The price of ordering a 20ft container house from China typically ranges from USD 3,500 to USD 10,000+, depending on the configuration, interior features, and customization level.
A basic empty container may cost as little as USD 3,500–4,500, while a habitable container house with essential living facilities usually falls between USD 5,000–7,500. Fully customized or multi-container units can exceed USD 10,000.
So why is the price difference so significant?
This guide provides a clear, practical breakdown of 20ft container house pricing, helping you understand exactly where your budget goes.
Basic Information About a 20ft Container House
A 20ft container house is a building unit converted from a standard shipping container. Its approximate dimensions are:
Length: 6.1 meters
Width: 2.4 meters
Height: 2.59 meters
These units offer solid load-bearing capacity, wind resistance, and waterproof performance.
They are widely used for:
Temporary offices
Construction site housing
Camping accommodations
Pop-up shops
Storage and mobile workspaces
Core materials typically include high-strength steel structures, insulation panels, waterproof layers, and basic electrical wiring. You can think of a 20ft container house as a portable, standardized living or working space that supports entrepreneurship, housing, and commercial use.
20ft Container House Prices by Type
Different configurations of 20ft container houses vary greatly in price. Understanding these differences allows you to choose the most cost-effective option for your needs.
1. Standard Empty 20ft Container
This is the most basic option—a structural shell only, without interior decoration or living facilities. It functions like a blank canvas that can be customized later.
Price range: USD 3,500–4,500
Advantages
Lowest upfront cost
Easy transportation
High flexibility for future modification
Empty containers are often used for storage, construction site offices, or equipment housing. Many buyers choose them as an entry-level solution.
Limitations
No insulation, plumbing, or electrical systems
Requires additional investment for living or office use
If you want maximum flexibility with the lowest initial investment, an empty container is a practical starting point.
2. Habitable Shipping Container Houses
Habitable containers are upgraded from empty containers with basic living facilities, including:
Electrical wiring
Plumbing systems
Insulation
Simple furniture
Price range: USD 5,000–7,500
These units can be used immediately without extensive modification, making them ideal for:
Temporary housing
Construction site dormitories
Camping cabins
Simple offices
Key Benefits
Ready-to-use upon delivery
Saves time and renovation costs
Balanced cost-to-function ratio
However, their design and layout are relatively basic. For buyers seeking luxury or highly personalized interiors, further customization may be needed.
3. Customized Shipping Container Homes
Customized container homes are designed entirely according to your usage needs. Interior layouts can be freely adjusted, with options such as:
Kitchen and bathroom
Air conditioning
Storage systems
Windows and doors
Office or retail counters
Price range: USD 7,500–10,000
These units eliminate the need for secondary renovations and are suitable for:
Long-term residences
Coffee shops
Pop-up stores
Professional offices
Considerations
Higher upfront cost
Requires clear planning before production
A customized container house is not just a structure—it is a fully functional living or commercial space.
4. Expandable & Modular 20ft Container Houses
Expandable or modular container houses are created by combining multiple 20ft containers, either horizontally or vertically.
Starting price: USD 10,000+
They are ideal for:
Offices
Guesthouses
Shops
Multi-person dormitories
Pros & Cons
✔ High spatial flexibility
✔ Suitable for long-term or commercial projects
❌ Higher transportation and installation complexity
❌ Requires professional planning and construction
If you want to maximize space on limited land, modular container systems provide the greatest long-term value.
Key Factors Affecting 20ft Container House Prices
Materials & Structural Quality
Steel thickness, anti-corrosion treatment, insulation performance, and waterproofing directly affect durability and price.
Interior Facilities
Kitchens, bathrooms, electrical systems, plumbing, air conditioning, and furniture significantly increase costs compared to empty units.
Transportation & Installation
International shipping, port fees, lifting, and installation costs can account for 10%–20% of the total budget, especially for overseas buyers.
Degree of Customization
Special layouts, window and door placements, multi-layer combinations, and functional extensions raise costs but improve long-term usability.
20ft Container House Buying Decision Guide
Clarify Your Purpose
Determine whether the container is for storage, temporary use, living, or commercial operation.
Balance Cost and Function
Choose the configuration that best fits your budget without overpaying for unused features.
Consider Long-Term Costs
Factor in maintenance, transportation, and durability—not just the purchase price.
Choose a Professional Supplier
Reliable suppliers reduce risks related to safety, logistics, and future modifications.
BST 20ft Container House Solutions
BST is a professional Chinese container house manufacturer offering one-stop solutions, including:
Standard empty containers
Habitable container houses
Customized units
Modular and combined designs
Why Choose BST?
Standardized Design: Safe structure and easy transportation
Complete Functionality: Optional kitchen, bathroom, AC, and power systems
Personalized Customization: Layout and exterior tailored to your needs
Professional Service: Transportation, installation, and after-sales support
Whether for individual use or commercial projects, BST provides reliable, cost-effective container housing solutions, saving you time, effort, and uncertainty.
Conclusion
The cost of a 20ft container house from China depends on type, materials, interior features, transportation, and customization level. From economical empty containers to fully customized modular solutions, there is an option for every budget and application.
By clearly defining your purpose and working with a professional supplier, you can invest in a container house that delivers long-term value, flexibility, and performance.
