Did you know that shipping containers make great storage sheds? In this article, we’ll go over the best shipping container shed ideas there you can absolutely replicate for your backyard.
Looking for top-of-the-line shipping containers you can use for your construction project? Shipping Container Depot is a trusted dealer in California. Call now: 626-765-9446. Or send us an email us. We offer quality brands at an affordable cost:
Do Shipping Containers Make Good Sheds?
Yes, shipping containers can make great backyard sheds. Used shipping containers can make be your budget storage for gardening tools, furniture, bicycles, camping gear, and more! Aside from being made from Corten steel (a strong and durable structure material), the roof can also withstand the forces of nature. What’s more, shipping container sheds are more affordable and easier to modify than traditional sheds.
These storage structures are not just popular for retrofitting as sheds, but also as living spaces, tiny houses, garages, or cabins.
In this post, we’ll show you some of the greatest shipping containers shed ideas you’ll love.
Benefits of a Shipping Container Shed
1. Durability: Shipping containers are renowned for their toughness and long-lasting durability, even against the strongest weather. The steel construction keeps out pests, mold, and rust for years on end, making them an ideal choice for a shed.
2. Versatility: Not only are shipping container sheds useful for storing tools and garden supplies, but they can also be customized to create a workspace or studio. Additional features such as windows and doors can be added to make the shed fit your specific requirements.
3. Portable: Shipping containers are portable and can be moved or taken with you if you need to relocate. With a wide range of sizes available, you can find the perfect fit for any space.
4. Cost Effective: Shipping containers offer a cost-effective and secure solution for creating a shed, without the need for any construction. They are also more affordable than traditional sheds.
5. Eco-Friendly: Shipping container sheds are an eco-friendly alternative to buying new shed materials as they allow you to recycle existing resources. This helps reduce the amount of waste being sent to landfills and prevents the need of producing new materials.
6. Easy to Install: Shipping container sheds are a great choice as they are easy to install and don’t require any special tools or skills. In most cases, the setup can be completed in just one day and then moved wherever you need them.
7. Low Maintenance: Shipping containers are highly durable, and made from steel which requires minimal maintenance. This ensures that they can last for decades with minimal efforts toward upkeep.
8. Security: Shipping containers are the perfect choice for securing your items, as they are built with thick steel walls and are virtually impossible to break into. This ensures that you have peace of mind of knowing your items are safe from theft or vandalism.
Cons of a Shipping Container Shed
1. Size Limitation: Shipping containers are limited in size and shape, which may not fit your needs or the size of your property. The most common shipping containers range from 20 feet by 8 feet or 40 feet by 8 feet in size.
2. Rusting: To ensure your shipping containers remain in good condition, proper maintenance is essential. Without the right care and attention, rust and corrosion can occur, resulting in potential structural damage over time.
How to Convert Shipping Container to Shed
Sheds made from shipping containers have been increasingly popular and offer a unique take on storage solutions while also providing an environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional wooden sheds. Here are the steps on how to convert a shipping containers to sheds.
1. Buying a Used Container from a Trusted Dealer
If you have the idea of converting a shipping container to a shed, you need to find a reliable container supplier to buy from. A reputable shipping container supplier in California such as Shipping Container Depot can provide clean, quality used containers with minimal scratches and dents.
Shipping Container Depot only stores containers from the best manufacturers and suppliers around the world. We also take the hassle out of delivery by handling the whole process for you. With our own trucks, we can drop off your container directly to your home or business – no third-party trucking companies are required for an effortless and efficient experience.
In a separate blog, we discussed how to buy a used container in 7 easy steps.
2. Preparing your property
Before the truck arrives, you need to lay out and plan the property. Start measuring a rectangular footprint and plan the position of the container with pegs and strings. If the ground is not level, you need to make sure it is flat for the container to sit.
3. Building the Foundation
Before positioning the shipping container shed, it’s important to create a sturdy foundation for the container to rest on. You can do this by either installing four concrete supports with footings or leveling the ground and pouring a slab foundation.
4. Insulate and Seal
Spray foam insulation works well for this, but you can also use other types of insulation. Don’t forget to caulk around the doors and windows, as well as seal any crevices that could let in water or pests.
5. Windows and Doors
When adding windows and doors to your shipping container shed, start by taking measurements and marking the spots where they should go. Use a saw to cut out the openings and remember to seal and insulate any windows for them to work properly.
6. Finish Up
To complete your shipping container shed, think about adding a splash of color with some paint. Additionally, look into storage solutions like shelves, hooks, and other items to make the most of the space. Enjoy your new DIY project for many years to come!
4 Best Shipping Container Shed Examples
Backyard Shipping Container Shed
Shipping container backyard sheds are a great, versatile option for outdoor storage. Not only can they hold an abundance of items, but they’re also built with durability in mind. What’s more, their installation is relatively straightforward, requiring no added foundation or base
Shipping Container Garden Shed
Forget the traditional garden shed – upgrade to a shipping container shed! Add insulation, shelves and other customizations and you’ve got yourself an updated storage space. With ample room to move around, it’s the perfect size for all your gardening tools and supplies, plus its heavy-duty construction makes it ideal if you need protection from the elements.
Shipping Container Barn Shed
A shipping container barn shed is a great solution for the protection of animals and hay. Boasting a durable steel structure, it’s suitable for both larger livestock like horses or cattle, as well as smaller farm animals like goats or pigs. Moreover, the walls of the container provide extra shelter from the elements, keeping your hay dry and safe. Customise to fit your animal’s exact needs with extra doors, windows or vents – perfect for any outdoor space.
Shipping Container Exercise Studio
If you desire to remain fit but don’t have the room for a standard exercise studio, think outside of the box and transform a shipping container into an innovative workout space. This way, you can store weights, resistance machines, and additional exercise gear with ease – without sacrificing square footage in your abode.
10ft Shipping Container Shed Ideas
1. Grow your garden
If you’re tight on space and want the freshest produce possible, why not consider setting up a 10ft shipping container shed? With just a few modifications, you can have your own little vegetable and herb garden in no time – plus save yourself some money.
2. Outdoor Gathering Spot
If you’re looking for a way to entertain friends and family outdoors or just want a spot to relax and unwind, a 10ft shipping container shed is a great idea. With some comfortable seating, a fire pit, and a few decorations, you can turn it into the perfect hangout spot.
3. Small Storage Space
Got too much stuff but nowhere to put it? A 10ft shipping container shed is the perfect size for extra storage, whether you need to stow away gardening supplies, sports equipment, or extra furniture.
4. Small Art Studio
If you’re looking for a small space to create a mini art studio, a 10ft container is just what you need. It’s just the right size to be transformed into a mini art studio. You can have it modified with large windows and a door. Have your own art studio and create the most beautiful artwork in the comfort of this mini haven.
20ft Shipping Container Shed Ideas
Here are some of the few ways you can use an old 20ft shipping container to create your own shed.
1. Home Office
Want to work from home but don’t have an office? Transform an old 20ft shipping container into a comfortable and efficient workspace – add desks, filing cabinets, computers, and soundproofing for a professional atmosphere.
2. Bigger Art Studio
Get ready to make some art – convert that 20ft shipping container into a creative studio. Add easels, palettes, and other necessary supplies for all your artistic needs. Don’t forget ventilation and comfortable furniture for a productive and inspiring space.
3. Meditation Room
Need a zen escape? Transform an old 20ft shipping container into a meditation room. Add comfortable furniture, calming decorations, and soundproofing to provide the ultimate relaxation experience.
4. Spa Room
Whether it’s for business or for personal use, you can transform a 20ft shipping container into the perfect spa. Add comfortable furniture, bathtubs or saunas, and calming decorations for an unforgettable experience.
5. Outdoor Kitchen
Enjoy the great outdoors with your own cooking space! Create the perfect outdoor kitchen with a 20ft shipping container. Set up grills, sinks, counters, and other necessary equipment for backyard barbecues and all of your culinary desires.
6. Library Shed
Get ready to curl up with your favorite book in the perfect home library! Transform a 20ft shipping container into your own personal reading nook. Fill it with shelves and comfy seating so you can enjoy hours of uninterrupted reading pleasure.
7. Man Cave
Redefine man cave style with an old 20ft shipping container! Transform it into a space dedicated to relaxation and entertainment. Furnish it with comfortable seating, a TV, video games, a mini-fridge, and soundproofing for the ultimate hang-out spot with friends.
8. Hunting Shelter
Make hunting season a success with a 20ft shipping container. Transform it into your own personal hideout and stay out of sight while hunting game animals. Use camouflage paint or fabric to blend in, add insulation to keep warm, and install windows with shades for extra concealment.
9. Garden Shed
Transform an old 20ft shipping container into a garden shed that looks and functions great! Hang some windows or paint it in your favorite color to make the shed unique. Add shelves and racks to store all of your gardening supplies so you can keep your backyard organized.
10. She Shed
Crafting a cozy She shed for your backyard has never been easier! Transform a 20ft shipping container into the perfect escape. Add comfortable furniture, decorations, and lighting fixtures to give the sanctuary its own unique style. Enjoy some downtime and relax after a long day in your very own personal refuge.
40ft Shipping Container Shed Ideas
If you’re looking for a larger shed size than a 20ft container, you can buy a 40ft container and use it as your shed. Here are some of the few ways ideas for a 40ft shipping container shed:
1. Adventurer’s Hideaway
Give your outdoor space some pizzazz with an outdoor bar made from a 40ft shipping container! Get creative and give the container its own unique style. Transform it into the perfect spot for summertime parties or simply relaxing with family and friends. Welcome to your own private getaway!
2. Woodworking Shed
This could be the perfect spot for woodworking or metalworking. Design custom pieces of furniture or metal art in a secure, weatherproof environment. Make sure to use your creativity to come up with the best possible setup!
3. Greenhouse
Add a touch of green to your backyard with a shipping container greenhouse made from a 40ft shipping container! This is an ideal solution for urban farmers, as it takes up minimal space and can fit into even small areas. Grow fruits and vegetables of all sizes!
4. Large Storage Space
Consider investing in a 40ft shipping container shed if you need extra storage space. This is an ideal solution for those who require additional room to store tools, garden supplies and other items, while still preserving valuable yard space.
5. Gym
Are you looking for a novel way to stay fit and healthy outdoors? Transform a 40ft shipping container into your own personal outdoor gym. You can enjoy the fresh air and sunshine while staying in shape – it’s perfect!
6. Workshop
Transform a workshop into the perfect storage space for your tools, crafting supplies and large items. If you’re into making or creating anything, this is the ideal place to store those things that may take up too much space in your house.
7. Garage
If you’re in the market for a larger garage, then a 40ft shipping container can be your perfect solution. This will provide you with added storage space as well as protection from weather and theft.
8. Music Studio
Musicians looking for a place to practice without the worry of disturbing their neighbors should consider a 40ft shipping container. Soundproof it and you’ll have the perfect space to create music without interruption.
9. Movie Theater
Transform your outdoor space into a home theater with a 40ft shipping container. Get comfortable seating, dim the lights and watch your favorite movies in the great outdoors!
10. Bigger Yoga Studio
For a unique yoga experience, why not use a 40ft shipping container to create the perfect outdoor yoga studio? Customize it and find peace in the open-air environment of your own private oasis.
FAQ
1. How do you prevent a container from collapsing?
The best way to prevent a container from collapsing when installed as a shed is to make sure that it is properly secured to the ground. Secure your container shed and keep it in great shape for years to come by anchoring it deep into the ground. Make sure to use heavy-duty straps or wires to tie the container down and don’t forget to seal any doors or slots tightly. Additionally, if you plan on using the shed during winter months, be sure to insulate the walls and ceiling of the container as well in order to maintain a consistent temperature inside. Following these steps will help keep your container shed safe and secure!
2. How to Maintain a Shipping Container Shed
Here are some of the ways on how to maintain a shipping container shed:
1. Check for any signs of pests such as mice or termites and take steps to prevent them from entering your container shed. This could include setting traps around the perimeter of the shed or using a strong pest repellent.
2. Keep gutters and drains clear of debris as clogged gutters can cause water to pool around the container and lead to rusting or other damage.
3. If your shipping container shed is located in an area that gets a lot of sun, you may want to consider using a reflective coating on the outside of the container. This will help deflect some of the heat and reduce fading or wear from UV rays.
3. Does a shipping container shed need to be a foundation?
No, but you can secure your shipping container shed and make sure it is built to last by making a foundation. Depending on the size, location and existing conditions of the shed, you may be able to anchor it into the ground or use concrete blocks. However, if you plan to place your shed in an area with unstable soil or where environmental factors can cause shifting or damage, constructing a foundation is highly recommended. Also, check if local building regulation requires this step as well.
4. Shipping Container Shed Cost
If you’re looking for a cost-effective storage solution, investing in a shipping container is the way to go. For example, a used 20′ x 8′ x 8.5′ container can be bought for as low as $2,500 – that works out to about $15.63 per square foot! This is substantially cheaper than the average $3,000-$24.19 per square foot price tag at most hardware stores – making it an economical choice with savings of almost $10 per square foot! With such amazing savings, it’s hard to ignore the advantages of using a shipping container as your storage option.
Wrapping Up
We hope this article has helped you spark up some ideas for your next shipping container shed project!
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