25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (2024)

Builders and homeowners have shared tons of shipping container home plans on the internet, but finding them can be a hassle.

That’s why we’ve compiled the best shipping container home floor plans, from 1 bedroom to 5 bedrooms, whatever you need!

A shipping container house is becoming a more popular alternative for many. It’s fast and easy to build, less expensive than traditional homes, modular, mobile, and, best of all, environmentally friendly.

There are currently around 17 million shipping containers in the world. But did you know that a massive 11 million of these containers are sitting unused?

Plus, with a shipping container home, it’s possible to construct your dream home without breaking the bank. So, let’s dive right in and explore some amazing floor plans to inspire your new home.

Table of Contents hide

1 One Bedroom Shipping Container Home Plans

1.1 Container Guest House by Poteet Architects

1.2 The Bachelor(ette) by Custom Container Living

1.3 Studio+ by Luckdrops

1.4 The Weekender by Custom Container Living

1.5 The Studio Cube by Rhino Cubed

2 2 bedroom shipping container home floor plans

2.1 Empty Nester by Custom Container Living

2.2 Double Duo 2 Bedroom by Custom Container Living

2.3 Family Matters 2 Bedroom by Custom Container Living

2.4 The HO4 by Honomobo

2.5 4 X 40 c-Home by LOT-EK

3 3 bedroom shipping container home floor plans

3.1 The Lodge by Rhino Cubed

3.2 Family Matters 3 Bedroom by Custom Container Living

3.3 Riverdale HO4+ by Honomobo

3.4 The HO5+ by Honomobo

3.5 PV14 House by M Gooden Design

4 4 bedroom shipping container home plans

4.1 4 Bedroom Container Home by AustralianHousePlans

4.2 4 Bedroom Sanctuary

4.3 The HO6 by Honomobo

4.4 Casa Liray by ARQtainer

4.5 2240 Billy: 4 Bedroom Container Home (3×40 foot)

5 5 bedroom shipping container home plans

5.1 TWINBOX 1920 by ShelterMODE

5.3 Yarra Valley 5 Bedroom Shipping Container Home

5.4 Boxtainer 1920 by ShelterMode

5.5 POLYBOX 800 by ShelterMode

6 Which shipping container floor plans did you like?

6.1 Share this:

One Bedroom Shipping Container Home Plans

Container Guest House by Poteet Architects

Bedroom: Studio style

Size: 320 m2

Containers used: 1

Price: n/a

Manufacturer: Poteet Architects

Year: 2010

Constructed from an 8×20 ft shipping container, this guest house is made from bamboo plywood and spans a total of 320 m2. It features a bathroom and massive window wall, an extended deck area, as well as a living space that can include a modular bed.

The interior has a simple yet cozy modern style, while a section of this guest house also serves as a garden shed.

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (1)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (2)

Related:

  • 11 Rustic shipping container home design ideas
  • Prefabricated shipping container home plans

The Bachelor(ette) by Custom Container Living

Bedroom:1

Size: 160 sq ft

Containers used: 1

Price: $41,900

Manufacturer: Custom Container Living

Year:

The Bachelor(ette) is a small, space-efficient home plan concept featuring a bedroom and bathroom. It can fit an armchair, twin-sized bed, sink and 42-inch shower, and even a galley kitchen!

You can recreate this 20’ shipping container home floor plan and use it for an Airbnb rental, guest house, or even in-law suite.

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (3)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (4)

Studio+ by Luckdrops

Bedroom:1

Size: 287 sq ft

Containers used: 1

Price: $45,000

Manufacturer: Luckdrops

Year:

The Studio+ is a luxurious one-bed, one-bath inclusive shipping container home. At 287 sq ft, it features a bright and contemporary interior style that helps make the entire home feel more spacious.

The bedroom takes up one side of the container home, while a separate living room is found on the other end. We also love that the full kitchen features a multi-function work and dining table!

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (5)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (6)

The Weekender by Custom Container Living

Bedroom:1

Size: 160 sq ft

Containers used: 1

Price: $51,900

Manufacturer: Custom Container Living

Year:

Adding a loft bedroom to a single 20’ container home can give you more space to work with. The Weekender is one example of how this allows you have a roomy living room and functional kitchenette.

It’s a fantastic container floor plan that you can use for an in-law suite, hunting cabin, or even simple Airbnb rental.

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (7)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (8)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (9)

The Studio Cube by Rhino Cubed

Bedroom:1

Size: 240 sq ft

Containers used: 1

Price: $80,000

Manufacturer: Rhino Cubed

Year:

This minimalist home plan is ideal for a college student or young couple. It comes with a Murphy bed that can transform your bedroom into a comfortable living room.

Meanwhile, the large kitchen design with ample storage is also perfect for those who don’t want to sacrifice their cooking experience.

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (10)

2 bedroom shipping container home floor plans

Empty Nester by Custom Container Living

Bedroom: 2

Size: 320 sq ft

Containers used: 1

Price: $93,900

Manufacturer: Custom Container Living

Constructed from a single 40’ container, the Empty Nester is a clever design where one of the two bedrooms occupies the loft area. This dynamic layout can comfortably house a small family.

There’s a spacious living and dining room with a full kitchen, and even a bathtub in the bathroom!

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (11)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (12)

Double Duo 2 Bedroom by Custom Container Living

Bedroom: 2

Size: 640 sq ft

Containers used: 2

Price: $127,900

Manufacturer: Custom Container Living

The Double Duo offers a simple but functional layout by placing two 40’ containers next to each other. It features two identical bedrooms, a full bathroom, kitchen, and snug living room that you can decorate to your personal preference.

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (13)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (14)

Family Matters 2 Bedroom by Custom Container Living

Bedroom: 2

Size: 960 sq ft

Containers used: 4

Price: $174,900

Manufacturer: Custom Container Living

For families with a teen or up to 2 younger kids, this floor plan may be what you need. It’s a modern and elegant design made from two 40’ and two 40’ shipping containers.

Both bedrooms have a spacious walk-in closet, while the master bedroom also features an en-suite. Meanwhile, the living space is large enough to accommodate various furniture configurations, depending on your personal style.

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (15)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (16)

The HO4 by Honomobo

Bedroom: 2

Size: 768 sq ft

Containers used: 4

Price:

Manufacturer: Honomobo

The HO4 is a customizable floor plan from Honomobo that takes 4 shipping containers and transforms them into a stylish 2-bed home. Additionally, it also features a dining room, living area, and full kitchen.

Not to mention the floor-to-ceiling glass walls that adds an ultra-modern twist to the exterior. We also love that this home integrates a solar panel system for an even more eco-friendly living.

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (17)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (18)

4 X 40 c-Home by LOT-EK

Bedroom: 3

Size: 1280 sq ft

Containers used: 4

Price: $340,000

Manufacturer: LOT-EK

Who says container homes have to always be small? This sprawling 1280 sq ft space is a 2-bed home made of four 40’ shipping containers. It has two levels with an open layout with a huge kitchen and living space.

The two bedrooms even have their own stair accesses and en-suites, as well as walk-in closets. Fancy, right?

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (19)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (20)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (21)

3 bedroom shipping container home floor plans

The Lodge by Rhino Cubed

Bedroom: 3

Size: 800+ sq ft

Containers used: 3

Price: $196,000

Manufacturer: Rhino Cubed

If you like looking at 40 foot shipping container home floor plans, you will love this design. The main structure incorporates two 40’ containers, in which a vaulted ceiling connects them and provides additional living area.

Meanwhile, the smaller 20’ cube is a stand-alone space that you can transform into a third bedroom or office.

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (22)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (23)

Family Matters 3 Bedroom by Custom Container Living

Bedroom: 3

Size: 960 sq ft

Containers used: 4

Price: $174,900

Manufacturer: Custom Container Living

You’ve seen the 2 bedroom option earlier, but we also love this 3-bed 2-bed configuration, which can be ideal for those with a larger family. The open concept makes the living/dining area appear much more palatial.

The master bedroom has an ensuite, while the two other bedrooms are smaller in size but still feature a sizable closet.

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (24)

Riverdale HO4+ by Honomobo

Bedroom: 3

Size: 1224 sq ft

Containers used: 4

Price: $261,034

Manufacturer: Honomobo

Year: 2018

The Riverdale HO4+ project incorporates four 40’ containers to create a 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom home that feels homey and looks chic. It sports a sophisticated ambiance with the wood flooring and white falls, which also help extend the illusion of space here.

Furthermore, there is a fully functional eat-in kitchen that is perfect for entertaining, while the bathroom is large enough for a bathtub.

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (25)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (26)

The HO5+ by Honomobo

Bedroom: 3

Size: 1530 sq ft

Containers used: 5

Price: $313,365

Manufacturer: Honomobo

The HO5+ is a breathtaking shipping container house model with an open plan that challenges the old-school notion of a container home. Constructed from five 40’ containers, it features three bedrooms and two baths (one is an ensuite).

The plan also gives you the option to build stairs that connect the space to an on-site basement. On top of that, the floor-to-celing glass windows add another beautiful focal point to the house.

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (27)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (28)

PV14 House by M Gooden Design

Bedroom: 3

Size: 3700 sq ft

Containers used: 14

Price: Around $450,000

Manufacturer: M Gooden Design

If you have the budget to splurge and simply want to use shipping containers as your building block for environmental reasons and architectural character, you might love the PV14 House.

This impressive home is made from 14 upcycled containers and spans over 3,700 sq ft which includes 3 beds with ensuites, a two-car garage, a roof deck, a lavish entertaining area, and an outdoor covered porch!

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (29)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (30)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (31)

4 bedroom shipping container home plans

4 Bedroom Container Home by AustralianHousePlans

Bedroom: 4

Size: 1513 sq ft

Containers used: 3

Price:

Designer: AustralianHousePlans

An easy trick to make three 40’ containers feel so much larger and easily fit 4 bedrooms is by spacing them out and using roofs to connect them. This also gives you multiple spots to tun into an alfresco living area.

This 40 foot shipping container home floor plan also features a large living room, kitchen, dining area, laundry, room, and four incredible bedrooms with ensuites.

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (32)

4 Bedroom Sanctuary

Bedroom: 4

Bathrooms: 2

Size (Living Area): 1,808 sq. ft (167.97m2)

Deck Area: 138.1 sq. ft (12.83m2)

Length: 54.95ft (16.75m)

Width: 43.75ft (13.335m)

Height: 12.47ft (3.8m)

Containers used: 6

Price: $489,000

Designer: Ecoliv

Your home should be a sanctuary where you can unwind, connect with loved ones and escape the stress of everyday life. A space where your impact on the environment is minimalized simply by doing things like cooking meals, cleaning dishes and washing clothes.

The new EcoSanctuary range offers affordable and sustainable modular homes that are designed to help you live an environmentally friendly lifestyle.

Comprising of 7 design styles suited to typical urban settings, the EcoSanctuary collection offers thoughtfully designed spaces for families to create lasting memories together. Flexible workspaces and serene sleeping areas allow everyone in the home to live, work and relax with ease.

As with all Ecoliv homes, you’ll enjoy sustainability that is embedded into the design, construction and operations of every EcoSanctuary house. Live in luxury and comfort with Tasmanian Oak engineered floors, 100% Wool rugs, along with sustainable features such as a 2.2kW grid solar power connected system, and a 10,000L water tank that is included with each build.

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (33)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (34)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (35)

The HO6 by Honomobo

Bedroom: 4

Size: 1920 sq ft

Containers used: 4

Price: $424,458

Manufacturer: Honomobo

Honomobo doesn’t skimp on the quality and luxury of its shipping container homes, and we absolutely adore this 4-bedroom design. This home plan also includes 3 bathrooms, an open concept kitchen and living area, as well as gorgeous floor-to-ceiling glass windows.

When designing a container house like this, you can add an optional fireplace that can elevate the overall vibe even more.

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (36)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (37)

Casa Liray by ARQtainer

Bedroom: 4

Size: 115 m2

Containers used: 5

Price:

Manufacturer: ARQTainer

Year: 2010

ARQTainer’s Casa Liray was built in 2010, but its excellent design remains fresh and ingenious even more than a decade later. This efficient and strong structure features a fun L-shaped home with four bedrooms and four bathrooms.

It also includes plenty of windows and open spaces that allow the entire home to feel like a flowing, continuous scope.

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (38)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (39)

2240 Billy: 4 Bedroom Container Home (3×40 foot)

Bedroom: 4

Bathrooms: 3

Size: 2240 Sq. Feet

Containers used: 3

Price: $95.95 for concept plans

Designer: Australian Home Plans

Extra: Alfresco under roof, large deck area, and a Home Theatre!

Yes, you heard that right, this unique shipping container home plan, known as the 2240 Billy, comes with its very own home theatre! With a total area of 2240 sq. ft (208.1 m2), there’s plenty of space in this four bedroom layout to play with.

Sometimes, playing around with the arrangement of the containers can give you a unique and space-efficient home plan. This best selling container home uses only three 40’ shipping containers but features four bedrooms and three baths!

The design allows for a large patio connecting the containers and provides more usable living space. We also love the idea of providing three separate living areas so the kids can have their play room, mom or dad can have an office, and everyone can enjoy the common area!

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (40)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (41)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (42)

5 bedroom shipping container home plans

TWINBOX 1920 by ShelterMODE

Bedroom: 5

Size: over 2000 sq ft

Containers used: 6

Price:

Manufacturer: ShelterMODE

Yes, it’s in fact possible to construct luxury home using shipping containers. This expansive abode is one example of how you can transform six 40’ containers into over 2000 sq ft of lavish living space.

It’s a 2-story home featuring a dynamic and eye-catching architectural shape, where the master bedroom even sports its own private balcony. There’s also a guest bedroom, as well as an open concept living space.

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (43)

The Lindendale by Container Build Group

Bedroom: 5 (4 + study)

Size: 504 m2 (interior)

Containers used:

Price:

Manufacturer: Container Build Group

The Linendale is a project inspired by industrial design and architecture, as reflected by the use of metal railings and preservation of the original container locks and surfaces. These 20’ containers also have top-end finishes for a bold and striking appearance.

Its exterior features a large covered patio and the space for your own private pool or garden. This area also connects to the main living space through a semi-outdoor bar.

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (44)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (45)

Yarra Valley 5 Bedroom Shipping Container Home

Bedroom: 5

Size: 3000 sq ft

Containers used: 8

Price:

Manufacturer:

The Yarra Valley Shipping Container Home is a 5-bedroom sprawling home made from 8 shipping containers. This is a great design for larger families, as the two floors each have its own kitchen space and bathroom.

We love the fact that this home is larger on the second floor, which creates a fun asymmetry. There is also a small deck downstairs and a larger deck on the upper level with a BBQ. This large open plan is perfect to build as a holiday rental or your forever home!

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (46)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (47)

Boxtainer 1920 by ShelterMode

Bedroom: 5

Size: 800+ sq ft

Containers used: 6

Price:

Manufacturer: ShelterMode

This 5-bedroom floor plan incorporates 6 shipping containers and stacks them to construct a beautifully modern home with two stories and multiple outdoor spaces, including a second-floor patio.

Some of the bedrooms also have private balconies and walk-in closets. The front door and entryway itself is quite small but leads to a modern hallway that opens to a large communal space. This is an open living, dining, and kitchen area with plenty of floor-to-ceiling windows.

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (48)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (49)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (50)

POLYBOX 800 by ShelterMode

Bedroom: 5

Size: 800+ sq ft

Containers used: 5

Price:

Manufacturer: ShelterMode

The POLYBOX 800 epitomizes the style of a modern shipping container home, with its unique circular configuration with a central courtyard and a circular roof connecting the five containers that make up the home’s main rooms.

It features 4 bedrooms and a master bedroom, all of which have their own en-suite bathroom and private balcony. The fun and dynamic architecture of this container home is perfect for those who want their home to feel like a vacation oasis!

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (51)
25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (52)

Which shipping container floor plans did you like?

Using shipping containers for your home can be an excellent alternative to mortgaging traditional houses. It’s more cost-effective, eco-friendly, and a fun way to express your unique style.

We hope these shipping container home plan examples could inspire you to design your own floor plan. Good luck and let’s get building!

25 Best Shipping Container Home Plans | 1-5BR Floor Plans (2024)

FAQs

What are two disadvantages of using a shipping container to build a home? ›

The Cons of Living in a Shipping Container Home
  • Appliances Don't Always Fit. ...
  • Building Permits Can Be Difficult to Get. ...
  • Contractors Are Hard to Come By. ...
  • Issues With Insulation. ...
  • Need to Consider the Climate. ...
  • Safety Concerns for Used Containers. ...
  • Shape & Size Limitations. ...
  • Reinforcing Sometimes Needed.
Aug 22, 2022

How much does it cost to build a container ship home? ›

How much does a shipping container home cost? For most homeowners, this eco-friendly, small-space living solution costs anywhere from $25,000 to $250,000 or more, with luxury options reaching $10,000 . Overall, you can expect to spend $150 to $350 per square foot for a shipping container home.

What size shipping container is best for a house? ›

20 foot shipping containers are the most popular size for moving because it usually holds everything from a 2-3 bedroom home. Most people find that a 20 foot shipping container is the perfect size for them.

What is the foundation of a shipping container home? ›

The four main foundation types which can be used with container homes are pier, pile, slab and strip.

Why do shipping container homes only last 25 years? ›

Shipping container homes should last at least 25 years but will last much longer if they are well maintained or if you use siding to protect the exterior. Rust is the single most common issue that can reduce the lifespan of a shipping container home.

What are the disadvantages of containers? ›

Disadvantages of Using Containers
  • Security Concerns. Containers operate on a shared kernel model, which could potentially be a security risk. ...
  • Complexity. The deployment and management of containers can introduce operational complexity. ...
  • Storage Challenges. ...
  • Networking. ...
  • Compatibility Issues.
Nov 21, 2023

Do container homes get hot? ›

If you are fortunate enough to live in a warm climate then during the summer months you may find your shipping container home gets a little too warm, just like any other home.

Is it cheaper to build a house or a container home? ›

Lower Cost to Build

Building a shipping container home is cheaper based on a few factors. Obviously, they're built on a much smaller scale and you'll need less materials to complete the interior, so the materials and labour involved will cost less.

How long does it take to build a shipping container home? ›

Since you already have the appropriate infrastructure in place, the building time won't take as long. Contractors can build a container home in less than a month. Larger dwellings can be finished in a few months, while the smaller ones can be fabricated off-site in a shorter period of time.

What is the best foundation for a container home? ›

A pier foundation is a very popular foundation for shipping container homes and other permanent structures. It is very similar to a pile foundation. Cylindrical concrete piers (often reinforced with steel) are placed into the ground until they rest on compact soil.

Do you need to put a roof on a shipping container home? ›

Add a Roof

Shipping containers are delivered with a standard flat roof. However, you might want to install a sloped roof, both for additional vertical space and to drive rain/snow away from your property.

What is the best insulation for a shipping container home? ›

The Best Container Home Insulation

All things considered, our favorite style of insulation for container homes is closed-cell spray foam. We particularly like Icynene C-200 due to the fact that it is known for very little VOC off-gassing and even expansion.

Do you need a slab for a container home? ›

Soil Types Make an Impact

Thus, containers placed directly on the ground tend to sink in the long term (think months to years). However, a container placed on a hard substrate like granite may never need a foundation or a gravel pad, while a container in a bayou may always require concrete pilings.

What is the best base for a container? ›

For single-unit containers in the same location long term, consider using a concrete foundation or a gravel pad. For many permanent applications, a concrete pad is likely the best solution to keep your structure level.

How to anchor a container home? ›

One of the most common ways to secure your container is by using ground plates with twist locks, these will keep your container firmly secured to the foundation, even in the face of severe storms.

Is building a house with shipping containers worth it? ›

Shipping container homes are durable but may lack the longevity that traditional houses have. A custom container home can last 25–30 years with proper maintenance, but a standard home generally lasts much longer than that, especially considering homes are passed down generations and still stand the test of time.

Why not to use shipping containers? ›

used shipping containers may have moisture in the floors from previous uses, and even new builds if left shut for prolonged periods may produce some moisture inside. The items you are storing may well contain moisture of some kind even a bed mattress has a moisture content.

Are container homes safe from lightning? ›

Shipping containers are essentially metal boxes. Because shipping containers are made of steel, they will become conductors if hit by lightning. However, if a container is grounded, the shell will act as a Faraday shield and the electricity will be conducted around the outside without affecting its contents.

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