Today, more and more people are looking for easy and affordable alternatives to traditional housing. With skyrocketing property prices, cost of living and the daunting expenses of building from scratch, it’s no wonder that more individuals and families are turning to innovative options like tiny homes and shipping container houses!
But what exactly sets a shipping container home apart from a tiny house? Which is best suited for your needs?
While both provide unique benefits and challenges, understanding the differences between container homes and tiny homes can help you make an informed decision about which option best suits your lifestyle. In this post, we explore the ins and outs of these two popular housing trends, looking at their differences, similarities and what to consider when making your choice.
About This Alternative Living Solution
Alternative living solutions like shipping container homes and tiny houses have become a popular choice for those seeking more freedom, flexibility, and sustainability in their lifestyles. These innovative homes break away from the conventional, offering a way to live simply without sacrificing comfort or style.
What Are Shipping Container Homes?
We’ve all seen shipping containers rolling down highways or stacked on ships, but have you ever wondered what happens to them once they’re no longer in use? Shipping container homes are an innovative solution to this question, turning unused or old containers into modern, livable spaces.
Made from high-grade steel, these containers are built to withstand harsh weather conditions, making them incredibly durable. One of the greatest benefits of shipping container homes is that they require minimal maintenance, providing a long-lasting, cost-effective housing option.
What Are Tiny Homes?
Tiny houses, on the other hand, are specifically designed to maximise space efficiency while maintaining comfort. They can be built from a variety of materials, including shipping containers, but more often, tiny houses are custom-built to suit individual needs.
They are typically placed on trailers, and offer the flexibility to move from one location to another, making them perfect for those who love the idea of mobility and freedom. Though much smaller in size, tiny houses can still offer all the essentials for day to day needs, from cleverly designed storage to multi-functional furniture. With their minimalist appeal and focus on sustainable living, tiny houses present a unique alternative for anyone looking to downsize, simplify their lifestyle or own a home they can call their own.
Looking At The Differences Between Container Homes & Tiny Homes
Tiny homes and container homes have a lot of similarities. They are smaller than traditional homes, highly customizable, and offer a more minimalist approach to living. Both are designed to maximize space efficiency while providing all the essentials for comfortable daily life. However, there are a few differences to keep in mind when looking at building one or the other.
Size
One of the most noticeable differences between shipping container homes and tiny houses is size. Shipping containers come in standard sizes, typically 3m to 12,2m long, which gives a clear limit to how much living space is available without modifications. They can, however, be stacked and combined to create larger sizes.
Tiny houses, are just that – tiny. To be considered a tiny house, it cannot be bigger than 7,2m x 2,4m. However, they do offer more flexibility in terms of layout, as they can be custom-built to suit the owner’s preferences.
Construction
Shipping container homes are constructed using repurposed steel containers, which makes them extremely durable and weather-resistant. Their sturdy structure means they can withstand harsh environmental conditions, such as heavy storms or extreme temperatures.
Tiny houses, on the other hand, can be built from a variety of materials, such as wood, metal, or even a container itself. They typically require more customisation and craftsmanship, focusing on a space that is both efficient and functional.
Mobility
Tiny houses are often built on trailers (tiny house on wheels or THOWs), allowing them to be mobile, whether you are planning on travelling frequently or only once or twice. You can easily move your home to different locations, making them ideal for people who love to travel or want to avoid the hassle of permanent residence.
Shipping container homes, however, are much heavier and typically require more effort to relocate. While they can be moved, it’s not as simple as hitching them to a trailer; moving a container home often requires cranes or special equipment, and thus are considered permanent fixtures.
Flexibility
While both housing options allow for personalised touches, tiny houses tend to offer more flexibility in design and layout since they can be constructed to fit specific needs. You can customise almost every detail, from the number of rooms to storage solutions. Shipping container homes are limited by the shape and size of the container itself, though stacking multiple containers or combining them in creative ways can add versatility.
Costs
In terms of costs, both options are more affordable than traditional homes, but they differ in specific expenses. Both options also provide long-term savings in terms of maintenance and utilities compared to conventional homes.
Shipping container homes already the basic structure is already in place. However, modifying containers to include insulation, plumbing, and electricity can add to the price, as well as building approvals, transportation and more. Container homes can start at around $50 000 and can be as expensive as $150 000.
Similarly, the cost of tiny homes can vary significantly, especially if you are choosing between a move-in-ready design or opting to go fully custom. Typically, tiny homes start at around $60 000 and can go as high as $130 000.
Safety
Shipping container homes offer a high level of safety due to the strength and durability of their steel structure. They’re fire-resistant, weatherproof, and can withstand strong impacts, making them a robust option. However, containers homes will need a lot of work to make them suitable for living, especially if they are used containers. They will also need significant reinforcement if you want to stack them.
Tiny houses, while very safe when well-constructed, may not provide the same level of protection from extreme weather or natural disasters. This is usually because they are built from lighter materials, for ease of transport. That said, both homes can be designed with safety features like reinforced frames, smoke alarms, and secure foundations.
Sustainability
Both shipping container homes and tiny houses appeal to those looking to be more environmentally sustainable individuals, but they approach sustainability differently.
Shipping container homes reuse materials that would otherwise go to waste, reducing the need for new construction materials. Tiny houses focus on minimising environmental impact by using fewer materials and promoting minimalist, energy-efficient living.
Both types of homes can integrate green features like solar panels, composting toilets, and rainwater collection systems, making them both excellent choices for sustainable living.
Approvals & Regulations
When it comes to approvals and regulations, both shipping container homes and tiny houses face various challenges, but these vary by location.
Shipping container homes are considered fixed structures often need similar permits for zoning and modifications as traditional homes. On the other hand, tiny homes are most often considered caravans and are not subject to the same regulations as fixed buildings.
However, depending on where you are, many regions have strict rules about where they can be placed and for how long. It’s essential to check local building codes, zoning laws, and any specific requirements before deciding on either option.
Factors To Consider When Choosing A Container Or Tiny Home
While both tiny homes and container houses are smaller, affordable alternatives to traditional housing, there are still several things to consider when making your choice. These include:
- Space Requirements: Before deciding on a container or tiny home, it’s important to think about how much space you truly need. Shipping containers offer fixed dimensions, which can limit your layout options unless you combine multiple units. Tiny homes, on the other hand, allow for more flexible designs, and you can build one as small or as large as your needs require. Consider how many people will be living in the space, whether you need additional storage, and how you plan to use your living areas.
- Budget: Both container homes and tiny houses are more affordable than traditional homes, but your budget will still play a crucial role in your choice. Shipping containers can quickly become expensive with modifications like insulation, plumbing, and electrical work. Tiny homes are considered the most affordable option, but can also be costly especially if custom-designed. Additionally, think about ongoing expenses such as utilities, maintenance, and potential moving costs if you plan to relocate your home.
- Lifestyle Needs: Ultimately, your lifestyle should guide your decision. Are you someone who values mobility and likes to travel? If so, a tiny home on wheels may be a better fit. If you prefer a more stationary lifestyle and plan to stay in one location, a container home might offer the stability and durability you’re looking for. Also, consider how you’ll be using the space—whether it’s for full-time living, a vacation home, or even a rental property.
- Customisation: Both container homes and tiny houses are highly customisable, but they offer different levels of flexibility. Shipping containers have fixed dimensions, so while you can stack or combine them, there are limits to how much you can change the structure itself. Tiny houses, however, can be built entirely from scratch, giving you the freedom to design every detail to suit your preferences. If personalisation and creative design are important to you, tiny houses may provide more room for imagination.
Choosing the Right Alternative Living Solution
Both shipping container homes and tiny houses offer unique benefits for those seeking affordable, flexible, and sustainable living options. However, the decision between container homes and tiny homes ultimately depends on your specific lifestyle, budget, and space needs.
At Out-Back Portable Buildings, we specialise in creating quality, custom-made portable homes and outbuildings to clients in Adelaide and across Australia. We offer end-to-end solutions for prefabricated, portable homes. Whether it is a placing self-contained studios, lounge rooms, or detached office, we work with you to create a space that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations!
If you’re ready to explore the possibilities of alternative living, contact Out-Back Portable Buildings today and let us help you turn your dream home into a reality!
