Buying a home in the United States is getting more and more expensive every year. In fact, The cost of homeownership is going to rise twice as fast as inflation and average income. This is one of the main reasons people are turning to alternative home ownership. One of the newest and most popular alternative homes is the shipping container home.

Americans who buy a shipping container are not only saving money, but they’re saving the environment. Constructing a home out of a shipping container usually requires less materials, as recycled shipping containers are commonly used.

If you’re interested in going this route, read more about how to buy a shipping container below.

1. How It Looks

If you’re using a shipping container as a means for shelter, you probably want it to be in decent shape. This can vary from container to container. Of course, newer containers are usually a solid color and have few marks, dents, or scratches. Older containers, however, may have company logos all over them and the paint job will likely be worn. Thankfully, a simple paint job can fix this.

2. How’s Its Condition?

Shipping containers are usually categorized into one of three conditions: “as is, where is,” wind and watertight, or cargo worthy. The “as is, where is” containers are in bad shape, the wind and watertight containers are in fair condition. The cargo worthy containers are good enough for international travel. Obviously, the latter is best for turning into a sturdy home.

3. How It Moves

The cost of your shipping container often depends on where you live. If you live near a port, there are likely countless affordable shipping containers nearby. If there are suppliers near you, you can rent your own truck with a tilting bed or a long tilting trailer and deliver it to yourself. This is the most cost-effective option. If you aren’t near a port, you will need to find a supplier, and have it shipped to you. This can be costly, but usually still cheaper than buying a traditional home.

4. How Much It Costs

There are many tips and tricks to saving a few bucks, but you want to make sure you get the safest and most reliable shipping container for your future home. Make sure to check the container number so you make sure to purchase it from the right owner. This is an important step if you’re looking online. Don’t hesitate to negotiate the price of the container and the cost of delivery. The demand for these containers, while growing, is still lower than the supply.

5. How About the Law?

Before purchasing your container, remember to check with your municipality about the legality of shipping container homes. It’s possible there could be an array of local codes you need to follow to construct your new home. Knowing these beforehand can save you a lot of frustration, and even some money.

Buy a Shipping Container Now

If you’re ready to buy a shipping container, make sure to refer to these tips to help you choose the right one. If this will be your future home, you need to make the most well-informed decision you possibly can. With this modular construction, you’ll have a home in no time. You can even brag to friends about how environmentally-friendly your lifestyle has become.

To find the best shipping containers in Houston, Texas, contact the experts at Equipment Management Services. Not only do we service the regional area, but we ship containers nationwide.