I love old cars and trucks. I want them all. But, storage isn’t easy and I live in a neighborhood that wouldn’t be too fond of cars on the street all the time.
So I’ve been researching building a shipping container garage and I have to say I think it’s going to be one of the most exciting projects I have undertaken in recent years.
What do you think, something you would do? There’s some land near me that’s pretty cheap and could easily fit a few containers on there and boom, more room for more vintage trucks!
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Why Build with Shipping Containers?
I know shipping containers have become really popular in the home space due to their versatility, durability, and affordability. I mean, they are large metal boxes designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy loads while being transported across the world on cargo ships.
This makes them a pretty ideal choice for building structures that require strength and longevity. Especially if you reinforce them and do some rustproofing!
In addition to being sturdy, shipping containers are also affordable compared to traditional building materials. And the designs I’ve seen look kinda amazing.
Before I go too much further though, I want to stress that you need to check your local regulations for your zoning laws, building permits, and other legal requirements. I don’t want you to get too far down the road and realize the city or county is going to try to shut your dreams down!
If you have to wait while you build your garage you should read our post on protecting your car without a garage.
Can a shipping container be used as a garage?
Absolutely! A shipping container is like a giant metal box just waiting for you to customize it.
Just like Lego blocks, but for grown-ups who love cars. Shipping containers are durable, secure, and relatively weather-resistant, making them just right for a garage.
Picture this: you find a shipping container, set it down in your backyard (or in my case, on a piece of land not too far away,) make a few modifications, and voila!
You’ve got yourself a garage that’s not only functional but also really cool. It’s like having your car live in a rugged, industrial penthouse. Put another shipping container up top and go ahead and build yourself a bedroom up there for when you are too tired to go home from working on your truck all night.
Is it cheaper to build with containers?
Here’s the million-dollar question—actually, more like the few-thousand-dollar question. Yes, building with shipping containers can be more cost-effective than traditional construction.
Containers are pre-fabricated, which means you save on materials and labor costs. Plus, they’re often available for a fraction of the cost of building from scratch.
Think about it this way, traditional garages require foundations, walls, roofs, and more. With a shipping container, you’re basically skipping half the construction process.
Just make sure you factor in additional costs like insulation, ventilation, and any custom modifications you want.
It’s true, you’re not going to be able to just put it in place and that’s it but it’s still going to save you some time and money! So, a win is a win in my book.
Key Budgeting Factors for a Shipping Container Garage:
- Container Purchase: Cost varies based on size, condition (new, used, one-trip), and location.
- Delivery and Placement: Fees for transporting the container to your site and positioning it.
- Permits and Fees: Local government charges for building permits, zoning compliance, etc.
- Site Preparation: Costs for leveling the ground, creating a foundation (if necessary), and landscaping.
- Modifications: Expenses for cutting doors, windows, insulation, ventilation, electrical work, and plumbing (if applicable).
- Finishing Touches: Budget for painting, flooring, and interior/exterior design elements.
- Unexpected Costs: Allocate a contingency fund for unforeseen expenses.
Do container garages get hot?
Temperature control, is it a problem? Shipping containers can get hot, especially under the blazing summer sun. Imagine a metal oven baking your beloved car. Not ideal, right? But don’t worry, there are solutions to keep your container garage cool.
First, consider painting the exterior with a lighter color paint. White or light-colored paints can deflect some of that heat. Second, adding ventilation like windows or vents can improve air circulation – look into some big fans and a dehumidifier.
Can it be heated and cooled?
Yes, you can definitely heat and cool your shipping container garage. In fact, with the right setup, your container garage can be just as comfortable as a traditional garage. A ductless mini-split could easily heat and cool your container. They’re not exactly cheap, but I know some people who have used them in their upstairs attic they converted to a “jam space” to play music and it made a world of difference.
Just make sure your container is properly insulated (we’ll get to that) and ventilated. Otherwise, you’ll be heating and cooling the great outdoors, and nobody wants to pay that utility bill.
How do you insulate it?
Insulating a shipping container is necessary if you want to maintain a comfortable temperature inside. Without insulation, your container garage will be a sauna in the summer and an igloo in the winter. Not great for you or your car.
Start by choosing the type of insulation that works best for you. Spray foam is a popular choice because it fills all the nooks and crannies and provides excellent thermal resistance. Foam board insulation is another option and is easier to install. Sheep’s wool? Sure, if you’re going for that eco-friendly, rustic vibe.
Once you’ve chosen your insulation, line the walls and ceiling of your container. Don’t forget about the floor! And make sure any gaps or seams are sealed to prevent drafts.
Can it be locked?
Security is a big concern when it comes to garages. The good news is, shipping containers are built to be secure. They’re designed to withstand rough seas and deter thieves, so they’re already ahead of the game.
Most containers come with heavy-duty double doors that can be secured with padlocks. For added security, you can install a lockbox or bolt cutters-resistant locks. If you want to go all out, consider adding an alarm system or even security cameras.
Your car will be safer than a gold bar in Fort Knox. Actually, probably not but it should be pretty safe.
How long does a shipping container garage take to build?
The timeline for building a shipping container garage can vary depending on how elaborate your plans are. If you’re going for a simple setup with minimal modifications, you could have it ready in a few weekends to a month.
On the other hand, if you’re planning to deck it out with insulation, heating, cooling, and custom features, it might take a couple of months or more.
Think of it as a fun project, not a race. Take your time to ensure everything is done right. Plus, the process of transforming a shipping container into a garage can be enjoyable. You get to flex those DIY muscles and create something truly unique.
You can probably find somewhere where you can buy them already completed too, if that’s more your style.
How long do they last?
Shipping containers are built to last. They’re made of sturdy steel and designed to withstand the harsh conditions of ocean travel. With proper maintenance, a shipping container garage can last for several decades.
Of course, you’ll need to perform some basic upkeep. Regularly check for signs of rust and address any issues promptly. Keep the container clean and free of debris.
And if you’ve added insulation or other materials, make sure they’re in good condition. Think of it as giving your garage a little TLC.
Just like a house or traditional garage – the better you keep it up the longer it’s going to last.
How wide are shipping containers?
Shipping containers come in standard sizes, with the most common being 20 feet and 40 feet in length. The width is typically 8 feet, which is plenty of space for most vehicles.
If you need more room, you can always opt for a high-cube container, which offers additional height.
If you’re planning to store larger vehicles or prefer more workspace, consider getting a wider or longer container. Just remember to measure your available space before making a purchase.
Can you put two or more together to make a larger space?
Absolutely! One of the coolest things about shipping containers is their modular nature. You can easily combine two or more containers to create a larger garage space. It’s like playing with giant building blocks.
To join containers, simply place them side by side and cut openings for doorways or passages. You can weld the containers together for added stability. The possibilities are endless, and you can customize the layout to suit your needs.
Imagine having one container for your car and another for your workshop or storage. Or combine multiple containers to create a spacious garage with room for all your vehicles and tools. The only limit is your imagination.
Customizing Your Container Garage
One of the most exciting aspects of building a shipping container garage is the opportunity to customize it to your specific needs and style. You can create a space that’s both functional and visually appealing by adding lamps, windows, doors, and lofts.
Windows: Adding windows to your shipping container garage is a great way to let in natural light and improve ventilation. You can choose from a variety of window styles, including casement, double-hung, and sliding windows. You can also install skylights to bring in even more light.
Doors: The type of door you choose for your shipping container garage will depend on your needs and preferences. If you’re planning on using the garage for storage, a single-door garage door may be sufficient. However, if you’re planning on using the garage for a workshop or other activity, you may want to consider a double-door garage door. You can also install a pedestrian door on the side of the garage for easy access.
Lofts: Adding a loft to your shipping container garage is a great way to create additional storage space or even a living area. You can use the loft to store tools, equipment, or other items that you don’t need to access frequently. You can also convert the loft into a guest room, office, or even a bedroom. I suggest throwing in a couple of couches and a big TV. College football y’all!
Conclusion
Turning a shipping container into a garage is not only feasible but it’s just a fantastic idea. It’s a cost-effective, durable, and customizable solution that allows you to create a unique space for your vehicles and hobbies.
Even if you don’t love cars it could be cool for other things too. You could put a golf simulator in there or your fly-tying station. Endless room for imagination. At Get Vintage Vehicles, you know we love cars but we also love fishing!
With a little creativity and some elbow grease, you can transform a humble shipping container into a garage that will be the envy of your neighbors and friends.
