Storage containers are among the hottest trends in homes today. In fact, experts expect the storage container home industry to reach over $73 billion by 2025.

You don’t have to design your entire home with containers to get in on the container trend, though. Many homeowners are getting creative and building a garage out of shipping containers. You can too with these tips.

1. Know Your Measurements

You know what they say: “measure twice, cut once.” This also holds true when it comes to buying a storage container .

First, measure the space you have on your property to find the maximum size of the container that will fit. To get the minimum size, consider how you want to use the space.

Measure the amount of room you would need for all the vehicles you’ll stow in the container garage. Add any extra space you want for storage, a workstation, or other miscellaneous purposes. With those parameters in mind, you can now start shopping for your container(s).

2. Choose Built-In Storage

In any structure, built-in storage helps you use the space more wisely. Plus, you don’t need to worry about cabinets falling over or leaning because they’re part of the structure.

With a container garage, you can get custom modifications done to your shipping container. Depending on how you want to use the space, you can choose built-in cabinetry, shelving, and other options.

3. Take Protective Measures

If your garage will be the primary home for your vehicles, you might have a few automotive fluids that find their way onto the floor. You don’t want them to leave long-lasting stains.

When preparing and customizing your container garage, choose a flooring material or coating that makes those spills easy to clean. Options like epoxy tend to hold up better against spills as well as heat and other hazards.

4. Prepare in Advance

With shipping containers, you can’t simply bring one home and plop it down on your yard. There are two important steps to take first: permitting and laying a foundation.

First, check with your local authorities to see if you need a permit for the garage. This process could take some time, so this should be your first step in building your container garage.

Second, you’ll need a foundation. It could be as simple as a concrete slab. This kind off foundation will keep your container stable and level.

5. Make It Comfy

Depending on where you live and how you plan to use your garage, temperature control could be a great addition. This is another custom modification which can be added before the container arrives on your property.

Think about the materials you plan to store in the garage and whether they may melt. Consider whether you’ll spend a lot of time in there, working on hobbies or vehicle repairs. In which case, air conditioning or heating will make a world of difference.

6. Keep Up the Curb Appeal

You might be adding a garage for its functional uses, but it will be part of your overall home’s look. To keep your home value high, you need the container garage to add to your curb appeal rather than taking away from it. You can do that by choosing an exterior color that complements your home’s style and color scheme.

Building a Garage Out of Shipping Containers

A garage is a great way to add value and functionality to your home. You don’t need to endure weeks of on-site construction if you opt for building a garage out of shipping containers instead.

The tips laid out above can help streamline the process of buying and installing a shipping container garage. To get the process started, begin shopping for shipping containers today.