Where to Find the Cheapest New and Used Container Homes for Sale
Shipping container homes have captured the imagination of people seeking affordable, durable, and modern housing. However, finding the cheapest new and used container homes for sale requires knowing where to look. This guide will point you to the best sources, from raw steel shells to fully finished, move-in-ready units.
The Short Answer: Where to Look
- For the absolute cheapest DIY start (raw containers): Search for "shipping container sales near me" to find local depots or use an online broker like Box-Hub.com.
- For the cheapest move-in ready homes (new & used): The best marketplaces are TinyHouseListings.com and Facebook Marketplace . These platforms feature listings from both small builders and private sellers.
The Problem: Separating Affordable Reality from Instagram Fantasy
The internet is filled with stunning images of luxurious, multi-container mansions. This can create a misleading impression of what's available and affordable. Many newcomers to the container home market struggle to find legitimate sellers and are unsure where to even begin their search for a basic, budget-friendly home.
The Key: Match Your Search to Your Desired Level of Completion
The cheapest option always involves more DIY work. The less finished the product, the cheaper it will be upfront. Your search should be targeted based on how much work you are willing and able to do yourself.
Tier 1: Raw Shipping Containers (The Cheapest, Most DIY Option)
This is the absolute cheapest starting point, but requires the most work. You are buying the steel box and nothing else. This is for dedicated DIYers who want full control.
- Direct from Container Depots/Resellers: Search for "used shipping container sales [your state]". Buying from a local or regional reseller is often the cheapest way, as it minimizes delivery costs. Expect to pay $2,500 - $5,000 for a used 40-foot container.
- Online Container Brokers: Websites like Box-Hub.com act as brokers, connecting you with depots across the country. They make it easy to get an all-in quote that includes delivery. For more details, see our Sourcing Guide for Affordable Containers .
Tier 2: Prefabricated Shells (The Middle Ground)
A container shell has been partially modified. Typically, the doors and windows have been cut and framed, and sometimes insulation and electrical are roughed in. This saves you from the heavy industrial work.
- Specialized Shell Fabricators: Search for "shipping container home shells for sale." These companies can offer basic shells starting around $10,000 - $20,000 for a 40-foot unit.
- eBay and Etsy: Surprisingly, you can find small builders and individuals selling one-off container shells on these platforms. Use very specific search terms.
Tier 3: Finished, Move-In Ready Container Homes
These are complete homes built by professional companies or individuals. They are the most expensive but are often still cheaper than traditionally built homes.
- Tiny House Listings (TinyHouseListings.com): This is the leading marketplace for all types of tiny homes and has a dedicated section for container homes. You can find both new and used models for sale across the country. This is a top source for finding deals on used homes.
- Facebook Marketplace: Search for "container home" or "tiny house." You can find individuals selling their own DIY builds or "spec" homes from small, local builders. This is another excellent source for finding bargains.
- National Prefab Builders: Companies like Honomobo, Custom Container Living, and Backcountry Containers are well-known builders. Their prices for a small, one-container home typically start in the $50,000 - $90,000 range , but they handle all the construction.
Buyer Beware: Don't Forget the "Hidden" Costs!
The price of the container home itself is only one part of the total cost. The "cheapest" container home can become very expensive if you don't budget for these essential items:
- Land: You need a place to put it.
- Foundation: At minimum, a concrete pier or slab foundation is required.
- Delivery and Crane Rental: Getting the container from the truck to the foundation can cost several thousand dollars.
- Utility Hookups: Connecting to water, sewer/septic, and electricity can be a major expense, often costing $10,000 or more.
- Permits: Your local building department will require permits, which have associated fees.
Conclusion: Match the Source to Your Skill Level and Budget
The cheapest way to get into a container home is to buy a used container and build it out yourself, but this requires significant skill and time. For a balance of affordability and convenience, exploring used, privately-built homes on marketplaces like Tiny House Listings and Facebook Marketplace often provides the best value. By understanding the different tiers of the market and budgeting for all the associated costs beyond the structure itself, you can turn the dream of an affordable container home into a reality.
Community Discussion
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