What foundations do you need for a shipping container?

The four main foundation types which can be used with container homes are pier, pile, slab and strip. There are other types of foundations but these are the most commonly used with container homes.

What do you put under a shipping container?

If the container appears to be sinking or tilting, you should consider moving the container to a gravel pad. Preparing a simple, three-inch deep gravel pad will facilitate drainage under the container and level out irregularities in the ground.

How do you secure a shipping container to a foundation?

Shipping containers can be secured to the foundation using heavy-duty steel chain. You’ll want to make sure the chain is high-grade strength. The chain is fished through the hole of the corner casting and connect it to a hook or bent rebar that is attached to the foundation.

How deep do foundation piers need to be?

Depending on the specific local requirements, concrete piers can be poured to a below-grade depth of 24”, 36”, 48”, or more. The diameter of the piers also varies based on building size and/or code requirements. 12”, 16”, 18”, and 24” are all common shed footing diameters.

How do you prepare the ground for a shipping container?

This involves:

  1. Checking the surrounding area to ensure that it is clear of debris and potential obstacles.
  2. Inspecting the site area to see if it’s compact.
  3. Surveying the area for proper sloping.
  4. Considering Accessibility to the Container and Proximity to Important Structures and Utilities.
  5. Having space for growth.

How do you make a shipping container footing?

In order to lay a concrete footing foundation you dig a trench in the shape of the container (or in the shape of the area you’re going to cover with multiple containers) and then quickly pour liquid concrete into it. The footing has to be of sufficient thickness and the concrete mix should be flexible to some extent .

How thick are the walls on a shipping container?

The walls on small shipping containers are usually made with 14 gauge corrugated sheet steel panels. The thickness is 0.075 inches, and these panels are welded to the rest of the structure. The frame, pillars, and rails are 7 gauge tubular steel, which is considerably thicker at 0.187 inches.