FAQs

FAQs

877-61-CARGO (22746)

CargoHome

Have a tiny space building-related question? We have the answer. Check out these FAQs and give us a call today for more information!

  • Why a shipping container for a tiny house?

    • Shipping containers are cheap in the United States. According to the National Association of Realtors, the median sales price for an existing home is $245,100. Basic container homes can be built for under $20k if you decide to build them yourself.
    • Durable. Containers are made to haul 20-30 tons and to be stacked 10 high. They can be hauled around the world. They are airtight, watertight, and made of metal structure, built to last.
    • They are minimalist. Some people think it’s trendy and unique.
    • Portable. With a network of systems, it’s easy to move containers around the country and the world.
    • Eco-friendly. 8,000 pounds of steel are repurposed every time a shipping container is recycled into a home. A half million shipping containers are abandoned each year.
  • Where do the containers come from?

    All containers are made in China. They’re shipped to the U.S. with a small load instead of arriving empty. These are called “one-trippers” and are pretty much brand new. Other containers are decommissioned after 10-15 years of global travel. They can be bought from ports very cheaply.

  • Are the tiny houses insulated?

    The container walls are heavy gauge corrugated steel. We have to build out stud walls inside and then spray foam or install rigid foam to insulate them. Because they are airtight, they have great thermal qualities even without full 2×4 depth insulation. They can be more heavily insulated in much colder climates.

  • Can they be moved?

    Yes! There are trucks, trains, and trailers designed for moving containers. They are strong so moving them does not hurt the structural integrity.

  • Do you offer delivery?

    Yes. CargoHome delivers some containers. We partner with other container home movers as well.

  • How do I purchase a CargoHome?

    The process starts with a consultation and how a container home can fit into your location. Someone from CargoHome will discuss potential zoning and permitting issues. Once you make a decision and move forward with owning a standard model CargoHome, we will discuss basic options and sign a construction contract. CargoHome requires 50% down to begin building, 25% upon completion, and the remaining 25% on delivery. If you want to design a custom CargoHome, we ask for a $2,500 nonrefundable design consultation fee. We will work with you to design a dream tiny home. Customers have access to an interactive webpage where pictures and comments of the progress of the CargoHome will be posted.

  • Do you offer financing?

    No. We take credit cards and can split the cost between several payment methods. Our goal is to offer financing in the future.

  • Are CargoHomes built to code?

    Yes. Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical on the CargoHome is built to code under licensed tradesmen. Structurally, there is no “code” for container homes or tiny houses. This can become an issue if you are trying to move the home into city limits where there are inspection and permitting requirements. If you think this could be a problem, there are several ways to work around this. In many places like Texas for instance, if you are outside the city limits, there are no restrictions on ADUs (auxiliary dwelling units).

  • Do you do custom builds?

    Yes. Our custom builds start with a nonrefundable $2,500 design consultation fee. Final pricing varies depending on design complexity and materials.

  • Do you offer a warranty?

    Yes. All CargoHomes come with a 180-day “stern to bow” warranty for defective craftsmanship of any sort. CargoHomes provide a signed warranty contract upon successful delivery and setup.

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