a few options to consider:

1. We outfit each home with the ability to connect a generator to charge the batteries or power your home.
2. You could grid tie to power if that is available. The home has been prepared to accept grid power.