Buying an expandable container house is not like buying furniture. Customers search for every possible question before making a decision. To keep those questions on my website, here are 34 of the most common ones — answered in one place.
1. Price & Cost
Q1: How much does an expandable container house cost?
A: 20ft 6,500, 40ft 13,990 (FOB). Landed cost 25,000 (including freight, duties, and site setup).
Q2: Why are some units much cheaper?
A: Cheaper units typically exclude bathrooms, have thinner insulation, and lower-quality paint. Our standard includes a full bathroom.
Q3: Is it cheaper to buy online from other sellers?
A: Price differences usually come from shipping, customs, and after-sales service. We offer factory-direct pricing, end-to-end support, and warranty.
Q4: Do you offer financing or payment plans?
A: Most customers pay in full. Some use personal loans or credit cards. We do not offer installment plans at this time.
Q5: Does the price include installation?
A: No. Installation must be arranged locally. Budget 1,500 for a local crew.
2. Shipping & Delivery
Q6: How long does shipping to the US take?
A: Sea freight ~30-40 days (China → US West Coast), customs clearance 5-7 days, inland trucking 2-5 days. Total ~40-50 days.
Q7: How much is shipping?
A: 40ft unit 6,000, 20ft unit 4,000. Rates vary by season.
Q8: Does it come with furniture or appliances?
A: No. Only the structure, doors, windows, electrical, bathroom, and flooring are included. Furniture must be purchased separately.
Q9: Can it be delivered directly to my property?
A: Yes. A flatbed truck will deliver to your site. Confirm that the truck can access your street/driveway.
3. Assembly & Installation
Q10: Can I assemble it myself?
A: Yes. Unfolding takes 2-3 people about 2-4 hours with basic tools. We provide drawings and video instructions.
Q11: Do I need a crane?
A: A forklift or crane is required for unloading. Local rental 400.
Q12: Does it need a foundation?
A: No. Level, compacted ground is sufficient — gravel pad is recommended.
Q13: Can I connect utilities myself?
A: Electrical is pre-wired — just connect to your main panel. Plumbing requires a licensed plumber in most areas.
4. Size & Specifications
Q14: Should I choose 20ft or 40ft?
A: 20ft (~37㎡) for 1-2-bedrooms or small office. 40ft (~72㎡) for 2-3-bedrooms or large office.
Q15: Can you customize the size?
A: Yes. Non-standard sizes are available.
Q16: Can units be stacked?
A: Yes. Up to 2 floors high with professional connectors.
5. Configuration & Upgrades
Q17: What does the standard unit include?
A: Structure, doors, windows, electrical, LED lights, flooring, 50mm insulation. Bathroom is standard on 40ft, optional on 20ft.
Q18: Can I add a kitchen?
A: Yes. Units can include a kitchenette (sink, counter, storage).
Q19: Can I add air conditioning?
A: Yes. AC electrical outlets and compressor brackets are pre-installed at the factory.
Q20: Is the insulation sufficient?
A: Standard 50mm EPS works for most climates. Upgrade to 75mm rock wool for extreme cold.
Q21: Can I customize the exterior color?
A: Yes. RAL color options are available. Vinyl wrap for branding is also available.
Q22: Can I add solar power?
A: Yes. Solar-ready pre-wiring is available. Off-grid solar systems can also be installed.
6. Permits & Regulations
Q23: Do I need a building permit?
A: Most cities do not require a full building permit. ADUs typically need simple registration. Check with your local planning department.
Q24: Do I need to apply for a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) myself?
A: Yes. The CO is issued by your local government. We provide structural drawings and spec sheets for your application.
Q25: Does my HOA allow this?
A: It depends on your HOA‘s rules. Check with them before ordering.
7. Maintenance & Longevity
Q26: How long does it last?
A: 20-25 years with normal maintenance. The steel structure lasts longer.
Q27: Will it rust?
A: Q235 galvanized steel + electrostatic spray coating resists rust for 10-15 years in normal environments.
Q28: Is it cold in winter or hot in summer?
A: Standard 50mm insulation provides good temperature control. AC is recommended for extreme climates.
Q29: Can it be relocated?
A: Yes. Disassemble, truck to a new site, and reassemble.
8. Warranty & After-Sales
Q30: What is the warranty?
A: Main steel structure: 10 years. Components: 1-2 years. Well above market average.
Q31: What if something breaks?
A: Replacement parts are free during warranty. After warranty, parts are available at cost.
Q32: Do you provide installation support?
A: Drawings + video tutorials are provided. Remote technical support is available.
9. Other
Q33: Can I see a sample in person?
A: Yes. Factory tours in Hebei or Jiangsu can be arranged.
Q34: How do I place an order?
A: Contact us → confirm specs → deposit → production → balance payment → shipping → delivery. Total process ~60-70 days.
👉 Still have questions not listed here? Contact us. We reply within 24 hours.
