Are there benefits to using a shipping container shed instead of a traditional shed for storage? To help you decide, we’ll provide an analysis of the pros and cons of metal sheds versus onsite storage container sheds, available as standard or high cube. We compare factors like cost, security, and assembly time.
Take a look at this side-by-side comparison of a 20-foot container and a popular 10 ft x 15 ft metal shed:
| Footprint Area | 160 square-feet | 150 square-feet |
| Cubic Space for Storage | 1156 cubic-feet | 1021.9 cubic-feet |
| Set-up Time | <4 Hours | 18+ hours (+10 hours to pour concrete slab) |
| Entry Points | A 7’8” opening with two cargo doors and another 6’ opening with an overhead roll-up door | A 9’6” opening with twin doors |
| Security | Extremely Secure | Secure |
| Mobility | Easy to Relocate with a forklift or crane | Permanently placed unless you can disassemble and reassemble the shed |
| Longevity | 25+ years | 10+ years |
| Customizations | Additional features such as personnel doors and climate control available | Set as described on kit |
Now, let’s dive deeper to explore additional considerations.
Pros:
Cons:
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Pros:
Cons:
The sticker price of a metal shed is lower upfront. If personal property owners are willing to give a few weekends to pouring a slab and building a backyard shed, a kit will probably be the more economical purchase.
However, some businesses may have different priorities. Between pouring a foundation and assembly, paying for the convenience of a complete, foundation-free container may be well worthwhile. If a contractor pours the foundation for the shed, you also must add at least another $1,000 or more to the budgeted cost for a 150 square foot slab.
While a shipping container costs more up front, businesses usually gain the remaining value in mobility and security when stolen or damaged equipment is a serious liability. Placing high-value assets inside a container offers business owners peace of mind. Keep in mind a container will likely outlast a traditional storage shed. Modified containers have a lifespan of 25+ years where a traditional shed will only last around 10+ years.
Businesses are also more likely to benefit from the container’s mobility. Instead of rebuilding a shed at a new location, businesses can pick up and move their onsite storage container. Customizations such as windows and doors, lighting, climate control, and even branding for example, are also more readily available. While paying for these added benefits may not make sense for someone seeking a backyard storage shed, they offer long-term benefits to businesses.
Containers are ideal for companies and organizations; sheds are ideal for personal property owners and backyard storage. If your business is considering a shipping container shed for storage, be sure to check out our Storage Floor Plan Product Catalog below, then reach out with your needs and questions by contacting us at 877-704-0177 or emailing Sales@FalconStructures.com
