A modified 40-foot high cube shipping container measures 39′ long by 7′ wide by 8′ 7″ tall, providing 273 sq. ft. of floor space.

The interior dimensions of a completed shipping container building will vary according to a number of factors, including the type of wall and insulation used. It is also possible to modify an existing container to make it longer or to attach multiple units together to create more floor space. Really, the possibilities are endless — the shipping containers themselves are simply the building blocks for the completed structure.

Their floors are made of 1-1/8″ thick marine-grade plywood.

However, our modified shipping containers are not delivered to the site bare. To expedite the build process, we perform all of the modification work ahead of time. When you contact BMarko Structures, we’ll work with you to ensure all logistical considerations related to site preparation and delivery are taken care of ahead of time.

Their floors are made of 1-1/8″ thick marine-grade plywood.

However, our modified shipping containers are not delivered to the site bare. To expedite the build process, we perform all of the modification work ahead of time. When you contact BMarko Structures, we’ll work with you to ensure all logistical considerations related to site preparation and delivery are taken care of ahead of time.

Office buildings
Container homes
Classrooms
Restaurants
Church buildings
Athletic Facilities
Construction Offices
Concession Stands
And more

Shipping containers can be standalone buildings, or they can be added on to an existing structure. Shipping containers also make great retail spaces, press boxes, or equipment storage areas in athletic facilities and roadside concession stands.

The average lifespan of a shipping container building varies according to the amount of work and modifications done to it. Even a bare bones modification — without insulation, exterior cladding or other features to protect it from the elements — can still be counted on to last anywhere between 10-25 years, if properly cared for. More comprehensive builds, that have been specifically designed with longevity in mind, may last 50 years or longer.

Speed: A great benefit to a shipping container building is that the construction process is much faster than that of conventional properties. Like all modular buildings, most of the work is done ahead of time, so what’s delivered to your site is ready to go without a lot of additional work. Besides streamlining the build process, this saves you money by reducing your reliance on contracted labor, reduces the impact to the environment on the job site and requires less paperwork and disruption than conventional construction.

Aesthetics: While it’s entirely possible to make a shipping container home or commercial building that looks like a normal space, often their unique look is a major selling point. Many start-ups, trendy retailers and hip restaurants love the urban aesthetic a shipping container building offers, particularly when contrasted with a comfortable, well-appointed interior. Because of their clean geometric lines, shipping containers can also be the basis of an ultra-modern home for an art gallery or design firm. While many people think of modular construction as a design limitation, the fact is that, with a little imagination, a shipping container home or business can be almost anything you want it to be.

Green credentials: Many builders today will work to incorporate recycled materials into their projects, but few builds take it as far as a shipping container house. When you choose to use a shipping container instead of brick or wood, you are using something that would otherwise end up in a scrapyard, while also preventing deforestation and reducing the overall environmental impact of the build process.

On a day-to-day basis, a shipping container home or office can be just as environmentally friendly as a conventional building — if not more so. Because of their flat roofs, shipping containers are also an ideal candidate for solar energy and heating. They can easily be outfitted with energy-efficient appliances, windows and insulation, keeping your heating and cooling requirements low. For these reasons and more, many shipping container builds easily qualify for LEED and other certifications.

For more information about the benefits of shipping container construction, get in touch with a BMarko Structures representative today. We’d be happy to explain in detail why so many customers are choosing modular buildings for their residential and commercial needs.

There is no universal standard for grading shipping containers. Some sellers use the A, B and C classification system, with “A” representing the best condition and “C” representing a unit that will require additional work. Because these standards are somewhat subjective and are not enforced by an independent body, it is perhaps more useful to think of shipping containers using the following schema:

• New shipping containers that have made only one trip overseas. These are typically in the best condition, with no dents or other damage to the shell or floor. Naturally, these are the most expensive to buy, though they require the least amount of work to prepare.

• Used shipping containers that are between three and seven years old. These are still in cargo-worthy condition and have no significant rusty or welded patches. Imperfections are usually cosmetic and can be easily refurbished for use in a modular building.

• Retired shipping containers that have reached the end of their life at sea. These often require considerable work to restore to good condition, but they are still waterproof and windproof. They are the most cost-effective option to buy, though the expense of repair is not always worth it.

Finding the right shipping container for your project requires understanding the trade-off between purchase price and estimated cleanup costs. Our team has the experience and expertise necessary to help you make the most of your budget.

In a well-appointed home or office space, things like wood flooring, appliances and HVAC systems will all drive up the cost of a build. However, these expenses are necessary in any type of building where people live or work. With a modular shipping container home, you’ll still save on the cost of raw materials — many home builders will put these savings toward upgraded appliances and other investments that translate to lower utility costs or greater creature comforts. In these cases, while the cost of a shipping container home may end up being comparable to a conventional build, you’re getting more for your money and ultimately a better space to live.

Other than that, the biggest concern is usually ensuring that the trucks containing the modular units can get in and out of the area easily. Because of the disruption involved and the possibility of things changing during the delivery, we recommend waiting until after the building has been delivered to start on any landscaping or gardening projects.

Faster build times also cut down on labor costs, adding to the savings. For a detailed quote and timeline for your project, get in touch with BMarko Structures to arrange a meeting with one of our representatives.

Here are just a few of the choices our customers have when ordering and customizing their shipping container building:

• Shipping Container Colors: Shipping container buildings already have a distinctive exterior look. A limitless pallet of colors accentuates this uniqueness and allows you to put your own personal spin on your building. Choose a lighter color to reflect the sun’s heat and make your property seem larger. You could also select a darker color for a more imposing look — or throw out the rulebook altogether to mix and match colors as you see fit.

• Shipping Container Doors: Shipping containers can be modified with a wide range of door options depending on your needs and your budget. Choose from conventional insulated metal doors or add an aluminum/glass sliding storefront entryway for additional convenience and elegance. When it comes to adding or modifying the doors on a shipping container structure, there are very few practical limitations to worry about.

• Shipping Container Windows: A bright, sunny space is one of the most desired characteristics of a home or office. Shipping container buildings afford you great flexibility to capture the most sunlight. In a shipping container, adding additional windows is easier than with conventional housing. Multiple size and shape options are also available, as are high-efficiency windows that provide a tighter seal and keep your utility bills low.

• Shipping Container Flooring: Shipping containers come with marine-grade plywood flooring which can be polished or cleaned up as necessary. Many customers prefer the rough look and feel this offers. Alternatively, we can add tile, laminate, hardwood or several other types of conventional flooring.

• Shipping Container Roofing: A shipping container roof presents a number of opportunities for upgrading. For additional ventilation, add a vent or turbine that lets air in. For a brighter, lighter space, add a flat or domed skylight — you’ll also save on your heating and lighting bills.

• Shipping Container Locks & Security: A container building can be equipped with all the same security features as a conventional home or office. Door locks are standard, though it’s also possible to add sophisticated modern security features such as video surveillance, access control systems and intrusion detection alarms.

• Shipping Container Electricity: All shipping container buildings can be wired for electricity as well as phone, internet, cable and all other amenities available in your area. Shipping containers provide an ideal platform for solar conversions as well, whether you want to go off the grid entirely or simply heat your water and offset your monthly energy usage.

• Shipping Container Plumbing: There’s no reason why a shipping container building can’t be outfitted with a full modern bathroom or kitchen. In fact, one of the reasons why shipping containers make a great choice for restaurants is that they can easily be modified with additional sinks, washbasins and other necessities for cooking and cleaning.

• Shipping Container Heating and Air Conditioning: Complete climate control solutions are available on any shipping container building. Both wall-mounted and ducted AC systems can be installed, as can high-efficiency electrical heating and hot water units. Roof mounting a compressor or HVAC unit is a great option for saving space on your property.

• Shipping Container Insulation: Insulating your space keeps it warmer in the winter, cooler in the summer and quieter and more comfortable all year round. Several insulation options are available for shipping container homes and office buildings, including closed cell spray foam that can help you earn LEED certification or credits.

• Shipping Container Lighting: When you’re looking at lighting for your shipping container building, you can choose from a wide variety of options — from conventional ceiling fixtures to stylish recessed lighting, there will likely be a lighting system that will fit your style and tastes.

• Shipping Container Accessibility: The design flexibility of shipping container buildings allows for more organic integration of accessibility features such as ramps and loading zones. We’ll work with you to ensure any commercial property meets or exceeds ADA and related guidelines.

The greatest opportunities for modifying a shipping container building come by modifying the containers themselves. Individual units can be stacked side by side to create a great, open concept space, or they can be placed one of top of the other for multi-story convenience in a smaller lot.

There is no limit to the amount of potential combinations. You even have the option of building your dream space slowly over time — the beauty of modular construction is that expanding your space doesn’t require tearing down what you’ve built already. Additionally, a fast and easy build process ensures renovations don’t significantly disrupt your life or your business, either.

One of the reasons people think this is a problem inherent to shipping containers is that, until recently, they were generally only repurposed for storage and warehouse spaces, where comfort is not a primary concern. With proper insulation, adequate airflow and the right HVAC appliances, a shipping container office or home can be just as comfortable as any other type of construction.

One of the benefits of working with a professional modular shipping container builder is that you will be better positioned to meet any current or future regulatory challenges that come up.

Other than that, you care for a shipping container building the same way you would for any other property. Keep your yard clean and free of debris, service your appliances according to their regular maintenance schedules, tend to any leaks or other plumbing issues quickly and make sure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors installed at all times.

Here are just a few of the choices our customers have when ordering and customizing their shipping container building:

• Shipping Container Colors: Shipping container buildings already have a distinctive exterior look. A limitless pallet of colors accentuates this uniqueness and allows you to put your own personal spin on your building. Choose a lighter color to reflect the sun’s heat and make your property seem larger. You could also select a darker color for a more imposing look — or throw out the rulebook altogether to mix and match colors as you see fit.

• Shipping Container Doors: Shipping containers can be modified with a wide range of door options depending on your needs and your budget. Choose from conventional insulated metal doors or add an aluminum/glass sliding storefront entryway for additional convenience and elegance. When it comes to adding or modifying the doors on a shipping container structure, there are very few practical limitations to worry about.
• Shipping Container Windows: A bright, sunny space is one of the most desired characteristics of a home or office. Shipping container buildings afford you great flexibility to capture the most sunlight. In a shipping container, adding additional windows is easier than with conventional housing. Multiple size and shape options are also available, as are high-efficiency windows that provide a tighter seal and keep your utility bills low.
• Shipping Container Flooring: Shipping containers come with marine-grade plywood flooring which can be polished or cleaned up as necessary. Many customers prefer the rough look and feel this offers. Alternatively, we can add tile, laminate, hardwood or several other types of conventional flooring.

• Shipping Container Roofing: A shipping container roof presents a number of opportunities for upgrading. For additional ventilation, add a vent or turbine that lets air in. For a brighter, lighter space, add a flat or domed skylight — you’ll also save on your heating and lighting bills.
• Shipping Container Locks & Security: A container building can be equipped with all the same security features as a conventional home or office. Door locks are standard, though it’s also possible to add sophisticated modern security features such as video surveillance, access control systems and intrusion detection alarms.
• Shipping Container Electricity: All shipping container buildings can be wired for electricity as well as phone, internet, cable and all other amenities available in your area. Shipping containers provide an ideal platform for solar conversions as well, whether you want to go off the grid entirely or simply heat your water and offset your monthly energy usage.

• Shipping Container Plumbing: There’s no reason why a shipping container building can’t be outfitted with a full modern bathroom or kitchen. In fact, one of the reasons why shipping containers make a great choice for restaurants is that they can easily be modified with additional sinks, washbasins and other necessities for cooking and cleaning.

• Shipping Container Heating and Air Conditioning: Complete climate control solutions are available on any shipping container building. Both wall-mounted and ducted AC systems can be installed, as can high-efficiency electrical heating and hot water units. Roof mounting a compressor or HVAC unit is a great option for saving space on your property.

• Shipping Container Insulation: Insulating your space keeps it warmer in the winter, cooler in the summer and quieter and more comfortable all year round. Several insulation options are available for shipping container homes and office buildings, including closed cell spray foam that can help you earn LEED certification or credits.

• Shipping Container Lighting: When you’re looking at lighting for your shipping container building, you can choose from a wide variety of options — from conventional ceiling fixtures to stylish recessed lighting, there will likely be a lighting system that will fit your style and tastes.

• Shipping Container Accessibility: The design flexibility of shipping container buildings allows for more organic integration of accessibility features such as ramps and loading zones. We’ll work with you to ensure any commercial property meets or exceeds ADA and related guidelines.

The greatest opportunities for modifying a shipping container building come by modifying the containers themselves. Individual units can be stacked side by side to create a great, open concept space, or they can be placed one of top of the other for multi-story convenience in a smaller lot.

There is no limit to the amount of potential combinations. You even have the option of building your dream space slowly over time — the beauty of modular construction is that expanding your space doesn’t require tearing down what you’ve built already. Additionally, a fast and easy build process ensures renovations don’t significantly disrupt your life or your business, either.

As well, we provide more ways for our customers to create functional, livable spaces that will serve them well for years to come. Some of the options we offer that other modular shipping container builders don’t include:

• Continuous welding — Continuous welding is a more labor-intensive process than spot welding, but it provides better weatherproofing on important structural reinforcements and opening cutouts.

• Closed cell spray foam insulation — Closed cell spray foam is one of the most efficient types of insulation on the market today. It offers high R-values in a compact package, which saves you interior space while keeping your property more comfortable year-round.

• Ducted air conditioners — Ducted air conditioners are similar to central AC units used in conventional homes. However, ducted air conditioners often provide better, more effective cooling across multiple rooms, without necessitating the installation of additional units.

• Drywall and MgO Board finishing — BMarko Structures offers additional interior finishing options including both traditional drywall and Magnesium Oxide Board, a premium product that is waterproof, fireproof, insect resistant and does not degrade over time.

One of the reasons people think this is a problem inherent to shipping containers is that, until recently, they were generally only repurposed for storage and warehouse spaces, where comfort is not a primary concern. With proper insulation, adequate airflow and the right HVAC appliances, a shipping container office or home can be just as comfortable as any other type of construction.

If you can’t visit us in person, we will be happy to arrange a consultation over the phone or via Skype. Give us a call at (678)-666-3688 or email [email protected] to get started today.