Why People are Living in Shipping Containers and How To Get Started

Shipping containers as a home, surely not? Some people may have called you odd to even suggest the idea of houses made from shipping containers, but the demand for conversions has only grown in recent years, thanks to the many benefits over traditional construction.

With over 25 years of experience in all things shipping containers, portable cabins and modular buildings, ModCon Cabins is here to explain why living in a shipping container is possible and beneficial, how people get them converted and some of the difficulties people face.

How has the demand for shipping container housing grown?

Shipping container depots are located throughout the UK, and while the exact number is unknown, it’s estimated that there could be nearly 1,000 depots combined. This means that acquiring shipping containers is both relatively cheap and fast.

While still used for transporting and storing goods, the UK has seen a rise in containerised accommodation, whether as an office, pop-up shops for retail or sports changing rooms. Now, shipping containers are being converted into housing and living accommodation, as well as other types of projects, such as London featuring Container City at Trinity Buoy Wharf.

It’s no secret that there is a housing crisis in the UK, so shipping container houses have become a viable solution that’s far more affordable. Instead of saving up tens of thousands of pounds for a deposit on a house, people are using their savings to buy shipping containers, spending around £1,500-£4,000 for a 20ft container, and getting them converted and renovated for around £50,000-£60,000 when all in. 

Why are people using shipping containers as homes? 

It’s not just about spending less money on a storage container home, the benefits they offer extend to better customisation and versatility, fast construction and sustainability. 

1. Shipping container housing is cheaper than buying a traditional home

While prices fluctuate, shipping containers are far cheaper to buy and renovate than securing a deposit for the average price of a house, which was approximately £266,303 in 2024. A one-bedroom shipping container house is estimated to cost around £40,000, while a larger, four-bedroom conversion will probably push beyond the £100,000 mark. Still far cheaper than current house prices. Plus, once fully installed and converted, owners won’t have to pay a mortgage either!

2. Shipping container homes are sustainable 

Houses made from shipping containers are incredibly sustainable, as they reuse containers that might otherwise be scrapped. Recycling as much steel and other materials as possible helps cut costs, and all the main building framework is already there, meaning less brick, wood and other traditional materials are needed.

3. A container house is versatile

Containerised accommodation doesn’t just cover a house in the traditional sense. Shipping containers are, by nature, portable, so some use them to bridge the gap between a motorhome and a traditional house, transporting them to different locations as sort of holiday homes. Many choose to buy a 10ft shipping container for their garden, converting it into accommodation for guests and visiting family. Their portability also means homeowners can simply relocate without having to sell and start all over again.

How people are converting shipping containers into homes

Are there different types of container houses? When exploring how to build a container home, it’s important to understand the methods and types you can use.

Permanent container homes

Shipping container homes from ModCon Cabins assess each buyer’s lifestyle needs and budget to build a space that can be used for permanent accommodation. Conversions can be for a cosy, one-bed dwelling, or a container house could be larger by combining several containers, creating enough space for several bedrooms and all other home amenities. Permanent container homes will also be fully insulated, and they can be decorated exactly how you want. 

A floating container home

A floating container home is a modular, sustainable living space built from repurposed shipping containers, designed to float on water. TV presenter and designer Max McMurdo built one of these way back in 2016, upcycling almost every feature of his floating storage container home.

Short stay container housing

Containerised accommodation doesn’t have to be just for permanent residence. Short-stay container housing converts these products into flexible, temporary living spaces for short-term rentals, holiday stays, Airbnbs, staff housing and temporary accommodation for the homeless and asylum seekers. They are a great alternative to traditional builds, offering flexibility and adaptability for both businesses and private individuals. 

Could container homes help rescue the housing crisis?

While they can’t solve the housing crisis overnight, houses made from shipping containers offer a viable alternative for both permanent and temporary living. Many councils across the country have been using shipping containers to house people struggling to find permanent homes, and many first-time buyers have made the shift to convert containers instead of trying to find an affordable first home.

3 difficulties of living in a shipping container

1. You may need planning permission for a container house 

Shipping container homes often require planning permission, especially if used as permanent dwellings, due to local zoning laws and building codes. Regulations vary by location, particularly in areas of outstanding natural beauty or near listed buildings. Failure to comply with planning permission can lead to fines or demolition. To check if you need permission, contact your local planning authority with project details, including size, location and intended use. 

2. Sourcing available land for your shipping container

Securing suitable land for living in a shipping container is challenging because of availability and zoning restrictions. Urban areas may have strict regulations, while rural land might lack utility access. Research zoning laws to ensure land permits residential use and check for restrictions or Homeowners Association rules. Thorough research will prevent costly setbacks.

3. Finding a container firm you can trust with the design and build

Choosing a reliable container firm is critical for a safe, compliant shipping container home. Inexperienced firms may overlook structural integrity, insulation or building regulations, leading to costly repairs. Research firms with proven container home expertise; check their reviews, case studies and certifications. ModCon Cabins offer expert design and build services for shipping container houses, ensuring complete compliance and customised solutions.

Checklist: how to build a shipping container house

Building a shipping container home requires careful planning, but once you have the plan in place, construction can be completed in a matter of weeks. Start by defining the home’s purpose and budget. Research local regulations and building codes, secure land and obtain planning permission, and hire a structural engineer for safe modifications. Choose a reputable firm like ModCon for design and construction.

1. Research Regulations: Check local planning permissions and other regulations.
2. Secure Land: Find suitable land with utility access.
3. Obtain Permission: Submit plans to the local planning authority.
4. Hire Experts: Engage with experts for design and construction.
5. Build and Inspect: Construct with a trusted firm and schedule inspections.

Get a quote for a shipping container with ModCon

At ModCon, we are the experts with decades of experience manufacturing and supplying converted shipping containers to be used as homes, workshops, offices, school facilities and much more. Our bespoke buildings are of the highest quality, sustainable and affordable. Get a quote on a shipping container by calling us on 0333 404 8822, and we’ll help you build the home of your dreams.

FAQs about living in a shipping container 

How much does it cost to live in a shipping container?

Depending on the scope of the conversion, the cost of a shipping container home can range from £40,000-£100,000. These prices include the cost of buying the shipping container, labour, modifications and additional materials. It can be more cost-effective to buy and convert a shipping container into a living space than it is to purchase a traditional brick-and-mortar home.

Do I need planning permission for a shipping container house?

You will need planning permission to live in a converted shipping container if it will be used as a permanent residence. It’s always best to check with your local council and local planning authority. Check out our guide on “Do I need planning permission for a shipping container.”

Why choose ModCon for your shipping container?

ModCon Cabins provides completely custom and tailored services for shipping container conversions, portable cabins and modular buildings. We can fully fit out containers and transform them into homes, fit with insulation, plumbing, electrics and everything else you could need. 

What resources are there to help me build a shipping container home?

ModCon has a wide range of guides and resources about living in shipping containers, what they can be used for, the benefits they offer and other useful information to help you start your journey to building a shipping container house.